Practical information and tips

Entering Spain

Visitors from other European Union member countries may enter Spain using either a passport or their national identity document. Visitors from other countries must have a valid passport and a visa if required. Inquiries regarding visas can be directed to Spanish diplomatic representatives abroad.

Weather and climate

The Valencia climate is mainly Mediterranean with warm and dry summers as well as mild winters. The rainy season for Valencia is mainly in spring and autumn with torrential rainfalls happening often as well as rainfall turning inland to snow. Additionally, Valencia weather temperatures are pleasant year-round with an average day temperature not falling below 15°C, with the exception of mountainous areas where they can fall below freezing.

The hot summers in Valencia are quite warm though not unbearable. In June Valencia has an average daily temperature of 22 °C, in July this is around 25 °C while in August the average is 26 °C with a maximum temperature reaching 30-35 °C accompanied by mild humidity.

Language

Spanish and Valencian (Catalan) are the official languages spoken in Valencia. English, and to a lesser extent French, are also spoken. Tourist information, menus, etc. are nearly always available in English, French, and German.

General Safety Advice for Visitors

Valencia is a safe city, with almost no violent crime, and tourists and visitors can stroll around and sightsee at ease. However, as in any big city, some basic safety precautions should be observed. When walking around typical tourist spots, be especially vigilant of handbags and wallets.

Health Regulation

No international immunization is needed when entering Spain. However, be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of all countries through which you may have to pass on your way to Spain.

Liability and Insurance

The Congress organizers cannot accept liability for personal injuries, loss or damage to property belonging to congress participants (or their accompanying persons), either during or as a result of the Congress. Please check the validity of your own insurance.

Electrical Plug and Voltage

Electrical sockets  in Spain are one of the two European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F" Schuko. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all three types.


Electrical sockets  in Spain usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts. 

Banks

Banks are open from 8:30h to 14:00h from Monday to Friday during the summer months.

Credit Cards

Currency and Exchange: AII major international credit cards are accepted. Foreign currency and traveller’s checks can be exchanged in Spain at banks and foreign exchange offices. Cash-point machines accepting major international credit cards and charge cards are available at most banks. The Spanish currency is the Euro.

VAT

There is a variable value added tax (VAT) of 10% to 21% applied to most items and services, but most prices you see will include it. When it is not included, it should be clearly indicated.

Shopping

Normal trading hours are Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 13:30 and 17:30 to 20:30; however, in the city center and shopping malls, many shops stay open all day from 10:00 to 21:00.

Duty Free

There are no restrictions on visitors entering Spain with goods bought in another European Union member country, as long as they are for their own use and not to sell.

Public Transport and Car Rental

Valencia has a good, comprehensive public transport network, with different tickets valid on bus, metro and local trains. Taxis are abundant and reasonably priced. Free parking is very limited in the city center and car parks are expensive, so car rental is only really recommended for excursions outside the city.

Taxis

Taxis in Valencia may be ordered by phone, picked up at authorized taxi stands, or flagged down in the street. Always check that the meter is running. Taxis must usually be paid in cash though some accept credit cards, but is not usual.

Tipping

In restaurants, hotels, taxis, hairdressers and so on, a gratuity is not included in the price. Although optional, tips are readily accepted and a general guideline is a percentage of the bill below 5%, depending on the quality of the service. Hotel and airport porters will take, depending on the luggage you have, 1€ to 3€.