Gandia is a coastal city in Spain's Valencian Community, about 65 km south of Valencia. It has a historic city center and a beach area popular with tourists. The Mediterranean beaches are wide and sandy, and the city mixes cultural sites with a lively seaside vibe.
Local dishes like paella, fideuà, and horchata are must-tries. There’s decent international food and more vegetarian/vegan choices lately. Late-night food is common near the beach.
Nightlife centers on the beach area and starts late, often after midnight. Various bars and clubs are open mostly during tourist season.
Typical Spanish coffee culture with many cafes; quality is solid though not specialized.
Tipping is appreciated but not required; 5-10% in restaurants is common. Taxi tips and service gratuities are small.
SIM cards are available at shops like Vodafone, Orange, Movistar, and Yoigo. You must register with ID or passport. eSIM options exist with major providers.
Generally clean, especially in tourist and central areas.
Emergency services and hospitals operate 24/7. Pharmacies rotate night shifts. Few minimarts are open all night.
Supermarkets like Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, and Aldi cover most shopping needs with some international items. There's also a weekly market on Saturdays.
Cards are accepted widely but carry some cash for small shops and markets.
ATMs from major banks are common across the city. Expect some fees based on your bank and the ATM used.
Several bilingual and international schools offer Spanish, Valencian, and English instruction. Contact schools directly for admissions info.
Not a major nomad hub but has decent cafes with Wi-Fi. Close to Valencia for more options.
Good green spaces along the Paseo de les Germanies and wetland areas like Marjal de La Safor.
Running routes include Marjal de Gandia, Serpis Greenway, and beach paths; safe and scenic areas.
Gyms including a tennis club with fitness facilities are available.
Club de Tennis Gandia offers multiple clay courts and padel courts with booking and rental options.
Padel courts available at Club de Tennis Gandia with memberships and training options.
Yoga studios and wellness centers available; check locally for English-speaking instructors.
Dojo and gyms for judo, karate, taekwondo, and more exist in Gandia.
No ski resorts nearby; closest are several hours away in the Pyrenees or Sierra Nevada.
Good opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing at the sailing club.
Calm waters mean limited surfing options; better surf spots are farther along the coast.
Some diving and snorkeling possible on the coast, but limited in Gandia itself.
Spain has good public healthcare; private clinics may have more English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and well-marked. Emergency numbers include 112 and 061.
Tap water in Gandia is safe to drink.
Good for families with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, baby supplies, and safe beaches.
LGBTQ+ friendly city reflecting Spain's general acceptance and legal protections.
Pet-friendly culture growing; vets and green spaces available.
Electricity supply is stable and reliable in Gandia.
Wide golden sandy beaches with calm Mediterranean waters. Gandia Playa is about 2 km from the city center.
Near the La Safor and Mondúver mountain ranges with accessible trails.
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