Are you a young professional seeking a vibrant and dynamic city to call home? Look no further than Valencia, Spain, and more specifically, the captivating Ayora neighborhood. With its unique blend of modernity, culture, and a thriving community, Ayora has emerged as a haven for young individuals looking to make their mark in this vibrant coastal city.

Nestled in the heart of Valencia, Ayora offers an irresistible mix of cosmopolitan charm and authentic Spanish living. Here, you’ll find a range of amenities, cultural landmarks, and recreational spaces that cater to the diverse interests of young professionals. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Ayora the perfect neighborhood for those seeking a fulfilling urban lifestyle.

Prime Location and Connectivity: Ayora enjoys an enviable location, offering easy access to Valencia’s city center, beaches, and major transportation hubs. With excellent public transportation options, including Valencia Metro and Valencia Bus Lines, navigating the city is a breeze, ensuring that you’re always connected to Valencia’s vibrant pulse.

Trendy Cafés and Eateries: Ayora is a gastronomic paradise, boasting a diverse range of trendy cafés, restaurants, and bars. Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot to work remotely, a place to socialize with friends, or an opportunity to indulge in the city’s culinary delights, Ayora has it all. From “La Tapadera de Ayora” for a Spanish ambiance and delicious coffee to “Restaurante Pinnea” for traditional Mediterranean cuisine, and “Pizzeria Restaurante Al Pomodoro” for mouthwatering Italian cuisine, you’ll never run out of options to satisfy your cravings.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Recreation: Despite being situated in an urban setting, Ayora offers ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The neighborhood is dotted with lush parks and green spaces, providing a breath of fresh air amidst the bustling cityscape. Take a leisurely stroll in the Turia Gardens (Jardines del Turia) or engage in outdoor activities at the nearby Ayora Garden (Jardín de Ayora) or Cabecera Park (Parque de Cabecera) , where you can go jogging, cycling, or simply relax and soak up the sun.

Cultural Gems: Immerse yourself in Valencia’s rich history and vibrant culture right in Ayora. The neighborhood is home to several museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, where you can explore contemporary art, delve into local history, or attend captivating exhibitions and performances. From the prestigious IVAM (Valencian Institute of Modern Art) to the renowned City of Arts and Sciences, Ayora offers a treasure trove of cultural experiences.

Thriving Community: Ayora’s charm lies not only in its physical attributes but also in its welcoming and inclusive community. The neighborhood attracts a diverse mix of young professionals from various backgrounds, creating a vibrant tapestry of cultures and experiences. Engage in community events, join local interest groups, or simply join our Ayora, Valencia Coliving Space to meet like-minded neighbors to foster connections and a sense of belonging.

As city experts, we at Urban Campus are passionate about promoting the best that Valencia has to offer, and Ayora is undoubtedly a gem worth exploring. Its unique blend of urban conveniences, cultural richness, and the strong sense of community that our Ayora, Valencia Coliving offers, make it an ideal destination for young professionals seeking a fulfilling and exciting lifestyle.

Make Ayora your new home and experience the dynamic energy and endless possibilities that this neighborhood and Valencia have to offer. Discover why so many young professionals are choosing Ayora as their base for success and happiness in this vibrant Spanish city.

Urban Campus is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to us today and let us help you find your perfect home in our Ayora, Valencia Coliving!

We are proud to announce that Urban Campus Ayora Valencia has been certified as a new BREEAM construction. This marks our second coliving to receive BREEAM certification during the design phase, with Urban Campus Mellado Madrid Coliving obtaining the first BREEAM in-use certification.

What is BREEAM and why is it important?

BREEAM, which stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, is a certification program that assesses the sustainability of buildings.
The BREEAM certification process evaluates a building’s performance in several categories: 

management, health and well-being, energy, transport, water, materials, waste, ecological land use, pollution, and innovation. The assessment is based on a set of criteria and standards that are regularly updated to reflect changes in best practices and technological advancements.

The BREEAM certification process is rigorous and involves several steps. First, a building is assessed against the BREEAM criteria and receives a score in each category. The scores are then used to determine the overall BREEAM rating of the building, which ranges from “Pass” to “Outstanding”. Buildings that receive a BREEAM rating of “Good” or above are considered sustainable and environmentally friendly.

There are several benefits to obtaining BREEAM certification. For one, it can help building owners and managers reduce their environmental impact resulting in saving money on operating costs. By improving energy efficiency, reducing water consumption, and using sustainable materials, buildings can become more efficient and cost-effective to operate.

Ayora Valencia Coliving Behind the BREEAM Certification 

Ayora Coliving has always been in mind to be the first sustainable coliving in the Valencian community, but receiving the official certification has made it a reality for our capital managers White Investing, our investors Batipart Immobilier Europe, and our team at Urban Campus as operators. 

Throughout the design phase, we prioritized building sustainability in all aspects of the project. Our collaborative effort involved several teams working together from construction to implementation to ensure that the building met our sustainability goals.

Prior to accepting new tenants into Ayora Coliving, we will be installing comprehensive technology as a method of measuring and monitoring the environmental performance of the building once operational. This is to ensure there is no overconsumption, and emissions are reduced with the help of power meters. 

We take pride in knowing that everything was thought through from the beginning of construction to ensure that Ayora Coliving met BREEAM standards. This certification not only validates our efforts but also encourages us to continue building environmentally-friendly spaces for the benefit of our occupants and the community.

Where will you be able to find the best torrijas of Madrid this Holy Week? Look no further, this article will provide you with insights into the history of Semana Santa, as well as when to experience the ceremonies and where you will be able to savor the best pastries in the city this week!

History of Holy Week 

Holy Week, also known as Semana Santa, is a significant religious festivity celebrated in Spain and many other countries around the world. This week-long event begins on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter Sunday, and ends on Easter Sunday.

In Spain in particular, Holy Week is a very important celebration, and many cities and towns hold processions in which religious figures are physically carried throughout the streets while accompanied by music and chanting.

What happens during Holy Week? 

As the capital city of Spain, Madrid is known for its vibrant celebrations. The processions in Madrid are organized by religious brotherhoods, or cofradías, which are responsible for carrying the religious figures known as Saints through the streets. 

The processions in Madrid typically begin on Palm Sunday, when a procession of the Virgin Mary of Sorrows and the Christ of Medinaceli takes place. On Holy Thursday, there is a procession of the Cristo de los Alabarderos, which is attended by the Spanish royal family.

One of the most impressive processions in Madrid takes place on Good Friday, when the “Procesión del Silencio” (Procession of Silence) takes place. This procession features hooded penitents who carry crosses and statues of religious figures through the streets in silence.

Where to go?

To know where to go see the processions we recommend you click on here. This article, will guide you on every procession or celebration happening throughout the entire week in Madrid, with detailed locations as well as start and finish times. 

What is the traditional desert during Holy Week? 

Torrijas are a traditional Spanish dessert made from slices of bread that are soaked in milk or wine, dipped in egg, fried until golden brown, and sweetened with sugar or honey. Typically enjoyed during Holy Week, when meat is avoided, torrijas are a filling and energy-boosting treat that originated as a practical solution to using up stale bread and affordable ingredients. Over time, torrijas have become a beloved part of Spanish cuisine, as a deliciously satisfying dessert and we can confirm this because just the people of Madrid alone, every year eat around seven million torrijas. 

Where can you try the best torrijas in Madrid?

We will be honest, every Spaniard in Madrid will say to you that the best torrijas are their mothers. However, we know not everyone’s mom is around the corner to make them some torrijas so here are some options where you can buy this pastry in Madrid. 

La Casa de las Torrijas 

If you are looking for an authentic torrija experience, look no further than La Casa de las Torrijas. The name says it all – this charming restaurant is dedicated to serving up the very best of this classic Spanish dessert. Conveniently located near Sol, just a 10-minute metro ride from Urban Campus Atocha Coliving, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in a truly Spanish atmosphere while indulging in this sweet treat. So gather your fellow colivers, and get ready to savor the flavors of this beloved delicacy!

Villaroys 

Villaroys is home to the best torrija in Madrid 2023, according to the prestigious prize awarded to its young chef, Martín Martínez. Despite the expected long queues, the heavenly taste of this award-winning dessert is definitely worth the wait. With over 200 Google reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating, Villaroys is renowned for its unbeatable homemade quality. Conveniently located just a 9-minute walk away from Cuatro Caminos Coliving, you won’t want to miss out on this unforgettable culinary experience.

Umikobake 

Unlike your typical Spanish restaurant, Umikobake is a bit of a twist. They offer an beautiful array of pastries, especially known for their Japanese mochi. However, during this time of year they serve torrijas of course, and have really put themselves on the map for it! So if you are looking to venture out of the norm, give this little pastry shop a try!

Pasteleria Mallorca

For a long time, Pasteleria Mallorca has consistently produced top-quality pastry goods with great attention to detail. Their reputation as a must-visit establishment is not just limited to Madrid, but extends throughout Spain. And it’s no surprise that their torrijas have become a fan favorite, as they are so fluffy and delicious that they’re often sold out quickly. In short, Pasteleria Mallorca is a must-visit spot for those looking for the best pastries in Spain.

Knowing the best after-work spots in Lille, your brand new city that you just moved into can be hard, but that is why guides like this were created. So look no further.

After a long day, you close your computer screen and head downstairs to the coworking space and lounge in your new coliving to see your friends are at and head to the town. But where should you go?

Mother

Looking for a nearby spot to grab a drink and hang out with your fellow colivers? Look no further than Mother, located just a 6-minute walk from Lille Saint So’ Coliving. This bar is the perfect spot for any night of the week, with regular events and activities to keep you entertained. Be sure to check out their calendar of events here.

With two floors of eclectic decor, Mother offers a unique and memorable experience. The bar’s concept of “Home Sweet Home” creates a welcoming atmosphere for you and your friends, and their menu of shareable plates and homemade food is sure to please. You simply can’t go wrong with a visit to this local gem. Find them at 29 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas.

Bistrot Saint So

During the week you will always find an afterwork event at Bistrot Saint So, but if going out during the week isn’t enough for you and you want more you are in for a treat. This bar located only a 10-minute walk from Lille Saint So’ Coliving has offers concerts and an array of parties on weekends with free entry.

Getting hungry while at Bistrot is not a problem, they offer homemade food with plenty of veggie options for you to choose from.

Head over to 17 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas if you are looking for a good time!

Le Nu’ 

Live DJ set, live singer, live jazz nights, all with an original cocktail menu – what a place. Le Nu’ has a beautiful rooftop terrace with a gorgeous view of the Lille Europe Station. Looking for something specifically for that perfect after work plan on Thursdays to get ready for the weekend? The DJ sets start at 6PM so get out of the office early! 

Le Nu’ is a 13-minute metro ride away at 93 Av. le Corbusier!

Café Bellot

Looking for a local spot for your after work plans? Café Bellot is the place for you, and its only 10-minutes away from the coliving! With original wines, good food and great parties on Friday until 2AM you cannot go wrong. If you walk in during the late hours, while it’s lively you will see people dancing around the tables, truly enjoying the moment. Café Bellot  – 1 Rue Jeanne d’Arc is waiting for you!

Le Lovibond 

Le Lovibond is likely to provie you with that warm earthy feeling. Known to be such a welcoming bar with a very chic atmosphere and mezzanine to take it all in. Organic food, vegetables from the local market, numerous veggie options and best of all – local beers. 

To add to the local, they have jam sessions on Saturday nights! Le Lovibond is a 17-minute walk from Urban Campus Lille Coliving, on 169 Bd de la Liberté. 

Urban Campus, the European specialist in multi-format managed residential, officially opens the doors of its first French coliving residence – 38 studios and one-bedroom apartments – which marks its deployment in France. 

Paris le xx – Urban Campus has been welcoming its first tenants to the territory since February, in a completely renovated four-storey coliving residence, in the heart of Lille, Rue de Douai.

The Saint So’ coliving residence, based on its principle of living together, sharing, and flexibility, allows each tenant to have a private apartment (studios and one-bedroom apartments with bedroom, bathroom, kitchen) and large common areas (kitchen, living room, terrace, coworking spaces, gym, library, cinema room). The layout and decoration of each room were carried out with LA.M Studio , an interior and design studio so that each tenant feels at home.

A tailor-made rental experience for working people

People are at the heart of the commitments of Urban Campus, which offers a flexible rental offer adapted to workers in the region and elsewhere who wish to settle in Lille. In addition to their apartments, residents have access to various services according to their needs: cleaning services, supply of sheets or even a basket of seasonal vegetables.

In addition, the uniqueness of Urban Campus lies in the animation of its community, each resident benefits from the “Community Development” program. Thanks to the various activities and initiatives offered by the community developer, everyone has the opportunity to develop personal, associative and professional projects (such as collections for associations, speaking circles, tasting evenings, film and documentary screenings ,) with the aim of strengthening ties and creating synergies.

Responding to housing needs in a dynamic region

To make its arrival on the French market, Urban Campus has chosen to settle in the rue de Douai, in the center of Lille, near the Saint-Sauveur station. Due to its European dimension, the city of Lille is a real breeding ground for employment. This new co-living residence therefore provides a solution to the demographic pressure encountered by the city and promotes the residential and professional mobility of young workers.

This first opening will be reinforced, next year, by a second coliving residence of 121 apartments in La Maillerie , located 15 minutes from the center of Lille.

Already present in Spain since 2017 with 5 residences, Urban Campus continues to develop its coliving and multi-format managed residential offer. The company has already announced 4 coliving and Built-to-rent projects which will open by 2025 and aims to open around thirty other residences in Europe within 5 years.

If you are looking for the best bars to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day in Madrid, look no further than in the neighborhood that has it all – Cuatro Caminos! Get ready to raise a glass and cheers to this festive occasion in the best locations. We have prepared a list of the top bars offering Irish-themed drinks, décor, and party in this lively part of the city for this Friday, March 17th. 

This article covers the traditional Irish pubs near Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving. So, grab your colivers, put some green on, and get ready to have a nice cold Guinness. 

Irish Rover 

The Irish Rover just on an architectural level is absolutely stunning. When you walk in you will see stone floors, a vintage street light, and all the seating areas surrounded by wood. Honestly, you feel as though you were just transported to Ireland. 

Don’t believe us? Go to Avenida de Brasil, 7, Madrid to find out. 

Proper pints. Yes, we say it and we mean it, the concept of “doble” here does not exist. When you order a beer you can go for the “small” version (honestly we didn’t ask the size so we do not know that answer) or order yourself a proper pint which is equivalent to 568mL (20 fl oz). You will have an array of beers to choose from at the Irish Rover. If you are feeling dangerous and want to give an Irish beer since you are celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day of course, aside from Guinness we recommend Murphy’s Irish Red or if you want something lighter, Magners Irish Cider is also very tasty! 

Are you looking for live music this Friday? This is your place. Get there early, they get pretty busy, but we are positive you will love the atmosphere! People, dancing, drinking, laughing, and appreciating the Irish artists throughout the entire building – you won’t want to miss it! If you cannot go this Friday, this pub is still one of the best places to go out in Cuatro Caminos from Friday to Sunday so definitely keep it on your list. 

The Irish Rover can be found an 18-minute walk away or a 14-minute metro ride from Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving.

Paddys Irish Pub 

Paddys Irish Pub lives up to its name, as it is a typical Irish bar with Irish whiskeys and Irish beers, both bottled and on tap. An authentic feel, perfect for a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration with friends!

Some of the highlights of Paddys are the Gaelic art pieces across the walls, as well as their outdoor terrace. They usually have music on throughout the night, but being Saint Patrick’s we are told that they will make sure you are up and dancing!

Are you bringing a big group of people? Don’t worry, their tables are easy to move and can accommodate a group of happy customers. 

Paddy’s is a quick 23-minute bus ride from Cuatro Caminos Coliving, so wear some green and head to Avenida de Concha Espina, 69. 

The Beer Temple

A solid selection of craft beers is what The Beer Temple is all about! This bar has an environment like no other when there is a rugby, or football match so can you imagine how it will be this Friday, March 17th? 

Known for its good service, The Beer Temple definitely has to be on your bar-hopping list. In terms of food, there is a lot of sharing options available. Some of their starters include your typical nacho dish, wings, onion rings, and potato wedges – you just cannot go wrong!

Located a mere 9-minute walk from Cuatro Caminos Coliving head over to Calle. de Almansa, 85!

Luas Irish Tavern

The cozy pub and the big terrace at Luas Irish Travern offers the perfect space to enjoy spending time with friends or grabbing a quick bite to eat. They have an array of apertivios for you to properly celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day and their staff tends to recommend pairing a Guinness and pig ears to really get in the mood and prepare yourself for the celebrations to come. 

Located on Calle de Villaamil, 5 Luas Irish Tavern is only an 11-minute bus ride from Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving so head on over, and enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the service! 

In conclusion, if you are looking for a memorable Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Madrid, look no further than the Irish pubs provided above. With their lively atmosphere, authentic Irish decor, and delicious food and drink, these pubs are the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. And when the festivities are over, you can retreat to your comfortable and convenient accommodation at Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving with your amazing community members!

Since you are preparing for your big move to Urban Campus Ayora Valencia Coliving, and want to get to know the city better, we want to introduce you to one of the most famous festivals in Valencia. We have prepared the ultimate article with everything you need to know about “Las Fallas de Valencia”!

What is “Las Fallas”?

Las Fallas de Valencia is a unique festival declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO that takes place every year in you guest it – Valencia, Spain. It is a week-long and takes place annually from March 15th to March 19th. However, the celebrations start picking up on March 1st, to help get the city in the mood and ready for what is to come. You will be able to experience spectacular fireworks displays almost daily, incredibly colorful parades, and elaborate sculptures made out of wood and paper mache.

Understanding the History

The history of Las Fallas dates back to the Middle Ages when carpenters in Valencia would burn their wooden workshops and leftover materials on the Feast Day of Saint Joseph (March 19th), the patron saint of carpenters. Over time, this tradition evolved into the creation of large-scale wooden figures that were eventually set on fire. 

The modern-day version of Las Fallas began in the mid-19th century when the city council began to organize the festival with the citizens. Today, Las Fallas is a major cultural event that attracts millions of visitors worldwide. Will you be one of them this year?

Traditions

La Cremá (The Burning)
The main tradition of Las Fallas is the creation and burning of large-scale sculptures (some as tall as 30 feet), known as “fallas”. These sculptures are made out of wood, paper mache, and other materials, and often depict satirical or humorous scenes. La Cremá will take place on March 19th, the day of San José. The beautiful pieces of art are transformed into towering infernos that light up the night sky with intense heat and light. This tradition symbolizes the wood burning as a way of celebrating the end of the dark winter working days and the arrival of spring.

Did you know that each falla takes a year to create? As soon as one is burned, artists and craftsmen come together again to work on the next year’s creation.

La Nit del Foc (The Night of Fire), is the night of the largest and longest firework display in Las Fallas de Valencia. Approximately 7187 fireworks will be launched in 20 minutes with 62 effects and colours within 27 sets. The beautiful display can be seen from the old river and over the city of Arts and Sciences and will begin in the early hours of Saturday, March 18 to March 19 (at 01:00 a.m.).

Other Traditions in Las Fallas de Valencia
There are also a number of other traditions and events that take place throughout the city. One of the most popular is the Mascleta, which from the beginning of March until the 19th will take place in Valencia’s central square (Plaza del Ayuntamiento) at 14H. It is an explosive display of firecrackers designed to simulate the sound of an earthquake. It is meant to be felt as well as heard.

On the 17th and 18th of March, you will also witness another beautiful tradition, La Ofrenda de Flores (Flower Offering). This is a very emotional part of Las Fallas, where thousands of Valencians dress in traditional clothing and offer flowers to an enormous statue of the Virgin Mary in the Plaza de la Virgin. The flowers are used to create a colorful and intricate mosaic that covers the entire statue.

Why do you need to go to Las Fallas?

During the festival, the city of Valencia becomes alive, there is a vibrant energy that runs through every street corner that you need to experience at least once in your life. So get ready to join the street dancing, feel the rhythm of the music, and marvel at the stunning artwork that surrounds you. We recommend you get to know your new coliving city better and immerse yourself in Las Fallas! 

Urban Campus Mellado is the first coliving to achieve the BREEAM In-Use green building certification! This is just the beginning of our sustainable path. 

What is BREEAM In-Use?

The purpose of the certification is to provide building owners, facility managers, investment managers, and building occupiers with a consistent and credible means of determining the impact and performance of their buildings, and deciding the areas for improvement. Many factors are considered, such as: materials, energy, water and utility usage, and management processes put in place, among others.

Our building not only provides greater health and comfort for those who live in it, but it also means greater profitability for those who build, operate and maintain it.

Why Mellado?

Mellado was our first coliving building in Madrid. It was originally built in the 1960s and has been renovated to be more circular. Since 2018 it has been operated as an Urban Campus coliving. The building layout was optimized and the envelope was improved to reduce energy consumption which in turn has a direct effect not only on the environment but also on operational costs. It was during the refurbishment phase that the space was optimized to create common areas that added value, reduced loneliness, and promoted social moments between tenants. 

We have put in place policies and communication to promote a responsible community and encourage healthy spaces. Some examples include, waste management protocols (recycling and reducing), shared appliances in certain areas, and reduced water fixtures. 

Mellado is also a smart space that is digitally managed. By tracking and measuring consumption patterns, we have proactively solved overconsumption, and reduced emissions with the help of power meters like Wibeee.

All these factors were taken into account upon being rewarded with the BREAAM In-Use certification. Usability and comfort will always stand for all of our buildings.

So What’s Next?

We know this is just the very first step of the journey. In the next years, you will see many actions within this line from our partners and our company. Our objective is to reduce the carbon footprint and emissions of our present and future buildings. We strive for more efficient, modular, and responsible construction, and will continue digitalizing our operations further. The end goal is to provide our residents with healthy conscious spaces. 

Spain’s new digital nomad visa is finally here making it one of the most attractive destinations for remote workers. The goal is to promote Spain as one of the leading countries in attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and qualified workers in the greatest living conditions.

Spain has long been a popular destination for travelers, with its rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and world-famous cuisine. Data also proves that Spain is considered one of the top 20 healthiest places to live in the world by analyzing factors such as life expectancy, cost of healthcare, air pollution, obesity rates, safety, sunlight hours, and more! However, the country has faced challenges in recent years due to a high unemployment rate, making it difficult for nationals and expats alike to find work. Expats often face the additional challenge of limited job opportunities under government programs, which primarily require English teachers. This results in highly skilled individuals, such as engineers, being unable to work in their field and being urged to teach instead. This leads to the heartbreaking decision to leave the country despite falling in love with its culture and way of life.

About the Digital Nomad Visa

The digital nomad visa is available to self-employed individuals or those working for a company based outside of Spain. Applicants must demonstrate that they have a steady income and provide proof of adequate health insurance coverage. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, providing remote workers with the flexibility to live and work in the country for as long as they wish.

We will provide you with the insights to better understand if you can apply for this visa and what it is you will need to provide to receive it. 

Who can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa

All citizens who are non-EU nationals that work remotely for non-Spanish companies are able to apply for the new visa.

How to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa 

The latest steps that we have researched are the following: 

• Ensure you have a contract with the current company you are working with for at least one year
• You must submit your criminal records certificate with a minimum validity of 90 days, they must be legalized and apostilled. You will also need to provide a sworn statement that you do not have a criminal record within the last five years
• Fill out the application form which can be found here 
• Pay the administrative fee for the visa
• Contract private health insurance with full coverage throughout Spain
• Provide a bank certificate proving the possession of at least €28,000 for the main applicant, which is 200% of the minimum wage in Spain
• A letter of authorization from your company allowing you to work in Spain

We want to also mention this article from Planet Nomad because they are constantly updating their blogs with the latest protocols. Planet Nomad also provides insights into other visas from neighbouring countries in case you are interested. 

For those who would like to know of the alternatives to the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, please take a look at this website here.

Where to live in Spain?

With your visa in hand, it’s time to decide where to call home in Spain. Madrid, the capital city, is a thriving metropolis that offers a vibrant lifestyle. For seamless integration into your new surroundings, consider residing in a coliving space. Urban Campus has five prime-located coliving buildings in Madrid, all fully equipped with everything you need to make your move as stress-free as possible. Our unique coliving spaces offer ample opportunities for socializing with neighbors through a variety of common areas.

Valencia is another highly recommended destination for nomads, with several articles singling it out as the top place to live and work abroad. Luckily Urban Campus Ayora Valencia Coliving is set to open in July 2023, offering 41 fully equipped studios and 200m2 of common spaces, including a gym, coworking area, cinema room, shared kitchen and dining area, laundry room, and rooftop barbeque, showers, and chill-out zone. This is the perfect opportunity for you to join our international community and experience Valencia’s vibrant culture.

Stay connected with us on our Instagram page to keep up-to-date on our latest openings, current properties, and events. We don’t want you to miss out on finding your future home in Spain!

Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Lille, France? Look no further! Our Coliving Residence Manager, Louise, who is an expert on the city, has created a list of must-see places, from the best restaurants, bars, and cafes to unique experiences that will give you a taste of the vibrant Lille lifestyle. Whether you’re a new resident in our coliving or just visiting, Lille has something special to offer you. 

Lille is known for its charming architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere. Take a stroll through the historic Old Town and marvel at the beautiful Flemish-style buildings. Indulge in some of the local specialties such as traditional “carbonnade” or “potjevleesch” and enjoy a glass of local beer in one of the many cozy bars and cafes.

For culture enthusiasts, Lille offers a wide range of museums, art galleries, and theatres, such as the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the most important museums in France outside of Paris, or the Opera House, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Experience the local nightlife and catch a live music performance at one of the many bars and clubs in the city center. 

For a unique experience, why not take a day trip to the nearby Belgian towns of Ypres, Bruges, and Ghent, which are just a short train ride away? Wondering how to do that from Lille? Take a look at this blog for more details on how to make this trip a reality. 

Make the most of your time in Lille by inviting your fellow colivers to join you on your journey of discovery. Whether it’s trying new restaurants, visiting local landmarks, or exploring the city’s nightlife, there’s always more fun to be had when shared with friends.

It is time to get ready to experience the best of Lille with our curated list of must-visit restaurants, bars, cafes, and unique experiences. 

Restaurants
Octopus

The dining atmosphere in Octopus will drive you in, but their cuisine will keep you coming back. They offer original dishes and recommend you begin with some starters and later one main octopus dish. If you take a look at their unique wine list, you will find local/small producers that may end up being your new favorite.

Location:  2 Pl. Sébastopol, Lille, France 

Bloempot

In Bloempot offers dishes that stay close to their origin. Made local with organic and wild farming, you know you are in for a treat. When you arrive you have the opportunity to choose from the ‘experience menu’ which allows you to have your “eyes closed” and have the chefs take over and choose what it is you will be enjoying that evening or or you may ‘stay in control’ and decide on your own. This is an added element that can excite people as soon as they are seated, which we are a huge fan of.

Location:  22 Rue des Bouchers, Lille, France

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille is known for their welcoming staff, setting, and selection. Their prices are very reasonable, and it is here where you will be savouring the typical dishes of Hauts de France. If you are interested in visiting them, be sure to book in advance, they are usually full which of course is always extremely promising! 

Location: 2 Rue des Vieux Murs, Lille, France

Restaurant Sébastopol

If you are interested in perfectly pairing wine with your meals, Restaurant Sébastopol is the place to visit. The staff is extremely friendly and have exquisite taste in wine, we suggest you ask for recommendations to match each course to highlight your tastebuds.

Location: 1 Pl. Sébastopol, Lille, France

Bars
Artchives 

What a location! If you are looking for an experience that has it all, in Artchives you will find yourself in a bar, restaurant, and art gallery! We suggest you grab one of the drinks at the bar (known for being very generous) and explore. We must also mention that their signature cocktails are very original. Overall the experience is chic, and unique. We are sure you will enjoy yourself.

Location: 74 Rue Jacquemars Giélée, Lille, France

La Biche & Le Renard

La Biche & Le Renard is a well-known cool little bar in Lille. Known for their incredible craft beer selection, their staff is extremely knowledgeable and are there to help guide you through the variety of savours they offer. 

Location: 14 Rue de Gand, Lille, France

Quai Des Bananes

Quai Des Bananes is overall a small spot in the heart of Lille, but their menus are huge! Their cocktails list is so extensive, you will have difficulty choosing, meaning you will simply have to come back to try more next time! 

Location: 84 Rue Royale, Lille, France

Delirium Café

One of the most essential bars in Lille, is Delirium Café. Here you will have a choice of 500+ beers from all over the world, it’s quite the experience. The decor within the bar is captivating. You may choose from seating in their heated terrace or within the deep decor!

Location: 50 Rue Masséna, Lille, France

Cafés

Elizabeth’s Tea Rooms

We have written but the cafes of Lille in another article, but because we live in Europe and coffee is essential, we wanted to bring some key partners back and recommend them to you at least one more time. Elizabeth’s Tea Room is a cute little cafe located right behind the corner of what most believe to be the most beautiful streets of the city. They offer some delicious pastries, made fresh every day, and gluten-free options as well.

Location: 69-71 Rue Basse, Lille, France

Pâtisserie Méert

Méert is the oldest coffee shop in the city, making it extremely well-known! It is here where you will find Ladurée of waffles which are a must-try. “Whether for the taste buds and also for the pupils, everything is beautiful and delicious”. 

Location: 25-27 Rue Esquermoise, Lille, France

La Clairière

If you are looking for a vegan brunch in the city, La Clairière is your spot. The staff is friendly, the food portions are outstanding and the value for your money will turn you into a regular. 

Location: 75 Bd de la Liberté, Lille, France

Briocherie Sylvana

Discover the flavor of the moment of the brioche every week at Briocherie Sylvana. They offer superb coffee and delicious sweets in a beautifully decorated space. One of the must-go spots in the city of Lille. 

Location: 24 Bd Victor Hugo, Lille, France

Experiences

Le Zénith

The indoor arena, Le Zénith in Lille will be holding 69 concerts in 2023 that you should definitely look out for. Do not be worried about where your seat is, all who attend have explicitly mentioned that there is not one bad seat in the house. The arena is also very easy to get to from any part of Lille. 

Location: 1 Bd des Cités Unies, Lille, France

Gare Saint Sauveur

For alternative music and cultural events, you must visit Gare Saint Sauveur. The company organizes plenty of exhibitions throughout the year for the citizens of Lille to enjoy, and some events are even free, so keep an eye out!

Location: 17 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas, Lille, France

Wazemmes Market (Marche de Wazemmes)

Experience a sea of colors and smells on your next Sunday morning in Lille in the Marche de Wazemmes. You will be able to purchase fresh local produce as well as clothing and accessories like other markets often have such as El Rastro in Madrid. Marche de Wazemmes is where you will find the real Lilloise.

Location: Pl. Nouvelle Aventure, Lille, France

Palais des Beaux Arts 

Within Palais des Beaux Arts, one of the largest art museums in France you will find fine art, modern pieces, and antiques. The exhibitions are temporary which is great, allowing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in many collections.

Location: Place de la République, Lille, France