If you have a layover at Valencia Airport, you’re in luck. This airport offers more than just basic amenities, allowing you to either explore the local culture or relax comfortably while you wait for your next flight. Whether you have a few hours or an entire day, this guide will help you make the most of your layover, with activities ranging from enjoying airport lounges to taking a quick trip to Valencia’s city center.
Quick Facts
- City Exploration: If you have a layover of 5+ hours, visit Valencia’s city center, including the City of Arts and Sciences and Valencia Cathedral.
- Airport Lounges: Relax in the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge with Wi-Fi, snacks, and charging stations, or find rest zones throughout the terminal.
- Dining Options: Enjoy Spanish cuisine like paella or grab a quick bite from cafes like Costa Coffee.
- Shopping: Shop at World Duty Free for luxury items and Thinking Valencia for local products.
- Transportation: Use the metro or taxis for a quick trip to the city center within 20-25 minutes.
What can you do during a layover at Valencia Airport?
During a layover at Valencia Airport, you can relax in the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, which offers complimentary snacks, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations. If you have more time, explore Valencia’s city center, just 20-25 minutes away by metro or taxi, visiting landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences or Valencia Cathedral. For shorter layovers, enjoy local dining options or shop for souvenirs at World Duty Free.
Explore Valencia City During a Layover
If you have at least 5 hours of layover time, you can easily venture into Valencia’s city center and explore some of its key attractions:
- City of Arts and Sciences: Just a 20-minute drive from the airport, this architectural marvel features museums, an opera house, and Europe’s largest aquarium. It’s a must-see for art and science lovers alike.
- Valencia Cathedral: Located in the historic center, the cathedral is home to a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles. It’s just 15 minutes away by taxi and perfect for a short cultural experience.
- Turia Gardens: One of the largest urban parks in Spain, the Turia Gardens offers lush greenery and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll.
Tip: Ensure you’re back at the airport with enough time for security checks. Plan your excursions with extra time to spare.
How long of a layover do I need to see Valencia?
If you have a layover in Valencia Airport and want to explore the city, it is recommended to have a layover of at least 6-8 hours. This will give you enough time to leave the airport, visit the city center, and explore some of the top attractions.
Keep in mind that transportation from the airport to the city center can take up to 30 minutes, so you will need to factor this into your overall time. Additionally, it is always a good idea to leave extra time for unexpected delays, especially if you have to clear customs and immigration upon arrival.
If you have a longer layover, such as 12 hours or more, you will have even more time to explore Valencia and see more of its top attractions, like the City of Arts and Sciences or the Albufera Natural Park. You may also have time to visit some of the city’s museums or take a guided tour.
No Regrets Booking Advice
In summary, the length of your layover will depend on how much time you want to spend in Valencia and which attractions you want to see. However, a layover of at least 6-8 hours is recommended to make the most of your time in the city.
A Few Hours Layover / About 6-8 Hours
With a layover of 6 to 8 hours, you have enough time to explore a few highlights of Valencia’s city center.
Start by visiting the iconic City of Arts and Sciences, just a 20-minute metro or taxi ride from the airport.
Take a walk through Turia Gardens, or visit the Valencia Cathedral in the heart of the old town.
No Regrets Booking Advice
After sightseeing, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants offering paella or other traditional dishes.
Make sure to allocate time for the return trip and airport security checks to avoid rushing back to your flight.
A Longer Layover / More Than 12 Hours
A layover of more than 12 hours allows for a deeper dive into Valencia’s cultural and culinary scene.
Spend the day exploring the historic city center, visiting top attractions like the Silk Exchange, Valencia Cathedral, and the Central Market.
You can also head to the beaches and relax by the Mediterranean Sea. For a more leisurely experience, visit the Oceanogràfic (Europe’s largest aquarium) or explore the Museum of Fine Arts.
Valencia’s compact city center makes it easy to see multiple sights in one day.
Tip: If your layover includes an evening, enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner in the city or a sunset stroll along the Malvarrosa Beach.
An Overnight Layover
For an overnight layover at Valencia Airport, you have several options depending on your preference for rest or exploration.
If you prefer to stay close to the airport, there are several hotels nearby, such as Holiday Inn Express Valencia or Ibis Budget Valencia, offering comfort and convenience.
Alternatively, if you want to explore the city’s nightlife, head to Ruzafa or the El Carmen district, both known for their bars, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
After dinner, enjoy a late-night walk around the city’s illuminated landmarks before returning to your hotel or the airport.
Tip: Valencia Airport operates 24/7, so you can choose to spend the night inside the terminal if needed, though a hotel will offer more comfort and privacy.
Before You Go: Layover Tips
- Check the Duration of Your Layover: The first step in making the most of your layover is to check the duration of your layover. If you have a short layover, it may not be possible to leave the airport and explore the city. In this case, you can still make the most of your time by enjoying the airport’s many amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges.
- Store Your Luggage: If you have checked luggage, you can store it at the airport to make your trip to the city center more comfortable. Most airlines offer luggage storage services for a fee.
- Transportation Options: The most convenient and affordable way to get to Valencia city center from the airport is to take the metro. The metro station is located at the airport, and it takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the city center. You can also take a taxi or rent a car if you prefer.
- Visit the City Center: If you have enough time, visit the city center and explore its many attractions, including the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, and the Cathedral. Don’t forget to try some of the local cuisine, including paella, horchata, and churros.
- Relax and Recharge: If you don’t want to leave the airport, you can still make the most of your layover by relaxing and recharging. The airport has several lounges where you can rest, enjoy a meal, or catch up on work. You can also visit one of the airport’s many shops or cafes.
- Return to the Airport: Make sure to return to the airport in time for your next flight. Be sure to factor in enough time to clear security and immigration procedures before your flight.
Transportation to the City
Getting to Valencia airport to city center is easy, with several convenient transportation options:
- Metro: Metro lines 3 and 5 connect Valencia Airport to the city center, taking around 20-25 minutes. The fare is approximately €4.90, making it a cost-effective option.
- Bus Line 150: This is a slower but more budget-friendly option, with buses running every 20-30 minutes. The trip takes about 40 minutes and costs around €1.50.
- Taxis: For the fastest option, take a taxi directly to the city center. A taxi ride takes about 15 minutes and costs between €20-25. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area.
Tip: If your layover is short, stick to the metro, rent a car, or a taxi to ensure you have enough time for your trip and return to the airport.
Relaxation at Valencia Airport
If you’d rather stay at the airport, Valencia Airport offers excellent amenities for passengers looking to relax:
- Joan Olivert VIP Lounge: This lounge offers a serene environment with complimentary snacks, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations. It’s perfect for business travelers or those seeking a quiet place to unwind. Access is available through Priority Pass or by purchasing a day pass for around €25-30.
- Rest Zones: If you don’t want to pay for lounge access, the airport has several comfortable seating areas where you can rest, charge your devices, or even get some work done.
Tip: Download your favorite content to your device beforehand if you plan to rest in one of the common areas to pass the time more enjoyably.
Dining and Shopping at Valencia Airport
Valencia Airport has a variety of dining and shopping options to keep you entertained during your layover:
- Local Cuisine: Try a taste of Spanish cuisine by enjoying tapas or paella at one of the airport’s restaurants. For a quick bite, you can also grab a sandwich at La Pausa or a coffee at Costa Coffee.
- Duty-Free Shopping: Valencia Airport’s World Duty Free shop offers a range of products, from perfumes and cosmetics to premium alcohol brands. You can also find local products like Valencian wines and turrón (nougat) at Thinking Valencia, making it the perfect spot for souvenir shopping.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of exclusive duty-free deals, especially on high-end fragrances and spirits, which often feature airport-only prices.
FAQs
What can I do during a layover at Valencia Airport?
During a layover at Valencia Airport, you can relax in the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, which offers snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations. For longer layovers, you can explore Valencia’s city center in 20-25 minutes via metro or taxi. Alternatively, enjoy shopping at World Duty Free or savor Spanish cuisine at one of the airport’s restaurants.
How can I get from Valencia Airport to the city center?
You can reach Valencia’s city center from the airport by taking Metro lines 3 or 5, which take about 20-25 minutes and cost around €4.90. Alternatively, taxis are available for a fixed fare of €20-25, providing a faster option in about 15 minutes. Bus services like Line 150 are also available, though slower.
Where can I relax at Valencia Airport?
You can relax at Valencia Airport in the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, which provides a quiet environment with free Wi-Fi, snacks, and charging stations. If you don’t have lounge access, there are rest zones and comfortable seating areas throughout the terminal, where you can unwind and charge your devices.
Why should I explore Valencia during my layover?
If you have a layover of 5 hours or more, exploring Valencia’s city center is a great option. The airport is only 20-25 minutes away from major attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences and Valencia Cathedral. This short trip allows you to experience the city’s culture and landmarks while waiting for your next flight.
Will I find local products at Valencia Airport duty-free?
Yes, Valencia Airport’s Thinking Valencia shop offers a range of local products, including Valencian wines, turrón (nougat), and jamón ibérico. These make excellent souvenirs or gifts, allowing travelers to take a piece of Valencia’s culinary heritage home.
Conclusion
Whether you’re keen on exploring Valencia’s landmarks or prefer to relax in the comfort of the Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, Valencia Airport provides plenty of options to make your layover enjoyable. Take advantage of the airport’s dining, shopping, and Wi-Fi services, or hop on the metro for a quick visit to the city center.
Also read our guide on Top Things to Do at Valencia Airport: Dining, Shopping, Relaxation
