Valencia Airport is the main airport serving the city of Valencia and the surrounding region. If you have a layover at Valencia Airport, there are several ways to make the most of your time and explore the city. Here you can find our tips to help you enjoy your layover in Valencia Airport.
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.
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.
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: Valencia is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. 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.
A Few Hours Layover / About 6-8 Hours
If you have a layover in Valencia Airport about 6-8 hours and want to explore the city, here is a step-by-step guide to make the most of your time:
- Check the Duration of Your Layover: The first step is to check the duration of your layover. If you have at least 6-8 hours, you will have enough time to leave the airport and explore the city.
- 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: Once you arrive in the city center, visit the top attractions, such as the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, and the Cathedral. Take your time exploring each attraction and soak up the local culture.
- Enjoy a Meal: Valencia is known for its cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore. Try some of the local specialties like paella, horchata, and churros.
- Shop or Browse: If you have some time to spare, explore the city’s many shops and boutiques. Valencia has a variety of stores, including luxury brands, souvenir shops, and local artisan shops.
- 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.
A Longer Layover / More Than 12 Hours
If you have a layover in Valencia Airport and want to explore the city, here is a step-by-step guide to make the most of your time for a layover of 12 hours or more:
- Check the Duration of Your Layover
- Book a Luggage Storage Service
- Transportation Options
- Visit the Top Attractions: With 12 hours or more, you can visit more of Valencia’s top attractions, such as the City of Arts and Sciences, the Central Market, and the Cathedral. Consider taking a guided tour to see as much as possible or rent a bicycle to explore the city at your own pace.
- Try the Local Cuisine: Valencia is known for its cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore. Try some of the local specialties like paella, horchata, and churros.
- Relax and Recharge: Take a break and relax in one of the city’s many parks or beaches, like the Turia Gardens or Malvarrosa Beach. Or, enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink in a local café.
- Shop or Browse
- Return to the Airport
Getting from Valencia Airport to City Center
Valencia Airport is located approximately 8 km west of the city center, and there are several transportation options to get to the city center.
- Metro: The most affordable and convenient way to get to the city center is by metro. The airport has a metro station, which is located on line 3. The journey to the city center takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your final destination.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the journey to the city center takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are a more expensive option than the metro, but they are a good choice if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or want to get to your final destination quickly.
- Bus: There are several bus lines that connect the airport to the city center, including lines 150, 151, and 152. The journey time is similar to that of the metro, but buses can be less frequent.
- Car Rental: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car at the airport. Several car rental companies have offices at the airport, and there are several parking options in the city center.
In summary, the most convenient and affordable way to get to the city center from Valencia Airport is by metro. However, taxis and buses are also available if you prefer.
An Overnight Layover
f you have an overnight layover in Valencia Airport, here is a step-by-step guide to make the most of your time:
- Check the Duration of Your Layover: The first step is to check the duration of your layover. If you have an overnight layover, you may need to book accommodation near the airport.
- Book an Airport Hotel: Book a hotel near the airport. Several hotels are available, including the Sleep&Fly hotel, which is located inside the airport, and several hotels located within a short distance from the airport.
- Relax and Recharge: If you don’t want to leave the airport, you can relax in one of the airport lounges or cafes. There are several lounges available, including the Sala VIP Pau Casals lounge and the Sala VIP Joan Miro lounge. These lounges offer comfortable seating, food and drink, and other amenities to make your stay more enjoyable.
- Enjoy a Meal: Valencia Airport has several restaurants and cafes to choose from. You can enjoy a meal at one of the airport’s many eateries or grab a quick snack at a café.
- Shop or Browse: If you have some time to spare, explore the airport’s many shops and boutiques. Valencia Airport has a variety of stores, including luxury brands, souvenir shops, and duty-free stores.
- Get Some Rest: If you are tired, take a nap in one of the airport’s quiet zones or rest areas. These areas offer a peaceful space to catch some sleep and recharge before your next flight.
- Return to Your Departure Terminal
