Valencia Airport
Valencia, ES · 8 km (5.0 mi) west of Valencia
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| EMT Bus Line 150 City bus | Often 40–50 min centre–airport in traffic, based on user reports | — |
| Interurban Buses Manises Regional bus | — | — |
| Metrovalencia Line 3 Metro | 20–25 min from city centre (station‑to‑station) | €5.80 one way |
| Metrovalencia Line 5 Metro | Around 20–25 min in‑train from central stations, longer door‑to‑gate | €5.80 one way (airport metro fare reported as same regardless of L3 vs L5) |
Insider notes
Skip taxis to the city. Metrovalencia lines 3 and 5 travel directly to Xàtiva and Colón in 20-25 minutes. Use a rechargeable card for less hassle.
Arrive 90 minutes before Schengen flights and two hours for non-Schengen during morning and late afternoon to avoid security lines.
Pick up a last-minute gift at Thinking Valencia featuring regional treats like wine and olive oil.
Welcome
Valencia Airport (VLC) operates more like a city metro stop with an attached runway rather than a traditional air hub. Situated just 8 kilometers west of Valencia, its on-site Metrovalencia station bridges the short journey from terminal to city center in 20-25 minutes. Frequent flyers overwhelmingly choose this rail option over taxis due to convenience and cost efficiency. Although the terminal caters primarily to budget and regional airlines like Ryanair and Vueling, its offerings include unexpected local flavors. Shops such as Thinking Valencia and Lizarran provide last-minute tastes of regional goods like wine and tapas, encapsulating a touch of Valencia’s charm.
At a glance
Handling approximately 8.53 million passengers annually with a single terminal, Valencia Airport ensures straightforward navigation. Its compact size does not compromise on essentials: 13 restaurant options—from Burger King to local favorite Tribs—alongside a suite of 14 shops like Dufry Duty Free and Parfois ensure basic traveler needs are met. However, food and beverage outlets here are not 24-hour entities, marking a significant point for night travelers to prepare.
Terminals & layout
The airport’s single terminal (T) caters to all airlines and passenger services. This consolidates flight operations and amenities such as shopping and dining into one central area, simplifying transitions for travelers. Despite its small size, the airport can experience sporadic security line buildups during early morning and late afternoon peaks. To dodge delays, allot a minimum of 90 minutes for Schengen flights and two hours for non-Schengen destinations during these times.
Getting to and from the city
While taxis such as those from Taxi Valencia or Radio Taxi Valencia offer quick 15-20 minute rides costing around €14-€20 depending on time and surcharges, the Metrovalencia steals the show for airport-city transit. Line 3 and Line 5 guide passengers to central spots like Xàtiva and Colón within 20-25 minutes for a modest €5.80 one-way fare, making it both an economical and efficient choice. The airport’s location just outside the city ensures all routes are relatively brisk, even during heavier traffic conditions.
Traveller essentials
Sala Joan Olivert, located near Gate A1, is the airport's sole lounge. A tranquil getaway, it is accessible with a €39.45 adult day pass, serving as a reprieve from bustling terminal activities. Although there’s no currency exchange desk on-site, ATM services dispense various currencies, a feature often puzzling non-Euro users. For families, the landside’s baby care room on the first floor—equipped with changing tables and microwaves—provides a peaceful space for young travelers.
Dining & shopping highlights
Despite a modest lineup, dining here showcases some enticing Iberian flavors. Tribs offers a distinct Iberian dining experience, while La Pausa provides classic grill fare. Shopping highlights include Thinking Valencia, an emporium of regional delicacies perfect for souvenirs, and the recognizable Dufry Duty Free for standard international products. A minor caveat: airside pricing can lean higher than central Valencia, a sticking point for budget-conscious travelers.
Lounges
Sala Joan Olivert serves a dual function of business and leisure as Valencia Airport’s only lounge. Notable for its peaceful atmosphere, it offers snacks, showers, and reliable Wi-Fi service—comforts well appreciated by transit passengers. Despite not operating round-the-clock, it remains a valuable option for delayed or long connections, provided your flight timing aligns with its opening hours.
Insider tips
- Insider: Skip taxis to the city. Metrovalencia lines 3 and 5 travel directly to Xàtiva and Colón in 20-25 minutes. Use a rechargeable card for less hassle.
- Time: Arrive 90 minutes before Schengen flights and two hours for non-Schengen during morning and late afternoon to avoid security lines.
- Local: Pick up a last-minute gift at Thinking Valencia featuring regional treats like wine and olive oil.
- Money: There’s no money exchange desk, but an ATM dispenses multiple currencies—use it to avoid hassle.
- Avoid: The airport closes concessions during non-flight hours; bring your own food if traveling late night or early morning.
- Quiet: Encounter a break from the hustle in the chapel on landside Floor 2—a seldom-known peaceful retreat.
- Quiet: Near Gates 13-22, find ample tabletop chargers—ideal for working before boarding.
- Insider: Stay overnight at nearby budget hotels like Ibis or Travelodge if you arrive late and depart early to save on city accommodations.