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Getting Around Valencia
The best way to get around Valencia is by metro, which reaches as far as the Valencia Airport (VLC) about 5 miles west of the city. Public buses help supplement the metro coverage, but these can be confusing. Instead, consider walking or renting a bike to the closest sights and activities. We recommend forgoing the rental car: parking is near impossible to find, and the city's narrow streets can make driving difficult for visitors. If you think you'll be relying heavily on public transportation during your trip, consider purchasing the Valencia Tourist Card, which offers free travel on metro, tram and bus for 24, 48 or 72 hours.
From the airport, you can take metro lines 3 or 5 – both of which link the airport to the city center. Alternatively, bus route No. 150 connects the airport to the city center, stopping in the towns of Mislata, Quart de Poblet and Manises along the way. Taxis are another (more expensive) option. Fares cost a minimum of 12 euros (around $13.25) and include an airport surcharge of 5.40 euros (around $6).
| Metro | Valencia's underground light rail system, the metro, tends to be more reliable than the buses. Line 4 is a popular above-ground tram, which heads from northwest Valencia to the seaside. Tickets can be purchased in the stations, but you have to plan ahead: Tickets are issued by zones (A, B, C, D or a combination of these four). Prices vary depending on which zones you wish to access, so you must make sure your ticket covers the zone in which your destination is located. |
| Bus | Local buses connect the major Valencia attractions. Some buses also run to nearby towns, such as Buñol, where the famous La Tomatina festival takes place. Standard fare without transfers is around 1.50 euros (or less than $2) and can be purchased as you board the bus. There is also a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus with two routes, each lasting 90 minutes. This can be a convenient option if you're short on time and want to hit the top sights. |
| Bike | Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore Valencia. The city's bike rental service, Valenbisi, has nearly 300 stations around town where you can pick up a bike. A weekly pass costs about 13.30 euros (or roughly $15.50) and can be purchased at each station. Remember to wear your mandatory reflective clothing while riding at night. |
| Car | Driving a car in Valencia is a hassle; the streets are too narrow and parking can be difficult to find. It's best to save yourself the trouble and take the metro. What's more, it's illegal to rent a vehicle without first obtaining an international driving permit. |
| On Foot | Like many European cities, Valencia is navigable on foot, so pack your good walking shoes. Some of the city's most popular attractions are spread out, however, so we recommend taking public transportation to visit the City of the Arts and Sciences or the beach. |
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