Valencia is one of those cities where getting around is super easy. The center is compact and mostly flat, the public transport is straightforward and you can be at the beach or the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences in no time. Let’s have a look at the options.
1. Airport to the city
Valencia Airport is close to the city and very manageable. You have two main options to reach the center: metro or taxi. Your choice depends on what time you arrive, how much luggage you have and whether you prefer speed, ease or the cheapest option.
Metro
The Metro is a easy option. Just follow the Metro signs in the arrival hall which brings you down to the metro platform. Buy your ticket at the machine or office for less then 3 euros. You arrive 20 minutes later in the city center.
Insider tip
If you are staying near the old town, look for stops like Xàtiva or Colón, they put you within walking distance of many central hotels and apartments. Keep some coins or a card handy for the ticket machines, and take a photo of the metro map on your phone before you leave the station.
Taxi
If you arrive late, travel with kids or have heavy luggage, a taxi is the most comfortable door to door option. Official taxis wait outside arrivals and will take you straight to your hotel or apartment in the city. Major ride-hailing apps also operate, although pick-up rules can change, so look for signs in the arrivals hall.
2. Getting around in the city
Walking in Valencia is the real star here, but it helps to know when to hop on a metro or bike when you like to explore the city and make the most of your time.
Walking
Like I said, this city is great for making your daily steps. Walking the old town is really nice, you won’t feel any rush just enjoy those relaxed vibes. You can almost explore everything on foot.
Insider Tip: If you like to save some time, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is best to reach by bike.
Bike
Valencia is very friendly for cycling, with a lot of bike lanes and the long, car-free Turia Gardens forming a natural cycling route through the city. There is a public bike hire scheme plus plenty of private rental shops offering city bikes, e-bikes and sometimes scooters. Cycling is one of the nicest ways to get to the City of Arts and Sciences or out towards the beach.
Day rentals from shops are easy, you just need ID and a payment card, and prices are typically reasonable by European standards. For the public bike scheme you usually register with a card and use stations dotted around the city, but the sign-up can take a few minutes so do it when you are not in a rush
Metro
When you’re using the metro to visit the beautiful Turia park or the beach from the city center, you can buy an (A zone) ticket from the machines at the station. It is cheap and a good option if you don’t want to do all the walking.
Car?
No you don’t need a car for this city. I would only recommend a car if you are planning to go on a road-trip otherwise stick to walking or jumping on a bike 🚲
