Arriving in Valencia and wondering how to get from Valencia Airport (VLC) to the city center? With various options like the metro, bus, taxi, or private transfers, it’s important to choose the right one based on your budget and schedule. This guide will break down each option, from the fastest metro routes to the most affordable buses, helping you make the best choice for your trip.
Quick Facts:
- Metro (Lines 3 & 5): The quickest and most affordable option, costing €4.90, with a 20-minute ride to the city center.
- Aerobus: Offers a direct route for €3.90, perfect for those with luggage, taking around 25 minutes.
- Bus Line 150: The cheapest option at €1.45, though it takes longer (40 minutes) due to frequent stops.
- Taxi: Costs between €20-€30, offering the fastest and most convenient option for door-to-door service.
- Private Transfers: Pre-booked services like Welcome Pickups provide personalized transport starting at €34, ideal for families or groups.
How do I get from Valencia Airport to the city center?
To get from Valencia Airport to the city center, you can take the Metro (Lines 3 & 5), which costs €4.90 and takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, the Aerobus offers a direct shuttle service for €3.90 and takes about 25 minutes. Taxis are the fastest option, costing between €20-€30, with a travel time of 15-20 minutes.
Public Transport Options
Metro (Lines 3 and 5)
The Valencia metro is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to travel from Valencia Airport to Valencia city center. Metro lines 3 (red) and 5 (green) both run from the airport and take around 20 minutes to reach the city’s central stations, such as Xàtiva or Colón.
- Cost: €4.90 for a one-way ticket (including a €1 charge for the card).
- Schedule: The metro runs every 15-20 minutes, operating from 5:30 AM to midnight on weekdays and from 7:00 AM on Sundays and public holidays.
- Tip: Buy your ticket at the airport’s vending machines or the Metrovalencia office for easy access. The station is located directly under the airport terminal.
The metro is ideal for travelers looking for a quick and affordable trip to the city, especially if you’re staying near the city center or other metro-accessible areas.
Aerobus (Shuttle Service)
The Aerobus is a dedicated shuttle service that runs between Valencia Airport and the city center. It takes about 25 minutes and stops at key locations like Avenida del Cid and Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
- Cost: €3.90 one way.
- Schedule: Every 20 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week.
- Tip: This is the best option if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or need a straightforward, direct route into the city.
The Aerobus offers a balance between speed and convenience, making it an excellent choice for families or travelers with lots of baggage.
Bus Line 150
For budget-conscious travelers, Bus Line 150 (Metrobus) is the cheapest way to get to the city center. The journey takes around 40 minutes due to the multiple stops along the route.
- Cost: €1.45 per trip.
- Schedule: Buses run from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday to Saturday, with no service on Sundays.
- Tip: This is a great option for solo travelers on a budget, but the journey time is longer due to frequent stops.
Bus Line 150 is the cheapest option, though it’s a bit slower and less frequent than other transport methods.
Private and Shared Transfers
Taxi
Taking a taxi from Valencia Airport to the city center is one of the fastest and most convenient options, with an average journey time of 15-20 minutes. Taxis are available 24/7 just outside the arrivals hall.
- Cost: Between €20 and €30, depending on traffic and time of day.
- Tip: Make sure the taxi uses a meter to avoid overcharges. Taxis are great if you’re traveling in a group or with lots of luggage.
A taxi offers door-to-door convenience, making it the best option for those who value time and comfort over cost.
Private Transfers
If you want to avoid queues and enjoy a hassle-free experience, pre-book a private transfer. Services like Welcome Pickups offer the convenience of having a driver waiting for you at arrivals, holding a sign with your name.
- Cost: Starts from €34.
- Tip: Private transfers are perfect for families, large groups, or anyone arriving during busy periods. It’s also a good option if you’re traveling late at night.
Private transfers are slightly more expensive but offer personalized service and zero waiting time.
Comparing Travel Costs and Times
Here’s a quick comparison of the different transport options from Valencia Airport to the city center:
| Transport | Cost | Travel Time | Ideal For |
| Metro (Lines 3 & 5) | €4.90 | 20 minutes | Budget travelers, solo |
| Aerobus | €3.90 | 25 minutes | Families, travelers with luggage |
| Bus Line 150 | €1.45 | 40 minutes | Budget travelers, solo |
| Taxi | €20-€30 | 15-20 minutes | Families, small groups, convenience |
| Private Transfer | €34+ | 15-20 minutes | Groups, luxury travelers |
Practical Tips for Travelers
When to Choose Each Option
- Metro: Ideal for budget travelers or those staying near metro-accessible areas.
- Aerobus: Perfect for travelers with heavy luggage or those who prefer a direct route.
- Taxi: Best for travelers who prioritize convenience or arrive late at night.
- Private Transfer: Ideal for families, large groups, or anyone who prefers hassle-free, pre-arranged transport.
Family-Friendly Options
Families traveling with kids may find the Aerobus or a private transfer to be the most comfortable and convenient options. Both provide more space for luggage and reduce the hassle of navigating public transport with children.
Accessibility Considerations
Both the metro and buses are wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps available at key locations in Valencia Airport.
FAQs
What is the fastest way to get from Valencia Airport to the city center?
The fastest way to get from Valencia Airport to the city center is by taxi. A taxi takes around 15-20 minutes and costs between €20-€30, depending on traffic and the time of day. Taxis are available directly outside the arrivals hall and offer door-to-door service.
How much is the metro from Valencia Airport to the city center?
A one-way metro ticket from Valencia Airport to the city center costs €4.90. This price includes a €1 charge for the rechargeable card used for the metro. The metro (Lines 3 and 5) takes around 20 minutes to reach central stations like Xàtiva or Colón.
Where can I catch the metro at Valencia Airport?
The metro station is located directly beneath Valencia Airport. Follow the signs for the metro upon exiting the arrivals hall. You can purchase tickets from vending machines or the Metrovalencia information office located in the arrivals area.
What is the cheapest way to get from Valencia Airport to the city center?
The cheapest way to get from Valencia Airport to the city center is by Bus Line 150, which costs only €1.45 for a one-way ticket. The bus takes about 40 minutes and makes multiple stops along the way. It runs Monday to Saturday but does not operate on Sundays or public holidays.
How long does the Aerobus take from Valencia Airport to the city center?
The Aerobus takes around 25 minutes to get from Valencia Airport to the city center. It runs every 20 minutes, from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and costs €3.90 for a one-way trip. The Aerobus is convenient for those with luggage and looking for a quick, direct ride.
Will the metro run late at night from Valencia Airport?
The metro operates until midnight on weekdays and weekends, with the first metro leaving the airport at 5:30 AM during weekdays and 7:00 AM on Sundays and public holidays. Travelers arriving late at night may want to consider taking a taxi or a private transfer.
Can I pre-book a taxi from Valencia Airport to the city center?
Yes, you can pre-book a taxi or private transfer from Valencia Airport. Services like Welcome Pickups allow you to reserve your ride in advance, with the driver waiting for you in the arrivals hall. This ensures convenience, especially during peak travel times or late-night arrivals.
Where does the Aerobus stop in the city center?
The Aerobus has several stops, including Avenida del Cid and Plaza del Ayuntamiento in the city center. It is a direct service from the airport, making it a great option for travelers heading to central locations with minimal stops.
Why should I choose a private transfer from Valencia Airport?
A private transfer is a good choice for families, groups, or travelers with lots of luggage. It offers door-to-door service and eliminates the hassle of waiting in line for a taxi. Prices start around €34, and services like Welcome Pickups ensure that a driver will be waiting for you upon arrival.
How often do buses run from Valencia Airport to the city center?
Bus Line 150 departs from Valencia Airport every 25-35 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays. The service operates between 5:30 AM and 10:00 PM but does not run on Sundays or public holidays. This bus is the most affordable option but takes longer than other transport methods.
Conclusion
Choosing the right transport option from Valencia Airport to the city center depends on your needs, whether it’s budget, convenience, or speed. With options ranging from the fast and affordable metro to private transfers that offer comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your journey. Book your transfer in advance to ensure a smooth start to your trip!
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