Summary
Valencia is Spain’s third largest city, boasting an urban sprawl with a population exceeding 800,000 inhabitants. However, the bustling city center presents a surprisingly serene atmosphere, contrasting with what one might expect from a city of this size. Unlike Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is not cluttered with numerous bus and train stations, making it beneficial to familiarize yourself with the local transport options to ease your arrival.
Buses from Valencia Airport
If your final destination is not Valencia itself, you may not need to pass through the city to catch your bus. Valencia offers bus services to various locations including Alicante, Benidorm, Denia, Javea, and Gandia. For the latest bus timetables and ticket purchases, visit Movelia.es.
The metro service from Valencia Airport to the city center operates from approximately 5:30 am to just before midnight, providing convenient access for travelers.
Getting There
Reaching Valencia has become significantly easier with the introduction of the high-speed AVE train. The popular route from Madrid to Valencia takes just 90 minutes; however, the connection from Barcelona is not yet available. The AVE train typically serves as the fastest mode of transport into the city. Notably, both the AVE and regular trains arrive at different stations, but they are just a short walk from one another.
Exploring the Region
As is common in many major Spanish cities, Valencia has a Cercanias local train service. This is an excellent option for reaching smaller towns near the city, including Buñol, which hosts the famous Tomatina Tomato Fight, Requena, and Sagunt.
Estación del Norte
The Estación del Norte (Estació del Nord in Valencian) serves as the main train station in Valencia and is conveniently located next to the bullring.
- Location: Centrally situated at Calle Xativa 24.
- Destinations: Offers slow trains to various locations including Barcelona, Cuenca, and Madrid, as well as Albacete, Tortosa, and Cartagena. This station caters to both long-distance and regional trains, and also includes the C-1, C-2, C-5, and C-6 lines on the Cercanias commuter network.
Valencia Joaquin Sorolla High-Speed Train Station
The high-speed AVE train arrives at the Joaquin Sorolla station, which is located not far from Estación del Norte (approximately 800 meters away).
- Location: Situated at San Vicente Martir 171.
- Destinations: Connects to major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Cuenca, and select trains to Alicante.
Valencia Bus Station
Traveling by bus can often be a more economical choice compared to taking the train; however, the bus station is located approximately 2 kilometers outside of the city center.
- Location: Found at Avenida Menéndez Pidal, 13.
- This main bus station provides access to numerous popular national destinations as well as various international routes.
