Getting Around in Valencia

Getting around in Valencia is easy. Whether you’re navigating heavy traffic or cycling along well-maintained bike paths, the city’s infrastructure makes it simple. 

Valencia also offers a range of efficient and affordable public transport options, including buses, trams, and an extensive metro system, all geared towards getting you where you need to go smoothly.

Check out Transport and Driving in Spain for more about traversing this beautiful Iberian country.

Public transport in Valencia

Public transport fares in Valencia are structured based on distance. Zone A covers the city centre, while Zones B, C, and D stretch farther out. You can purchase single tickets, but if you’re staying a while, it’s smarter to go for a 10-journey ticket for better value.

The city’s metro, light rail, and tram services are part of the Metrovalencia network. Frequent travellers should grab a TuiN smart card, which offers significant savings. The card lets you switch seamlessly between different modes of transport, like the metro, tram, and bus, within designated zones.

Metro

Although it's less extensive in the southern areas, the metro in Valencia covers most of the city well. If you’re looking for the fastest route to the airport, the metro is your best bet – it takes around 30 minutes from the city centre. While smaller than the networks in Madrid or Barcelona, Valencia’s metro remains one of the quickest and most reliable ways to get around.

Trams

Valencia’s tram system is integrated with the metro, making it easy to get to northern districts or head to the beach. Services run frequently, but they tend to taper off late at night. Buses and taxis are better alternatives if you’re staying out past midnight.

Buses

Buses in Valencia are efficient and run well into the night. Check timetables in advance, as night buses can have one- or two-hour gaps. For short trips outside the city, the yellow Metrobus connects Valencia with nearby villages at affordable fares.

If making sense of the bus routes seems confusing at first, don’t worry – once you find a stop, you can easily plan your journey using Google Maps or local transport apps.

Be prepared for occasional bus diversions due to city events like demonstrations or festivals. These detours often happen without much notice, so flexibility is key.

Useful links

• Metrovalencia Official Website
• EMT Valencia

Taxis in Valencia

Taxis are a handy way to get around Valencia, especially after 11pm when public transport becomes less frequent. Night and weekend fares are higher, so it’s worth keeping this in mind.

You can hail a taxi on the street or through apps like Free Now, Cabify, or Uber. If you’re venturing out of the city, consider carpooling apps like BlaBlaCar to save money and share the ride.

Useful links

• Free Now
• Cabify
• Uber Valencia

Walking and cycling in Valencia

Walking in Valencia is a pleasure, with warm weather most of the year. Even at night, wandering through the vibey city streets is generally safe. Plus, if you’re eco-conscious, walking is a great way to lower your carbon footprint while taking in the sights.

Valencia’s love affair with cycling is evident in its growing network of bike paths. One of the best is the Cycling Ring, a 2.9-mile (4.7km) loop around the Old Town that makes getting around the city a breeze. The flat landscape and compact size mean you’re never too far from your destination, making it perfect for leisurely rides or fast commutes.

If you don’t own a bike, no problem – Valenbisi, Valencia’s bike-sharing programme, lets you hop on and off at stations around the city. The first 30 minutes are free, which is ideal for quick trips. 

Just ensure you lock your bike properly, as theft can be an issue. Use a good-quality lock and secure both the frame and wheels.

Useful links

• Valenbisi
• Visit Valencia Walking Routes

Driving in Valencia

While it’s entirely possible to get by without a car in Valencia, if you’re planning to rent or buy one, be ready for some parking headaches. Free parking spots in the city centre are like gold dust. Public car parks are a better bet, though you’ll need to factor in the costs.

Valencia also enforces low-emission zones, so ensure your car meets the required environmental standards. Double-parking is a common but risky practice here, and hefty fines or towing are not uncommon. To avoid the hassle, many residents prefer scooters, which are quicker, cheaper, and easier to park.

Boat travel in Valencia

Valencia’s port is a gateway to the Balearic Islands, with regular ferry routes to Menorca, Mallorca, and Ibiza. These ferry trips offer a relaxing alternative to flying, with journey times between five and eight hours depending on your destination.

Amenities on board range from self-service dining to comfy lounges and cabins for overnight travel. You can bring your car along if you want to discover the islands at your own pace. Just make sure to book ahead, especially during the busy summer months.

Ferry schedules can vary by season, so it's a good idea to check with operators before planning your trip.

Useful links

• Balearia Ferries
• Trasmed Ferries
• Valencia Port