Valencia Airport (VLC)

A Key Spanish Gateway and Important Hub for Regional and International Travel

Valencia Airport: A Convenient Gateway to Spain’s Mediterranean Coast

Valencia Airport, officially known as Aeropuerto de Valencia (VLC) or Manises Airport, is the main international gateway serving Valencia city and its surrounding communities. Conveniently located only 8 kilometers (approximately 5 miles) west of Valencia’s historic city center, the airport is a key transportation hub within Spain’s vibrant Valencian Community. It currently ranks among Spain’s busiest airports, reflecting its steady growth in passenger numbers and commercial activities.

The airport is frequently referred to simply as Valencia or Manises Airport. The latter name is derived from Manises, the municipality where the airport is located. Established as a critical infrastructure for regional connectivity, Valencia Airport continues to play an essential role in facilitating tourism, commerce, and international travel to and from Eastern Spain.

Today, Valencia Airport manages over 10 million passengers annually, steadily increasing since the post-pandemic recovery (8.53 million passengers in 2022, rising significantly to approximately 10.8 million passengers in 2024). It hosts a variety of airlines, including prominent carriers such as Iberia Regional (Air Nostrum), Ryanair, Vueling, Lufthansa, KLM, and Air France. Equipped with modern infrastructure, the airport consists of one main passenger terminal and a single runway, efficiently managing domestic and international flights. Valencia Airport primarily serves routes across Europe and is consistently expanding connections to new international destinations.

As an essential transportation link, Valencia Airport offers comprehensive services and facilities. Travelers benefit from numerous dining options, retail shops, business amenities, and comfortable lounges. In terms of transport, the airport is seamlessly connected to the city and wider region via multiple convenient options, including metro lines (Metrovalencia lines 3 and 5), regular bus services, taxis available directly outside the terminal, and car rental companies providing flexibility for visitors wishing to explore the area independently.

Valencia Airport’s Layout

Valencia Airport (VLC) features a single terminal building, designed to conveniently accommodate both domestic and international flights within one compact and easy-to-navigate space. Unlike larger airports with multiple separate terminals, passengers at Valencia Airport benefit from the simplicity of accessing all flights and facilities from a unified building without the need for shuttle transfers.

The airport terminal underwent significant modernization in recent years, enhancing its capacity and traveler experience. Today, the terminal efficiently manages Schengen-area and international flights through clearly marked areas designed for optimal passenger flow. Inside, travelers will find an array of retail shops, restaurants, cafes, and various passenger amenities.

Thanks to its straightforward, single-terminal design, Valencia Airport simplifies passenger movements, offering quick connections, straightforward check-in, and smooth boarding processes, all within one centralized facility.

Airport Name: Valencia Airport (Aeropuerto de Valencia – Manises)

IATA Code: VLC

ICAO: LEVC

Location: Valencia, Spain

Time Zone: Central European Time (GMT+1)

Airport Map: Valencia Airport on Google Maps

VLC Airlines

Valencia Airport (VLC) hosts a diverse selection of airlines, catering to both domestic and international travelers. Numerous Spanish carriers, alongside prominent international airlines, operate regular flights to and from this key regional gateway. Both traditional full-service airlines and popular low-cost carriers provide frequent services, ensuring travelers have ample options for convenience and affordability.

Notably, Valencia Airport serves as an important operational base for Iberia Regional (Air Nostrum), which has its headquarters here. It is also a significant base for low-cost airline Ryanair and a focus city for Vueling, connecting Valencia to various destinations across Spain, Europe, and beyond.

Parking Facilities

Valencia Airport offers convenient and ample parking facilities tailored to meet travelers’ varying needs. The main parking area (P1), located directly opposite the terminal, provides approximately 3,000 parking spaces, ideal for both short-term and long-term stays. Additionally, passengers seeking quick access can utilize the Express Parking zone situated directly outside the terminal for drop-offs or brief stays.

For travelers requiring premium convenience, Valencia Airport also provides VIP parking services, including reserved spaces, direct terminal access, and additional comfort amenities. Furthermore, economical long-term parking options are available within walking distance of the terminal, ensuring affordability for extended durations.

Transit Options

Passengers traveling from Valencia Airport (VLC) to Valencia’s city center or surrounding areas can conveniently choose from several transit alternatives:

Services and Amenities

The VLC is fully equipped to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable travel experience. Travelers can expect a wide range of high-quality amenities and passenger services, including:

Retail Stores and Duty-Free Shopping
Restaurants, Cafés, and Bars
Baggage Wrapping, Luggage Storage, and Lost & Found Offices
Business Facilities and Meeting Rooms
Medical Assistance and Pharmacy Services
Banking, ATMs, and Currency Exchange Services
Family Amenities and Children’s Play Areas
Multi-faith Chapel and Quiet Rooms
VIP Lounges for Relaxation and Comfort
Free High-Speed Wi-Fi Throughout the Terminal
Tour Operators and Travel Agency Desks
Information and Assistance Kiosks
Accessible Drinking Fountains
Special Assistance and Facilities for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Contact Info

Official Name: Valencia Airport (Aeropuerto de Valencia-Manises)

Address: Carretera del Aeropuerto, s/n, 46940 Manises, Valencia, Spain

Phone Number: (+34) 913 211 000

Opening Times: 24/7

Official Website: www.aena.es

The City of Valencia

Valencia beautifully combines centuries-old heritage with contemporary charm. Its vibrant historical past is evident throughout the city, reflected vividly in impressive architecture, iconic landmarks, and bustling plazas. Simultaneously, Valencia stands out as a dynamic modern city, renowned for its thriving cultural scene, innovative arts events, stylish fashion districts, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors quickly find themselves captivated by the city’s welcoming Mediterranean spirit, ensuring an authentic experience filled with warmth and genuine hospitality.

FAQs

Are there multiple airports serving Valencia?

Valencia is primarily served by one main airport, Valencia Airport (also known as Manises Airport), located only 8 km (5 miles) west of the city center. Alicante-Elche Airport, approximately 170 km away, also serves travelers visiting the broader region, depending on convenience and specific travel requirements.

How far is Valencia Airport from the city center?

Valencia Airport is conveniently located just 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Valencia’s city center. The short distance ensures quick and easy transfers From airport to city center via various transportation options, including metro, bus, taxi, and rental cars.

How many terminals does Valencia Airport have?

Valencia Airport operates with a single, efficient terminal building. This streamlined layout simplifies navigation and reduces transit times for travelers.

Is Valencia Airport easy to navigate?

Yes, Valencia Airport is designed for ease of use, offering clear signage, a compact layout, and modern passenger-friendly amenities. Travelers find it straightforward to navigate due to its well-organized spaces and facilities.

How early should I arrive at Valencia Airport?

Passengers are advised to arrive at Valencia Airport approximately 2 hours before scheduled departure times for domestic and European flights, and around 3 hours for international flights. This ensures sufficient time for check-in, security, and boarding procedures.

What are the transportation options from Valencia Airport?

Transferring from Valencia Airport to city or elsewhere should be proven an easy task. Apart from the comfy airport taxis, the luxurious private airport transfers, and the handy airport car rentals, Valencia Airport is also connected to the city of Valencia via public transportation. Thus, buses, Metrovalencia are at your disposal as soon as you land at VLC Airport.