Layover at Valencia Airport
Things to Do and Useful Tips for your Layover at Valencia Airport
Valnecia Airport Layover Time isn’t Lost Time
Let’s be honest no one looks forward to a layover. Waiting for your next flight can feel like wasted time. But what if your stopover could become a highlight of your trip?
Whether you have a short connection or a long layover ahead, Valencia Airport (VLC) offers a range of ways to turn your wait into a pleasant and productive experience. For quick stops, enjoy a coffee at one of the airport cafés, catch up on work with free Wi-Fi, or browse through duty-free shops.
Have more time to spare? Consider leaving the airport and exploring nearby Valencia! With the city center just 20–25 minutes away by metro or taxi, you can easily discover local sights, enjoy a tapas meal, or take a stroll along the Turia Gardens before heading back.
No matter how long your layover is, Valencia Airport gives you plenty of ways to make the most of your time.
Things to Do at Valencia Airport
VLC Airport may not be as large as some of Spain’s mega-airports, but it offers a modern, welcoming environment with plenty of ways to make your layover comfortable, productive, or even fun. Whether you’re just passing through or facing a long wait, here’s how to make the most of your time at the Airport:
🛍️ Shop Smart (or Just Browse)
While smaller than major European hubs, Valencia Airport still features a selection of duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and well-known brands. Pick up some last-minute gifts, travel essentials, or indulge in a bit of retail therapy. Traveling light or on a budget? Window shopping is still a great way to pass the time.
🍽️ Eat, Drink, and Enjoy Spanish Flavors
Treat yourself to a relaxing meal or quick snack before your next flight. Valencia Airport offers a mix of cafés, bars, and restaurants with both international and Spanish cuisine. Craving something local? Try a glass of wine or a cold beer with a side of authentic Valencian tapas you’re in Spain, after all!
💻 Stay Connected and Productive
Take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Catch up on emails, organize your travel itinerary, finish that last-minute project, or simply unwind with your favorite streaming series. It’s the perfect time to do all those online tasks you’ve been putting off.
✈️ Relax and Refresh
Want to feel fresh and recharged for your next flight? While Valencia Airport doesn’t have a full spa, you can still unwind in the comfort of the airport lounge, available to all travelers for a fee or with membership. Enjoy complimentary snacks, drinks, quiet spaces, and sometimes even showers.
🙏 A Moment of Peace
Need a quiet place to reflect or pray? Valencia Airport has a multi-faith prayer room available for passengers, offering a peaceful space away from the busy terminal environment.
🧸 Family-Friendly Time
Traveling with kids? Children’s play areas in the terminal can help burn off some energy and keep your little ones entertained during long layovers. You relax they play. Everyone wins.
😴 Catch Some Rest
Have a long layover or early morning flight? While Valencia Airport doesn’t have a transit hotel, there are comfortable chairs in quieter parts of the terminal where you can catch a nap. If you prefer a hotel bed, several hotels are located within a few minutes’ drive from the airport and offer shuttle services.
Final Tip: With the city center only about 20–25 minutes away, a longer layover could be your chance to explore Valencia’s beaches, Old Town, or the City of Arts and Sciences just make sure you allow enough time to get back through security.
Long Layovers Allow you to Meet Valencia !
Wondering whether you have enough time to leave Valencia Airport and explore the city? As a rule of thumb, you’ll need at least a 6 to 7-hour layover to make the most of a quick city break. While Valencia Airport is just 20–25 minutes from the city center by taxi or metro, don’t forget to factor in security checks and boarding times arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your next flight is essential.
So, if your stopover is long enough, store your luggage at the airport, hop on the Metro (Line 3 or 5) or take a taxi, and start discovering the charm of Valencia!
1. Book a City Tour
The most efficient way to explore Valencia’s highlights in a short amount of time is by booking a guided tour. You’ll find a range of options—private and group tours—directly departing from the city or near the airport. From sightseeing buses to walking routes through the Old Town, there’s something for every traveler.
Pro Tip: Want something different? Go for a tapas and wine tasting tour the perfect introduction to Valencia’s Mediterranean culinary scene.
2. Discover Plaza del Ayuntamiento & Mercado Central
Start your own walking tour in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the grand city square lined with elegant buildings. Then stroll toward the famous Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful food markets. Inside, you’ll find everything from jamón ibérico and olives to fresh seafood and artisanal treats—perfect for a quick bite.
3. Dive Into Art & Architecture
For art lovers, Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences is a must. This futuristic complex includes the Science Museum, the Hemisfèric cinema, and the Oceanogràfic, Europe’s largest aquarium. If your time is limited, admire the architecture from outside and relax in the open spaces around the complex.
4. Walk Through El Carmen & See the Silk Exchange
Wander through El Carmen, the city’s most historic district, filled with narrow streets, street art, cozy cafés, and ancient monuments. Don’t miss the Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Valencia’s golden age of trade.
5. Relax in Turia Gardens & Admire the Palau de la Música
If you’d rather take it slow, head to the lush Jardín del Turia, a 9-km-long park that runs through the city. Rent a bike or stroll toward the Palau de la Música, a striking concert hall nestled among fountains and palm trees. This peaceful setting is ideal for stretching your legs before your next flight.
6. Visit the Valencia Cathedral & El Miguelete
Climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city and explore the stunning Valencia Cathedral, which blends Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles. Legend has it the Holy Grail is kept inside why not see it for yourself?
7. Football Fan? Tour Mestalla Stadium
If you’re a football enthusiast, use your layover to visit Mestalla, the historic stadium of Valencia CF. Guided tours offer access to the locker rooms, tunnel, and pitch, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at one of Spain’s oldest football arenas.
Whether you’re into food, culture, history, or just a relaxing stroll, a Valencia layover can easily turn into a mini adventure. Just remember to track your time and return to the airport with plenty of time for check-in.