Car hire - Valencia

The Spanish city of Valencia is where old meets new. Its historic old town is contrasted with the ultra-futuristic buildings of the City of Arts and Sciences, which was purpose built to educate and entertain. Hiring a car in Spain’s third largest metropolis means you’ll be able to explore all of it hassle-free and uncover the surrounding area.

Valencia’s airport is eight kms to the west of the city, and you can drive to the centre via the V-11 and A-3 roads with ease.

Hire cars are available at Valencia Airport (VLC), two train stations and locations in the city centre. While the most choice on offer will be at the airport, you can use our website to compare deals and find the scenario that best suits your needs. With 17 different car hire suppliers at the airport, there really is something for everyone. The majority of companies have been ranked excellent or very good by our customers and each one is backed up by 24/7 support and free cancellation should your plans change.

The majority of hire car suppliers at the airport have desks in the terminal, including Goldcar rental, Firefly Car Rental and Thrifty. The likes of Sol Mar Rent A Car and centauro rent a car, who do not have a presence in the terminal offer a free shuttle bus to get you to where you need to be, removing any hassle. The remaining companies, such as Victoriacars.com provide a meet and greet service, where a member of staff will collect you and escort you to the desk.

Driving around Valencia you’ll be able to take in everything from the beaches on its coastline to the pretty squares in the old town. In between, there is the former riverbed, which is now dry and has been turned into a picturesque and shady park, still complete with bridges linking each side over the top. Since Valencia is the birthplace of paella, you’ll want to tuck into a traditional version of this Spanish classic during your stay. Wash it all down with a glass of horchata, a milky drink made from tigernuts, which is a favourite in the city.

To escape the city and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area you don’t have to drive too far. In fact, just 45 minutes down the V-21 and then A-23 roads will take you to the natural pools at Las Navajas. Cool off with a swim and get a pleasant shower from the small waterfall that feeds the pools. As you are out in the countryside in unspoilt scenery, be sure to pack your own picnic and plenty of water to drink.

Less than 50 minutes’ drive away from Valencia on the A-7 is the riverside town of Xativa, which winds its way up the hill. It’s a stunning location with the castle walls occupying an impressive defensive position. This day trip is particularly beloved by hikers and it’s important to have sturdy footwear in order to tackle the ascent. When you get to the top you’ll know it was worth it.

From Valencia it is just two and a half hours along the AP-7 to Tarragona, but do bear in mind that this road can be travelled so quickly due to the fact that it has tolls. When you get there you’ll find a wide selection of Roman ruins, including the remains of an amphitheatre and a forum. The town’s archaeological museum gives a greater insight into Tarragona’s history and the cathedral is also well worth a visit.

Less than two hours away on the A-7 in the opposite direction is Alicante, with its beautiful old town and picture postcard coloured houses. Park the car and climb up to the Santa Barbara Castle on the hill for fantastic views. While you’re in this port town you’ll also want to try some of the fresh seafood available.