Car Hire - Valencia Manises Airport (VLC)

Valencia sits on Spain's eastern Mediterranean coast, roughly 15 kilometres from the airport. It's a lively, modern city with deep roots, blending medieval architecture with cutting-edge design. The old town is compact and walkable, while the wider region stretches out into orange groves, rice paddies and long stretches of coastline. Whether you're heading straight into the city or using it as a base for something further afield, Valencia is a practical and rewarding arrival point.

Picking up a hire car at Valencia Airport gives you real flexibility from the moment you land. The city itself is straightforward to drive around, and the surrounding region opens up quickly once you leave the urban area. The AP-7 motorway runs along the coast, connecting Valencia to towns north and south with ease. Inland routes take you through quieter countryside and into the mountains of the interior.

If you're travelling with a group, a 7-seater people carrier or a 9-seater people carrier gives everyone room to travel comfortably without needing to split into multiple vehicles. An SUV works well if you're planning to explore beyond the main roads. For city driving and day trips, a compact automatic car is often the simplest choice. Car hire at Valencia Airport is a practical option whether you're staying close to the city or planning a longer route through the region.

Nearby attractions

The City of Arts and Sciences is one of Valencia's most recognisable sights. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the complex includes a science museum, an oceanarium, an IMAX cinema and outdoor spaces that are worth exploring in their own right. It makes for a good first stop if you're arriving with time to spare.

Albufera Natural Park lies just south of the city. This protected lagoon and wetland is the landscape behind Valencia's most famous dish, paella, which originated here. You can take a boat out on the lagoon, walk the surrounding trails or visit one of the small villages nearby. It's a calm contrast to the busier parts of the city.

The town of Xativa sits inland from Valencia, set on a hillside dominated by a castle that dates back to Roman times. The views from the top are considerable, and the town below has a relaxed, authentic feel that's different from the coast. It's a manageable drive from the airport and a good option for anyone with an interest in history.

Valencia's mix of city life, natural landscapes and historic towns makes it one of the more varied destinations in eastern Spain. The coast, the countryside and the culture are all within easy reach by car.