Compare car hire at Valencia Airport with major providers, pickup tips and driving routes across the Costa Blanca and eastern Spain.
Valencia Airport (VLC), also known as Manises Airport, is located about 8 km west of Valencia city centre. It’s a busy but manageable airport where car hire is well organised, with a dedicated rental area just outside the terminal.
While Valencia itself has good public transport, hiring a car is ideal if you plan to explore the wider region — including the Costa Blanca, inland villages, or destinations further south like Alicante.
Flights from Ireland
There are regular direct flights from Dublin to Valencia, mainly operated by Ryanair and Aer Lingus. Flight times are around 2 hours 40 minutes.
Flights run year-round, with increased frequency during summer and holiday periods.
Car hire companies at Valencia Airport
Car hire desks are located inside the arrivals hall, with vehicles collected from a multi-storey car park directly opposite the terminal. Everything is within walking distance, connected by pedestrian crossings.
- Hertz – Desk in arrivals with vehicles in the main airport car park
- Avis / Budget – Shared desk inside the terminal with nearby vehicle collection
- Europcar – On-site counter with cars in the adjacent parking structure
- Sixt – Located in arrivals with vehicles parked opposite the terminal
- Enterprise / Alamo – Terminal desk with cars in the same car park area
- Centauro / Record Go / Goldcar – Popular Spanish providers, some operating slightly off-site with shuttle transfers
Most major brands are on-site, but some lower-cost providers operate from nearby depots requiring a short shuttle transfer.
Pickup process at Valencia Airport
After arriving, follow signs to the car hire desks in the arrivals hall. The counters are grouped together, making it easy to locate your provider.
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll typically walk across to the multi-storey car park directly opposite the terminal. Vehicles are arranged by company and clearly signposted by level and section.
One useful tip at Valencia is to note your parking level carefully before leaving the desk. The structure is large, and returning to the same spot later can be confusing if you don’t remember the exact area.
If you’ve booked with an off-site provider, staff will direct you to a shuttle pickup point just outside the terminal. Transfers usually take only a few minutes.
Vehicles commonly rented in Valencia
The Valencia region combines city driving, motorways, and coastal routes, so most travellers choose vehicles that balance efficiency and comfort.
- Economy cars – Ideal for city use and short coastal trips; easy to park in Valencia
- Compact cars – A versatile option for exploring the Costa Blanca and nearby towns
- Family cars – Suitable for longer journeys or travelling with luggage
- SUVs – Useful for inland routes or added comfort on longer drives
- Automatic vehicles – Available, though manual cars are more common in Spain
If you plan to spend time in historic town centres, a smaller vehicle can make parking and navigation easier.
Driving from Valencia Airport
The airport has direct access to major road networks, making it easy to reach both the city and coastal destinations.
- Valencia city centre – around 15–20 minutes
- Albufera Natural Park – around 25–30 minutes
- Castellón – around 1 hour via AP-7
- Alicante – around 1.5–2 hours via AP-7
Traffic is generally manageable, although it can increase during rush hours entering or leaving the city.
Tolls, fuel and driving tips in Spain
Driving in the Valencia region is straightforward, with modern roads and clear signage.
- Some motorways (autopistas) are toll roads, though many routes are now toll-free
- Fuel stations are frequent along major roads and open long hours
- Roundabouts are common, especially near urban areas
- Speed cameras are widely used on motorways and main roads
If you plan longer motorway journeys, it’s worth checking whether your route includes toll sections.
Official information
FAQs – Car hire Valencia Airport
Is car hire available at Valencia Airport?
Yes, all major international and local providers operate from the airport.
Where do I collect my rental car?
Most vehicles are collected from the multi-storey car park opposite the terminal.
Do I need a shuttle to collect my car?
No for on-site providers, but some low-cost companies operate off-site with shuttle transfers.
How far is Valencia city centre from the airport?
It takes around 15–20 minutes by car.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are more common in Spain.
Are there toll roads near Valencia?
Some motorways have tolls, but many routes are now toll-free.
Is driving in Valencia easy?
Yes, roads are modern and well signposted, though traffic can increase during peak hours.
Can I drive to Alicante from Valencia?
Yes, the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via the AP-7.
Is fuel easy to find?
Yes, fuel stations are widely available across the region.
What documents are required to hire a car?
A valid driving licence, passport or ID, and a credit card in the main driver’s name are required.
