Valencia is Spain's third-largest city and perhaps its most livable — combining the culture and architecture of a major metropolis with beaches, year-round sunshine, and a cost of living that Madrid and Barcelona cannot match. A rental car here opens up the beautiful Costa Blanca, inland mountain villages, and some of Spain's best-kept secrets.
Valencia Airport (VLC) is 8 km west of the city center. Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall of Terminal 1, with vehicles in the adjacent outdoor lot. Operators include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, Goldcar, Centauro, and Record Go. Competition is fierce, with economy cars from €10-€20/day — some of the lowest rates in Europe. Be vigilant about fuel policies and excess amounts with budget operators.
Valencia is relatively driver-friendly by Spanish city standards. The old town (Ciutat Vella) should be avoided by car — its medieval street plan predates automobiles by centuries. But the wider city has broad avenues and good signposting. Key tips:
The coast in both directions from Valencia offers outstanding driving:
Valencia's mountainous interior is vastly underrated. The Maestrazgo region to the northwest has medieval hilltop towns (Morella is extraordinary), wild mountains, and almost no tourists. The Ruta del Vino through Utiel-Requena passes through Spain's largest single wine-producing region. And the Montanejos hot springs, 100 km inland, offer natural thermal pools in a mountain gorge — free and spectacular.
The AP-7 motorway along the coast is toll-free in the Valencia region (tolls were removed in 2020). Fuel costs €1.55-€1.75/liter. Speed cameras are widespread. Valencia has a low-emission zone (ZBE) in the city center, but rental cars from major companies should meet the requirements. Cross-border trips to France via the AP-7 involve tolls in Catalonia (approximately €15 from Valencia to the French border). The climate is Mediterranean — hot summers, mild winters — making Valencia a year-round driving destination.
You can pick up a rental car at these airports near Valencia:
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| Zone | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ciutat Vella (Old Town) | €2.20/hr | Blue-zone metered parking with strict time limits. Many streets are pedestrian-only or restricted. Underground garages are more practical. |
| Parking Colón (Underground) | €20/day | Central underground garage near the main shopping street. Well-lit and secure. Online pre-booking recommended. |
| City of Arts and Sciences Area | €1.50/hr | Street parking in the Turia riverbed park area. Less congested than the old town. Free on Sundays in most zones. |
Traffic note: Valencia is one of Spain's more manageable cities for drivers. The old town is compact and best avoided by car, but the wider city has broad boulevards and a logical ring road system. The V-30 and V-21 provide fast connections to the airport and motorways. Valencia has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure, with 160 km of bike lanes, so watch for cyclists. Traffic is lighter than Madrid or Barcelona. The A-7 motorway connects Valencia to Barcelona (350 km north) and Alicante (170 km south).
Compare car rental prices in Valencia → →Book your Valencia rental online at least 2 weeks ahead — airport desk walk-up prices are typically 30-50% higher.
Compare prices from top rental companies at VLC pickup locations.
A freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice paddies just south of the city. Boat rides through the marshes, spectacular sunsets, and the birthplace of authentic paella.
A medieval fortress town jutting into the Mediterranean on a rocky peninsula. The old quarter is crowned by a 13th-century Knights Templar castle with panoramic sea views.
A historic town dominated by a magnificent hilltop castle stretching along a mountain ridge. Birthplace of the Borgia popes, with a well-preserved old quarter and mountain views.
Rental companies in Spain charge $15-30/day for excess reduction at the desk. Standalone policies cover the same thing for a fraction of the cost — and you can buy before you go.
Reduce your excess to zero from $49/trip
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These policies reimburse you if the rental company charges your card for damage. They do not replace the rental company's basic insurance (CDW/TP) which is always included.
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Data and regulations verified against official sources. Last checked 2026-04-27.
Download our free PDF guide to driving in Spain — parking tips, toll info, and more.
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