A Stopover in Valencia: Discover the Best Features, Services, and Attractions

Valencia, Spain, is a beautiful coastal city that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you are planning a quick stopover before your next long flight or considering spending a bit more time exploring, Valencia has something to offer every traveler. From its iconic landmarks to its world-class hotels and services, the city is an ideal place to break up a long journey. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most important features of a stopover in Valencia, highlight the best services, famous places, top hotels, and airports, and provide useful information for travelers looking to book a stopover flight.

What is a Stopover, and How Do You Book a Stopover Flight?

Before diving into the specifics of Valencia, let’s clarify what a stopover is and how to book a stopover flight. A stopover occurs when a traveler’s flight includes a layover of more than 4 hours (or 24 hours on international flights), allowing time to explore the city or country before continuing on to the final destination. If you’re traveling from one continent to another, booking a stopover can offer an opportunity to discover a new place without significantly increasing the cost of your ticket.

How do you book a stopover flight?

Booking a stopover flight is easier than you might think. Many major airlines, including Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways, offer stopover programs that let you break your journey at a selected city. When booking your flight, look for airlines that include stopover options, and select your desired stopover destination, like Valencia. Often, these stopovers come with special perks, including discounts on hotels and guided tours of the city. Don’t forget to check for any requirements like a transit visa or travel restrictions for your layover country.

Why Choose Valencia for Your Stopover?

Valencia is an increasingly popular stopover destination thanks to its blend of rich history, stunning beaches, and modern architecture. The city offers a wide range of attractions that can be easily explored during a short stay. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or someone seeking a relaxing break, Valencia has something for everyone.

1. Explore the City’s Iconic Landmarks

Valencia is home to some of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, and during a stopover, you can visit several of these in a short amount of time.

• La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences): This architectural marvel, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is one of Valencia’s most famous landmarks. The complex houses the Oceanographic Aquarium, the Hemisférico IMAX cinema, and the Reina Sofia Palace of the Arts. It’s a must-see for anyone stopping over in Valencia.
• La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 15th-century building is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It once served as the center of the silk trade and is an important historical landmark in Valencia.
• The Central Market (Mercado Central): If you want to experience local culture, visit the Mercado Central, one of Europe’s oldest food markets. It’s the perfect place to sample local products, such as fresh seafood, cured meats, and the famous Valencian oranges.
• Plaza de la Reina: This bustling square is at the heart of Valencia’s old town and is home to the stunning Valencia Cathedral. Don’t miss the chance to climb the Micalet Bell Tower for panoramic views of the city.

2. Beautiful Beaches for Relaxation

If you’re looking to relax during your stopover, Valencia’s beaches offer the perfect escape. Located just a short distance from the city center, the Malvarrosa Beach and Las Arenas Beach provide golden sands, clear waters, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Spend a few hours here, or even a day, to unwind before continuing your journey.

3. Delicious Valencian Cuisine

Valencia is the birthplace of paella, Spain’s famous rice dish. During your stopover, you can’t miss the opportunity to taste this traditional dish, which is often made with seafood, chicken, rabbit, or a combination of meats. There are numerous restaurants and beachfront eateries offering authentic paella. In addition to paella, Valencia is also known for its horchata, a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, and fartons, a sweet pastry.

Important Services During Your Stopover in Valencia

When planning a stopover in Valencia, you’ll want to ensure that you have access to all the services necessary to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Fortunately, Valencia offers an array of services that cater to both short-term visitors and long-term travelers.

1. Transportation Services

Valencia is well connected with public transportation, making it easy to get around the city. The Valencia Metro has multiple lines that connect the airport to various parts of the city. If you want to explore the city at your own pace, you can also opt for taxis or rideshare services like Uber. Many visitors also rent bikes to explore the city’s extensive bike lanes.

• Valencia Airport (VLC): The city’s main airport, Valencia Airport, is just 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center and provides a range of services for international travelers. The airport is modern, offering free Wi-Fi, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, and a variety of dining options.

2. Accommodation Options

Valencia offers a wide range of hotels that cater to different budgets and needs. Whether you’re staying for just a few hours or a couple of days, you’ll find a suitable place to rest during your stopover.

• Luxury Hotels: If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Valencia has several high-end hotels such as the Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort, located by the beach, and the SH Valencia Palace, which is near the City of Arts and Sciences.
• Mid-range Hotels: For more affordable options, consider the Caro Hotel, a boutique hotel housed in a historic building, or the Hotel Malcom and Barret, which offers modern amenities at a reasonable price.
• Budget Accommodation: If you’re traveling on a budget, Valencia also offers affordable options like hostels and guesthouses. Home Youth Hostel and Urban Youth Hostel are both centrally located and offer great value for money.

Valencia’s Airports and Stopover Services

For travelers who are booking a stopover in Valencia, it’s important to know about the city’s airports and the services they provide.

Valencia Airport (VLC)

Valencia Airport, also known as Manises Airport, is the main gateway for international and domestic flights. It’s a small yet well-equipped airport, providing all the services you need for a seamless stopover. From the airport, it’s easy to access the city center via metro, bus, or taxi.

• Stopover Services: If you’re staying for several hours, you can explore Valencia’s airport lounges, where you can relax, grab a bite to eat, and take advantage of Wi-Fi. The airport also provides baggage storage services in case you want to leave your luggage and explore the city without carrying it around.
• Transit Visa Information: Depending on your nationality and the length of your stopover, you may need a transit visa to leave the airport and enter Spain. Make sure to check the visa requirements for Spain well in advance. If you are traveling from a Schengen Area country or another visa-exempt country, you may not need a transit visa for a short stay in Valencia.

Is a Transit Visa Needed for a Stopover in Valencia?

Whether you need a transit visa for your stopover in Valencia depends on several factors. If you’re transiting through Valencia on an international flight and staying within the international transit area, you may not need a visa. However, if you plan to leave the airport and explore the city, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa or a transit visa, depending on your nationality.

For citizens of countries within the Schengen Area or countries with visa-exempt agreements with Spain, a transit visa is not required. But if you’re from a country that requires a visa to enter Spain, make sure to apply for a visa in advance. Always double-check the current visa policies and regulations before booking your stopover.

Conclusion: Why Valencia is the Perfect Stopover Destination

Whether you’re in search of culture, history, or a relaxing escape, Valencia offers something for every traveler. Its combination of stunning attractions, vibrant culture, excellent transportation services, and top-tier accommodation options make it an ideal stopover destination. By booking a stopover flight with an airline offering Valencia as a stopover option, you can take advantage of this vibrant city without the hassle of additional travel expenses. Just be sure to check visa requirements, book your accommodation, and get ready to explore all that Valencia has to offer. Happy travels!