Train service
Renfe
Renfe is Spain’s national railway operator, offering high-speed, long-distance, and regional train services with extensive domestic coverage.
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
The Interrail Global Pass is valid for traveling from London to Valencia, but if you are a UK resident, the pass would only cover the portion of the journey outside of the UK. You would need a separate ticket for any travel within the UK. The Interrail One Country Pass would not be applicable for this journey as it is intended for travel within a single country, and your journey spans multiple countries. The Eurail Pass could be used for the entire journey from London to Valencia if you are not an EU resident and would cover the train travel across all participating countries involved in your trip.
Getting around
Valencia offers a variety of convenient local transportation options for getting around the city. Upon arriving by train, you will likely find yourself at Estació del Nord, the main train station, or Joaquín Sorolla for high-speed AVE trains. From there, you can use the Metrovalencia, which is an extensive subway and tram network, ideal for reaching various parts of the city. The metro has several lines, identified by numbers and colors, which connect the city center with suburbs and nearby towns. Trams provide an excellent option for reaching areas like the beaches or the university zone, with tram lines integrated into the metro system.
Taxis are widely available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked via phone or apps. They are metered and provide a reliable means of transportation, especially for door-to-door service.
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Cabify also operate in Valencia and provide a convenient alternative to taxis for quick point-to-point travel. Simply download their apps, request a ride, and a driver will be dispatched to your location.
Valencia also has an efficient bus network operated by EMT, covering much of the city with frequent services. The buses can be a good choice for specific destinations not easily reachable by metro or tram.
The public transportation system in Valencia uses an integrated fare system, so it's worth considering purchasing a multi-day travel pass if you plan to use public transport extensively during your visit. This pass can be used across various modes, including buses, trams, and the metro.
Onward connections
Valencia is a well-connected hub in Spain's rail network, offering several domestic and international train options. Domestically, one of the most popular routes is from Valencia to Madrid, which is serviced by the AVE high-speed trains. These trains run frequently each day and typically take about 1 hour and 40 minutes, providing a fast and comfortable connection between the two cities.
Another important domestic connection is the route from Valencia to Barcelona, which is served by both high-speed Euromed and Intercity trains. This journey takes approximately 3 hours, making it a convenient trip for both business and leisure travelers. Additionally, Valencia connects with the southern cities through trains to Alicante and Seville, with journeys taking about 2 hours and 4 hours and 30 minutes, respectively.
Internationally, travelers can reach France by taking a high-speed train to Barcelona and transferring to a TGV or another international train to cities like Paris or Marseille. This route provides a seamless link between Spain and France, facilitating connections to the broader European rail network. Another international option is traveling to Switzerland or Italy, often via a similar transfer through Barcelona to connect with international services onward.
Valencia's Estació del Nord and Joaquín Sorolla stations serve as the main departure points, with facilities that cater to passenger needs, ensuring comfortable travel experiences both within Spain and to neighboring countries.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Valencia is during the spring months of March to May. In this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it ideal for exploring the city's vibrant streets and enjoying outdoor activities. March is also when Las Fallas, one of the most famous festivals in Spain, takes place, offering a unique cultural experience with elaborate parades, fireworks, and art installations. Summer, from June to August, sees a rise in both temperatures and tourists, often resulting in higher prices. The fall months of September and October are another great time to visit, with warm temperatures and fewer crowds after the peak summer season. Additionally, the city is beautifully adorned and lively during the festivities of 'La Tomatina' in nearby Buñol in late August. Winters, from November to February, are mild but less popular among tourists, which can be an advantage for those seeking a quieter visit with potentially lower accommodation costs. Arriving by train from other parts of Europe is convenient year-round, with high-speed rail connections available from major Spanish cities.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from London to Valencia?
According to EveryRail, several factors affect train ticket prices from London to Valencia. Prices are dynamic. Demand influences cost. High demand leads to higher prices. Booking in advance often reduces prices. Time of travel impacts pricing. Peak hours are more expensive. Weekends and holidays increase costs. Class of service affects prices. First class is pricier than standard. Promotional offers can lower costs.
What trains run from London to Valencia?
There are no direct trains from London to Valencia. SNCF operates trains from London to Paris. SNCF operates trains from Paris to Barcelona. Renfe operates trains from Barcelona to Valencia. Flixbus provides bus services from London to Valencia.
How long does the train from London to Valencia take?
According to EveryRail, the train from London to Valencia takes 14–16 hours.
When is the best time to travel from London to Valencia?
The best time depends on your preferences. Avoid peak travel times for fewer crowds. Prices often drop when demand is lower. Weekdays are usually less busy than weekends. Avoid major holidays for a quieter journey. Advanced booking often secures better rates. Consider weather for comfort during travel.
What’s the best route or train to take from London to Valencia?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from London to Valencia. No direct train services operate on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from London to Valencia?
According to EveryRail, the Global Pass applies for this route. It is valid for travel between different countries.