Imagine driving with the Mediterranean sun gleaming on the hood as the silhouette of the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) begins to appear on the horizon, marking the end of a journey that is the pure essence of the Levantine coast. This trip is not just a 166-kilometer transfer; it is a fluid transition from the golden light of the Costa Blanca to the vibrant, historic bustle of the Valencian capital, a route you can enjoy at your own pace, whether feeling the freedom of the open road or relaxing in the comfort of a high-speed train.
How to Get from Alicante to Valencia: Quick Overview
The connection between these two gems of eastern Spain is excellent, offering three main options to suit different budget and time needs. If you prioritize absolute speed and comfort, the Euromed train is the winning choice, covering the distance in under two hours with no traffic worries. For more budget-conscious or flexible travelers, the bus offers unbeatable value for money with fares starting from 6 euros, while the car is the ideal choice for those wishing to explore the towns along the way and have total freedom of movement upon arrival.
By Car from Alicante to Valencia
Driving from Alicante to Valencia is a smooth and economical experience thanks to a network of toll-free highways crossing varied landscapes. The main route covers a total distance of 166 km with an estimated driving time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The backbone of this journey is the A-7 (Autovía del Mediterráneo), a fast, toll-free road that skirts the coast, offering intermittent sea views and connecting the main urban areas. In certain sections, the route is complemented by the A-31 (Autovía de Alicante) and the A-3 (Autovía del Este), which facilitate the exit from metropolitan areas and the connection northward. Finally, the A-38 acts as the final connector for easy access into the city of Valencia. As all these are toll-free highways, the cost of the trip is strictly limited to fuel, making it a very attractive option for groups or families traveling with luggage.
By Train from Alicante to Valencia
The train is, without a doubt, the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Alicante and Valencia, operated exclusively by Renfe with a frequency of up to 9 daily trains. The departure station is Alicante/Alacant and the final destination is the central Valencia-Estaciò Del Nord, located in the heart of the city. Within the rail offer, the EUROMED service stands out, completing the journey in just 115 minutes with 4 departures a day, being the premium option for business travelers or tourists who do not want to waste time. For those seeking alternatives, there are the Intercity (2 daily, 149 minutes), REGIONAL (1 daily, 161 minutes), and MD (2 daily, 165 minutes) services. The operating hours are extensive, with the first train leaving at 6:55 in the morning and the last at 19:30, allowing you to plan your day with flexibility.
By bus from Alicante to Valencia
The bus is the most economical option for travelling from Alicante to Valencia, with fares ranging from 6 to 9 euros depending on how far in advance you book and the company. The main operators are Alsa and Flixbus, both with a solid reputation in national and international transport. The average journey time by bus is 120 minutes, making it a very competitive alternative to driving in terms of time, especially considering you won’t have to worry about parking in Valencia. It’s a direct service connecting the bus stations of both cities, ideal for backpackers or travellers looking to maximise their budget without sacrificing too many hours on the road.
Recommended stops along the way
If you decide to make the journey by car, the route is dotted with towns that offer the perfect setting to break up the monotony of the motorway and enjoy local life. Below, we detail the strategic points to stop at:
- el Campello: Located just north of Alicante, this stop is ideal if you want to start your journey with a sea view. It’s a quick access point to the coast before heading onto the motorway.
- Sant Joan d’Alacant: This town is strategically positioned very close to the start of the route. It’s a quiet place, perfect for a quick technical stop or to enjoy the typical residential architecture of the area before accelerating northwards.
- Mutxamel: Located in the same metropolitan area as the previous stop, Mutxamel offers a more inland setting. It’s a recommended stop for those looking to get slightly away from the immediate coastal bustle and observe the transition of the landscape.
- Alcàsser: As you approach the province of Valencia, Alcàsser presents itself as a valid rest point. Its location on the route makes it an important kilometre marker before reaching the more densely populated areas of the Valencia metropolitan area.
- Massanassa: This stop places you right on the outskirts of Valencia city. It’s a convenient place to prepare for entering the city, do some last-minute grocery shopping, or simply stretch your legs before the final stretch.
- Catarroja: Situated very close to the final destination, Catarroja is the last opportunity for a relaxed stop before facing Valencia’s urban traffic. Its proximity to the capital makes it a key reference point on the home straight of the 166 km journey.
Where to sleep in Valencia
Valencia offers a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets, spread across areas with very distinct personalities. For travellers who want to be in the heart of the action, the Centro Histórico (Ciutat Vella, Old Town) is the quintessential area, where boutique hotels and tourist apartments predominate, although prices tend to be higher due to high demand. If you’re looking for a more modern and vibrant atmosphere, full of cafés and nightlife, the Ruzafa neighbourhood is an excellent choice, with a range of design hotels and mid-range hostales (guesthouses). For those travelling by car and preferring easy parking, the peripheral areas or near the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences) usually offer chain hotels with more competitive prices and better road access. Price ranges can vary from budget options under €50 in hostales to luxury establishments exceeding €150 per night, always depending on the season.
Frequently asked questions about the Alicante–Valencia route
How long does it take to get from Alicante to Valencia?
Travel time varies depending on the mode of transport you choose. By car, the 166 km journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. By train, the fastest option (Euromed) takes 115 minutes, while the bus completes the trip in 120 minutes.
Which is cheaper, the train or the bus?
The bus is significantly cheaper. While bus tickets with companies like Alsa or Flixbus range from 6 to 9 euros, Renfe train tickets, especially for the Euromed service, tend to cost more due to the higher speed and amenities offered.
Is it worth renting a car?
Yes, it is worth it if you plan to make stops along the way in towns such as El Campello, Mutxamel or Catarroja, or if you need mobility once in Valencia. However, if your only goal is to get from point A to point B quickly, the Euromed train is more efficient as it avoids traffic and parking problems.
When is the best time to travel?
The best time to travel depends on your preferences, but the train frequency data (9 daily) and the constant operation of buses indicate that the route is active all year round. To avoid crowds and enjoy the recommended stops at a relaxed pace, travelling in the shoulder season is suggested, avoiding the summer peaks.