How to Travel from Valencia Airport to Castellón City
Valencia Airport (Aeropuerto de Valencia), officially known as Valencia Airport Manises (VLC), is one of the busiest airports in Spain, serving both domestic and international flights. Located around 8 kilometers west of Valencia’s city center, this airport offers various transportation options to reach Castellón de la Plana, the capital city of the province of Castellón. If you are planning to travel from Valencia Airport to Castellón, here are the most convenient and reliable ways to do so.
1. By Train
Taking a train is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to get from Valencia Airport to Castellón. Valencia has an efficient train network operated by Renfe, and the train services from the airport are well-connected to Castellón.
Steps:
- From the Airport: First, you need to take a short bus ride from the airport to the nearest train station. Valencia Airport does not have its own train station, but there is a direct bus service that connects the airport to Valencia’s main train station, Estación de Joaquín Sorolla (Joaquín Sorolla Train Station). The bus ride takes about 10 minutes and runs frequently.
- Train Ride: Once at the station, you can board a high-speed train (AVE) or a regional train to Castellón. The high-speed trains typically take around 40 minutes to reach Castellón, while regional trains can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is a good idea to check the train schedule beforehand as there can be variations in travel times depending on the type of train you take.
Cost: The cost of a one-way ticket for a high-speed train is typically around €10–€20, depending on the time of booking and the class you choose.
Advantages:
- Comfortable and fast: Trains are a comfortable and relatively quick way to travel, especially the AVE high-speed trains.
- Scenic route: You can enjoy the beautiful Spanish countryside during your journey.
Disadvantages:
- Transfer from the airport: The transfer to the train station via bus might take a little longer than direct options like taxis or private cars.
Information on commuter trains
2. By Bus
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, taking a bus from Valencia Airport to Castellón is a great choice. The bus service provides direct transportation, and the journey is relatively straightforward.
Steps:
- Direct Bus Service: The bus operator Autobuses Herca runs direct services between Valencia Airport and Castellón. The buses are comfortable and operate several times a day.
- Duration: The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Frequency: Buses leave approximately every 1–2 hours throughout the day. It is always recommended to check the bus schedule online or at the airport for up-to-date departure times.
Cost: Bus tickets generally cost around €8 to €12 one-way, making this option one of the most affordable ways to travel.
Advantages:
- Affordable: Bus tickets are cheaper than taking a taxi or renting a car.
- Direct service: The bus goes straight from the airport to Castellón, so you don’t need to worry about transfers or changing modes of transportation.
Disadvantages:
- Longer travel time: The bus ride can take a bit longer than the train, particularly if there is heavy traffic.
- Less frequent service: There are fewer buses compared to train services, so you may need to plan around the bus schedule.
Valencia bus station information
3. By Taxi
For those who prefer convenience and direct service, taking a taxi from Valencia Airport to Castellón is an excellent option. Taxis are readily available at the airport and offer a quick and hassle-free way to reach your destination.
Steps:
- Taxi Stand: After arriving at Valencia Airport, head to the designated taxi stand, which is located outside the terminal. Taxis are available 24/7.
- Duration: The drive from Valencia Airport to Castellón takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Fare: The price of a taxi ride from the airport to Castellón is approximately €120 to €150, depending on traffic, time of day, and whether it is a standard or special fare.
Advantages:
- Direct and convenient: A taxi will take you directly to your destination with no need to change vehicles.
- 24/7 availability: Taxis are available at any time, making it ideal for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive: Taxis are the most costly option compared to trains and buses.
- Traffic-dependent: Travel time can be affected by road traffic, especially during peak hours.
2. Private Shuttle or Ride-Sharing Services
Another option is to book a private shuttle service or use ride-sharing platforms such as Uber or Bolt. These services are generally more affordable than taxis, especially for groups traveling together.
Cost: The price for a private shuttle service or ride-sharing options typically ranges from €80 to €100, depending on demand, the number of passengers, and the type of vehicle. Ride-sharing services may offer more competitive pricing, especially during non-peak hours.
Time: The travel time will be similar to that of a taxi, averaging around 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, this can fluctuate based on the number of stops along the way if you’re sharing the ride with other passengers.
Convenience: Ride-sharing services offer a good balance between cost and convenience, providing an efficient door-to-door service. However, unlike taxis, these services might require a bit more time to coordinate and may involve slight delays, depending on the availability of drivers.
3. Public Bus
Public transportation, particularly the bus, is a more economical option but also less flexible in terms of schedule and route. The bus service connecting Valencia to Castellón is reliable and affordable, although it is not as direct as taxis or private vehicles.
Cost: A one-way bus ticket from Valencia to Castellón typically costs between €10 and €15. This is by far the most economical choice for those on a budget.
Time: The bus ride typically takes between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the specific route and stops along the way. Although it is slower than private transport, the bus offers a fixed schedule with frequent departures.
Convenience: The bus departs from the Valencia central bus station, which means travelers will need to first make their way from Valencia Airport to the bus station, typically by taxi or metro (both of which have additional costs). This adds to the total travel time, and the bus itself may not be as comfortable as a private vehicle. However, it is a cost-effective option for those who have more flexible schedules.
4. Car Rental
For those who prefer to have more control over their journey, renting a car is another option. This is ideal for travelers who may want to explore other areas of Valencia or Castellón after arriving at the airport.
Cost: Car rental prices vary significantly based on the rental company, vehicle type, and rental duration. Expect to pay around €30 to €60 per day for a small economy car. There may be additional charges for insurance, fuel, and other fees.
Time: The drive between the airports will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and travelers can adjust their travel time based on their preferences and stops along the way.
Convenience: Renting a car provides flexibility, as you can choose your route and schedule. However, it may not be as convenient for those unfamiliar with the area or those who do not wish to navigate the roads themselves.
Conclusion
When choosing the best transportation method between Valencia and Castellón Airports, your decision should factor in both cost and time. Taxis or private rides offer the quickest and most comfortable options, although they come at a higher price. Public buses are the most affordable choice but require additional time and effort for transfers. Renting a car offers flexibility and convenience for those who plan to explore further, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your budget, time constraints, and preferences. For those who prioritize convenience and are willing to spend a little extra, a taxi or private ride is the most efficient option. However, for those on a tighter budget, the bus offers an excellent alternative.
