Valencia

Private car transfer
from Barcelona to Valencia

Door-to-door
in 3 h 40 min
From ...
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2024
Excellent
trustpilot-stars

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Barcelona.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 40 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Valencia.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
  • 350 km
  • 3 h 40 min

Overview: car trip from Barcelona to Valencia

Valencia is known for its perfect blend of historical and contemporary contrast, making it a frequent next destination for travelers after visiting Barcelona. Both cities are separated by a distance of just 217 miles (350 km) which is not much, given it’s Spain. And one of the most convenient ways to soak in the Iberian Peninsula's eastern coast charm and travel from Barcelona to Valencia is by a private car service.

Would you like to discover the ruins of the Tarragona Amphitheatre, but spending a whole day in Tarragona is not in your plans? Or would you like to practice your Spanish with the parrots at the Jardín del Papagayo? With Daytrip, you don’t secure just a Barcelona to Valencia transfer. You also allow yourself the flexibility to discover any sightseeing stops along the way that you would miss when choosing another mode of transportation.

About Valencia

Valencia, situated along the Mediterranean shores, is the third largest city in Spain. This city is renowned for several reasons, one of the main being that it is home to the famous Spanish dish paella. Valencia is also the biggest orange producer in Spain, which comes as no surprise after seeing the orange-tree-lined streets winding through the city.

Each region of Spain is so different which also means so are the local traditions. Valencia is mainly known for its annual Las Fallas event. This fiesta takes place from March 15 to 19 on the streets of Valencia, where locals and visitors can experience light shows and fireworks. This festival has such deep roots in Valencian culture that it has even been recognized by UNESCO.

It is believed that the origins of this event date back to the medieval era when carpenters celebrated the first days of spring by burning all the materials they were no longer using. In today’s version, to celebrate this festival, people create big statues or dolls called ninots, made of wood, cardboard, and paper. On March 19, to end the event, these dolls are burnt, starting from the smallest to the biggest ones. Each one of them holds a special meaning, adding significance to this unique event.

Valencia is also the perfect destination for strolls, as it has some of the nicest honey-colored beaches in the region and big parks perfect for an afternoon picnic. This city is a great destination for solo travelers or couples of any age, as well as families with kids.

From Barcelona to Valencia: travel tips

While both cities share the same coast, they are just so different! Make sure nothing goes wrong on your trip from Barcelona to Valencia by knowing these good-to-know tips:

Know the difference between Valencian and Catalan

While Spanish is considered the lingua franca in the Valencian Community, nearly 30% of the locals are native Valenciano speakers. You will find it similar to Catalan, spoken in Barcelona, but never tell a Valencian that they speak Catalan. It is a very sensitive topic, so it is suggested not to compare the two.

Get the Tourist Card

Make the most out of Valencia by getting the Valencia Tourist Card. With this card, you will get free access and special discounts to several museums and other main landmarks, as well as free public transport rides. You can choose between 3 types of cards: 24, 47, or 72 hours. Make sure you go through your itinerary to see if getting this card would really pay off.

How to get from Barcelona to Valencia

Before you hit the road, make sure you find the most convenient way to get from Barcelona to Valencia. Here is a list of the travel options you can choose from:

Barcelona to Valencia by bus

Taking a bus to travel between the two is a great option for those looking to save. One of the main bus companies that will take you to Valencia is Alsa. The ride takes around 4 hours, and the cheapest tickets start from around $16 (€15). The buses depart several times a day, so you can find the time that best suits your needs.

Barcelona to Valencia by train

If your case goes by the motto ‘Every second counts’, hopping on the high-speed train may be the ideal choice for you. These trains, operated by Renfe, travel at a speed of up to 193 mi/h (310 km/h), reaching Valencia in just 3 hours.

You can find the lowest ticket prices for around $41 (€38). For more comfort, you can choose higher class tickets offering such benefits as more luggage space and more comfortable seats.

Barcelona to Valencia by plane

As both cities have an airport, you can also opt for a domestic flight to travel from Barcelona to Valencia. The Spanish airline Iberia offers direct flights with just 1 hour journey time. By purchasing in advance, you can find flight tickets for as cheap as $67 (€62).

While traveling from Barcelona to Valencia by plane might seem the most convenient way, you also have to factor in the travel time from and to the airport. Don’t forget that you have to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance, which means that you will have to travel for around 4 hours.

Barcelona to Valencia by private car service

If you are still fascinated by the parrots we mentioned earlier, opting for a private car service might be for you. Driving with Daytrip offers the most convenient and flexible way to travel between cities, allowing you to explore en route. What could be more tiring than just sitting inside a big vehicle and not being able to explore what you see outside the window? Daytrip is here to listen to your needs and make your just over 3.5 hours-long road trip unforgettable.

Did you become Gaudi’s super fan after visiting Barcelona? Then make sure you get the last taste of his marvels by visiting the museum Gaudi Centre Reus. After that, you can take a walk around the botanical and zoological Sama Park, where you can meet peacocks roaming around, deer, and other lovely creatures. Add a little spark of history to your trip by visiting the Peniscola Castle which was the set for the Spanish film El Cid back in the 1960s.

Things to do when you get to Valencia

Once your drive from Barcelona to Valencia is over and you shut the Daytrip’s car door, it is time to discover the city’s treasures. Here are some of our favorite things to see or do when visiting Valencia:

Explore the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias

Designed in a futuristic style, The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most emblematic landmarks of Valencia. This complex is divided into five main areas, each one of them offering a unique perspective on the city’s science and culture:

  • L’Hemisfèric: this unique building represents the human eye and houses a laserium, planetarium, and IMAX cinema.
  • Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe: an interactive science and technology museum.
  • L'Umbracle: a Mediterranean garden or an outdoor gallery with sculptures.
  • L'Oceanogràfic: the largest oceanographic aquarium in Europe, a great choice if you are traveling with kids.
  • Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: an opera house and cultural center.

Each part of the complex offers a different experience, so make sure to check them all and visit at least one of them.

Take a slow walk around the Turia Garden

If you are looking for a place to spend a peaceful afternoon, Jardín del Turia might be what you are looking for. This lush garden is amongst the largest urban parks in Spain, cherished by local families, runners, and cyclists. Be prepared for long leisure walks in this park that used to be the riverbed of the river Turia.

Admire the Cathedral of Valencia

The stunning Valencia Cathedral is built in Gothic style. This architectural masterpiece has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It is believed that Valencia has the original Holy Chalice used by Jesus. Whether it’s true or not, you have to decide for yourself by visiting this beautiful cathedral that will impress even those who are not religious. Don't forget to climb the bell tower Miguelete for the most panoramic views of the city.

Take a ferry to nearby islands

Valencia is known for its ferry port, so if you want to extend your trip and go on a Mediterranean island adventure, you can access destinations such as Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca, which are just a short ferry ride away.

When is the best time to visit Valencia

If you want to experience the best of Valencia, we recommend visiting the city in March during the Las Fallas event. In March, the temperatures are quite pleasant, but there may be limited availability and higher rates for hotels, given the popularity of the Las Fallas festival.

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Valencia is usually during the shoulder season, especially in spring when the city's gardens are blooming and the sweet scent of blossoms fills the air. Valencia is also a great destination for your fall vacation (from September to November), as the temperatures are still pleasant, and there will be even fewer crowds.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Barcelona to Valencia

Given how big Spain is, Valencia is not considered to be far from Barcelona. The driving distance from one to another is 217 miles (350 km).
To get to know the city, it is recommended to stay in Valencia for at least 3 days.
If you are looking for the best experience for your trip from Barcelona to Valencia, opt for a door-to-door private car service (like Daytrip). While the drive takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes, you will be given the flexibility to explore along the way, which is not possible when choosing other modes of transportation.
Depending on the mode of transport you choose, you can expect to pay as little as $16 (€15) if you travel by bus. You can also opt for more expensive but also way more comfortable options, such as Daytrip’s private car service.
While you can travel between the two in one day, you will not have enough time to fully explore Valencia, so it is recommended to plan a few-day stay.
By traveling by high-speed train, you will reach Valencia in just 3 hours. These trains travel at a speed of up to 193 mi/h (310 km/h), making it the quickest way to travel between the cities.

Visit these sights on the way

Tarragona

Tarragona

Tarragona’s past as a rich Roman colony is still evident in the ruins scattered throughout this Spanish port city. Augustus’ Prize 

Gaudi Centre Reus

Gaudi Centre Reus

Get a closer look at the work of Antoni Gaudí i Cornet, one of Spain's most noted architects, who has 7 works on the UNESCO list. Memoir of an Architect 

The Sama Park

The Sama Park

One of the best examples of 19th century Romantic gardening, Parc Samà is home to the summer residence of Salvador Samà, Marquis of Marianao. A Tribute to Beauty 

Jardin del Papagayo

Jardin del Papagayo

The Garden aims to achieve what is called "responsible breeding programs" to reduce the pressure caused by poaching in wild parrot populations. Love Birds 

Peniscola Castle

Peniscola Castle

This castle of the Knights Templar was transformed into a papal palace and library by Pope Benedict XIII in the 15th century. Papa’s Palace 

Hermitage of Santa Lucia and San Benet

Hermitage of Santa Lucia and San Benet

Constructed by thankful fishermen, this mountaintop church offers stupendous views. The Virgin and the Sea 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
4,800+ reviews
  • 542 travelers took this route with us
Nov 9, 2024

Great communication with an actual person! They will take you ANYWHERE, No pre-set routes to choose from!

Last minute plan change and Daytrip was our last resort so I chatted with them and had an immediate response from a real person, best situation ever. Never used Daytrip before but the reviews were incredible so we took the chance and booked a driver at like 11-12pm and by 7am the next morning when we woke, they found us a driver and the driver had already texed us making contact! Very impressed and will definitely use them again. We went from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Tivat, Montenegro.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler James B
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James B

Nov 9, 2024
Nov 1, 2024

Perfect Transport

Andreas did a great job picking us up from Pireaus Cruise Port and taking us to our rental in Spata. The three of us had been on a long cruise and had 9 pieces of luggage. He arrived in an appropriate vehicle and loaded and unloaded all of it. We are very happy with out decision to book with Daytrip.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler LuckyTraveler01
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LuckyTraveler01

Nov 1, 2024
Oct 5, 2024

Great day

The ride was fantastic. The diver was great, he was on time, very informative, and could not have been nicer. Definitely would do again

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N
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Steve N

Oct 5, 2024
Sep 30, 2024

Exactly what they promised

We used Daytrip.com for 4 trips within Italy. This door-to-door service is not inexpensive. That said: All 4 drivers arrived on time. All spoke fluent English. All were excellent drivers, and all were kind and considerate. Lots of other things went wrong on this trip, but Daytrip.com did exactly what they promised.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Curious51658572354
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Curious51658572354

Sep 30, 2024

Vehicle options for this trip

Most popular

sedan

Sedan

Comparable to aVolkswagen Passat
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-3
  • 3x
  • 3x
  • Clean
  • Comfortable
  • Air conditioned
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Child seats
  • Pet friendly
  • Smoke-free
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Best reviews

luxury sedan

Luxury sedan

Comparable to aMercedes Benz E-class
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-2
  • 2x
  • 2x
  • All standard sedan features
  • Luxurious vehicle
  • Chauffeur-style service
  • Extra amenities
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mpv

Compact MPV

Comparable to aVolkswagen Touran
Passengers and luggage
  • 4
  • 4x
  • 4x
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van

Van

Comparable to aMercedes Vito
Passengers and luggage
  • 5-7
  • 7x
  • 7x
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The Daytrip driver advantage

Daytrip driver
  • Local knowledge about the route from Barcelona to Valencia
    Including available sights:
  • English speaking*

    All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.

  • Safety first!

    We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.

World-class customer support

  • Available 24/7
  • Close relationship with drivers
  • Experts on the route from Barcelona to Valencia

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
  • Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 13,700+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.

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