Bus from Madrid to Valencia: Everything You Need to Know

Taking the bus from Madrid to Valencia is a great option for budget-conscious and eco-friendly travelers who want to enjoy a comfortable journey to the Mediterranean seaside.

From schedules and ticketing to alternative transportation options, in this comprehensive guide I will provide you with all the crucial details you need to know about taking a bus to Valencia from Madrid.

5 Reasons to Take the Bus from Madrid to Valencia

There are several compelling reasons why you might want to consider taking the bus from Madrid to Valencia:

• A vibrant city: Valencia is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Spain, celebrated for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast, and of course, its world-renowned culinary delight, paella.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Bus travel is often more budget-friendly compared to other modes of transportation like flights.

• Eco-Friendly Travel Option: Opting for the bus from Madrid to Valencia reduces your carbon footprint. Buses are a highly efficient form of transportation, and they produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

• Convenience of Departure and Arrival Points: Bus terminals in Madrid and Valencia are strategically located, making them easily accessible from various parts of both cities. This can save you time when reaching and departing from your destination.

• Frequent Departures: The Madrid to Valencia bus companies offer a range of departure times throughout the day, providing flexibility in choosing a schedule that suits your preferences.

Routes, Schedules, Tickets and more

Which bus companies serve the route from Valencia to Madrid?

Avanza is one of the largest bus companies in Spain, and it offers frequent daily departures between Madrid and Valencia.

Avanza buses are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning and ample legroom for a pleasant journey. They also offer free Wi-Fi on board, so you can stay connected during your trip, as well as a USB port and a plug to recharge your electronic devices.

Where does the bus from Madrid to Valencia depart from?

The Avanza buses that travel from Madrid to Valencia depart from the Estación Sur de Autobuses (Bus South Station), the busiest bus station in Spain. It is located at Méndez Álvaro 83, 28045, Madrid.

For the added convenience of travelers arriving in Madrid by plane, the company Avanza also provides buses from Madrid to Valencia that depart daily from terminals T1 and T4 of the airport.

How to get to the Estación Sur?

The Estación Sur de Autobuses is a bustling transportation hub conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible from any point in the city via multiple modes of transportation. You can reach the station conveniently using the metro (Line 6), urban buses (lines 102, 113, 148, N11), and trains (lines C1, C5, C7, C10).

The station is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities. Travelers can find various facilities including shops, dining areas, restrooms, lockers for luggage storage, ATMs, and Wi-Fi.

These conveniences ensure that passengers have access to everything they need for a comfortable and seamless travel experience before taking the bus from Madrid to Valencia.

How much do the bus tickets from Madrid to Valencia cost?

The price of a one-way bus ticket from Madrid to Valencia starts at 31 euros. However, if the departure point is the airport (T1 or T4), the fare increases to 36 euros.

For those opting for the “multimedia” buses, which offer ergonomic seats, extra legroom, individual entertainment screens, USB ports, and Wi-Fi, the ticket price is 43 euros.

These varying fare options cater to different preferences and needs, allowing travelers to choose the level of comfort and amenities that best suit their journey.

If you buy the ticket online, apart from the management fee, the cost of travel insurance is included by default, if you are not interested in insurance make sure to uncheck the appropriate box.

It is important to note that the prices are subject to change, I will keep this post updated but they might be different depending on when you are reading this. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the Avanza website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

How to purchase the bus tickets

You can purchase the tickets online, through the App, by phone (+34 912 722 832), and at the stations´ points of sale.

Despite the multiple daily departures, it is always advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your seat on the bus from Madrid to Valencia.

How long does it take to get to Valencia from Madrid by bus?

The journey from Madrid to Valencia by bus typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. If possible, try to avoid rush hours and Friday afternoons to avoid possible traffic jams, especially in summer.

Take into account that if you depart from Madrid Airport, the journey takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour longer compared to departing from Estación Sur de Autobuses.

What are the bus times from Valencia to Madrid?

The departure schedules for buses from Madrid to Valencia vary depending on the day of the week. Generally, buses operate from 7:30 to 18:00, with an additional overnight service departing at 1:00.

This range of departure times provides travelers with flexibility, allowing them to choose a schedule that aligns with their preferences.

Remember that it is recommended to arrive at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Where does the bus stop in Valencia?

The Avanza bus from Madrid to Valencia stops at the Valencia Bus Station at Avenida Menéndez Pidal 13, close to the city center. From there, it is best to take a taxi or an urban bus to your final destination or accommodation.

Alternative Transportation Options from Madrid to Valencia

Train from Madrid to Valencia

Spain’s efficient and high-speed train network offers a comfortable, affordable, and fast way to travel between Madrid and Valencia.

High-speed trains to Valencia typically depart from either Chamartín or Puerta de Atocha stations in Madrid. Generally, the journey takes less than 2 hours.

Moreover, for trains outside of peak hours and when booked in advance, incredible deals can be found, with prices starting as low as 10 euros. This is why, in my opinion, high-speed trains are a fantastic alternative to the bus from Madrid to Valencia. They not only offer swifter travel but also provide budget-friendly options for savvy travelers.

The train arrives at Valencia-Joaquín Sorolla Station, at C/ San Vicente Martir 171, which is well-connected to the metro network. There are two stations, Jesús and Bailén, just a short walk away from the station.

How to get from Madrid to Valencia by car

Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the regions between Madrid and Valencia at your own pace.

If you decide to drive to Valencia, you must be aware that the distance from Madrid to Valencia is approximately 360 km (224 miles), and the journey typically takes around 3 and a half hours.

However, it is worth mentioning that the A-3 highway to Valencia experiences significant traffic, and it is common to encounter delays, especially on weekends and during the summer months.

Madrid to Valencia by plane

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport serves as the major international gateway, with flights arriving at Valencia-Manises Airport.

Currently, airlines such as Iberia and Air Europa operate flights for this route with an approximate duration of 1 hour. The price, as always, depends on the dates and how far in advance you book, but it is common to find tickets above 100 euros.

Valencia-Manises Airport is situated 8 km (5 miles) west of Valencia. You can reach the city center by metro (lines 3 and 5), bus (lines 106 and 150), or taxi in approximately 20-30 minutes.

Although the duration of the flight is only 1 hour, you should factor in the time it takes to reach Madrid’s airport with ample time for security checks. If we add to this that the price of the plane ticket is usually considerably higher, you will probably agree with me that this is not the best alternative to the bus from Madrid to Valencia.

5 Things to do in Valencia

Valencia is an incredible city bursting with a myriad of activities and attractions to explore. From its futuristic architecture to its rich culinary heritage, there’s no shortage of experiences to enjoy.

In this section, you will discover 5 must-do activities that showcase the best of what Valencia has to offer.

• Visit the City of Arts and Sciences: This iconic complex is a must-see, featuring futuristic buildings housing a planetarium, science museum, opera house, and more.

• Indulge in Paella: Valencia is the birthplace of this renowned Spanish dish. Delight your taste buds with an authentic plate of paella at one of the city’s charming restaurants.

• Stroll through the Old Town: Wander through narrow cobbled streets, discovering historical gems like the Central Market, Valencia Cathedral, and the Silk Exchange. Don’t miss the vibrant Plaza de la Virgen.

• Relax on Malvarrosa Beach: Enjoy the Mediterranean sun on this golden sandy beach. It is the perfect spot to unwind and take in the beautiful coastal scenery.

• Visit the Albufera Natural Park: Just a short drive from Valencia, this tranquil lagoon and surrounding wetlands offer a serene natural escape. Take a boat trip on the Albufera Lake and witness spectacular sunsets.

Conclusion

I hope you have found this article useful if you are considering taking the bus from Madrid to Valencia.

Valencia is a captivating city, home to the iconic City of Arts and Sciences complex which coexists with centuries-old landmarks. Beyond its architectural wonders, Valencia is also celebrated for its delectable cuisine, notably the world-famous dish, paella.

Additionally, I have included other alternatives that I believe are noteworthy, particularly the high-speed train option, which allows you to reach Valencia in less than 2 hours and often offers very budget-friendly fares.

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