Valencia Airport, known locally as Aeropuerto de Valencia or Manises Airport, serves as a key hub for travelers in and around the city of Valencia, Spain. The airport offers a range of parking options catering to various needs, from premium parking spots close to the terminal to more budget-friendly, long-term parking solutions. Economy parking, in particular, is a popular choice for travelers looking to balance cost and convenience, especially for those leaving their cars for an extended period. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore all the economy parking options available at Valencia Airport, so you can make an informed decision on where to leave your vehicle while you're away.
Types of Parking Options at Valencia Airport
Before diving into the specifics of economy parking, it's important to understand the general categories of parking available at Valencia Airport:
Short-Stay Parking (P1): Located just a minute’s walk from the terminal, P1 is the go-to option for passengers picking up or dropping off travelers. Although convenient, it tends to be on the more expensive side, making it less suited for longer stays.
Long-Stay Parking: Designed for those who need to leave their vehicle for several days or weeks, long-stay parking offers more affordable rates compared to short-stay parking. However, it's located farther from the terminal.
VIP Parking: This premium parking option comes with added security and valet services, ensuring your car is well taken care of while you're away. As you can expect, it is the most expensive option at the airport.
Economy Parking: This is the focus of our guide. Economy parking is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering decent security and transportation options while maintaining low rates.
What is Economy Parking?
Economy parking at Valencia Airport is designed for travelers who are willing to sacrifice proximity to the terminal for a more affordable rate. While the lots are located further away from the main terminal compared to short-term and VIP parking, they are still convenient thanks to shuttle services that ferry passengers to and from the airport.
Economy parking is ideal for long-term stays, ranging from several days to a few weeks. If you're planning to go on a longer holiday or a business trip, this parking option allows you to save money while still having peace of mind knowing your car is in a secure lot.
Economy Parking Lots at Valencia Airport
There are two primary economy parking options at Valencia Airport: General Long-Term Parking (P3) and Low-Cost Parking.
1. General Long-Term Parking (P3)
The P3 Long-Term Parking Lot is one of the most popular choices for those who want to leave their car for extended periods at Valencia Airport. Located about a 5-7 minute walk from the terminal, P3 offers relatively competitive pricing while still maintaining a convenient distance.
- Location: P3 is located near the airport entrance, a few minutes' walk from the terminal. There is also a shuttle service available for those who prefer not to walk.
- Security: The lot is fenced, well-lit, and monitored by airport security, giving travelers peace of mind that their vehicles are safe.
- Price: The daily rate for long-term parking in P3 is considerably lower than the short-stay parking lots. For example, parking for a week could cost around €60-80, depending on the season and availability.
- Additional Services: Some of the spaces are covered, offering added protection from the elements, which is particularly helpful in Spain’s hot climate. There are also spaces for electric vehicles with charging stations.
2. Low-Cost Parking
The second economy parking option at Valencia Airport is the Low-Cost Parking Lot, which is located farther from the terminal but offers the lowest rates available. This option is ideal for travelers who prioritize cost savings over proximity.
- Location: The Low-Cost Parking Lot is located around 10 minutes away from the terminal by shuttle bus. While this might seem like a long distance, the free shuttle buses run frequently, ensuring you’re never far from the airport.
- Security: This lot is also fenced, equipped with CCTV, and regularly patrolled by security staff, so you can rest assured that your vehicle will be safe.
- Price: Prices for the low-cost lot start as low as €5 per day, making it the most economical option at the airport, particularly for long stays. A week of parking in this lot could cost as little as €35-50.
- Shuttle Service: The shuttle buses are frequent, running every 15-20 minutes, and operate from early morning until late at night, ensuring you can catch your flight no matter the time of day.
How to Book Economy Parking at Valencia Airport
Booking a parking spot at Valencia Airport is simple and can be done in a few different ways:
Online Booking: The easiest and most convenient way to reserve your spot is by booking online through the Valencia Airport website or through third-party parking reservation platforms. When booking online, you can often get a discount on the standard rates, especially for long-term parking.
On Arrival: While it's possible to park without a reservation, this is generally not recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons when the parking lots can fill up quickly. Additionally, walk-in rates are often higher than pre-booked rates.
Travel Agencies: Some travel agencies offer parking packages bundled with flights and hotels. If you're booking a holiday or a business trip through an agency, it’s worth asking about this option to see if you can get a better deal on your airport parking.
Tips for Economy Parking at Valencia Airport
Here are a few tips to make your parking experience as smooth as possible:
- Pre-Book: Always book your parking in advance to ensure you get the best rate and guarantee a spot.
- Arrive Early: Be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. While the shuttle services are frequent, it’s always better to be early than to risk missing your flight due to delays.
- Consider Car Services: Some parking lots offer additional services, such as car washing or oil checks, while you’re away. If you’ll be gone for a long time, it might be worth taking advantage of these services.
- Check Availability: During peak travel periods, such as holidays and summer, economy parking can fill up fast. Check availability before leaving for the airport.
- Prepare for the Shuttle: Make sure you have all your luggage ready for the shuttle ride, as the buses can get crowded, especially during busy times.
Conclusion
Economy parking at Valencia Airport offers a range of affordable and convenient options for travelers. Whether you choose the P3 Long-Term Parking Lot or the Low-Cost Parking Lot, both offer excellent value for money, with secure facilities and reliable shuttle services. By booking your parking spot in advance and taking advantage of the long-term rates, you can enjoy peace of mind while traveling, knowing your car is safe and you haven't overspent on parking fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cheapest parking option at Valencia Airport?
The Low-Cost Parking Lot is the most affordable option, with prices starting at €5 per day
Is there a shuttle service from economy parking to the terminal?
Yes, both the P3 Long-Term Parking and the Low-Cost Parking Lot offer free shuttle services to the terminal
How secure is the economy parking at Valencia Airport?
All economy parking lots are fenced, equipped with CCTV, and patrolled by security personnel to ensure vehicle safety
Can I book economy parking in advance at Valencia Airport?
Yes, it’s recommended to book your parking in advance online for better rates and guaranteed availability
How far is the economy parking from the terminal?
The P3 Long-Term Parking is about a 5-7 minute walk from the terminal, while the Low-Cost Parking Lot is a 10-minute shuttle ride away