How to Access Airport Lounges at Valencia Airport

Valencia Airport, officially known as Aeropuerto de Valencia (VLC), is the primary gateway to the beautiful city of Valencia, Spain. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, having access to a lounge at the airport can significantly enhance your experience. Airport lounges offer a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal, providing a peaceful space to relax, eat, and even catch up on some work before your flight. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways you can access airport lounges at Valencia Airport and what to expect from the experience.

1. Types of Lounges Available at Valencia Airport

Valencia Airport has a primary lounge, the Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, which is designed to cater to passengers looking for an upscale travel experience. It is located in the Terminal Departures area, specifically after the security checks, making it accessible only to passengers with a boarding pass for an outgoing flight.

Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge

The Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge is Valencia Airport’s premier lounge, offering a range of facilities and services to make your wait more comfortable. The lounge is open to both domestic and international passengers, providing the perfect respite before boarding.

• Location: Departure area, after security.
• Opening Hours: The lounge is generally open from 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM, though these hours may vary depending on the season and flight schedules.
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, food and beverages (including alcoholic options), comfortable seating, workspaces, charging stations, and entertainment (TVs and newspapers). There are also showers available for passengers who wish to freshen up before their flight.

2. Who Can Access Airport Lounges at Valencia Airport?

Accessing the VIP lounge at Valencia Airport is relatively straightforward, with several options available depending on your ticket class, loyalty program, or willingness to pay a fee.

A. First and Business Class Passengers

If you are flying First Class or Business Class with certain airlines, lounge access may already be included in your ticket. Many airlines operating out of Valencia Airport, such as Iberia, Air Europa, and Lufthansa, provide complimentary lounge access to premium ticket holders.

• How it Works: Simply present your boarding pass at the lounge’s entrance. If you are eligible for access, you will be welcomed in at no additional cost.
• Tip: Make sure to confirm with your airline whether lounge access is included, as policies vary between airlines.

B. Frequent Flyer Programs and Airline Alliances

Members of frequent flyer programs or those affiliated with airline alliances such as Oneworld, SkyTeam, or Star Alliance may also gain complimentary access to the Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, depending on their membership level.

• Elite Status: Passengers with elite status, such as Oneworld Emerald, SkyTeam Elite Plus, or Star Alliance Gold, typically enjoy free access, even when flying economy.
• Companion Access: Some programs also allow you to bring a guest, though this depends on the specific terms of your frequent flyer program.

C. Lounge Membership Programs

If you are not flying in premium classes or do not have elite status, you can still access the Valencia Airport lounge by using lounge membership programs.

• Priority Pass: Perhaps the most well-known lounge membership program, Priority Pass members can access the VIP lounge at Valencia Airport. Membership options range from annual plans with unlimited access to pay-as-you-go options.
• LoungeKey: Some credit cards come with LoungeKey membership, which offers access to a network of airport lounges worldwide, including at Valencia Airport. It’s worth checking with your credit card provider if this is a benefit offered to you.

D. Pay-Per-Use Access

If you don’t fall under any of the categories above, you still have the option to access the lounge by paying a fee directly at the entrance.

• Walk-In Access: Travelers can pay around €35 to €40 for a one-time entry to the Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge. You can also pre-book lounge access through platforms like Lounge Pass or directly on the Valencia Airport website.
• Online Pre-Booking: Many prefer to book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times. Websites like Lounge Pass and even the airport’s official site often offer slightly discounted rates for pre-booked access.

3. What to Expect Inside the Lounge

While the thought of lounging in comfort may be enough to convince you to try it, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect once inside.

A. Food and Drinks

The lounge provides a variety of snacks, light meals, and beverages. You can enjoy everything from sandwiches and pastries to local Spanish delicacies, as well as a range of hot and cold drinks. Alcoholic beverages are also available, often self-service, allowing you to pour yourself a glass of wine, beer, or spirits while you relax.

B. Comfortable Seating

The lounge is furnished with comfortable chairs and sofas, making it an ideal spot for relaxing before your flight. There are also workstations available, complete with charging points for laptops and mobile devices, making it a great option for business travelers needing to catch up on emails or finish some work.

C. Wi-Fi and Entertainment

One of the top perks of the lounge is the complimentary Wi-Fi, which is often faster and more reliable than the public Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. If you prefer to unwind with some entertainment, there are TV screens, as well as a selection of magazines and newspapers for reading.

D. Showers and Other Amenities

For travelers on long-haul flights or those with extended layovers, having access to showers can be a huge advantage. The Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge is equipped with shower facilities, allowing you to freshen up before your next journey.

4. Lounge Access Tips and Etiquette

To make the most of your lounge experience at Valencia Airport, keep these tips in mind:

• Arrive Early: To fully enjoy the lounge’s offerings, try to arrive at the airport with enough time to spend at least an hour or two relaxing before your flight.
• Dress Comfortably: While there’s no formal dress code for the lounge, it’s always a good idea to dress in a way that reflects the upscale environment.
• Stay Within Time Limits: Some lounges impose time limits, especially during peak periods. At the Sala Joan Olivert VIP Lounge, this limit is generally 3 hours. If you need to stay longer, you may need to pay for additional time.

5. Conclusion: Is Lounge Access at Valencia Airport Worth It?

The VIP lounge at Valencia Airport offers a convenient and comfortable space for travelers looking to escape the busy terminal. Whether you gain access through a premium ticket, a frequent flyer program, or simply pay at the door, the lounge provides a range of services that can make your travel experience far more enjoyable.

If you’re someone who values comfort, privacy, and a more refined airport experience, accessing the lounge at Valencia Airport is certainly worth considering.