If you’re considering a move to Valencia—whether as a family, a remote worker, or a retiree—one of the most important (and underestimated) aspects of daily life is how you’ll get around. The good news is: in Valencia, living without a car isn’t just possible, it’s often preferable. With an excellent public transport system, safe bike infrastructure, and walkable neighborhoods, mobility in Valencia is one of Europe’s most accessible and livable cities.
Let us walk you through how Valencia makes soft mobility a real advantage—wherever you’re coming from, and whatever your lifestyle.
A Fully Connected System: One Card, Many Options
The city’s transportation is designed to be seamless. With a single travel card (called SUMA), you can access EMT city buses, the Metrovalencia network (metro + tram), interurban buses, and even the Cercanías suburban trains. This makes everyday life simpler—especially for newcomers trying to navigate the city with children, a busy work schedule, or just looking for comfort in retirement.
Children under 10 ride for free with an adult, and retirees enjoy senior discounts. Everything is geared toward inclusion and ease of use.
City Buses (EMT): Frequent, Reliable, and Family-Friendly
Valencia’s EMT bus system covers nearly every part of the city, from the central districts to the beach and residential areas. The buses are frequent, modern, and adapted for strollers or reduced mobility. Parents can get to schools, parks, and after-school activities without needing a car, while workers can rely on punctual service throughout the day and into the night.
For retirees, buses offer access to shopping, healthcare, and cultural venues—without the stress of traffic or parking. Night buses also run on weekends, so you can enjoy the city without worrying about how to get home.
Metro and Tram (Metrovalencia): Fast Travel Across the City and Suburbs
Metrovalencia combines metro lines in the centre and trams that reach the suburbs, airport, and even the beach. It’s the fastest way to cross the city or get from a suburban home into downtown in under 30 minutes. It’s clean, efficient, and a smart choice for commuters and families alike.
Kids love the trams (what child doesn’t?), and parents appreciate the reliable schedules. For workers, metro access means predictable commutes. And for retirees, there’s comfort in knowing you can reach museums, friends, or medical services effortlessly.
Suburban Trains (Renfe Cercanías): Explore Beyond the City
For those planning to live outside the city in places like Gandía, Xàtiva, or Sagunto, Cercanías trains connect the dots. These regional lines link Valencia to charming smaller towns, perfect for retirees looking for peace and space, or for weekend family excursions.
Trains are integrated into the same fare system and connect smoothly with buses and metro lines, making them ideal for flexible travel.
Interurban Buses (MetroBus): Essential for Suburban Life
The MetroBus service is a lifeline for families or workers living in smaller towns without metro or train stations. If you’re considering renting or buying a home in towns like Torrent, Paterna, or Alboraya, this bus system keeps you well-connected to Valencia’s urban center—without the need for a second vehicle.
It’s also great for retirees looking to enjoy life in quieter surroundings, while staying connected to the energy of the city.
Cycling in Valencia: One of Europe’s Most Bike-Friendly Cities
Valencia has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure. There are over 160 km of dedicated bike lanes, including the popular “anillo ciclista”—a safe circular route around the historic city center.
The Valenbisi bike-sharing system lets you pick up and drop off a bike anywhere in town. Families use it for weekend outings in the Turia Gardens, commuters combine it with metro rides, and retirees enjoy the ease of a light ride to the local market or the beach.
At under €30 a year, it’s one of the best deals in the city.
Walkable Neighborhoods and Green Corridors
In Valencia, walking isn’t just possible—it’s pleasurable. Many areas of the Old Town are pedestrian-only, and the Turia Gardens park provides a 9-kilometer green corridor through the heart of the city. Whether you’re walking kids to school, strolling to a café, or meeting friends for an outdoor event, you’ll find safe and beautiful routes all around.
Suburbs Are Fully Integrated
Many expats are surprised to learn that suburbs like Mislata, Burjassot, or Alboraya are just 10–20 minutes from the center by metro or tram. This means you can live in a quieter, greener environment—perfect for raising kids or retiring—without losing access to the city’s services and cultural life.
The same SUMA card works across all zones, making suburban life incredibly practical.
Low Costs, High Convenience
Transport in Valencia is very affordable:
- A 10-trip ticket starts around €8
- Monthly passes for unlimited travel offer great value
- Bike-sharing is nearly free once you’re signed up
- Children under 10 ride free on public transport
- Retirees enjoy significant discounts
Soft mobility in Valencia doesn’t just help the planet—it helps your wallet and your well-being.
So, what does this mean for you?
If you’re a family, it means you can get to school, work, playdates, and weekend outings without needing to buy or maintain a car.
If you’re a professional, your daily routine can include a calm tram ride, a podcast during your metro commute, or a stress-free connection to coworking spaces across the city.
If you’re retired, you gain independence, access, and ease—without the burden of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads.
And wherever you choose to live—in the vibrant centre or in one of Valencia’s many well-connected suburbs—you’ll benefit from a transport system designed to support your life, not complicate it.
Want to explore what life could look like for you in Valencia?
At Livin’Valencia, we help newcomers settle in with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re searching for a place to rent, looking to buy your dream home, or simply navigating the practicalities of a move—we’re here to help.
- Discover our Home Buying Advisory Services
- Explore our Long-Term Rental Support
- Get Full Support for Family Relocation
- Settle in with Our Expat Relocation Services
- Retiring Soon? Learn More About Retiring in Valencia and Costa Blanca
Let’s make your move not only possible—but smooth, stress-free, and inspiring.