Travelling from Palma to Valencia: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Embarking on a journey from Palma to Valencia offers travellers a scenic route across the Mediterranean Sea. This popular connection between Mallorca and mainland Spain serves as a vital link for tourists and locals alike. While flights provide a quick hop across the water, the ferry route offers a more relaxed and picturesque alternative, allowing you to bring vehicles and enjoy the journey as part of your holiday experience. With approximately 3 daily sailings and a distance of 328.2 km (203.9 miles), this sea route provides regular and reliable transportation between these two vibrant Spanish destinations. In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about travelling from Palma to Valencia, with a focus on the convenient ferry services that connect these Mediterranean gems.

How to get from Palma to Valencia: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Palma to Valencia, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your travel preferences and needs.

Flying between Palma and Valencia typically takes about 1 hour of actual flight time, making it the quickest option if you're pressed for time. However, when considering check-in times, security procedures, and travel to and from airports, the total journey time increases substantially.

The ferry route, operated by Grandi Navi Veloci, presents a more leisurely alternative. Covering 177.2 nautical miles across the Mediterranean, ferries take an average of 7 hours and 54 minutes to complete the crossing. While this is longer than flying, the ferry journey offers several unique advantages. You can bring your vehicle, avoid airport hassles, enjoy spacious cabins and lounges, and take in the beautiful Mediterranean seascape along the way.

For travellers who value comfort and the ability to bring their own transportation, the ferry represents excellent value. With prices starting from around £129 for the fastest crossing, it's a comprehensive travel solution that delivers you directly from city centre to city centre without the need for additional transportation arrangements at either end.

Taking the ferry from Palma to Valencia

You can take a ferry from Palma to Valencia. Ferries sail in around 7 hours and 54 minutes with about 3 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 7 hours and 15 minutes and is provided by Grandi Navi Veloci. Ferry prices can range depending on operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry and time of year, with the average price for the fastest crossing at around £129. Departures start as early as 10:00, with the last departure from Palma to Valencia at 23:58.

Grandi Navi Veloci operates modern vessels on this route, offering a comfortable crossing between Mallorca and mainland Spain. Their ferries are equipped with various amenities to make your journey enjoyable, including restaurants, bars, shops, and comfortable seating areas. Many sailings also offer cabin accommodations for those who prefer privacy and the opportunity to rest during the journey.

The ferry service operates year-round, with 23 weekly sailings resulting in approximately 105 crossings per month. This regular schedule provides flexibility for travellers planning their trip between these two destinations. However, during peak summer months, it's advisable to book in advance as this popular route can fill up quickly with tourists and locals travelling with vehicles.

One of the primary advantages of ferry travel is the ability to bring your own vehicle. This offers tremendous freedom once you arrive in Valencia, allowing you to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Vehicle spaces are limited on each sailing, so early booking is recommended, especially if you're travelling with a car during high season.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Palma)

Palma's ferry terminal is located at the Port of Palma, which is conveniently situated close to the city centre. From central Palma, the port is approximately a 10-15 minute drive, making it easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.

If you're using public transport, bus lines 1, 2, and 4 serve the port area. For those arriving by car, the terminal offers both short-term and long-term parking options, though prices can be relatively high for extended stays.

The terminal itself is modern and well-equipped with essential facilities including check-in counters, waiting areas, cafés, shops, and restrooms. We recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and boarding procedures, especially if you're travelling with a vehicle.

Inside the terminal, you'll find electronic display boards showing departure information, ticket offices for last-minute bookings or inquiries, and customer service points where staff can assist with any questions or concerns about your journey.

Arrival Port (Valencia)

Valencia's ferry terminal is located at the Port of Valencia, approximately 4 kilometres from the city centre. Upon arrival, you'll disembark in an organised process, with foot passengers typically leaving first, followed by those with vehicles.

To reach Valencia city centre from the port, you have several options. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building and provide the most direct route to your destination. Alternatively, bus line 4 connects the port with central Valencia, with stops near major attractions and transportation hubs.

The terminal building offers basic amenities including restrooms, information desks, and small cafés. There are also car rental offices if you need to arrange transportation upon arrival.

For those continuing their journey beyond Valencia, the main train station (Estación del Norte) is about 5 kilometres from the port, offering connections to Madrid, Barcelona, and other Spanish cities. The Valencia Airport is located approximately 20 kilometres away and can be reached by taxi or public transportation connections via the city centre.

Day Trip Possibilities

While the ferry journey between Palma and Valencia takes approximately 8 hours each way, day trips are technically possible but would be quite rushed and not recommended for most travellers. With the earliest departure from Palma at 10:00 and considering the journey time, you would arrive in Valencia in the late afternoon, leaving limited time to explore before needing to return.

If you're determined to make a day trip, we recommend focusing on attractions near the port area in Valencia, such as the Marina Real Juan Carlos I and the beach at Las Arenas. However, you would miss many of Valencia's highlights, including the City of Arts and Sciences and the historic old town.

A more practical approach is to plan an overnight stay in Valencia, which allows for a full day of exploration. This way, you can take an evening ferry from Palma, spend the night in Valencia, enjoy a complete day in the city, and return the following evening.

For those with limited time but still wanting to experience both destinations, consider a one-way ferry journey combined with a return flight. This hybrid approach gives you more time in Valencia while reducing the total travel time, though it doesn't offer the convenience of having your own vehicle in Valencia.

Things to Do in Valencia

Valencia offers a perfect blend of historical charm and futuristic appeal, making it an exciting destination for all types of travellers. Here are the top attractions you shouldn't miss:

The City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) stands as Valencia's most iconic modern landmark. This architectural marvel houses an interactive science museum, Europe's largest aquarium, an IMAX cinema, and beautiful garden areas. Open daily from 10:00 to 19:00, it deserves at least half a day to explore properly.

Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete tower provide a glimpse into the city's rich history. Climb the 207 steps of the tower for panoramic views of Valencia. The cathedral is open from 10:00 to 18:30 and houses what many believe to be the Holy Grail.

The Central Market (Mercado Central) offers a sensory feast with over 1,000 stalls selling fresh produce, local specialties, and Spanish delicacies. Visit in the morning (8:00 to 15:00, closed Sundays) when the market is most vibrant.

Turia Gardens, created in the former riverbed of the Turia River, provides 9 kilometres of green space perfect for walking, cycling, or picnicking. The park winds through the city and connects many major attractions.

Malvarrosa Beach offers a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline just minutes from the city centre. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or dining at one of the many seafood restaurants along the promenade.

Valencia's Neighbourhoods

El Carmen in the old town (Ciutat Vella) features narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, and a vibrant nightlife. This is where you'll find most of Valencia's historical attractions and a maze of charming alleys to explore.

Ruzafa has transformed from a working-class area to Valencia's hippest neighbourhood, filled with trendy bars, independent boutiques, and innovative restaurants. Visit in the evening to experience its lively atmosphere.

The Marina and beach area offers a more relaxed vibe with seafront restaurants and bars. It's particularly beautiful at sunset and comes alive during summer evenings.

Ensanche is Valencia's elegant shopping district, with wide boulevards lined with modernist buildings, high-end stores, and sophisticated cafés. This is where you'll find Valencia's luxury shopping and upscale dining options.

Weather in Valencia

Valencia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers, making it an appealing destination year-round. Summer (June to September) brings average temperatures between 25-30°C, with July and August being the hottest months. This is perfect beach weather but also peak tourist season.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, ideal for sightseeing without the summer crowds or heat. These shoulder seasons provide a perfect balance of good weather and more affordable accommodation prices.

Winter (December to February) is mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C during the day, though evenings can be cooler. This period sees fewer tourists and lower prices, though some coastal establishments may have reduced hours.

Regarding ferry operations, the Mediterranean Sea is generally calmer during summer months, making for smoother crossings. Winter can occasionally bring rougher seas, though the route between Palma and Valencia is relatively sheltered compared to open ocean crossings. Very occasionally, extreme weather conditions might cause delays or cancellations, but this is rare on this route.

Cost of Visiting Valencia

Valencia offers excellent value compared to other major Spanish cities like Barcelona or Madrid. A mid-range daily budget would be approximately £80-120 per person, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.

Accommodation ranges from budget hostels starting at £20 per night to mid-range hotels at £60-100 and luxury options from £150 upwards. Staying slightly outside the city centre can significantly reduce accommodation costs.

Dining presents options for every budget, from market meals and tapas bars where you can eat well for £10-15 per person, to mid-range restaurants charging £20-30 per person. Valencia's signature dish, paella, typically costs £12-18 per portion in authentic restaurants.

Public transportation is affordable, with single bus or metro tickets costing around £1.50, and day passes available for approximately £4. The Valencia Tourist Card (available for 24, 48, or 72 hours) includes unlimited public transport and discounts to many attractions, offering good value for active sightseers.

For budget-conscious travellers, take advantage of free walking tours, visit museums on their free entry days (many offer free admission on Sundays), and enjoy picnic lunches in the beautiful Turia Gardens.

Best Time to Visit Valencia

The ideal time to visit Valencia depends on your preferences, but many travellers find late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the perfect combination of warm weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. Daytime temperatures hover around 20-25°C, perfect for sightseeing and occasional beach visits.

Summer (July and August) brings hot weather ideal for beach activities, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This is high season, with more tourists, higher prices, and the need to book accommodations well in advance. The advantage is longer daylight hours and a vibrant atmosphere with many outdoor events.

Winter offers mild temperatures (10-15°C) and significantly fewer tourists. While not beach weather, it's comfortable for exploring the city and enjoying indoor attractions. You'll find the best hotel rates during this period, except around Christmas and New Year.

For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting during Las Fallas festival in March, when the city comes alive with parades, fireworks, and enormous artistic monuments that are eventually burned in a spectacular finale. While accommodations are more expensive and require early booking, experiencing this UNESCO-recognised festival is unforgettable.

For those primarily interested in gastronomy, autumn brings the harvest of many local ingredients central to Valencian cuisine, making it an excellent time for culinary tourism and wine tasting in the surrounding regions.

Accommodation Options in Valencia

Finding the right place to stay in Valencia is easy with options for every budget and travel style. The city offers excellent value compared to other Spanish coastal destinations, with prices typically ranging from £30-£150 per night depending on your preferences.

For budget travellers, the El Carmen and Ruzafa neighbourhoods offer affordable hostels and guesthouses from around £30-50 per night, placing you near Valencia's vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. Solo travellers will appreciate social hostels like Home Youth Hostel and Red Nest Hostel.

Couples might prefer boutique hotels in the historic centre or Ciutat Vella, where charming accommodations with character start from £60-90 per night. The beachfront area of La Malvarrosa offers romantic seaside apartments perfect for those arriving by ferry.

Families should consider the spacious holiday rentals in the City of Arts and Sciences area, providing convenient access to Valencia's most famous attractions. Many accommodations offer family rooms starting from £80-120 per night.

Book at least 2-3 months in advance if travelling during summer months when ferry traffic between Palma and Valencia peaks.

Getting Around Valencia

Valencia boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system that makes exploring the city straightforward after your ferry journey from Palma. The EMT bus network covers most tourist areas, with single tickets costing around £1.50, while the metro connects the port, airport, and city centre.

The Valencia Tourist Card offers unlimited public transport and museum discounts, making it excellent value for ferry passengers planning to explore extensively. Available for 24, 48, or 72 hours from £15-30.

Taxis are readily available at the ferry terminal, with fares to the city centre costing approximately £10-15. Ride-sharing services like Cabify also operate throughout Valencia.

Valencia is remarkably bicycle-friendly, with dedicated lanes throughout the city and the stunning Turia Gardens offering a 9km green pathway. Valenbisi bike rentals cost around £2 for a day pass plus usage fees.

Walking is pleasant in the compact historic centre, while renting a car (from £30 daily) is only necessary if you plan to explore beyond the city after your ferry arrival.

Your Perfect Palma to Valencia Journey Awaits

The ferry crossing from Palma to Valencia offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two Mediterranean gems. With Grandi Navi Veloci providing the fastest crossing time of just 7h 15m, and with three daily sailings to choose from, your journey across the 177 nautical miles can be tailored to your schedule.

At around £129 for the shortest duration crossing, the ferry represents excellent value compared to flights when you consider the comfort, views, and absence of airport hassles. The regular schedule of 23 weekly sailings ensures flexibility for your travel plans.

Whether you're travelling for Valencia's stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, or as a gateway to explore mainland Spain, arriving by sea offers a relaxing start to your adventure. The ferry terminals in both Palma and Valencia are well-connected to their respective city centres, making the entire journey smooth and stress-free.

Browse our latest ferry schedules and book your Palma to Valencia crossing today to secure the best fares and cabin options. Your Mediterranean adventure is just a ferry journey away!