Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla Station: Ultimate Guide (2024)

The Joaquín Sorolla Train Station in Valencia is one of the city’s biggest transport hubs. If you’re catching a fast train (AVE) to somewhere else in the country, you’ll find yourself here at the start or end of your journey.

So if you’re wondering just how to get to or from this station or anything else you should be keeping in mind, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. After all, I live in Valencia and have come through this station pretty often, so I’ll make sure you’re on your train before you know it!

Overview of Valencia Joaquín Sorolla Train Station

Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station serves as a hub for high-speed rail services. It’s located just 800 meters south of Valencia’s main station, Estació del Nord. If you’re traveling by AVE or Euromed trains, you’re likely to arrive or depart from here.

The station is managed by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, and is named after the Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla. As well as high-speed AVE and Euromed services, it accommodates other long-distance trains.

You’ll also find facilities at Joaquín Sorolla that include ticket sales, information points, waiting areas, and car rentals.

The architecture of the station is modern, with a design that allows natural light to flood the main hall. The station itself, while not as expansive as some European counterparts, offers a clean and efficient transit experience.

Keep in mind as well that the Estació del Nord is nearby, which is the other major train station in Valencia. It’s always worth double checking your train ticket to make sure you’re going to the right one for your journey.

Estació del Nord offers regional train services and access to Valencia’s metro. There’s also a free shuttle bus connecting the two stations, making transfer between them straightforward.

Local Transportation Connectivity

When you step out of the station, you’ll notice the taxi rank immediately available for quick and direct transportation. Valencia’s efficient public transport system includes several bus lines that pass by the station, connecting you to various parts of the city.

Here’s a quick look at the connectivity:

• Metro: Lines 1, 3, and 5 will take you around the city and to the airport.
• Bus: Multiple lines that connect to the city center and beyond.
• Taxi: Readily available taxi rank right outside the station.

A shuttle bus service is also available, offering a direct route to Valencia Airport, which is particularly useful if you’re catching a flight.

Facilities for Passengers with Limited Mobility

Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station is equipped with facilities to assist passengers with limited mobility. These include:

• Parking: Designated parking spaces close to the entrance.
• Access: Ramps and elevators for ease of movement throughout the station.

There are also staff members available to help with any additional assistance you may need, from boarding to finding your way around the station. The goal is to ensure that your travel experience from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Services and Amenities

Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station offers a range of services and amenities to make your travel experience more comfortable. From luggage handling to dining, shopping, and relaxation areas, all your basic needs are covered.

As I said earlier, it’s not a massive station, especially compared to some of the other main train hubs in Europe. But it has everything you need for your train journey – which is all you can ask for, in the end!

Luggage and Storage Options

You have access to luggage trolleys to help transport your bags within the station. If you need to store your bags, secure lockers of various sizes are available for short-term use.

Secure lockers can be a relief if you’re planning to explore the city without the burden of your luggage. Just ensure you give yourself enough time to collect your belongings before your train’s departure.

Dining and Shopping Options

A variety of restaurants and shops are located in the station to satisfy your dining and shopping needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there’s something for everyone.

• Restaurants:
  • Fast Food: Grab a quick bite if you’re short on time.
  • Cafes: Enjoy a coffee and pastry as you wait.
  • Full-Service Dining: For those preferring a more relaxed meal.

In case you forgot to pack something, or you’re looking to buy gifts or travel essentials, the shopping outlets have you covered with a selection of goods.

Passenger Lounges and Waiting Areas

Comfortable lounges and waiting areas are available for resting before your journey. These spaces are equipped with seating and provide a quiet environment away from the bustle of the main concourses.

Find a seat in the passenger lounges, where you can relax and use the free WiFi to check your emails or plan your trip. If there’s anything else you need to know about Valencia, the tourist information is there to help.

Transportation Options

Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station offers a variety of transportation services to fit your travel needs. You’ll find high-speed rail options for long-distance travel, regional trains for local destinations, and a smooth connection to the city’s metro and bus networks.

AVE and High-Speed Train Services

Your fastest option for long-distance travel is the AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) and other high-speed trains. These services link Valencia with cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. High-speed trains offer the convenience of:

• Madrid: Approximate journey time of 1h 50m
• Barcelona: Approximate journey time of 3h
• Seville: Approximate journey time of 3h 50m

Regional and Local Train Services

For nearby destinations, Cercanías trains and other local services are available. They provide frequent connections to places such as Gandía, Xàtiva, and Castelló, among others. Local trains are ideal for day trips or commuting:

• Gandía: Approximately 50 minutes away
• Xàtiva: Roughly 35 minutes away
• Castelló: About 1 hour away

Metro and Bus Services

Within Valencia, you can take advantage of the Metrovalencia and EMT buses. The metro station Jesús is within walking distance, where you can catch lines 1, 2, 5, and 7.

Buses offer widespread service throughout the city, with the following being some of the bus lines available:

• Lines: 1, 2, 9, 10, 27, 64, N7
• Key destinations: City center, beaches, university campuses

Whether you’re planning a quick trip or an extended visit, Joaquín Sorolla station is your gateway to Valencia and beyond.

Tickets and Travel Information

At the Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station, you have multiple options for booking and purchasing train tickets. That said, tickets can sell out so I’d suggest securing yours in advance of your journey, if you can.

While you can go to individual websites, with Renfe being the biggest Spanish train operator, I always find Trainline to be the best for comparing all of the Spanish train companies in the one place in order to get the best price.

Platform Information

Valencia Joaquín Sorolla train station offers dynamic display boards and online tools to keep travelers informed. You’ll find up-to-date schedule and platform information, ensuring you always know where and when your train departs.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla train station is your gateway to some of the city’s most notable sites. You’ll find yourself just a short trip away from iconic destinations that are perfect for any itinerary, like the following:

• City of Arts and Sciences: This is a futuristic complex that houses a science museum, planetarium, opera house, and IMAX cinema. It’s located just 3 kilometers from the train station, approximately a 7-minute drive or 40-minute walk.
• Central Market (Mercado Central): If you love to immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine, this bustling market is around 1.5 kilometers from the station. A brisk 20-minute walk, and you’ll be amidst one of Europe’s oldest running food markets. With its Modernist architecture, it’s an ideal spot to sample fresh produce and traditional Spanish delicacies.
• Valencia Cathedral: This iconic cathedral claims to house the Holy Grail and is just over 1 kilometer away from Joaquín Sorolla station, an easy 15-minute walk. Its fusion of architectural styles reflects Valencia’s diverse history – you won’t want to miss the Miguelete Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
• Oceanogràfic Aquarium: You’ll find the largest aquarium in Europe within the City of Arts and Sciences complex. It’s about 4 kilometers from the station, which is roughly a 10-minute drive. Venture through underwater tunnels to get close to sharks, belugas, and more.

Special Features

Valencia’s Joaquín Sorolla train station offers an array of distinctive features that enhance its standing as a cultural and architectural landmark. Through its well-designed spaces and creative exhibitions, the station is more than a transit point – it’s a celebration of art and architecture.

In particular, the station features a dynamic range of art installations and regularly hosts exhibitions that reflect Valencia’s rich cultural tapestry. Key elements include:

• Rotating Exhibitions: The station periodically updates its displays, offering travelers fresh artistic experiences.
• Permanent Art Pieces: Permanent installations serve as visual anchors and conversation starters.

You’re not always guaranteed to have one of these on display, but it’s a nice touch to help break up long waiting times – and discover a different side of Valencia, all at the same time.