City of Arts & Sciences
Valencia's futuristic landmark — aquarium, science museum, and stunning architecture by Calatrava
Last updated: 2026-06-18
The City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) is Valencia's most iconic landmark — a cluster of futuristic white buildings designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, set in the drained bed of the old Turia River. Love it or hate it architecturally, it's visually stunning and genuinely impressive in person.
The complex contains Europe's largest aquarium (Oceanogràfic), an IMAX cinema in a building shaped like a giant eye (Hemisfèric), a hands-on science museum (Museu de les Ciències), and an opera house (Palau de les Arts). You could spend a full day here, or just an afternoon walking the grounds for free.
For families, it's the top attraction in Valencia. The Oceanogràfic alone justifies the visit — it's world-class, with beluga whales, sharks, penguins, and a 30-metre underwater tunnel. The Science Museum is excellent for older kids with interactive exhibits.
Things to See & Do
Oceanogràfic
Europe's largest aquarium, with over 45,000 animals from 500 species. The shark tunnel, beluga whales, dolphin show, and Arctic zone are standouts. Allow 2-3 hours minimum.
💡 Buy tickets online — the queue at the entrance can be 30+ minutes in summer. The dolphin show runs 3-4 times daily; check the schedule on arrival.
Hemisfèric (IMAX Cinema)
An IMAX and planetarium inside a building shaped like a giant eye. The architecture is the real star — the building reflects perfectly in the surrounding pools. Shows run every 45 minutes.
💡 The reflection photos are best in the morning or late afternoon when there's no wind. Evening illumination is spectacular.
Museu de les Ciències
A huge interactive science museum — best for kids aged 6-14. Exhibits cover space, the human body, and technology. The DNA climbing structure is a highlight.
💡 Skip if you only have half a day — the Oceanogràfic is the better use of time for most visitors.
Free Grounds & Architecture
Even without buying tickets, walking the grounds is free and worth doing. The buildings are extraordinary — stark white bone-like structures reflected in turquoise pools. Some of the best photos in Valencia.
Getting There
The City of Arts and Sciences sits at the eastern end of the Turia Gardens — walkable from the city centre or quick by bus.
Follow the Turia Gardens east — it's a beautiful, shaded walk along the former riverbed. Flat the entire way.
Lines 35 and 95 stop directly at the complex. Line 1 from the beach is also useful.
The Turia Gardens cycle path runs right past. Valenbisi stations at the entrance.
Best Time to Visit
Mornings are less crowded. The grounds are stunning at sunset and after dark when illuminated.
spring
Perfect — comfortable for outdoor walking, reasonable crowds. The pools are full and reflections are beautiful.
summer
Very hot outdoors but the Oceanogràfic is air-conditioned. Go early or late afternoon. Expect peak crowds.
autumn
Excellent — warm enough for outdoor enjoyment, thinner crowds than summer.
winter
Quietest time. The indoor venues are perfect for cool days. Reflection pools may be partially drained.
Accessibility
The entire complex was designed to be fully accessible. All venues have lift access, adapted toilets, and ramps. The grounds are flat and paved. Wheelchair rental available at the Oceanogràfic.
♿ Fully accessible throughout. The Oceanogràfic provides free wheelchair loans. The underwater tunnel and all exhibits are accessible. The dolphin show has reserved wheelchair seating.
👶 Excellent — the grounds are completely flat and stroller-friendly. The Oceanogràfic interior is spacious enough for strollers throughout. No need to fold.
🚇 Bus stops directly outside are fully accessible. The Turia Gardens path to the complex is flat and paved.
Practical Tips
- 1Buy combo tickets online — Oceanogràfic + Hemisfèric is better value than individual tickets.
- 2The Oceanogràfic alone needs 2-3 hours. Don't try to rush it.
- 3Bring water and sunscreen if walking the grounds in summer — there's minimal shade outside.
- 4The restaurant inside the Oceanogràfic (Submarino) lets you eat surrounded by fish — worth booking for the novelty, though the food is average.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do City of Arts and Sciences tickets cost?
Oceanogràfic: €34 adult, €26 child. Hemisfèric: €9. Science Museum: €9. Combo tickets available from €30-40 for 2-3 venues. Buy online to skip queues.
Is the City of Arts and Sciences worth visiting?
Yes — even if you only visit the Oceanogràfic, it's one of the best aquariums in Europe. The grounds are free to walk and photograph. For families, it's Valencia's #1 attraction.
How long do you need at the City of Arts and Sciences?
3-5 hours for a good visit. The Oceanogràfic alone takes 2-3 hours. If you add the Hemisfèric or Science Museum, plan a full day.