In the heart of Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, stands an architectural masterpiece unlike any other: the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias). This futuristic complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, is a celebration of science, art, nature, and innovation.
Stretching over two kilometers of the dried Turia riverbed, it’s not just a place to visit — it’s an experience that blends education with entertainment and beauty with function. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, this destination is an essential stop on any trip to Valencia.
Let’s begin your guided journey through one of Europe’s most unique cultural landmarks.
Location: Valencia, Spain
Opened: 1998
Architects: Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela
Size: Over 350,000 square meters
Purpose: Cultural, educational, scientific, and recreational complex
The complex consists of six main buildings, each with its own purpose and design, forming a harmonious, futuristic skyline.
Designed to resemble a giant human eye
Houses a 3D digital cinema, planetarium, and IMAX theater
Offers daily educational films about space, nature, and technology
Eye-catching at night with its reflection on the surrounding water
🎥 Pro Tip: Choose a 3D or IMAX film experience for the whole family – no need to speak Spanish, many shows are multilingual.
A vast, interactive museum dedicated to science and innovation
Designed like a whale skeleton
Explore hands-on exhibits on physics, biology, space, and sustainability
Great for kids and adults with touch-and-learn installations
🔬 Don’t Miss: The DNA spiral staircase, robot exhibits, and the electricity show.
The largest marine complex in Europe, representing major marine ecosystems
Home to over 45,000 animals from 500+ species
Includes a walk-through tunnel under a shark tank
Habitats: Arctic, Antarctic, Mediterranean, Red Sea, mangroves, and deep ocean
🐧 Highlights: Penguins, dolphins, belugas, sea lions, and the Oceanogràfic’s underwater restaurant.
One of the most acoustically advanced venues in Europe
Resembles a helmet or spacecraft in shape
Hosts opera, ballet, and classical music performances year-round
Includes several venues inside, such as the Main Hall and Amphitheatre
🎭 Insider Tip: Even if you don't attend a show, take the guided architectural tour.
A lush, open-air structure with native plant species and palm trees
Serves as a public park and sculpture garden
Offers panoramic views of the entire complex
At night, transforms into a trendy open-air nightclub (Mya) during summer
🌴 Great For: A relaxing stroll, photos, or enjoying Valencia’s sunshine.
Assut de l'Or Bridge: A white cable-stayed bridge connecting both sides of the complex
Ágora: A multipurpose venue often used for exhibitions, concerts, and events
Both add architectural drama and complete the futuristic feel
📸 Photo Tip: The bridge and Agora provide some of the best skyline shots.
The reflection of L’Hemisfèric in the water (especially at sunset)
Panoramic view from L’Umbracle
Inside the Oceanogràfic’s tunnels
Nighttime illumination of the entire complex
Abstract architectural shots of the Science Museum and Opera House
Start at L’Hemisfèric for a 3D movie
Explore the Science Museum – allow 1.5–2 hours
Head to Oceanogràfic – it can easily take 3 hours
Lunch at the underwater restaurant or the Oceanogràfic café
Stroll through L’Umbracle
End with a photo session or dinner nearby
Catch an evening performance at Palau de les Arts (if available)
Submarino Restaurant – Oceanogràfic’s glass-walled dining room surrounded by fish tanks
Elbar – Affordable and stylish café at the Science Museum
Restaurante Vertical – Fine dining with views of the complex
Mercado de Colón – Just a short drive away, a gourmet food hall in central Valencia
Gift shops in the Science Museum and Oceanogràfic
Science-themed toys, books, marine-themed products
Locally made crafts at weekend pop-up markets in L’Umbracle
Combo tickets are available for multiple buildings
Recommended to buy in advance, especially in summer
Attraction | Adult Price | Child Price |
---|---|---|
Oceanogràfic | €38 | €28 |
Science Museum | €9 | €7 |
Hemisfèric | €8 | €6 |
Combo Ticket (3) | €42 | €32 |
🎫 Tip: Visit the official website or local tourism offices for discounts and combo passes.
From Valencia City Center: 10–15 minutes by bus, bike, or taxi
By Bus: Lines 13, 15, 35, 95
By Bike: Valencia has an excellent bike lane system
By Car: Ample underground parking available
Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort – 5-star beachfront with spa
The Westin Valencia – Elegant rooms with historical architecture
Barceló Valencia – Great views of the complex
Hotel ILUNION Aqua 4 – Stylish and close to shopping and dining
Urban Youth Hostel – Friendly, modern, and eco-friendly
B&B Hotel Valencia Ciudad de las Ciencias – Affordable comfort near the museum
Fallas Festival (March): Though focused in central Valencia, parts of the City of Arts and Sciences host events
Open-air concerts and summer cinema
Science workshops and exhibits for kids during school holidays
Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds
Fall (September–October): Pleasant and perfect for walking
Summer: Beautiful but hot — indoor exhibits provide great relief
Winter: Open year-round, less crowded, and ideal for photography
The City of Arts and Sciences isn’t just a place to see — it’s a place to feel inspired. Its futuristic architecture, world-class exhibits, and interactive experiences make it perfect for families, science lovers, photographers, and dreamers.
It’s one of the most iconic modern landmarks in Spain and a symbol of Valencia’s transformation into a smart, cultural, and green city.