Valencia’s City of Arts and Sciences: Architecture, Innovation & Fun

Introduction to Valencia City of Arts and Sciences

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.


📍 What Is the City of Arts and Sciences?

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.


🏛️ The 6 Iconic Structures of the City of Arts and Sciences

1. L’Hemisfèric – The Eye of Knowledge

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.


2. Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe – The Science Museum

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.


3. L’Oceanogràfic – Europe’s Largest Aquarium

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.


4. Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía – Opera House and Performing Arts Center

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.


5. L’Umbracle – The Garden Walkway

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.


6. Assut de l'Or Bridge and Agora

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.


📸 Best Photo Spots in the City of Arts and Sciences

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


🕰️ Suggested Itinerary: One Full Day at the Complex

Morning

Start at L’Hemisfèric for a 3D movie

Explore the Science Museum – allow 1.5–2 hours

Afternoon

Head to Oceanogràfic – it can easily take 3 hours

Lunch at the underwater restaurant or the Oceanogràfic café

Evening

Stroll through L’Umbracle

End with a photo session or dinner nearby

Catch an evening performance at Palau de les Arts (if available)


🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby

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


🛍️ Souvenirs and Shopping

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


🎟️ Admission & Tickets

Combo tickets are available for multiple buildings

Recommended to buy in advance, especially in summer

AttractionAdult PriceChild 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.


🚗 How to Get There

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


🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

Luxury

Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort – 5-star beachfront with spa

The Westin Valencia – Elegant rooms with historical architecture

Mid-range

Barceló Valencia – Great views of the complex

Hotel ILUNION Aqua 4 – Stylish and close to shopping and dining

Budget

Urban Youth Hostel – Friendly, modern, and eco-friendly

B&B Hotel Valencia Ciudad de las Ciencias – Affordable comfort near the museum


🎉 Events and Seasonal Highlights

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


🌞 Best Time to Visit

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


🌟 Why Visit the City of Arts and Sciences?

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.