Last month I visited the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia and was absolutely amazed. This complex is located southeast of the old town, built along the dried-up Turia riverbed. The architectural design is incredibly futuristic, completely unlike traditional Spanish architecture. The designer is local architect Santiago Calatrava, who transformed this area into Valencia’s new landmark.
The City of Arts and Sciences consists of several venues. I visited the Oceanographic and the Science Museum that day. The Oceanographic is one of Europe’s largest aquariums, divided into multiple zones representing different marine regions including the Mediterranean, tropical waters, and Arctic areas. What impressed me most was the underwater tunnel—standing in the transparent corridor watching sharks and rays swim overhead was an extraordinary experience. The Science Museum is more suitable for families with children, featuring many interactive exhibits, though adults will find it engaging too.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Regarding tickets, I recommend booking in advance on the official website at the Valencia Institute of Modern Art, as buying on-site costs more. Here’s the price breakdown I compiled:
| Venue | Adult Price | Child Price |
|---|
| Oceanographic | €33.70 | €25.20 |
| Science Museum | €8.80 | €6.90 |
| Combined Ticket | From €37.50 | From €28.60 |
Opening hours vary by season—summer hours typically extend until 8 PM, while winter closing times are earlier. The Science Museum is closed on Mondays, which is particularly important to note. I didn’t check this beforehand and made a wasted trip on my first day.
Practical Tips
If you have sufficient time for the City of Arts and Sciences, I recommend allocating at least a full day. The Oceanographic alone takes 3-4 hours to explore, and adding the Science Museum plus the surrounding opera house and hemispherical cinema makes for a perfect day. For transportation, take the metro to Alameda station, then walk about 15 minutes, or simply take a taxi. Dining options nearby are limited, so I suggest bringing snacks and water.
Overall, the City of Arts and Sciences is a must-visit attraction in Valencia, especially for those interested in architecture and marine life. While tickets aren’t cheap, it’s definitely worth seeing. The only downside to the City of Arts and Sciences might be the crowds, particularly on weekends and holidays—visiting on weekdays is much more comfortable.
