City of Arts and Sciences

Would you like to have a private tour in the City of Arts and Sciences, have a look here!

Agora

The Agora building first opened in 2009 during a well known tennis tournament. This modern structure can seat up to 6000 people. With it’s height and steel-and-glass design, the Agora offers a unique visual contrast to the nearby buildings, such as the Hemisfèric and the Science Museum.

Originally, it was built to host the Valencia Open 500 tennis tournament, but today it continues to be a dynamic place for concerts, exhibitions, conferences, company meetings and fashion shows.

Unfortunately, the building was never fully completed due to the economic crisis. The original design included a ”whale’s tail” structure, but as you can see on the pictures, that part was never built.

While the Agora is primarily used for events, it is open for public when no events are taking place. You can admire the unique architecture and explore the exhibitions if they are hosted inside. For more information, check this page.

• Website
• Monday till Sunday: 10.00 – 20.00

L’Hemisfèric

The Hemisfèric is one of the most iconic buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences. This building was also designed by Santiago Calatrava. The architecture symbolizes the ”eye of knowledge”. During the day you see half the eye, but if you are lucky and return in the evening, you might catch a glimpse of the whole eye. When the lights are on at night, the reflection in the water creates a beautiful and memorable view.

IMAX cinema

In the Hemisfèric, you’ll find an IMAX cinema showing a variety of fascinating short documentaries using the latest technology. The 900-square-meter screen begins beneath your feet and extends over your head, wrapping around the audience to create an unforgettable visual experience. You’ll literally have to turn your head to follow the action on screen.

The documentaries cover themes such as history, nature, countries, or dinosaurs. Each film lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. There is also always one movie for children. Here you can find more activities for kids.

3D Digital Cinema and Planetarium shows

In addition to IMAX Dome films, Hemisfèric also features a 3D digital cinema. Viewers receive special glasses for immersive 3D projections. And that’s not all, there are also planetarium shows where you can explore the cosmos through guided astronomical presentations that take you on a journey through stars, galaxies, and space missions.

Before the movie starts, you’ll receive headphones. You are able to choose your preferred language (English, French, Spanish or Valenciano).

While the Hemisfèric is suitable for all ages, some shows may not be recommended for young children, children under 4, or individuals that are sensitive for intense visuals. Check the content of each show before attending. For more information have a look at Hemisfèric.

• Website
• 11.00 – 20.00 (depending on the movie)
• Adults from 13 years old: €8,90
  Reduced mobility: €6,90
  kids under 13 years old: €6,90

Note: Maybe you have seen pictures in front of the famous Valencia sign? You can find this sign in front of the Hemisfèric. Ready for the perfect Instagram picture?

L’Oceanogràfic

If you’re in Valencia, visiting the largest aquarium in Europe is a must. It is designed by Félix Candela and built in the shape of a water lily.

In the Oceanogràfic, you’ll discover over 500 species and 40.000 sea animals across twelve different habitats. There are also several special activities and interactive exhibits to enjoy. Since it is the biggest aquarium in Europe, you will spend the whole afternoon inside, at least 3 to 4 hours.

What you will discover:

• Arctic and Antarctic habitats: you will find belunga whales and penguins.
• Tropical and temperate seas: discover all the colorful coral reefs and the exotic fish.
• One of the largest underwater tunnels in Europe. A spectacular experience!
• The Dolphinarium: Here you can find daily shows where they highlight the intelligence and agility of dolphins.
• Wetlands, mangorves and Mediterrranean ecosystems: they are all carefully recreated to support conservation and education.

Marine research, conservation and education

This park is not just about entertainment, it also plays a crucial role in marine research, conservation and education. There are several interactive exhibits and presentations that help visitors understand the importance of protecting aquatic life and ecosystems. More information, go to Oceanogràfic.

• Opening hours may vary during holidays or special events, but overall they open at 10.00 and close at 20.00.

SKIP THE QUEUE – ORDER YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE

Not looking forward to wait in the queue of Oceanogràfic to buy your tickets? Here is the solution! Order your tickets in advance, so you can admire those beautiful animals as soon as possible. You’ll receive the tickets within 24 hours in your mail inbox, so don’t forget to take them with you to Oceanogràfic!

L’Umbracle

L’Umbracle is a beautiful botanical garden filled with palm trees, plants, and flowers, all sheltered by an open-air metal structure that arches over the walkway. This stunning architectural promenade stretches more than 320 meters long and is free to visit. During summer, part of L’Umbracle often transforms into a stylish open-air disco/lounge for parties. If you want to learn more about this spot, check out L’Umbracle.

Located on a platform above the other buildings, L’Umbracle is accessible via several elevators and stairs, making it easy for visitors with reduced mobility to reach. From here, you can enjoy amazing views of the entire City of Arts and Sciences, perfect for making that Instagram picture… cheeeeese!

• Website L’Umbracle Botanical Garden
  Website L’Umbracle Terraza
• The opening hours for the botanical garden may vary during holidays or special events, but generally, it is open daily from 8.00 to 12.30.
  The L’Umbracle Terraza is only open during events. Opening hours depend on the specific event, but they are usually between 23.59 and 07.00.

Club Mya

Located beneath the stunning glass dome of L’Umbracle in the City of Arts and Sciences, Club MYA offers an unforgettable nightlife experience in Valencia. With it’s futuristic design, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse music styles, MYA attracts both locals and international visitors looking to dance the night away.

Open from Thursday to Sunday, midnight until 07.00. Mya features multiple rooms catering to different musical tastes, from house, techno, and pop in the VIP DJ booth to hip-hop, reggaeton, and more in other lively areas. Whether you’re after an energetic party or a chic VIP experience with private tables and bottle service, MYA has something for everyone.

• Website Mya
• Depending on the event, it is usually open from 23:59 till 07.00.

Museo de las Ciencias

Museo de las Ciencias is the Science museum of Valencia where you can experiment with technology. The building is designed by architect Santiago Calatrava and resembles the skeleton of a whale. It spans more than 40.000 square meters dedicated to science, innovation and discovery.

In an interactive way you will learn a lot about science and technology. It is nice to visit this museum with kids, but also as an adult. You will find several exhibitions in the museum, which will change every few months. Depending on the age group you are visiting the museum with, you will spend at least 2 to 3 hours inside. For more information check out Museo de las Ciencias.

• In low season (9 January – 6 April, 16 October – 5 December, 11 December – 23 December): Monday till Thursday: 10.00 – 18.00.
  Friday till Sunday: 10.00 – 19.00.
  In mid season (2 January – 8 January, 7 April – 30 June, 11 September – 15 October, 6 December – 10 December, 26 December – 30 December):
  Monday till Sunday: 10.00 – 19.00.
  In high season (1 July – 10 September):
  Monday till Sunday: 10.00 – 21.00.
• Adults from 13 years old: €9,00
  Reduced: €6,70
  Kids under 13 years old: €6,70
  Disabled: €6,70
  Kids under 4 years old: free

After all the experiences in the museum, you might get hungry. But no worries! The museum features a restaurant and a café where you can enjoy a variety of meals and drinks.

L’Espai dels Xiquets

Are you visiting the Museum of Sciences with children? Definitely take a look at the L’Espai dels Xiquets. This is a specific area for children, where they can play and discover with others. There are four area’s in L’Espai dels Xiquets: The Senses, Water, Animals and the Unfinished House.

• The Senses and Water: with interactive and entertaining modules and games.
• The Animals: Children can learn about the animals and their living environment. For the little ones they have a little dress-up corner with all kind of animal costums.
• Unfinished House: A special area where kids can build a house together with the help of little cranes, toy cartloads and mini transportation.

The availability of these activities can change within the season.

Whispering Wall at the Science Museum

Discover the fascinating Whispering Wall at the Science Museum, located in the main hall called “Carrer Major.”. Thanks to it’s unique acoustic design, you can hear a whisper clearly from one corner of the room to the opposite side. It’s a fun and interactive way to explore the science of sound, perfect for visitors of all ages!

SKIP THE QUEUE – GET YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE

This interesting museum is easy to visit, thanks to these tickets. No waiting lines! Skip the queue and enjoy everything that Museo de las Ciencias has to offer!

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía is one of the six buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences. This building is also known as the Opera of Valencia. The building is shaped in the form of a fish, but some people also see a helmet or a big wave in this shape. The building is 75 metres high and takes up 40.000 square metres.

During the year you can visit world-class opera’s, but also high level ballet shows, for example Romeo and Juliet. Besides that, it is also used for concerts and theatre performances. For more information you can go to this page.

The Opera House of Valencia also offers several one-hour tours inside the building. Prices are between €14,- and €18,- per person. Are you planning to go to Valencia with a group between 20 to 30 people? There is also a possibility to have a group tour. The price is €9,- per person. More information about the tours in Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía you can find here.

• Website
• Depends on events, shows or concerts

How long should I spend visiting the City of Arts and Sciences?

It is recommended dedicating at least one full day to explore the City of Arts and Sciences. This complex offers a wide range of experiences for all ages. The main attractions in this city are:

• Oceanogràfic: The biggest aquarium in Europe. Most visitors are spending at least 3 to 4 hours here.
• Science Museum: You will spend at least 2 to 3 hours inside this museum. It is an interactive, hands-on museum, which is both educational and entertaining. Depending on your group, most people spend at least two hours here.
• L’Hemisfèric: It is a stunning IMAX cinema offering 3D films and astronomical shows. Each show and film takes up between 45 to 60 minutes.
• L’Umbracle: If you want to visit the botanical garden in L’Umbracle, you will spend around 15 minutes inside. The parties they organise are mostly the whole evening/night.
• Agora: This exhibition center will take up 1.5 hours of your time, depending on the exhibition.
• Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: The Opera House of Valencia offers several one-hour guided tours. Ticket prices range from €14 to €18. Group tours for 20 to 30 people are also available at a reduced rate of €9 per person. If you’re visiting the Opera House for a tour, you can expect to spend about one hour inside. Attending an opera, concert, or dance/theatre performance typically lasts between 1.5 and 3.5 hours.

So in short, if you want to visit L’Oceanogràfic, the Science Museum, L’Hemisfèric, L’Umbracle, Agora and take a tour in Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, you should plan to spend at least 8,5 hour at the City of Arts and Sciences. If you choose not to visit the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, you will spend 7,5 hour in the City of Arts and Sciences.

Combination ticket

If you plan to visit several buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences, consider buying a combination ticket. In most cases, it’s cheaper than paying the full price for each attraction separately.
You can purchase combination tickets on several websites.

What is included in the ticket?

When you buy a (combined) ticket for one or more of the buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences, you can enter the building(s) by showing your ticket. Access to the outdoor areas of the City of Arts and Sciences is free.

What are the nicest things to do with children in the City of Arts and Sciences?

If you are visiting the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia with children, there are many nice things to do together! Below you find a list with the best things to do with children.

• L’Oceanogràfic: Learn more about all the underwater life
• Science Museum: In the Science Museum you can find a specific area for children, the Espai dels Xiquets
• Agora: Depending on the exhibition
• L’Umbracle: Visit the botanical garden
• L’Hemisfèric: Go to one of the 3D films

Can I purchase tickets at the entrance of the City of Arts and Sciences?

It is possible to buy tickets at the entrance. However, keep in mind that during peak seasons, weekends and public holidays, it is advisable to buy tickets in advance to ensure your entry and avoid the long queues. In some cases, buying tickets online in advance is also cheaper than purchasing them at the entrance. If you want to buy tickets at the entry, be sure to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Can I re-enter the buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences?

You can leave and re-enter the buildings on the same day as long as you keep your ticket.

At L’Oceanogràfic it is possible to re-enter the complex, but only if you have a combined ticket together with the Museum of Sciences and/or L’Hemisfèric. You have to go to Punto de Información to ask for a bracelet to re-enter. You can find this desk in the main building on level -1.

Is the City of Arts and Sciences accessible for disabled people?

The City of Arts and Sciences is accessible for disabled people! Outside of the buildings you can find several elevators to see the city from the platform at L’Umbracle. You can find these elevators under L’Umbracle in front of Agora and under L’Umbracle in front of L’Hemisfèric.

On the inside of all the buildings you can find elevators, feature ramps and accessible toilets. In the Science Museum free wheelchairs are available.

What are the accepted payment methods in the City of Arts and Sciences?

Accepted payment methods are:

• Visa, Mastercard, Amex
• Bizum
• Bank Transfer
• Cash

Keep in mind that some discounts are only available at the ticket desks.

Can I bring my own food and drinks at the City of Arts and Sciences?

Please note that eating and drinking inside the buildings is only allowed in designated areas. However, outside the buildings, you are free to eat and drink.

Are pets allowed in the City of Arts and Sciences?

No, animals are not permitted inside the buildings. There is an exception of registered guide dogs as stipulated by Valencian law. However, it is allowed to bring animals on the outside of the complex. So always dreamed of a picture with your dog in front of the buildings of the City of Arts and Sciences? Take your chance!

What are the must-see buildings in the City of Arts and Sciences from the outside?

It is free to walk in the City of Arts and Science from the outside. But what are the must-see buildings from the outside in the complex?

• Definitely make a stop at the L’Hemisferic. This building looks like an eye and is for sure a highlight you do not want to miss. In front of this building you can also find the Valencia sign.
• Secondly do not forget to make a picture at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía! An impressive architectural building that looks like a fish from the outside. Some people also think it looks like a helmet! What do you think it looks like?
• And last but not least! Do not skip the Science Museum. It looks like a skeleton of a whale from the outside!

If you do not want to enter one of the buildings, but just want to see the whole complex from the outside, it will take you about 45 to 60 minutes.

What are the insider tips when visiting the City of Arts and Sciences?

• Discover the fascinating Whispering Wall at the Science Museum
• When there is no wind or a beautiful sunrise / sunset you can make beautiful pictures in the City of Arts and Sciences
• If you have time in the evening, take a look at the City of Arts and Sciences to see if the lights are on. The reflection in the water is magical!
• Are you into the rooftops? At Rooftop Barcelo you have an amazing view over the City of Arts and Sciences! The best time to visit? During sunset! The price is €35,- per person. Have a look at the website for all the price options!
• Looking forward to eat paella, but also want to see the City of Arts and Sciences? Make a reservation at restaurant Alqueria del Pou and enjoy a delicious Paella with an amazing view! This restaurant is an old farm and is only 500 meter away from the City of Arts and Sciences.