Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
Discover the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
A visionary temple to science, nature, and art, the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències in Valencia is one of Europe’s most ambitious cultural complexes. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, this dazzling ensemble of futuristic architecture and luminous pools invites visitors to explore knowledge through awe and interaction.
The complex is composed of six principal elements, each with its own distinct purpose and architectural identity:
* Hemisfèric – A striking eye-shaped building housing an IMAX cinema, planetarium, and digital projection hall.
* Umbracle – A landscaped promenade and vantage point that doubles as a sculpture garden and observation deck.
* Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe – A vast, interactive science museum designed to inspire curiosity across all ages.
* Oceanogràfic – Europe’s largest aquarium, home to over 500 marine species, recreating diverse aquatic ecosystems from around the globe.
* Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía – A soaring architectural marvel devoted to opera and performing arts.
* Ágora – A dynamic multifunctional space hosting concerts, exhibitions, and sporting events.
Far more than a tourist attraction, this cultural city within a city invites contemplation, wonder, and discovery. It is where avant-garde design meets educational excellence—a must-visit in Valencia for travelers of all generations.
A masterpiece of contemporary architecture and cultural ambition, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is one of Europe’s most iconic modern complexes. Conceived by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela, it is a symphony of gleaming white curves and expansive reflecting pools—a futuristic city within a city that redefines urban cultural space. Comprising six main buildings—including the Oceanogràfic, Hemisfèric, Science Museum, and Palau de les Arts—this visionary project invites visitors to explore the intersections of science, art, nature, and technology. It’s as much a visual spectacle as it is a place of discovery, ideal for all ages and sensibilities.
Pros
- – Stunning architectural design that has become a global symbol of Valencia – A diverse offering of cultural venues: aquarium, science museum, planetarium, opera house – Suitable for both adults and children—engaging, educational, and visually extraordinary – Scenic surroundings ideal for walking, photography, and leisure
Cons
- – Extensive grounds require a significant amount of walking – Can become crowded during weekends and school holidays – Some exhibitions in the science museum are more oriented toward younger audiences
Hours
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias?
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is open Mon–Thu 10:00–18:00; Fri–Sun 10:00–19:00. Hours can change on public holidays, so check before a long trip across the city.
Where is Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias located?
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is at Avinguda del Professor López Piñero, 7, 46013 València, Spain, in Valencia, Spain.
How much does it cost at Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias?
Expect to spend around € per person at Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Prices are indicative and change seasonally.
Does Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias have an official website?
Yes — the official website of Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is https://cac.es/en/.
How do I get to Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias?
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is at Avinguda del Professor López Piñero, 7, 46013 València, Spain. Open the location on the map for walking, metro and bus directions across Valencia.
Nearby in Valencia
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Valencia Aquarium OceanograficCarrer d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1b, 46013 València, Spain420 m away
Palacio de las Artes Reina SofíaAvinguda del Professor López Piñero, 1, 46013 València, Spain460 m away
Estadi De MestallaAvenida Suecia, n 46010, València, Spain2.2 km away
La Marina de ValenciaCarrer del Moll de la Duana, Valencia, Spain2.3 km away
Plaça De L'ajuntamentPlaça de l'Ajuntament, 46002, Valencia Spain2.6 km away
Hortensia Herrero Art CenterC. del Mar, 31, 46003 València, Spain2.7 km away