What to Do in the City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and fascinating landmarks of the city. This impressive architectural complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava, merges science, art, and nature into a unique space that captivates visitors of all ages. If you’re wondering what to do in the City of Arts and Sciences, the answer is clear: there are endless activities!

At the City of Arts and Sciences, you can spend a whole day due to its size and the variety of things to do. Therefore, it’s most convenient to go without backpacks and with minimal belongings. Book one of our lockers in Valencia to enjoy your visit to the fullest!

What to Do in the City of Arts and Sciences

The City of Arts and Sciences is an architectural, cultural, and entertainment complex that has become a reference point for both locals and tourists since its inauguration in 1998.

Each building offers different content and programming, so it’s important to explain and differentiate each one.

Oceanogràfic

This is the largest aquarium in the European Union, boasting an area of over 110,000 m² and 42 million liters of water. Its main goal is to educate the public about different marine habitats: wetlands, seas, oceans, islands, etc.

It houses over 20,000 specimens from 650 different species. The most popular attractions include dolphins, belugas, and spider crabs.

There is an underwater restaurant with ocean views worth visiting for its modern and fusion cuisine.

Visiting the Oceanogràfic is a perfect activity for families, especially if they have never been to an aquarium.

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia

This is one of the city’s most important performing arts centers, focusing mainly on opera, music, and theatre. It features various halls with different capacities, an auditorium, and a theatre.

The building’s architecture is striking, with dynamic, curved forms, and is covered with trencadís, a type of mosaic typical of Valencian architecture.

We recommend checking out its cultural program, which includes symphonic concerts, recitals, and educational activities about performing and musical arts.

Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe

This science museum has become one of the most important in Spain. Its exhibits and programs are designed to promote the evolution of life, science, and technology in an educational, interactive, and enjoyable way.

Highlighted themes include the human body, astronomy and space, energy and the environment, and physics. The museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions with a dynamic and participatory focus. There are also numerous hands-on activities for all ages, such as simulators and scientific workshops.

The museum is a benchmark for the educational sector, both locally and internationally, attracting educational institutions from Spain and Europe.

Hemisfèric

This was the first building to open in the City of Arts and Sciences. It regularly offers audiovisual experiences through projections in a large IMAX dome, as well as a planetarium and 3D cinema.

The architecture is noted for its futuristic design, resembling a human eye, with the dome representing the iris. It’s surrounded by a pond, which is a major attraction for those walking through the area.

The projections are educational, covering topics like nature, technology, and culture. In the digital planetarium, visitors can explore simulations of the cosmos and learn about the stars.

Ágora

For us at LOCK & enjoy!, this building stands out due to its curious structure; it’s made of metal and is also covered with lilac trencadís and glass. It’s about 80 meters tall and covers an area of approximately 5,000 square meters.

It’s a multipurpose space that hosts a variety of events such as conferences, conventions, concerts, exhibitions, and performances. Notably, it hosts the Valencia Open 500 tennis tournament and Valencia Fashion Week.

The main activity of the Ágora is the CaixaForum Valencia, a cultural and social center. Its program includes a wide range of exhibitions, educational activities, cultural events, and workshops for all audiences. Its content includes classical artworks, film and music series, and the organization of conferences and debates.

Alternative Plans

The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most prominent attractions in Valencia. However, you can visit this complex in a different way.

For instance, we recommend walking around its exterior to enjoy the scenery. Additionally, it’s a favorite spot for tourists seeking memorable photos.

Nearby, there are numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy Valencian cuisine. Also, there are terraces near the water ponds where you can relax and have a snack with friends and family.

Now that you know what to do in the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, come and discover Valencia and count on us, LOCK & enjoy!, to book lockers in Valencia.