Are you in Valencia and looking for an attraction that will take your breath away and even make you smart? Then you have to visit the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències! (If you get a knot in your tongue when you say that – welcome to the club!) In this article, I’ll tell you why this place is more than just a photo hotspot, which highlights you shouldn’t miss and why you really should have your camera with you.

If you ever end up in Valencia – which I highly recommend – the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is a must-see. This modern attraction combines science, culture and architectural highlights in a way you’ve probably never seen before.

What is the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències?

The Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències – or the “City of Arts and Sciences” – is a huge cultural and scientific center in the heart of Valencia. This complex combines everything your heart desires: futuristic architecture, exciting museums, an IMAX cinema and the largest aquarium in Europe. And the best part? Everything is surrounded by gleaming white buildings and reflective water surfaces that look like they’ve come straight out of a science fiction movie.

The famous architect Santiago Calatrava has created true masterpieces here. The first thing you will notice here is the extraordinary architecture. The buildings shimmer in the sun, and all around you you will find clear lines and fascinating constructions. Even the ground seems to be a work of art here – not a single corner is boring! The Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is truly the heart of Valencia and a must-see for anyone who wants to experience modern architecture and science.

 

Places of interest in the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències

Here is a small selection of highlights that you should not miss:

 

L’Hemisfèric – The Eye of Valencia

Let’s start with L’Hemisfèric, a dome that looks like a giant eye – no joke! This building is the centerpiece of the complex and houses an IMAX cinema and a planetarium. It’s already an eye-catcher from the outside, but inside it gets really exciting. Here you can watch 3D films in breathtaking quality or go on a journey to the stars. Whether you’re traveling with children or want to learn about the universe yourself, you’ll experience spectacular visual adventures at Hemisfèric

 

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Plan your visit here well, as the films and shows run at set times. It is therefore worth taking a look at the program beforehand.

 

L’Oceanogràfic – The Largest Aquarium in Europe

An absolute highlight – and especially for all animal lovers – is L’Oceanogràfic. It is the largest aquarium in Europe and brings the world’s oceans directly to Valencia. Here you can meet sharks, dolphins, turtles and even belugas. What I personally love is the variety of habitats you can discover here: from the Mediterranean to the tropical oceans and the polar regions. You go from one area to the next and completely forget that you are in a building – it feels more like a journey through the world’s oceans.

Particularly impressive is the long underwater tunnel that you can walk through while sharks and other sea creatures swim above you. Believe me, you’ll be amazed!.

 

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If you have enough time, you should definitely visit the dolphin show . It’s not only fun for the whole family, but also a great way to learn more about these intelligent animals.

 

El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe – Science you can touch

For all science fans (or those who want to be), the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe is a must. This interactive science museum is huge and packed with fascinating exhibits. Here you can not only look, but also touch and try things out. The exhibitions cover a wide range of topics: from biology and physics to the latest technologies.

Whether you want to find out how your body works or are interested in the secrets of the universe, there is something for everyone to discover here. You can also get involved in cool experiments and play scientist yourself. The museum is a paradise for children, but adults will also learn a lot of new things and have lots of fun here.

 

L’Umbracle – The Green Oasis

After all these impressions, you could do with a little break. L’Umbracle, a beautiful garden filled with Mediterranean plants that overlooks the City of Arts and Sciences, is the perfect place for this. Here you can stroll through the impressive structure, which hangs over you like a giant network of arches, while letting the sun shine on you. The plant life here is truly impressive and makes for a pleasant break between sightseeing.

 

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Especially nice: in the evening, L’Umbracle transforms into a chilled-out place where you can end the day with a drink and good music. A real oasis in the middle of the city!

 

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía – The World of Opera

IIf you are interested in art and music, you should also take a look at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía . It is an impressive opera house known for its modern architecture and exceptional acoustics. Not only operas are performed here, but also concerts and other cultural events.

Even if you are not a big opera fan, the building is worth a visit – it is one of Valencia’s landmarks and shows how culture and architecture merge in this city.

 

Is the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències worth a visit?

In short: yes! The Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is not just a sight to see, but a real experience – and a popular Instagram hotspot. Whether you love modern architecture or simply want to spend an unforgettable day with the family, there’s something for everyone here.

This ‚City of Arts and Sciences‘ offers a fascinating mix of science, art, nature and architecture that is guaranteed to amaze you. Whether you’re traveling alone or with the family – boredom doesn’t stand a chance here!So, when you plan your next city trip, make sure to put the City of Arts and Sciences at the top of your list. You won’t regret it!

 

Tips for your visit to the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències

 

◉ Allow enough time: You should plan at least half a day for the entire complex with all its attractions.

◉ Don’t forget your camera! The architecture literally screams for photos, so be sure to pack your camera or cell phone.

◉ Buy tickets online in advance: To avoid long queues, get your tickets online in advance. You’ll get in faster and maybe even save a few euros.

 

We hope these tips will help you to master your everyday life as an expat even better! Do you have your own experiences or additional tips? Then please leave us a comment! We look forward to hearing from you and accompanying you on your expat adventure. Feel free to share this post with others who could benefit from the tips and stay tuned for more insights and inspiration from life as an expat.

Your Steffi and Marius