Oceanografic, Hemisferic and Science Museum Combo Valencia

The Oceanografic: Europe's largest aquarium

The Oceanografic is the largest aquarium in Europe and the natural highlight of the City of Arts and Sciences. Its pavilions and lakes recreate marine environments from the Mediterranean and the Red Sea to the Arctic and Antarctic, with more than 500 species in total, including belugas, sharks, sea lions, penguins, walruses and jellyfish.

If you are asking whether the Oceanografic is worth visiting, the answer is a firm yes. The long underwater tunnel lets you walk among sharks and rays, and the freshwater lake attracts pelicans and flamingos. A full visit takes around four hours, so it is best to start here in the morning. Your combo ticket includes entry, and it comes with skip-the-line access.

The Hemisferic and its dome cinema

The Hemisferic was the first building in the City of Arts and Sciences to open, in 1998. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, it resembles a giant eye, with an ovoid roof more than 100 metres long, and inside is a huge spherical dome that works as a 3D projection room and planetarium.

Your combo ticket includes one show at the time you choose, and the film depends on the schedule for your day, from documentaries to family programmes. A Hemisferic show usually lasts less than an hour, and children under four sit on laps. Select the day and time when you book, then check the current programme on the attraction website.

The Prince Felipe Science Museum

The Prince Felipe Science Museum is a science centre in a building designed by Calatrava to resemble the skeleton of a whale. Its motto, translated, is that it is forbidden not to touch, to feel and to think, and most of the exhibits are hands-on, covering electricity, space, genetics, technology and the human body.

The Electricity Theatre, in which a lively presenter makes your hair stand on end with static, is a favourite for children and adults alike. Plan on two to three hours, longer if your group loves interactive science. Opening hours change by season, and your combo ticket gives access to the museum.

Planning your day in the City of Arts and Sciences

The three venues are close together in the modern complex built on the former Turia riverbed, but there is no set meeting point, so you decide the order. A good plan is the Oceanografic in the morning, lunch on site or nearby, then the Hemisferic show and the Science Museum in the afternoon, depending on your chosen show time.

Getting to the City of Arts and Sciences is easy by bus, taxi or a walk along the Turia gardens. Comfortable shoes are a must, and the walk between venues is pleasant and flat. Food and drinks, transport and a guide are not included. Choose your Hemisferic time carefully, because it anchors the rest of your day.