City of Arts and Sciences: A Journey that Changed My Life

If there is something you should do at least once in your life, is to visit the City of Arts and Sciences. But not just any quick visit, no sir. Take your time, walk around, enjoy and be amazed by this unique place in the world. I, Pablo Garcia, tell you from experience. I've been there more times than I can count, and each visit has left me with my mouth open as if it were the first time.

Why all the fuss, Pablo? Well, my friend, read on because I'm going to tell you why this place is so special.

Santiago Calatrava's Visionary Project

To understand the magnitude of this place, you have to go back in time a bit. We are in the 1990s, when Valencia set out to create an architectural symbol that would merge science, nature and art. And that's where Santiago Calatrava, a genius of modern architecture, came into the picture and took charge of this titanic project.

This complex is not just an amusement park for science lovers. It's a place where futuristic design blends with function, where every building seems to have a life of its own. And if you're one of those who enjoy architecture.... get ready for a visual feast! From the Hemisfèric, with its human eye shape, to the imposing Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía, every corner is a tribute to human ingenuity.

L Hemisfèric: An All-Seeing Eye

Imagine entering a building in the shape of a giant human eye. Sounds weird, doesn't it? Well, welcome to L Hemisfèric, one of the most recognizable emblems of the City of Arts and Sciences. This building is not only beautiful on the outside, inside awaits the latest technology in IMAX cinema and planetarium. Can you imagine watching a movie projected on a giant concave screen while you feel like you are part of the scene? A total immersive experience, almost otherworldly.

In addition, at night, the reflection of the Hemisfèric on the water creates a perfect symmetry, giving you a dreamlike postcard.

Principe Felipe Science Museum: Because Science is also touched

This is where science lovers feel at home. And I'm not just talking about adults, the kids freak out! The Principe Felipe Science Museum is an interactive space, where you are encouraged to touch, experiment and learn in a fun way. No dusty showcases here, no sir! Everything here is designed to make science exciting and accessible to all.

What did I like the most? The interactive exhibits, where you can perform experiments yourself, as if you were a mad scientist. In fact, I left there wanting to set up a lab in my house. So yes, if you like understanding how the world works, this is your place.

Oceanogràfic: Europe's Largest Aquarium

Now, if you're one of those who prefer nature over hard science, the Oceanogràfic will blow your mind. This is the largest aquarium in Europe, with more than 42 million liters of water and marine species from all over the world. Yes, you read that right. Here you can see everything from sharks to beluga whales, and if you dare, walk through the longest underwater tunnel in Europe. It's as if you were diving to the bottom of the sea, but without getting wet.

Also, this aquarium is not just for exhibiting animals. It's a center dedicated to marine research and to raising awareness about the importance of caring for our oceans.

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: La Casa de la Ópera

After soaking up science and nature, it's time for art. And not just any art, opera. The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía is the center of the performing arts, where some of the best operas and concerts in the world are performed. The building itself is already a masterpiece, also designed by Calatrava, with a structure that looks like a Roman warrior's helmet.

Not an opera fan? No matter. The building and its surroundings are going to win you over just the same. Even if you just take a stroll around, it's worth it.

The Agora and the L Assut de L Or Bridge: Futurism in its purest form

We can't forget the Agora, an indoor multipurpose space that looks like it's straight out of a sci-fi movie. Events of all kinds are held here, from congresses to concerts. And right next to it, the L Assut de L Or Bridge, the highest point in Valencia, which at 125 meters high stands as an imposing monument to modernity.

How to Get There and What to See

The complex is located on Avenida del Profesor López Piñero, in Valencia, and getting there couldn't be easier. You can do it by car, bus or even metro. And if you like smart tourism, the best thing to do is to get a Valencia Tourist Card, which gives you discounts on tickets and allows you to move around the city for free.

I recommend buying combined tickets, so you can visit the Hemisfèric, the Science Museum and the Oceanogràfic in a single day. Although if you have time, it is best to dedicate more than one day and enjoy it all at your leisure.

I recommend the Combined tickets.