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City of Arts and Sciences opening hours

Best time to visit the City of Arts and Science

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays are the ideal time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. Mornings (especially Tuesday to Thursday) tend to be the least crowded, making it easier to explore the exhibits at your own pace and get good seating for shows at L’Hemisfèric. Weekends attract both locals and tourists, leading to longer queues and busier galleries—especially at the Oceanogràfic and Science Museum. 

Mon

Tue

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Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

Spring and summer bring warm weather and an influx of tourists. Expect high foot traffic, especially in April (Semana Santa), July, and August. Valencia sees fewer tourists in the winter months, making it an excellent time for a peaceful visit. Crowds are thinner, and hotel rates drop significantly. Though outdoor activities may be limited due to cooler weather, indoor exhibits remain fully accessible and enjoyable.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

Timings of attractions within City of Arts and Sciences 

Oceanogràfic

It’s the largest aquarium in Europe with several ecosystems, dolphin shows, and underwater tunnels. The timings depend on the season as well as the days of the week.

Jan 2 to June 28 & Oct 1 to Dec 30

  • Sunday to Friday: 10am - 6pm
  • Saturday: 10am -  8pm

June 29 to Sep 30th

  • All days: 10am -  8pm

July 13 to  Aug 31

  • All days: 10am to 12am ("Noches del Oceanogràfic" event) 

Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours

Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe (Science Museum)

Ideal for families, with interactive exhibits, temporary science displays, and hands-on learning zones.

July 13 to  Sep 16

  • 10am -  9pm

Jan 2 to June 30 & Sep 17 to Dec 30

  • 10am -  7pm

Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

Hemisfèric

Includes a 3D IMAX show or digital planetarium session. Check the film schedule in advance.

  • Daily: 10am - 6pm or 8pm (depending on film schedule)
  • First show typically starts around 11am last one around 6pm or 8pm
  • Approx projection times: 11pm, 12pm, 1pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm 
  • Recommended visit duration: 1 hour

How long to spend at each attraction

Hemisfèric 3D cinema dome in Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences, showcasing futuristic architecture.

Full Experience

Recommended Time: 7–8 hours

  • Perfect for first-time visitors who want to fully explore the complex.
  • Begin your day early with the Oceanogràfic, the most time-intensive attraction. Then, follow it up with a relaxed lunch at one of the on-site restaurants like Submarino Restaurant or the Oceanos self-service.
  • Post lunch, explore the Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, packed with interactive science and technology exhibits.
  • Then, walk over to the Hemisfèric for a scheduled 3D IMAX or planetarium show (check film timings in advance).
L'Umbracle in Valencia featuring its iconic arched walkway and lush greenery.

Short Visit

Recommended Time: 3–4 hours

Ideal for travelers short on time or visiting Valencia on a day trip. You should pick any 2 major attractions to visit.Popular pairings:

  • Oceanogràfic + Hemisfèric: For a marine and cinematic combo
  • Oceanogràfic + Science Museum: For a kid-friendly educational visit
  • Science Museum + Hemisfèric: If you're skipping the aquarium but want a mix of learning and entertainment

You can also squeeze in a quick visit to L’Umbracle before leaving, as it’s free to enter and doesn’t require tickets.

Oceanogràfic & Science Museum Valencia exterior with futuristic architecture and water features.

Visiting with kids

Recommended Time: 6–7 hours, with breaks and downtime

  • The complex is stroller-friendly, with baby-changing stations, elevators, shaded areas, and child-friendly dining.
  • Start with the Oceanogràfic, which captivates young visitors with tunnels, penguins, jellyfish, and dolphin shows.
  • Take a break for lunch, then head to the Science Museum, where kids can touch, play, and interact with exhibits.
  • If time and energy permit, enjoy a family show at the Hemisfèric, many of which are geared toward younger audiences.
  • The Umbracle is a great wind-down area for an outdoor break or snack.

Frequently asked questions about City of Arts and Sciences opening hours

What time does the City of Arts and Sciences open?

The complex opens around 10am, but each attraction inside has its own schedule. It's best to check individual timings before your visit.

Is the City of Arts and Sciences open every day?

Yes, all attractions are open daily, including weekends and public holidays, except in rare cases of maintenance or special closures (usually announced in advance).

Are the opening hours the same year-round?

Timings change slightly depending on the season, daylight hours, and special events. Summer usually features extended hours across all attractions. It’s best to check the official website before your visit.

What time do the restaurants and cafés inside the complex open?

Most on-site dining spots open around 10am and close between 6pm, depending on the season and location.

Are there any days when the City of Arts and Sciences opens earlier or closes later?

Occasionally during summer or festivals, Oceanogràfic and Hemisfèric may extend hours, sometimes opening earlier or closing as late as 10pm or midnight for special events.

When is the best time to watch a show at Hemisfèric?

Shows typically start after 10am and run throughout the day, with the last show around 7pm. Check showtimes in advance to plan your visit.

Can I stay in the complex after the attractions close?

Some outdoor areas like L’Umbracle and the surrounding gardens may stay open later, especially in summer, but the main buildings close by 6pm or 8pm

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