Europe's largest aquarium, part of the City of Arts and Sciences complex. Underwater tunnels through shark-filled oceans, Mediterranean ecosystem zones, dolphin shows, and Arctic beluga whales. Designed by Félix Candela with shell-shaped roofs.
Location
Quatre Carreres, Valencia
Map
Insider Intel
Allow 3-4 hours minimum. The underwater tunnel is the centrepiece — you walk beneath sharks, rays, and massive schools of fish. The Mediterranean zone shows local species. The dolphin show is surprisingly well done if you can stomach the ethics. The Arctic section with belugas is haunting.
Weekday morning to beat school groups. Summer weekends are packed. Check dolphin show times in advance if that interests you. Combined ticket with the Science Museum saves money.
Opened in 2003, designed by Félix Candela and Calatrava. The aquarium holds 42 million litres of water and represents marine ecosystems from around the world. The architecture — shell-shaped concrete roofs — is as impressive as the exhibits. Ticket prices are high but the scale justifies it. This is a full morning or afternoon commitment.