L'Oceanogràfic travel guide

L'Oceanogràfic, a jewel in the crown of Valencia's architectural and cultural heritage, is the largest aquarium in Europe, housing over 45,000 species of marine life.

This stunning marine complex, designed by renowned architect Félix Candela, was opened in 2003 as part of the City of Arts and Sciences, a monumental cultural and scientific complex.

L'Oceanogràfic recreates the most important marine ecosystems, showcasing the richness of our oceans and promoting conservation.

Today, it's one of Valencia's top tourist attractions, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through a wide variety of marine environments. From the Mediterranean and the stunning Red Sea, to the icy waters of the Antarctic and Arctic, and the warm habitats of the tropics and the temperate seas, the park provides a unique educational and entertaining experience.

With a commitment to education, research, and the protection of marine biodiversity, L'Oceanogràfic is not just an attraction, but a beacon of hope for the future of our oceans.

L'Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium complex in Europe, housing over 45,000 species of marine life in seven different marine environments. Its architecture, inspired by the sea and designed by renowned architect Felix Candela, is a stunning sight in itself, resembling a water lily from above. The complex hosts the largest dolphinarium in Europe, with a total of 24 million litres of water and a seating capacity of 1,500 spectators. It also houses a unique underwater restaurant, Submarino, where diners can enjoy their meal surrounded by a full spectrum of marine life. But perhaps the most standout feature is the Oceanographic Tunnel, a 70-metre long tunnel that lets you walk under the sea, offering a 360-degree view of sharks, rays and other sea creatures swimming above and around you. The complex also showcases rare species like the Beluga whales and Walruses which are not usually found in other aquaria.

Discover L'Oceanogràfic, a prime feature of Valencia, in the vibrant Valencia. L'Oceanogràfic is situated at C/ d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, Quatre Carreres, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain, just a short distance from Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias and Queen Sofia Palace of Arts, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of L'Oceanogràfic, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Valencia, a city in Spain rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Valencia to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of L'Oceanogràfic. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Valencia travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

L'Oceanogràfic is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Valencia, Spain. If you're flying in, Valencia Airport is approximately 7.6 miles (12.2 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach L'Oceanogràfic by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Valencia, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach L'Oceanogràfic, which is located 1.9 miles (3.1 km) from the city center. Its exact address is C/ d'Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1B, Quatre Carreres, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at L'Oceanogràfic!

The best time to explore L'Oceanogràfic, one of Europe's largest aqua parks, is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically May and September. During these periods, Valencia's weather is pleasantly warm, typically ranging from 18°C to 27°C, and the crowd levels at L'Oceanogràfic are relatively low, letting you enjoy the marine exhibits without the rush. Visitors during these months can take full advantage of the interactive shows, tours, and unique activities like the 'Sleeping with Sharks' program without long queues. The park also occasionally hosts special events during these times, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. However, if you want to witness the park's festive ambiance, the Christmas season is a delightful time to visit, boasting beautiful decorations and special activities. Regardless of the season, it's advisable to arrive early in the day for the best experience and to ensure you have plenty of time to explore the park's extensive offerings.

To truly enjoy your visit to L'Oceanogràfic, joining a guided tour of this renowned aquarium in Valencia is highly recommended. As one of Spain's most iconic attractions, L'Oceanogràfic draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Valencia, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to L'Oceanogràfic starting at just 14.99 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Valencia, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring L'Oceanogràfic.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic aquarium in Spain.

Upon arriving at Valencia Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Valencia.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Valencia.

Choosing the right accommodation near L'Oceanogràfic from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Valencia can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from L'Oceanogràfic, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond L'Oceanogràfic, Valencia boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in Valencia offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Valencia is Mercat Central de València, located at Pl. Ciutat de Bruges, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 46001 València, Valencia, Spain. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Serranos Towers is worth seeing when you're in Valencia. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Plaça dels Furs, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 46003 València, Valencia, Spain.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Mercat de Colón completes any trip to Valencia. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Carrer de Jorge Juan, 19, L'Eixample, 46004 València, Valencia, Spain, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Valencia below to discover even more incredible places to explore.