L'Oceanogràfic
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Architecture
When L'Oceanogràfic first opened in 2003, it became the largest oceanarium in Europe. In addition to showcasing a wide variety of marine habitats, it contains one of the largest dolphinariums in the world with a depth of 10.5 meters, as well as several other buildings such as a large sphere that contains two wetland habitats and an igloo-like dome that represents the Arctic. However, the most famous architectural aspect of L'Oceanogràfic is its central parabola-shaped structure that was designed by famous architect Félix Candela
, which represents a water
lily.
Attractions
L'Oceanogràfic is divided into several different areas which represent various marine habitats throughout the world and contain numerous species from these areas.Antarctic
This area of L'Oceanogràfic is especially popular because it is home to its large colony of penguins, which you can watch swim and waddle along their rocky terrain.Arctic
The Arctic habitat resides in large igloo-shaped dome and features majestic creatures such as walruses and beluga whales.Red Sea Auditorium
In this unique auditorium, visitors can watch as a presenter on stage and a diver inside an aquarium interact with various species that live in the Red Sea, including the colorful Sohal Surgeonfish.Mediterranean
There are over 7,000 fascinating specimens from the nearby Mediterranean Sea in this ring of aquariums, including corals, anemones, crabs, octopus, lobsters, cuttlefish, and dozens of colorful species of fish.Oceans
The Oceans tank is where you’ll find a variety of shark species, which live in one of the largest tanks in the world, which has a volume of 7 million liters.Dolphinarium
Temperate and Tropical
One of L'Oceanogràfic’s most popular buildings houses both temperate and tropical habitats, which are connected via a 70 m long underwater tunnel that allows visitors to be surrounded by sea creatures. It is also home to seals, leafy sea dragons, and the terrifying Japanese spider crab.Islands
If you love sea lions, you won’t want to miss this popular outdoor habitat.Wetlands
Another interesting outdoor exhibit is the Wetlands habitat, which features a marshland and a mangrove swamp that are home to a variety of birds as well as turtles.Animalia Passport
If you’re interested in having a one-of-a-kind experience at the aquarium, you can pay extra to enjoy the perks of the Animalia Passport, which allows you to spend about two hours with keepers who will introduce you to animals like seals, walruses, dolphins, and sea lions while teaching you fascinating facts about their behaviors and characteristics. These special tours take place on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 11:30, cost approximately €17 ($20) per person, and should be reserved well in advance since space is limited.Practical Information
The simplest and cheapest ways to reach L'Oceanogràfic are walking or cycling. If you don’t have a bicycle, you can rent one using Valenbisi, the city’s extensive bike sharing network. This method of transportation is highly recommended since it will allow you to explore the beautiful trails along the former bed of the Turia river and its many attractions.By Metro
You can take Metrovalencia lines 3 and 5 to the Alameda station, which is approximately 15 minutes away from the City of Arts and Sciences on foot.By Bus
Another cheap way to reach L'Oceanogràfic is by using the EMT bus system. The 1, 13, 14, 15, 19, 35, 40, and 95 bus services all stop near the aquarium.Parking
L'Oceanogràfic has its own designated parking area which costs between €2 ($2.30) and €3 ($3.45) per hour.Address
Calle Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 1, 46013 Valencia, SpainOpening Hours
L'Oceanogràfic is open daily from 10:00 until between 18:00 and 24:00 depending on the season and day of the week.Prices
Admission costs approximately €30 ($35) for adults and €21 ($24) for students and seniors.Similar Landmarks
There are several other notable cultural institutions within the City of Arts and Sciences complex, including El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, L’Umbracle, Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe, and L'HemisfèricDo you see any omissions, errors or want to add information to this page? Sign up.
Author: ehuttner. Last updated: Jun 30, 2015
Pictures of L'Oceanogràfic
