Museu de les Ciències Príncep Felipe
About
The Museu de les Ciències Príncep Felipe is a stunning, interactive science museum housed in a futuristic building that looks like a giant skeleton. With three floors of hands-on exhibits covering everything from DNA to space exploration, plus an IMAX theater and planetarium, it transforms learning into an adventure that keeps kids engaged for hours. The exhibits encourage touching, experimenting, and playing, making it perfect for curious minds who learn best by doing.
Highlights
- ✓The DNA Forest with its giant DNA helix structure where kids can explore genetics concepts
- ✓Interactive physics experiments including pendulums, pulleys, and optical illusions
- ✓The L'Espai dels Xiquets (Children's Space) for kids under 8 with age-appropriate hands-on activities
- ✓IMAX dome theater showing nature and science documentaries on a massive curved screen
- ✓Live science demonstrations and workshops conducted by museum staff throughout the day
Pro Tips
- 1.Book tickets online in advance to skip the queue, especially during school holidays and weekends. English audio guides are available for rent.
- 2.Start your visit on the top floor and work your way down, as this is less crowded and kids will have more energy for the more complex exhibits first.
- 3.The IMAX and planetarium shows have separate tickets and specific time slots. Book these when you arrive or online beforehand, and plan your exhibit exploration around show times.
- 4.Most exhibits have explanations in Spanish and Valencian, but many are intuitive enough that language is not a barrier. Download the museum app before visiting for English translations and interactive features.
- 5.Combine your visit with the nearby Oceanografic aquarium using a discounted combo ticket to make a full day at the City of Arts and Sciences complex.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Friday) when school groups are less common and crowds are lighter. Avoid Spanish school holidays and Sunday afternoons. The museum is open year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding City of Arts and Sciences complex before or after your visit.
What to Know
Entry costs around 8 euros for adults and 6 euros for children (budget friendly). The museum has a cafeteria on site, though prices are higher than outside options. Most signage is in Spanish, but exhibits are largely visual and interactive. The complex has paid parking nearby, or you can easily reach it by metro (Alameda station).
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. The museum hosts special exhibitions and workshops during school holidays (Christmas, Easter, summer). Summer can be crowded with tourists, but the air-conditioned interior offers welcome relief from Valencia's heat. Check the website for special night openings during summer months.
Nearby Eats
The Hemisferic building has a casual cafe with sandwiches and snacks. For a sit-down meal, head to the nearby Marina Beach Club area (10 minute walk) where you will find multiple family-friendly paella restaurants and pizzerias with outdoor seating. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding Turia Gardens park.
More Activities Near Valencia
Casa Museo Benlliure
Casa Museo Benlliure offers families an enchanting glimpse into an artist's world through a beautifully preserved 19th-century home filled with paintings, sculptures, and period furnishings. The peaceful gardens provide a welcome respite from Valencia's busy streets, making this intimate museum perfect for families seeking a quieter cultural experience that won't overwhelm young visitors.
Museo Fallero de Valencia
This quirky museum showcases the vibrant Las Fallas festival through giant colorful sculptures (ninots), elaborate costumes, and interactive displays that captivate children's imaginations. Kids are mesmerized by the towering satirical figures and whimsical characters, many preserved from past festivals, making it an entertaining introduction to one of Spain's most spectacular cultural celebrations.
Natural Science Museum of Valencia
The Natural Science Museum of Valencia offers an exciting hands-on learning experience where children can get up close with dinosaur fossils, explore fascinating mineral collections, and engage with interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity about the natural world. Located in the beautiful Viveros Gardens, this affordable museum provides hours of educational entertainment perfect for families exploring Valencia.
Museo Histórico Municipal de Valencia
Housed in Valencia's stunning City Hall building in the historic Plaza del Ayuntamiento, this city history museum brings Valencia's past to life through interactive exhibits and engaging displays designed to captivate young minds. Children can explore authentic historical artifacts, period costumes, and hands-on learning stations that make Spanish history accessible and fun for international visitors.