Prince Philip Science Museum, Valencia

Museum in Valencia

Prince Philip Science Museum
Prince Philip Science Museum
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mister No

The Prince Philip Science Museum (Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe) is Valencia's flagship hands-on science museum, set inside the City of Arts and Sciences, one of the city's most futuristic architectural complexes. Even if you only stop for photos, the building's sweeping, skeletal design is a highlight in itself.

It sits in the modern Turia riverbed park area, a pleasant walk or bike ride from central Valencia, and it pairs easily with nearby icons like L'Hemisfèric and the Oceanogràfic. Many visitors see it as part of a self-guided walking tour through the City of Arts and Sciences, with the best views from the surrounding pools and bridges at golden hour.

History and Significance of the Prince Philip Science Museum

Opened as part of Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences, the Prince Philip Science Museum was conceived as a modern, interactive space where science is learned by doing rather than by reading long labels. Its mission has always leaned toward public engagement: experiments, demonstrations, and family-friendly discovery.

The museum’s significance is tied closely to the broader transformation of Valencia’s former riverbed into a cultural and leisure corridor. In that context, the museum isn’t just an attraction; it’s a symbol of the city’s late-20th/early-21st-century push toward design-forward public spaces and big, ambitious cultural projects.

Today, it remains one of the most recognizable stops in Valencia for travelers who want a break from churches, markets, and historic streets, especially if you're traveling with kids or simply enjoy interactive exhibits.

Things to See and Do in the Prince Philip Science Museum

The core experience is interactive galleries that invite you to touch, test, and play with scientific ideas. Expect rotating themes that can include the human body, space exploration, and hands-on physics-style challenges that are easy to enjoy even if you don’t speak Spanish fluently.

Architecture lovers should also treat the building as an exhibit. Take time to look up and around: the long interior spans, repeating structural ribs, and bright natural light create a dramatic, almost cinematic atmosphere that makes the museum feel bigger than it is.

If you're building a full day, consider pairing the museum with L'Hemisfèric (for an IMAX/planetarium-style show) or simply using the museum as your indoor anchor between outdoor photo stops around the complex.

How to Get to the Prince Philip Science Museum

Valencia Airport (VLC) is the closest airport for most travelers, with frequent connections to major European hubs. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Valencia on Booking.com.

Valencia is also well-connected by rail, including long-distance services into the city's main stations, making it easy to arrive without a car and continue by taxi, bus, or metro connections. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you're driving, the City of Arts and Sciences area is straightforward to reach via major city roads, and paid parking is available on-site or nearby (handy if you're combining multiple venues in one day). If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Prince Philip Science Museum

  • Official website: https://cac.es/en/museu-de-les-ciencies/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €8; Children & seniors: €6.20.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00–18:00. Friday – Sunday: 10:00–19:00.
  • Best time to visit: Weekday mornings are usually calmer; aim to arrive near opening to enjoy the most interactive stations before school groups and families peak.
  • How long to spend: Plan 2–3 hours for a satisfying visit, longer if you like to try every hands-on activity or if you’re visiting with curious kids.
  • Accessibility: The museum is generally step-free and elevator-friendly, with wide interior spaces that work well for strollers and wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Expect restrooms, a gift shop, and convenient options across the City of Arts and Sciences for snacks or a sit-down break between venues.

Where to Stay Close to the Prince Philip Science Museum

Best area to base yourself: Stay in or near Valencia’s city center (Ciutat Vella or Eixample) for the easiest mix of sightseeing, dining, and transport, then commute to the museum when you’re ready.

Barceló Valencia A strong pick for proximity: you're close to the City of Arts and Sciences, and it's convenient for early starts and sunset photo walks around the complex.

INNSiDE by Meliá Valencia Oceanic Great for travelers who want modern comfort near the museum zone, with an easy hop to the attractions and plenty of nearby dining.

Hotel Primus Valencia A practical, good-value option near the City of Arts and Sciences, often chosen for its straightforward rooms and easy logistics.

Caro Hotel A boutique splurge in the historic center, ideal if you want your evenings surrounded by Valencia’s old streets after a daytime museum visit.

Only YOU Hotel Valencia A stylish central base with a strong food-and-drink scene nearby, making it perfect if you want the museum as one stop in a broader Valencia itinerary.

Is the Prince Philip Science Museum Worth Visiting?

Yes, if you enjoy interactive museums or you're traveling with kids, the Prince Philip Science Museum is a worthwhile Valencia stop, especially because it's wrapped into the larger City of Arts and Sciences experience. The building alone adds value, and the best exhibits can be genuinely fun and memorable.

Honest Pivot: If you prefer traditional, object-focused museums or you’re short on time, you might skip the interior and simply enjoy the exterior architecture and surrounding walkways. Some visitors report occasional worn or non-functioning interactives and a less-than-ideal guidance system, which can be frustrating if you expected a tightly curated, audio-guide-led visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (55,564)

Overall reviews are very positive, with many travelers praising the spectacular futuristic setting and the fun, interactive nature of the exhibits (especially space and human-body themes). Visitors also like that it can feel affordable, particularly when bundled with other City of Arts and Sciences venues, and several mention memorable design details throughout the building. Common downsides include some hands-on stations feeling worn or not working, occasional confusion around guidance tools like audio guides or wayfinding, and a few visitors raising concerns about animal welfare in specific displays.

Dan R. Deneyer
a month ago
"The Science Museum is spectacularly located and impressive inside. Interactive exhibits on the human body, Mars, and the Moon are fun - although forthe human body exhibits some are a bit worn, some just don’t work, others are mostly for kids, but the highlights shine. Bonus points for “futuristic” toilets and handy lockers; €9.90 entry (Jan 2026) is well spent. I visited on a bright January day, so no crowds, but beware that the previous - rainy - day there was a swarm of kiddies...."
Natalia Tomanek
3 months ago
"I've never had such mixed feelings about a museum. The exterior was super futuristic, but inside we encountered problems with the audio guide; itwouldn't work, it wouldn't show us where to go or what to see. There were no maps, no guided tours, and we were lost. The Leonardo exhibition was the most beautiful—the models, the descriptions (the audio guide worked here), everything was beautiful and educational. After leaving, we were lost. We found several exhibitions about important scientists (seeing the Nobel Prize award and medal, beautifully decorated diplomas from the past, and learning about the scientists). And then there was an exhibition that was supposed to teach about the human body, but half of it wasn't working, half was outdated, or it was unclear what it was about. One element of the exhibition was mice in poor conditions. Most of the items were simply visually pleasing, but the lack of descriptions in English limited the overall experience. I think I would have preferred to spend time at other museums as a tourist, as they are cheaper and they introduce Valencia as a city and region...."
Leo
6 months ago
"Museum of Art – Where Architecture Meets Creativity The Museum of Art is one of the first places I’ve ever seen that feels truly designed forcreativity. The building itself is modern, bold, and inspiring, with an architecture that’s not just beautiful but also feels alive — like a space meant to spark imagination. Inside, the layout is just as impressive. The way the space is organized makes it easy to explore, and at the same time, it brings you closer to the history of the people who created and shaped this place. It feels less like a museum and more like a living tribute to art, history, and human creativity. ✨ Final thought: If you’re in the area, this museum is a must-visit. It’s not just about art — it’s about the energy, the design, and the inspiration you take with you when you leave...."

For Different Travelers

The museum works best when you treat it as part of a bigger day in this area of Valencia. Think of it as an energetic, hands-on contrast to the city's historic core, and plan your timing around crowds and your group's attention span.

Families with Kids

This is one of Valencia’s easiest wins for families: it’s interactive by design, and kids can move, touch, and experiment rather than being asked to stay quiet. It’s also a reliable option for hot afternoons when you want an indoor plan.

To keep things smooth, pick a few exhibit zones as your “must-dos” and let kids linger where they’re most engaged. Pairing the museum with outdoor photo stops and a snack break helps prevent burnout.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples who like architecture and design will get a lot from the setting, especially if you time your visit for late afternoon and stay for sunset views around the pools. The museum itself can be a playful, low-pressure date if you enjoy trying interactive challenges together.

If you’re more into art, food, and old-town atmosphere, treat the museum as a short stop rather than the centerpiece. The real romance here is the walkable, futuristic scenery outside.

Budget Travelers

Budget-wise, this museum can be good value if you're genuinely interested and plan to spend a couple of hours inside. It's also easy to combine with free activities nearby, like strolling the Turia Gardens and photographing the City of Arts and Sciences exteriors.

If you’re watching every euro, consider prioritizing the outdoor architecture and choosing just one paid venue in the complex. You’ll still get a “wow” experience without stacking multiple ticket costs.

History Buffs

This isn’t a history museum, but it does tell a modern story about Valencia’s reinvention and its investment in landmark cultural architecture. If you like understanding how cities evolve, the broader complex provides plenty of context.

For deeper historical content, balance this visit with Valencia’s historic center: churches, civic buildings, and older neighborhoods will deliver the layered timelines that the science museum doesn’t focus on.

FAQs for Visiting Prince Philip Science Museum

Getting There

Yes, it’s walkable for many travelers, especially if you enjoy a longer stroll through the Turia Gardens. If you’re short on time, buses and taxis make it quick.
Public transport plus a short walk is usually the simplest, and taxis are widely available. Plan your route so you arrive near the main entrances of the City of Arts and Sciences.
Yes, many people do a “combo day” with L’Hemisfèric and/or the Oceanogràfic. Just be realistic about energy levels if you’re also doing the aquarium.

Tickets & Entry

It’s a good idea in peak seasons and weekends to reduce waiting and lock in your preferred time. Walk-up entry may still be possible, but lines can form.
Yes, combination options are common for the City of Arts and Sciences venues. They can be a better deal if you’re sure you’ll visit multiple sites.
Discount structures are typical for major attractions, often including reduced rates for children and seniors. Check the official ticket page for the current categories.

Visiting Experience

Yes, because many exhibits are hands-on and visual. That said, some explanatory panels may be Spanish-forward depending on the exhibition.
It’s very family-friendly, but adults can still enjoy the best interactive zones and the overall design. Your enjoyment depends on how much you like learning-by-doing.
It can happen in high-touch museums; focus on the areas that are clearly maintained and move on quickly if something is out of order. Pairing the visit with the surrounding complex helps the day still feel full.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

A common plan is museum first, then a show at L’Hemisfèric, with outdoor photo stops in between. If you’re adding the Oceanogràfic, start there early because it takes the longest.
No, most visitors do it self-guided. The experience is designed to be exploratory rather than lecture-based.
Yes, especially if you limit yourself to the museum plus exterior viewpoints. A full “complex day” is better if you’re adding multiple ticketed venues.

Photography

Absolutely, it’s one of Valencia’s most photogenic modern areas. The reflections in the pools and the bridges give you multiple angles.
Late afternoon into sunset is ideal for warmer tones and fewer harsh shadows. Night lighting can also be striking if you’re nearby after dark.
Yes, you can walk the surrounding paths and bridges for dramatic perspectives. You’ll still get the signature “futuristic Valencia” shots.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, with wide interior spaces and step-free access. It’s a comfortable museum for families with small children.
Major modern venues in this complex typically provide elevators and accessible facilities. If you have specific needs, confirm details on the official site before you go.
Some museums offer lockers or supervised storage, but availability can vary. Travel light if you can, especially during busy periods.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the City of Arts and Sciences area has multiple casual options, and nearby neighborhoods offer more variety. Planning a meal break helps if you’re doing multiple venues.
Policies vary by exhibition and venue rules, but carrying water is usually sensible in Valencia. If you’re unsure, check posted rules at entry.
If you’re visiting at midday, eating slightly earlier or later can help you avoid the busiest rush. After the museum, a walk toward the city center opens up more choices.

Safety & Timing

It’s generally a well-visited public area, especially around event times. Use normal city awareness, particularly late at night.
Arriving near opening helps you enjoy hands-on exhibits with fewer crowds. It also gives you flexibility if you decide to add another venue.
Trying to do the museum, L’Hemisfèric, and the Oceanogràfic without breaks. Build in buffer time for walking distances, queues, and rest.

Nearby Attractions to the Prince Philip Science Museum

  • L'Hemisfèric: A landmark “giant eye” building offering IMAX-style films and planetarium experiences.
  • Oceanogràfic: Valencia's major aquarium, often the longest and most time-intensive stop in the complex.
  • Umbracle: A landscaped promenade and garden walkway that's great for photos and a calmer stroll.
  • Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia): The city's beloved former riverbed park, perfect for walking or cycling to and from the complex.
  • Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: Valencia’s striking opera house, worth seeing for architecture even if you don’t attend a performance.

The Prince Philip Science Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Valencia!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Thursday: 10:00-18:00.

Friday - Sunday: 10:00-19:00.

Price:

Adults: €8; Children & seniors: €6.20.

Address: Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias, Av. del Professor López Piñero, 7, Quatre Carreres, 46013 València, Valencia, Spain
Valencia: 5 km
Telephone: +34 961 97 46 86
Official Website

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