Oceanogràfic València
Founded 2003 · Spain
Oceanogràfic València (Valencia)
Founded 2003 · Spain
Oceanogràfic València is Europe's largest aquarium complex — a breathtaking architectural landmark in the City of Arts and Sciences where 45,000 animals representing 500 species journey through nine underwater worlds from the Mediterranean to the Arctic. Opened in 2003, the oceanarium has become one of Spain's most visited attractions and a global leader in marine conservation.
Designed by Félix Candela with spectacular hyperbolic paraboloid structures, the complex houses sharks, belugas, sea lions and one of Europe's finest dolphinariums. Beyond the wonder of its habitats, Oceanogràfic dedicates resources to research, rescue and education — protecting the oceans that sustain all life on Earth.
Highlights
- Europe's largest aquarium complex
- 45,000 animals representing 500 species
- Sharks, belugas, sea lions and spectacular dolphinarium
- Nine underwater habitats from Mediterranean to Arctic
- Located in Valencia's City of Arts and Sciences
- Architectural landmark by Félix Candela
- 1.5 million annual visitors
- EAZA, EAAM and UICN partner
- Underwater tunnel and 360-degree oceanarium
- Open daily year-round
Animals you'll meet
- Belugas
- Sharks
- Dolphins
- Sea lions
- Penguins
- Sea turtles
- Rays
- Jellyfish
- Flamingos
- Otters
- Tropical fish
- Walruses
About the zoo
Signature Habitats
Each building recreates a distinct ocean environment with species adapted to its unique conditions.
- Oceans — the vast 7-million-litre oceanarium with sharks and rays
- Arctic — belugas in one of the world's finest cetacean habitats
- Antarctic — penguins on ice and frigid waters
- Mediterranean — native species of the Spanish coast
- Temperate and Tropical Seas — colourful reef communities
- Dolphinarium — spectacular presentations and research
Must-See Experience
Walk through the vast underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays and thousands of fish — an immersive journey through the open ocean. Dolphinarium presentations and seasonal night visits add extra magic to this unique marine world.
Conservation Impact
Oceanogràfic participates in breeding programmes for endangered marine species, sea turtle rehabilitation and Mediterranean conservation projects. Partnerships with universities advance our understanding of ocean health and climate impact.
Plan Your Visit
Allow at least half a day to explore all habitats. Combined tickets with the City of Arts and Sciences offer a full cultural day in Valencia. Book online for the best prices and arrive early for the dolphinarium presentations.
History
- 2003
Oceanogràfic València opens in the City of Arts and Sciences on 14 February
- 2005
Dolphinarium establishes itself among Europe's leading marine presentations
- 2010
Beluga habitat among the most respected cetacean facilities in Europe
- 2018
Sea turtle rehabilitation programme expands
- 2024
1.5 million annual visitors and continuous habitat upgrades
Conservation
Oceanogràfic is dedicated to marine conservation, research and education, protecting Mediterranean and global ocean biodiversity.
- Marine species breeding and rescue
- Mediterranean Sea conservation
- Sea turtle rehabilitation
- Environmental education programmes
- Research partnerships with universities
- EAZA and EAAM accredited programmes
Awards
- Europe's largest aquarium complex
- EAZA member
- EAAM member
- UICN partner