The Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciencies in Valencia, Spain.



The science museum, called the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciencies (City of Arts and Sciences), houses five main parts. The first is an opera and music house with four main halls. Next is the Oceanografic, which is a complete oceanographic zoo, including many aquariums. This is the biggest aquatic exhibit in all of Europe and hosts a variety of different types of ocean life. Not only does the Oceanografic showcase life from the nearby Mediterranean Sea, it also shows penguins and belugas from the Polar Regions. There is also wildlife from the Red Sea area.

The Prince Philip Science Museum is great for children, and shows some of the laws of nature. The museum uses a hands-on approach to help children learn all about science. L'Hemisferic is the Spanish name for a gigantic IMAX 3D theater where visitors can really feel like part of the movies they watch. Finally, there is L'Umbracle, which is a beautiful botanical garden and walkway for guests.

Valencia, Spain's Beaches.

For those inclined to spend their Valencia vacation on the beach, there are three primary beaches; playa las Arenas, playa de Malvarossa, and playa de Patacona. Nearest to the city, beachgoers will find the playa las Arenas. This is the area of the beach with bars and pubs, and has a promenade for those wishing to walk along the beach without getting too much sand in their shoes. This area is also the area where visitors can find hotel accommodations. Heading north, visitors will reach the playa de Malvarossa. This is a sandy beach, suitable for family swimming, building sand castles, and playing beach volleyball. The fine sand makes it a really great place for walking barefoot. The playa de Malvarossa is the most popular beach in Valencia, and it quite full during prime season.

Those looking for a quieter, more private beach, can opt for the playa de Patacona. The playa de Patacona is farthest north, and is quite far from the city center. As a result, it is slightly less popular. Tourists who are looking for a more peaceful beach without quite so many children running underfoot will find the longer travel distance worthwhile. Don't expect a private beach, though. There are still plenty of sunbathers and swimmers at the playa de Patacona.