Picolo recommends · Hotel in Valencia, Spain
Barceló Valencia
Wake up to the white curves of the City of Arts and Sciences outside your window, with the aquarium and science museum a stroll away.
The City of Arts and Sciences is the cluster of white, futuristic buildings at the southern end of the Turia Gardens, largely designed by the architect Santiago Calatrava. Barceló Valencia is a modern glass tower right beside it, and many rooms look straight across at the complex.
Rooms are bright, there is a pool for hot afternoons and a terrace on the roof for the evening. The Oceanogràfic aquarium and the science museum are both on foot, which makes days with children far simpler.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose Barceló Valencia
This is our family pick. With the aquarium and science museum within walking distance and a pool to come back to, you can fill several days without a car, and couples who love modern architecture get the view thrown in.
You are a long way from the old town here. Getting to the cathedral means a bus, a taxi or a bike ride through the park, so if Gothic streets and tapas bars are the main reason for your trip, stay in the centre instead.
What you get
- Pool
- Roof terrace
- Views over the City of Arts and Sciences
- Aquarium and science museum on foot
- Cycle into town through the Turia Gardens
A day at Barceló Valencia
- Morning
- Be at the Oceanogràfic when it opens, before the queues.
- Midday
- Lunch and a cool-off by the hotel pool.
- Afternoon
- Hands-on exhibits at the science museum next door.
- Evening
- A drink on the roof terrace as the white buildings light up.
Location
City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, Spain
Open in MapsQuestions about Barceló Valencia
Is Barceló Valencia close to the Oceanogràfic?
Yes. The aquarium and the rest of the City of Arts and Sciences are within walking distance of the hotel.
How do I get from Barceló Valencia to the old town?
The simplest options are a bus or a taxi. You can also rent a bike and ride along the Turia Gardens, which lead almost all the way to the historic centre.
Does Barceló Valencia have a pool?
Yes, there is a pool as well as a roof terrace, both welcome after a morning of sightseeing in the heat.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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