The Best Aquariums in Europe

Europe boasts a rich array of aquariums that offer unique experiences and educational opportunities for all ages. Whether you’re exploring the futuristic design of The Deep or walking through the underwater tunnel of the Blue Planet Aquarium, these destinations provide a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. Here are our favourites.

L’Oceanogràfic is the largest aquarium in Europe, located in the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. It houses over 45,000 marine creatures from diverse ecosystems, including the Arctic, Red Sea, and Mediterranean. Visitors can explore the underwater tunnel, marvel at the dolphinarium, and enjoy spectacular displays of beluga whales and sea lions.

Oceanário de Lisboa is renowned for its massive central tank, simulating the open ocean and featuring sharks, rays, and barracudas. Surrounding exhibits represent the Antarctic, Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic oceans, showcasing a variety of marine life. The aquarium’s focus on conservation and sustainability makes it a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers.

The Deep is one of the most spectacular aquariums in the UK, known for its futuristic design and impressive collection of marine life. Highlights include the glass tunnel walk, where visitors can get up close with sharks and rays, and the interactive exhibits that educate on oceanography and marine conservation.

Nausicaá is Europe’s largest public aquarium and a center dedicated to the relationship between mankind and the sea. It boasts an impressive 18-meter high aquarium, a touch pool, and a variety of themed exhibits that take visitors on a journey through the world’s oceans. The new extension features a 10,000 cubic meter tank, one of the largest in the world.

The Acquario di Genova is Italy’s largest aquarium, located in the historic port of Genoa. It offers an extensive collection of marine species, including manatees, penguins, and seals. The aquarium is divided into zones that replicate different marine habitats, providing a rich educational experience for visitors of all ages.

SEA LIFE Berlin offers a unique experience with its AquaDom, a giant cylindrical aquarium housing 1 million liters of water and over 1,500 fish. Visitors can take a glass elevator ride through the center of the AquaDom, providing a 360-degree view of the marine life. The aquarium also features themed exhibits such as the Atlantic Ocean, coral reefs, and a touch pool.

Located in Cheshire, the Blue Planet Aquarium boasts the UK’s largest collection of sharks. The highlight is the 70-meter underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk through a vast tank filled with sharks, rays, and other marine creatures. The aquarium also offers educational talks, feeding demonstrations, and a variety of themed zones.

Haus des Meeres is housed in a former WWII anti-aircraft tower, providing a unique setting for an aquarium. It features over 10,000 animals, including tropical fish, reptiles, and birds. The aquarium’s highlights include the shark tank, the tropical house with free-flying birds, and the panoramic views of Vienna from the top of the tower.

Den Blå Planet, also known as The Blue Planet, is Northern Europe’s largest aquarium. Its stunning architecture and diverse marine life make it a top attraction. The aquarium features exhibits on the Amazon River, African lakes, and the cold waters of the North Atlantic. The Ocean Tank, home to hammerhead sharks and rays, is a visitor favorite.

This historic aquarium, established in 1898, offers a charming blend of traditional and modern exhibits. It houses a variety of marine species, including seahorses, octopuses, and a large collection of tropical fish. The Aquário Vasco da Gama focuses on the marine biodiversity of the Portuguese coast and the conservation of aquatic environments.