Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon, lies an aquatic wonderland that has been captivating visitors for over two decades. The Lisbon Oceanarium, or Oceanário de Lisboa, is a must-visit destination for anyone with a fascination for marine life or a desire to delve into the mysteries of the deep blue sea. As the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, it offers an immersive journey through the world’s oceans, showcasing a diverse array of marine species in environments that mimic their natural habitats.
Historical Description
The Lisbon Oceanarium was inaugurated on 22nd March 1998 during the last World Fair of the 20th century, Expo ’98. The theme of the fair was “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future,” and the Oceanarium was designed to embody this message. The brainchild of American architect Peter Chermayeff, it was inspired by the concept of a “global ocean” and aimed to highlight the interconnectedness of all marine life.
The Oceanarium quickly became one of Portugal’s most popular tourist attractions and has since welcomed millions of visitors from around the world. It has also played a significant role in marine conservation and education, hosting numerous research projects and educational programs over the years.
Highlights and What to See
The Lisbon Oceanarium is home to over 8,000 creatures from 500 different species, including sharks, rays, penguins, sea otters, and a myriad of fish and bird species. The main tank, representing the Global Ocean, is a sight to behold. Holding 5 million liters of seawater, it houses an impressive variety of species cohabitating in harmony.
One of the most popular residents is a large sunfish, a rare and fascinating creature that never fails to amaze visitors. The Oceanarium’s four surrounding tanks represent the North Atlantic, the Antarctic, the Temperate Pacific, and the Tropical Indian Oceans, each with its unique inhabitants and ecosystems.
The Oceanarium also features a temporary exhibition area. The current exhibit, “Forests Underwater by Takashi Amano,” showcases a stunning tropical freshwater forest complete with exotic fish and plants.
For those interested in marine conservation, the Oceanarium offers educational programs and interactive exhibits. The “Sea Turtle Adventure” is a favorite among children, allowing them to follow the journey of a sea turtle from its birth on a beach to its adventures in the open ocean.
Opening Times and Pricing
The Lisbon Oceanarium is open 365 days a year. From the 1st of January to the 30th of May and from the 16th of September to the 31st of December, it opens at 10 am and closes at 7 pm, with the last entry at 6 pm. From the 31st of May to the 15th of September, it opens at 10 am and closes at 8 pm, with the last entry at 7 pm.
As for pricing, an adult ticket costs €19, while children aged 4-12 and seniors over 65 can enter for €13. Children under three years old can visit for free. Family tickets are also available at €50 for two adults and two children. Discounts are available for online purchases and for Lisbon residents.
Conclusion
The Lisbon Oceanarium is more than just an aquarium; it’s an experience that educates and inspires. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the world’s oceans without leaving the city, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable day out with the family, the Lisbon Oceanarium promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the underwater world.
Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
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