With more than 8,000 fish, mammals, invertebrates and birds, the Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe and one of Lisbon’s most popular family attractions. Visit the aquarium to learn about the conservation methods used in aquariums throughout the world.
Admire the dramatic architecture of the Lisbon Oceanarium before you enter. The aquarium was built over the ocean and has been constructed to resemble a large ship made from glass and cement. Visit the oceanfront precinct at night to see the “ship” illuminated by floodlights that reflect in the water.
The design is just as impressive from within its doors, with the sleek modern architecture taking you beneath the surface of the ocean. Exhibits are separated by transparent walls and allow you to see the various ocean habitats side by side.
Descend beneath the surface of the Atlantic Ocean to meet wolf eels, purple-striped jellyfish and huge octopi in the Temperate Pacific area of the aquarium. The Antarctic display features sea dragons and other deep-sea creatures, while the colourful species of the Tropical Indian Ocean exhibit include glowing fish and bright species of coral. See sharks and rays move gracefully through the seagrass in the North Atlantic tank.
Go back upstairs to see the creatures that live around the surface of the ocean. Along with birds and mammals you’ll find a range of fish that occupy the warmer waters at the top of the ocean. The Global Ocean exhibit is vast and covers a selection of creatures from all the oceans of the world. The impressive tank is about 7 metres (22.9 feet) deep and is home to approximately 100 different species.
The Lisbon Oceanarium can be found along Esplanada Dom Carlos in Lisbon’s picturesque oceanfront precinct. The aquarium is open daily and an admission fee applies.
