The Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy is a scientific complex with a range of nature’s greatest treasures on display. It stands out with the intriguing modern design of the building, which houses 57 aquariums of fish from around the world. Take a tour through the various deep, dark worlds and peruse the exhibits to see traces of prehistoric beasts.
Marvel at the aquatic world created in every tank, making the fish environments seem like their natural habitats. Let kids gaze in wonder at these colourful worlds full of coral and bizarre marine creatures. Find your favourite fish from the vast collection, which features seahorses, clown fish and rays. Look at the weird mollusks and crustaceans as well.
The tanks are built seamlessly into the futuristic design of the aquarium, at one point giving the appearance of a submarine. See exhibits covering the tropical waters of Asia, Africa and Madagascar. Inspect the tanks with fish from the freshwater regions of Asia. Make your way to the seawater section, which shows creatures from the Red Sea and the Caribbean Sea.
For a change of scenery, head upstairs to see the collection of more than 500 stuffed animals. The most intriguing examples of taxidermy are the extinct animals. See the fossils in the palaeontology section and the bones in the osteological part of the museum.
On a sunny day, take a leisurely stroll around the pretty garden next to the museum. Admire the brilliant colours of the floral displays.
The complex opens every day other than Monday from morning until early evening with a daily closure at lunchtime. Pay a small fee, with reduced prices for minors, students and families.
The Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy is between Place Stanislas and the Water Garden in the centre of the city. Take the tramway to Division de Fer and walk north for 2 minutes to reach the museum. You can also rent a bicycle or take a bus to one of the nearby stops.
