Oceanário de Lisboa Lisbon
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing diverse ocean habitats and a breathtaking 'Forest Underwater' exhibit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Oceanário de Lisboa Lisbon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing diverse ocean habitats and a breathtaking 'Forest Underwater' exhibit.
"The Oceanário de Lisboa is a truly spectacular experience, a must-see for anyone visiting the city!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Oceanário de Lisboa tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Ocean
Main Tank
A colossal 5-million-liter tank simulating the vastness of the open ocean, home to sharks, rays, and sunfish.
Forest Underwater
Takashi Amano Exhibit
The world's largest nature aquarium, a breathtaking freshwater exhibit with lush plantscapes and diverse aquatic life.
Penguin Colony
North Atlantic Exhibit
Watch playful penguins dive and waddle in their dedicated habitat, a favorite among visitors of all ages.
Arctic and Antarctic
Polar Exhibits
Experience the icy realms with fascinating creatures adapted to extreme cold, including puffins and sea otters.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Oceanário de Lisboa tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits.
“Forests Underwater” at Oceanario Lisboa
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the diverse marine life and exhibits.
🚠 Ride the Cable Car
Enjoy scenic views of Parque das Nações and the Tagus River with a cable car ride to/from the Oceanário.
[Sorry for English] Never been to Portugal before and traveling to Lisbon for 4 days. Advice from fellow redditors?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Oceanário de Lisboa tickets online in advance.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the exhibits.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the diverse marine life and exhibits.
🚠 Ride the Cable Car
Enjoy scenic views of Parque das Nações and the Tagus River with a cable car ride to/from the Oceanário.
📱 Download Map/App
Familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand to maximize your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oceanário de Lisboa for its stunning exhibits, particularly the Grand Ocean and the 'Forest Underwater' display. Many highlight it as a must-visit in Lisbon, offering an immersive and educational experience for all ages. Some note that it can get crowded, and ticket prices are on the higher side.
"We enjoyed our visit here - the main aquarium was fascinating and it was great being able to see it from so many views points as we walked around the place. The sea life within looked incredible, and there was plenty of information to read to help identify what we were looking at and learn more. All information was also in English, which was beneficial to us. There was seating in some parts of the building too which was great for taking in the views.
The route around the building meant you easily got to see all that was there without missing anything. The different areas were interesting to walk through, for example the warm area with the otters and the rain forest style plants. Unfortunately the area which usually houses the penguins was closed as being updated, it said due to reopen 2025 but wasn't open end of July.
There was a lovely gift shop at the end, with lovely items available. You could get 10% off at the gift shop at the time of our visit for completing a survey you could access by scanning a QR code with your phone. We also got 10% off our entry tickets by purchasing them online as they had a discount available on their website.
Definitely a lovely place to visit."
Ange Vernon
"We took our teen year old daughter. Fantastic way to beat the heat! Beautiful exhibits and grounds. We loved it! The cable car ride (extra) was a fun addition, albeit a little "thrilling." Too thrilling for my husband, in fact. He stayed back and enjoyed an espresso on the patio while we took the 15 min ride. All around, an afternoon well spent!"
Michelle McGowan
"We had a wonderful morning here, filled with engaging moments and beautiful sights. 🤩 The aquarium itself was absolutely breathtaking — we enjoyed observing the fish from different angles, which gave us a unique perspective of the underwater world. We were also lucky to catch a glimpse of the two playful otters swimming around and clearly enjoying themselves. 🦦🦦
We booked our tickets online in advance and even got a discount, which made the experience even better. There are separate queues for ticket holders and those buying on-site, so the entry process was smooth and quick.
If you're planning a trip to Lisbon, this spot is a must-add to your itinerary! 🐟"
Monica MAGDA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oceanário de Lisboa is easily accessible via public transport. Take the Metro to Oriente station (Red Line). Buses 728, 750, 759, 781, and 782 also stop nearby. Many visitors also enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the Oceanário, offering great views of the Parque das Nações.
Yes, there are several parking garages in the Parque das Nações area, including one directly beneath the Oceanário. However, public transport is often more convenient and eco-friendly.
If you are staying in the Parque das Nações area, walking is a pleasant option. The Oceanário is a central attraction in this modern district.
The most efficient way is to take the Metro (Red Line) to Oriente station. From there, it's a short walk to the Oceanário. This route is well-documented and recommended by locals and visitors alike.
Yes, the Oriente train station is a major hub and is located very close to the Oceanário de Lisboa, making it a convenient option if you're arriving from other parts of Portugal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Oceanário de Lisboa tickets online through the official website, which is highly recommended to avoid queues. Tickets are also available at the entrance, but booking ahead ensures your entry, especially during peak times.
The Oceanário de Lisboa typically opens around 10:00 AM and closes between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, depending on the season. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
Ticket prices vary, but a standard adult ticket is around €22. Discounts are often available for children, seniors, and families. Check the official website for current pricing and any special offers.
While not always mandatory, booking Oceanário de Lisboa tickets online in advance is strongly advised, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and skip the ticket lines.
Sometimes, combo tickets are available that include entry to the Oceanário and other attractions in the Parque das Nações. It's worth checking the official website or local tourism sites for any package deals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Grand Ocean, with its massive central tank, is a highlight. Don't miss the 'Forest Underwater' exhibit by Takashi Amano, the playful penguins, and the fascinating Arctic and Antarctic displays.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the Oceanário de Lisboa. This allows ample time to appreciate each exhibit without feeling rushed.
Absolutely! The Oceanário de Lisboa is incredibly family-friendly, with engaging exhibits that captivate children of all ages. The interactive displays and diverse marine life make it a fun and educational experience.
Yes, there is a café and a restaurant within the Oceanário de Lisboa offering various food and drink options. You can also find many dining choices in the surrounding Parque das Nações.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Oceanário de Lisboa, but flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the marine life. Always check for specific signage in each exhibit area.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grand Ocean tank offers incredible photo opportunities with its vast array of marine life. The 'Forest Underwater' exhibit, with its lush greenery and clear water, is also very photogenic. Look for unique angles and reflections.
Flash photography is typically not allowed to protect the animals' eyes and natural behavior. Some areas might have specific restrictions, so always be mindful of signage.
Given the often dim lighting, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if permitted) can be helpful. Increasing your ISO and using a wider aperture can also improve your shots.
Experiment with slightly slower shutter speeds to create a sense of motion blur for the fish, while keeping the background relatively sharp. This can add a dynamic feel to your aquarium photos.
Try capturing the reflections in the glass, the interplay of light and shadow on the coral reefs, or the interactions between different species. The penguins also offer fun, candid photo moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and allow plenty of time for little ones to explore at their own pace. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The interactive elements and the sheer wonder of the marine life will keep them entertained and educated for hours.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with free activities in the surrounding Parque das Nações, such as walking along the riverfront or enjoying the modern architecture. Taking public transport, like the Metro, is also a budget-friendly way to reach the Oceanário compared to taxis.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for lower light conditions in many areas. Experiment with your camera settings, focusing on capturing the movement of fish with slightly slower shutter speeds and utilizing wider apertures. Remember to disable your flash to avoid disturbing the animals and ensure better photo quality.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Forest Underwater' Exhibit: A Natural Masterpiece
Visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and artistry of this exhibit. The dense aquatic vegetation, combined with a diverse array of fish and invertebrates, creates a living, breathing ecosystem that feels remarkably natural. It's a testament to the power of biotope aquariums and a truly unique experience that has inspired many aquarium enthusiasts.
The 'Forest Underwater' is more than just a display; it's an educational journey into the delicate balance of freshwater environments. The exhibit showcases how diverse species can coexist harmoniously, offering a profound appreciation for aquatic biodiversity and the art of aquascaping.
Navigating the Oceanário: Tips for a Smooth Visit
The heart of the Oceanário is the Grand Ocean, a colossal central tank that simulates the open sea. Here, you'll witness sharks, rays, sunfish, and a multitude of other large marine creatures swimming in a vast expanse of water. The viewing platforms offer unobstructed perspectives, allowing you to feel truly immersed in the underwater world.
Beyond the main tank, explore the Temperate and Tropical zones, each showcasing unique marine life and ecosystems. The Forest Underwater exhibit, as mentioned, is a distinct highlight. Remember to check the daily schedule for feeding times or keeper talks, which can add an extra layer of engagement to your visit.
Beyond the Exhibits: The Parque das Nações Experience
The area is also home to the Altice Arena, a major concert and events venue, and the Vasco da Gama shopping center, offering a wide range of retail and dining options. The riverside promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially at sunset, offering a pleasant atmosphere and beautiful views.
Combining your Oceanário visit with a walk through Parque das Nações allows for a fuller Lisbon experience. The district is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to access from other parts of the city and to continue your exploration of Lisbon's diverse offerings.
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