As you step into the city of Lisbon, you’re immediately immersed in a world of wonder and discovery. One of the most iconic attractions that will leave you awestruck is the Oceanário, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Located in the beautiful Parque das Nações neighborhood, this magnificent structure is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lisbon.
Hours and Prices: Planning Your Visit
Before you plan your visit, it’s essential to know the hours and prices of the Oceanário. The attraction is open every day of the year, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve, although opening hours may vary slightly in these cases. As for tickets, the full ticket costs €19.00, with discounts available for children aged 4-12 and seniors over 65.
- Opening hours: all days, 10:00-20:00
- Best time to avoid queues: early morning or late afternoon
- Full ticket price: €25.00 – pre-book online
- Discounts: €15.00 for children aged 4-12 and €17.00 for seniors over 65
- Free admission for under 3 years
Skipping the Line: Priority Entry Tickets
One of the most popular attractions in Lisbon, the Oceanário can get quite crowded, especially during peak season. To avoid long queues, we recommend buying a priority entry ticket. This will grant you access to the attraction before anyone else, saving you precious time.
What to See and How to Visit: An Overview
The Oceanário is a truly unique experience that unfolds on two levels: the terrestrial world and the subaquatic one. As you explore the attraction, you’ll discover tropical worlds until reaching Antarctica! Some of the highlights include:
- Mammals: home to sea lions, an animal with a lot of fur in the world
- Amphibians: featuring various types of frogs, salamanders, toads, and the small Himalayan triton
- Fish: millions of fish from around the world, in all colors and sizes
- Birds: penguins or sea gulls
- Invertebrates: anemones and jellyfish, where you can discover the entire marine invertebrate world
- Plants and algae: a section dedicated to the vegetal world
Where it is Located and How to Get There
The Oceanário is easily accessible by foot from the Lisbon Telecabine – Estação Norte (1.2 km, 16 minutes) or by bus stop of reference Oceanário Lisboa (line 26B and 728). From Praça do Comércio, take a direct bus line 728 until the Oceanário stop (25 minutes).
Useful Tips for Visiting the Attraction
To make the most of your visit to the Oceanário, here are some useful tips:
- Rise early: it’s best to reach the entrance by 10:00 AM
- Buy online ticket: purchase tickets online to avoid queues at the ticket office and get straight to the check-in area
- Tourist bus: take the Tourist Line Oriente (Blue Line) for a panoramic tour of the city and easily reach all attractions
- Watch out for restrictions: no smoking or food allowed, no flash photography or selfie sticks, and no introducing animals, hitting windows with aquariums, or touching plants
Minimum Time: Plan Your Visit
We recommend considering at least 2 hours for the visit, although it’s best to dedicate at least half a day. With so much to see and discover, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy every moment of this unforgettable experience.
Accessibility: A Barrier-Free Experience
The Oceanário is accessible according to European Accessibility Norms, ensuring that visitors with wheelchairs or small children and strollers can also enjoy the attraction.
Brief Historical Notes and Curiosities: What to Know in Brief
Did you know that the Oceanário was opened in 1998 as part of EXPO ’98, following the project of architect Peter Chermayeff? In 2011, a new wing was added by Portuguese architect Pedro Campos Costa. The attraction has since become one of Lisbon’s most loved attractions, especially with children.
Two curiosities about the Oceanário:
- There are around 5 million liters of water in the aquarium!
- Salt is added to the water from Lisbon’s water supply, and coral artificial structures can be seen inside the tanks, but real corals would have threatened an entire ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
- What are the best times to visit the Oceanário?
The best time to visit the Oceanário is early morning or late afternoon to avoid queues. - How much do tickets cost?
Full ticket price: €19.00, with discounts available for children aged 4-12 and seniors over 65. - Can I buy a priority entry ticket?
Yes, you can buy a priority entry ticket to skip the line. - What is the minimum time required for the visit?
We recommend considering at least 2 hours for the visit, although it’s best to dedicate at least half a day. - Is the Oceanário accessible?
Yes, the Oceanário is accessible according to European Accessibility Norms. - Can I take food and drinks into the attraction?
No, no smoking or food allowed in the attraction. - Are flash photography and selfie sticks allowed?
No, flash photography and selfie sticks are not allowed. - Can children under 3 years old enter the attraction for free?
Yes, children under 3 years old can enter the attraction for free.
Tips for Visiting with Children
Visiting the Oceanário with kids can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to make it even more enjoyable:
- Choose a suitable age group: depending on your child’s age and interests, you can select the most fascinating exhibits.
- Plan ahead: consider visiting during less crowded periods or using priority entry tickets.
- Don’t miss the interactive areas: many exhibits allow children to engage with marine life up close.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
For first-time visitors, here are some insider tips:
- Be prepared for crowds: the Oceanário is one of Lisbon’s most popular attractions, so be prepared for crowds and long queues.
- Download the official app: it provides valuable information about exhibits, animals, and interactive areas.
- Take breaks: with millions of liters of water to explore, you’ll want to take breaks to rest and recharge.
Special Events and Activities
Throughout the year, the Oceanário hosts various special events and activities that make your visit even more memorable. Some highlights include:
- Sea Life Fest: a biennial celebration dedicated to marine life, featuring live concerts, workshops, and educational activities.
- Oceanário Concerts: a series of live music performances in partnership with local musicians.
- Marine Biology Workshops: hands-on sessions led by experts on various aspects of marine biology.
Conservation Efforts
The Oceanário is not only an attraction but also a leader in conservation efforts. The aquarium has partnered with several organizations to support the protection and preservation of marine life around the world. Some notable projects include:
- Marine Conservation Program: supporting research, education, and conservation initiatives aimed at protecting marine ecosystems.
- Sea Turtle Rescue Project: collaborating with experts to rescue and rehabilitate sea turtles injured in various ways.
- Sustainable Aquatic Practices: promoting sustainable practices throughout the aquarium’s operations.
By following these tips and insights, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience at the Oceanário in Lisbon. Get ready to be awestruck by the wonders of the ocean!
