Lisbon Oceanarium travel guide

The Lisbon Oceanarium, opened in 1998 as a centerpiece of the World Expo, is one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe. It was designed by the renowned architect Peter Chermayeff, with an aim to showcase the diversity of ocean life. The Oceanarium was built in the shape of an aircraft carrier, surrounded by water, to give visitors the impression of being at sea.

The main exhibit, a 5-million-liter tank, was designed to represent the Global Ocean, featuring a multitude of marine species from various ecosystems. Since its inception, the Oceanarium has been dedicated to conservation and education, hosting numerous exhibitions and initiatives to promote awareness about the importance of preserving marine biodiversity.

In 2011, the Oceanarium expanded with a new building, 'Sea Turtle', designed by Campos Costa Architects. This addition further solidified its position as a leading global institution for marine conservation and research. Today, the Lisbon Oceanarium continues to captivate visitors with its immersive exhibits, contributing to its status as one of the most-visited attractions in Portugal.

One of the standout features of the Lisbon Oceanarium is its innovative design. The aquarium is created to represent the four corners of the globe - the Antarctic, Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans. This unique layout is designed to reflect the interconnected nature of the world's oceans. It is the only oceanarium in the world where marine species like penguins, sea otters, sharks and rays live in harmony within a single space.

Another unique feature is the central tank, one of the largest in the world, which is home to a wide variety of species in a carefully controlled ecosystem. Through the four surrounding aquariums, visitors are offered a seamless vision of marine life, creating the illusion of a single, vast ocean.

The Lisbon Oceanarium also adopts an educational approach, hosting a number of interactive exhibits that aim to educate visitors about the importance of conserving the world's oceans. The Oceanarium's commitment to conservation and education truly sets it apart among global aquariums.

Located in Parque das Nações, the iconic Oceanário de Lisboa is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Lisbon or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Portugal.

Lisbon is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisbon offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and LX Factory.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisbon has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisbon - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Portugal!

Oceanário de Lisboa is located in Lisbon, Portugal, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Lisbon Portela Airport is approximately 2.3 miles (3.7 km) away from Lisbon. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Oceanário de Lisboa is located.

If you’re already in Lisbon, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the public aquarium. The exact address of the attraction is Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal.

You can also rent a car and drive to Oceanário de Lisboa. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Oceanário de Lisboa and other top attractions in Lisbon at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Oceanário de Lisboa!

The best time to explore Lisbon Oceanarium is in the spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer moderate weather conditions which are perfect for enjoying the outdoor parts of the Oceanarium. Moreover, these are off-peak tourism seasons, ensuring lower crowd levels for a more enjoyable and personal experience. One must not overlook the annual events hosted by the Oceanarium during these seasons, such as the 'Marine Life Conservation Week' in spring and 'Ocean's Week' in autumn, which provide unique activities and educational programs about marine biodiversity. Visiting during weekdays, especially in the morning when the Oceanarium opens, is recommended to avoid local school groups. Lastly, consider booking tickets online in advance to have a smoother entry experience. Remember, the best time to explore Lisbon Oceanarium is not solely about the right season but also about planning your visit wisely to optimize your Oceanarium adventure.

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a trip to Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the most iconic attractions in Portugal drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique public aquarium, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Oceanário de Lisboa starting from 21 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Lisbon and top attractions like Oceanário de Lisboa with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Oceanário de Lisboa and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Lisbon, Portugal, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind public aquarium in Portugal.

Discovering Portugal's captivating landscapes and the iconic Oceanário de Lisboa becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 19 reputable rental car companies near Lisbon Portela Airport and the city of Lisbon, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Portugal's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Lisbon and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, OK Mobility currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 4.41 EUR per day or 30.88 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Rua Da Guiné, 24, 2685-337 in Lisbon, this rental option ensures you can explore Portugal's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Lisbon by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Oceanário de Lisboa just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Lisbon.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Oceanário de Lisboa below.

Lisbon offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisbon, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, and Castelo de S. Jorge.

Praça do Comércio is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Lisbon, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 99,112 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Praça do Comércio is 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisbon is Belém Tower. This is just like Praça do Comércio, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 83,980 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this fort is Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal.

Castelo de S. Jorge is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisbon. This museum and top attraction in Lisbon has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 80,896 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Castelo de S. Jorge creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of R. De Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Lisbon below.