Life underwater has always been a mystery to humans. People of all ages are amazed by marine life. So, if you are planning to visit an aquarium with your family, include the Aquarium in Lisbon. This huge aquarium will surely leave you delighted. Before we discuss the 5 reasons to visit the aquarium, it is important to get an idea of the place.

1. An Introduction to Aquarium in Lisbon- Oceanário de Lisboa

Located in the Portuguese Capital, Lisbon, Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. This aquarium was designed by Peter Chermayeff. It resembles the structure of an aircraft carrier and was created as a part of the World Expo 1998 (a kind of world fair).

The aquarium mirrors natural conditions. It divides species of different habitats into different tanks. A central tank is separated from the other tanks with invisible acrylic walls.

The central tank is as huge as four Olympic-sized swimming pools. It houses a range of colorful fish of all shapes and sizes. Indeed, the tank will give you a window to a different world.

2. A List of 5 Reasons to Visit

The aquarium provides a range of activities to make the experience even more interesting. Here are five good reasons to visit this aquarium.

2.1. A Wide Variety of Marine Species

Firstly, the place has a lot to offer, with hundreds of marine species and thousands of creatures. It is a thrill to watch the flora and fauna.

For example, imagine coming face-to-face with a shark. Along with this, visualize the otters playing among themselves.

You can also spot not only colorful tropical fishes swimming together but also deep-sea organisms. Moreover, a wide variety of plants and algae can be found. Following are the different species which you can spot at the aquarium:-

2.1.1. Birds

The place hosts a range of bird species. A few of them include-

• Common Murre
• Atlantic Puffin
• Magellanic penguin
• Inca Tern

Without a doubt, Penguins attract visitors the most!

2.1.2. Vertebrates

The vertebrates at the aquarium include-

• Strawberry Anemones
• Vermilion Stars
• White- Spotted jellyfish
• Bush Coral

2.1.3. Fishes

The Fish Species at the aquarium include-

• Bignose Unicornfish
• Atlantic Cod
• Boar Fish
• Zebra Shark
• Moray Eels

The sunfish, in particular, is one of the place’s main attractions.

2.1.4. Mammals

In mammals, you can spot sea otters. They are famous for being the cutest and the smallest in the category of marine mammals. You must have heard these names for the first time, but you get to see them all at this place.

2.2. Exhibitions at The Aquarium

Exhibitions at the aquarium provide an insight into the land’s and sea’s biodiversity. These include-

2.2.1. One Planet, One Ocean 

This exhibition combines different habitats, including tropical, temperate, and cold waters. It also features species from four major areas. The following areas are included in the exhibition-

• Antarctic Coast
• Pacific Kelp Forest
• North Atlantic coast
• Indian Coral Reefs

2.2.2. Forest Underwater 

This is a presentation by Takashi Amano. It displays tropical forests inside an aquarium, which is a great source for understanding the forest ecosystem.

2.2.3. The Ocean As You Never Felt It

It is a creative presentation of life underwater. Moreover, it directly connects the viewers with the ocean.

2.3. Ocean Education

Various educational programs in the Oceanarium are centred around the ocean. The programs aim to inculcate a sense of responsibility in humans and teach them sustainability.

The aquarium aims to conserve the marine environment. The educational programs include ocean literacy for schools, a teacher workshop, and a SOS ocean booklet.

An SOS booklet is a list of suggestions for ocean sustainability. It guides humans on responsible consumption.

2.4. Organizing Themed Birthday Parties

Organizing a birthday party at the aquarium is the best gift for your kid. An ocean-themed party will provide all kinds of thrills to the children and give them insights into the marine world.

The themes offered include a shark party, a sea party, Operation Penguins, and Sleeping with Sharks. The party will be filled with entertainment and fun activities to teach the kids about our oceans.

2.5. Interesting Activities at the Aquarium

The aquarium hosts a variety of activities for the entertainment of people of all ages. Activities at the Oceanarium include-

2.5.1. Dolphin-Watching Programs

The aquarium allows you to watch dolphins at the Tagus River. An educator will guide you on this 3-hour-long activity. Watching these playful creatures will certainly be a fun activity.

2.5.2. Sleeping with The Sharks Activity

An interesting activity for children and families to get friendly with these fierce creatures. Make sure to spend a night sleeping with sharks for an amazing experience.

2.5.3. Concert For Babies

A baby concert is an activity for kids under 3 years old. Music aids babies’ mental growth. Above all, it is essential for toddlers’ development of the senses and the brain.

So, if you are a parent, visit the place for this amazing activity.

2.5.4. A Dip in the Sea

The aquarium’s diving program explores the biodiversity of the Portuguese coast in Sesimbra rather than the entire coast. In addition, you will get a digital guidebook for clarity on local habitats and species.

2.5.5. Ocean For All Ages

The place is not only meant for young people and children but also for senior citizens. Ocean for All Ages is a senior citizen program that explores underwater life.

Children under two years old can enter the aquarium for free. Various ticket options and discounts are available for different age groups.

3.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Aquarium in Lisbon worth the visit?

The aquarium has an array of various species of marine life. The Oceanario de Lisboa primarily focuses on exhibits, habitats, educational programs, and conservation efforts rather than numerous on-site activities.

2. Can one book a ticket online to visit the Lisbon Aquarium?

Yes, the tickets can be booked online. Moreover, online tickets will help you skip long queues.

3. What is the name of the Aquarium in Lisbon?

The name of the Aquarium is Oceanário de Lisboa.

Wrapping Up

The aquarium is unique and undoubtedly one of the best in Europe. It is also relevant to people of all ages.

The aquarium provides fun activities for people of every age group. It is one of the aquariums to feature different ocean habitats in a single environment.

A family visit to an aquarium is a great activity to get insights into the aquatic world. Make sure to visit this Aquarium in Lisbon with your family. Apart from the aquarium, do you know what would be better? A trip to a real sea beach! There are 10 stunning beaches in Lisbon that you must visit this year.

Further, take home the knowledge and the experience of the visit. The kids will surely be enchanted by the beauty of the lifestyle underwater.

Last Updated on May 10, 2024 by Arnab Nandi