L’Aquarium Barcelona with Kids

The Aquarium Barcelona is one of the largest and most important aquariums in Europe. It covers an area of 35,000 square meters and houses over 11,000 marine animals from 450 different species. Your little explorer can watch all the colorful marine creatures swimming around in a larger-than-life tank and experience the magical marine life.  

This Aquarium is a popular family travel destination located in Port Vell. We have been there a few times since moving to Spain. With its wide range of marine and aquatic life for kids to explore, we have a blast every time we visit here.

The Entrance

The Aquarium opens all year round; you can purchase the ticket online or at the entrance. We prefer booking our tickets online in advance to skip the line. As soon as you enter the Aquarium, a large slope will take you down to the area with shallow levels of brightness.

Explore L’aquarium Barcelona

The aquarium is divided into different zones, each representing a different marine ecosystem, including the Mediterranean, the tropical seas, and the Oceanarium, which is the largest tank and contains a tunnel where visitors can walk under the water and see sharks, rays, and other species swimming above them.

The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean zone at Aquarium Barcelona is one of the most popular and important zones in the aquarium. It showcases the marine life of the Mediterranean Sea and features 14 tanks, each representing a different habitat found in the Mediterranean. The zone includes habitats such as rocky coasts, sandy bottoms, and seagrass meadows. Visitors can observe a variety of species that live in the Mediterranean, such as seahorses, octopuses, groupers, and colorful fish like the painted comber and the bream.

The Oceanario tank is the largest tank in the zone and contains a replica of a wrecked ship, providing a unique habitat for many marine species. The Mediterranean zone also features an interactive exhibit where visitors can learn about the human impact on the Mediterranean Sea and how they can help protect it. The main objective of this zone is to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the Mediterranean Sea and its marine biodiversity, promoting conservation and sustainable practices to ensure the long-term health of this unique ecosystem.

Tropical Sea

The Oceanarium

The Oceanarium tunnel is the highlight of Barcelona Aquarium; we enjoy passing through the 80 meters of the exhilarating walk, it feels like walking under the seafloor. The Oceanarium is the largest tank in the aquarium. This tank holds 4 million liters of saltwater and provides a habitat for a variety of marine life from different oceans around the world. The Oceanarium is designed to replicate the natural environment of the ocean, featuring a replica of a shipwreck, rocks, and artificial coral reefs.

Visitors can observe a variety of marine species in the Oceanarium, including large sharks, stingrays, groupers, moray eels, and other species that are native to the oceans of the world. The tank is designed to allow visitors to see the marine life from different angles, including a glass tunnel that runs through the middle of the tank, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe the marine life swimming above and around them.

In addition to the main tank, the Oceanarium also has an interactive exhibit where visitors can learn about the marine life that inhabits coral reefs, one of the most important ecosystems on the planet. Visitors can see up close and personal a variety of species of colorful fish, sea anemones, and coral polyps.

The Oceanarium is not just a place for entertainment, but it is also a center for research, education, and conservation. The aquarium has a team of marine biologists and scientists working to study and understand marine life in their natural habitats, and to promote conservation and sustainable practices. The Oceanarium is a must-see attraction to the Aquarium Barcelona, offering an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the world’s oceans.

The “Planeta Aqua” exhibition

The “Planeta Aqua” exhibition is one of the most popular and interactive exhibits at Aquarium Barcelona. It is designed to educate visitors about the importance of water as a natural resource and the need for conservation efforts to protect this vital element.

The exhibition consists of a series of interactive installations and multimedia displays that provide visitors with an immersive and engaging experience. Visitors can learn about the water cycle, the impact of human activity on water resources, and the importance of protecting aquatic ecosystems.

One of the highlights of the “Planeta Aqua” exhibition is the “Water Tunnel,” a walk-through exhibit that simulates the journey of a water droplet from the mountains to the sea. Visitors can experience the different stages of the water cycle and learn about the challenges and threats that water resources face, such as pollution and climate change.

The exhibition also features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the different types of water habitats and the species that inhabit them. Visitors can see and touch live animals such as turtles and horseshoe crabs, and learn about the importance of protecting these habitats and the wildlife that depend on them.

The “Planeta Aqua” exhibition is a unique and informative experience that highlights the importance of water conservation and sustainability. It is an essential exhibit for visitors of all ages and provides valuable information that can be used to promote environmental awareness and action.

Explora!

Explora! is an interactive space at Aquarium Barcelona designed specifically for children. It offers a range of activities and exhibits that are intended to engage and educate young visitors about marine life and conservation efforts.

The space is divided into different areas, each with its own unique theme and activities. For example, the “Ocean Lab” area allows children to learn about marine life through hands-on experiments and interactive displays. The “Whale Station” area allows children to learn about the biology and behavior of whales and other large marine mammals, while the “Penguin Station” area offers an opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating birds up close.

Explora! also features a play area where children can climb, crawl, and explore a variety of structures designed to mimic the natural environments of marine life. There are also art and craft activities that allow children to create their own marine-inspired creations and take home a souvenir of their visit.

One of the highlights of Explora! is the “Touch Pool” area, where children can touch and interact with a variety of marine animals such as starfish, sea urchins, and crabs. This experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about marine life up close and personal, and can be a fun and memorable experience for children of all ages.

Explora! is a must-visit attraction for families with children, offering a range of engaging and educational activities that can help children develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of marine life and conservation efforts.

 Sleeping Overnight In Aquarium Barcelona

At Aquarium Barcelona, you have the opportunity to spend the night surrounded by sharks and other marine life as part of their “Sleeping with Sharks” program. This unique experience is designed to give visitors an up-close and personal look at these fascinating creatures in a safe and controlled environment.

The overnight stay begins with a guided tour of the aquarium, including the main exhibits and behind-the-scenes areas that are not normally accessible to visitors. Guests can learn about the different species of marine life on display and the conservation efforts that are underway to protect them.

After the tour, guests can settle in for the night in a designated sleeping area located in front of the Oceanarium exhibit. This exhibit is a massive tank that is home to a variety of marine life, including several species of sharks, rays, and other fish.

Throughout the night, guests can enjoy a range of activities and experiences, including a night-time tour of the aquarium, a shark-themed movie screening, and the opportunity to touch and interact with marine life in a specially designed touch pool. In the morning, guests can wake up to the sight of sharks swimming overhead as they enjoy a continental breakfast before the aquarium opens to the public.

This program is suitable for adults and children, and can be a fun and educational experience for families, couples, or groups of friends.

General Information: 

How to Get There:

By Metro: The closest metro station to the aquarium is Drassanes (L3). Once you get off at this station, it’s just a short 5-10 minute walk to the aquarium.

By Bus: The following bus lines stop near the aquarium: 14, 17, 19, 36, 39, 40, 45, 51, 57, 59, 64, 91, 120, D20, H14, V13, and V15.

By Car: If you are driving, there are several paid parking options available nearby, including the Maremagnum shopping center and the World Trade Center.

By Bicycle: Barcelona has an extensive bike-sharing program called Bicing, which allows you to rent a bike and easily ride to the aquarium. There are also several bike rental shops located in the area. 

Purchase Tickets to Aquarium Barcelona

There are several ways to purchase tickets to Aquarium Barcelona, depending on your preferences:

Online: The easiest and most convenient way to buy tickets is to purchase them online through the official website of Aquarium Barcelona. This allows you to buy tickets in advance and avoid waiting in long lines at the ticket office. You can also take advantage of online-only discounts and special offers.

Ticket office: You can also buy tickets directly at the aquarium’s ticket office, which is located at the entrance. However, depending on the time of day and season, there may be long lines, so purchasing online is recommended.

Tourist offices: You can also purchase tickets at tourist offices in Barcelona, such as the Barcelona Turisme office or the Catalonia Tourist Board office.

Travel agencies: Some travel agencies may also offer ticket packages that include admission to Aquarium Barcelona.

When buying tickets, it’s important to check the prices and different types of tickets available, such as standard admission, combo tickets with other attractions, and discounted tickets for children or seniors. It’s also a good idea to check the aquarium’s opening hours and any special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.

Green Hotels near Aquarium Barcelona

Aquarium Barcelona is located in Port Vell, which is a popular waterfront area located in the Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona, Spain. Other than Aquarium Barcelona, there are several fun things to do with kids near the area.

Hotel Arts Barcelona

Hotel Arts Barcelona is a five-star hotel located on the beachfront of Barcelona, near Aquarium Barcelona. The hotel offers a range of luxurious rooms and suites, all featuring contemporary decor, high-end amenities, and stunning views of either the city or the sea. It features several dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, a Mediterranean-style brasserie, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the sea. Guests can also enjoy access to a spa, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a private beach club.

Hotel Arts Barcelona has been certified with the ISO 14001 environmental management standard. It has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives, such as using energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and reducing water usage. The hotel also supports local charities and organizations through its “Arts of Living” program, which promotes cultural and social initiatives in the city.

The W Barcelona

The W Barcelona, also known as the “Hotel Vela” due to its distinctive sail-like shape, is a luxurious 5-star hotel located on the beachfront of Barcelona. The hotel offers stylish guest rooms and suites featuring contemporary decor, high-end amenities, and stunning views of either the city or the sea. The hotel offers several dining options, including a rooftop bar, a casual beach club, and a lobby bar. Guests can also enjoy access to a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.

The W Barcelona has been certified with the Biosphere Responsible Tourism standard, and implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives, such as using renewable energy sources, recycling waste, and using water-saving measures. The hotel also supports local charities and organizations through its “Wishmakers” program, which encourages guests to make a positive impact on the local community.

The Grand Hotel Central

The Grand Hotel Central Barcelona is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. The hotel features 147 elegantly designed rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities and high-quality furnishings. Some rooms offer stunning views of the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral. The hotel features several dining options, including a stylish rooftop bar and terrace offering panoramic views of the city skyline.

Grand Hotel Central Barcelona has been awarded the ISO 14001 environmental management certification; it has implemented measures such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and reducing water usage. The hotel also sources its food locally, supporting the local economy and reducing its carbon footprint.

Hotel 1898

Hotel 1898 Barcelona is a four-star hotel located on the famous Las Ramblas promenade of Barcelona. The hotel features 169 elegantly designed rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities and high-quality furnishings. The hotel offers several dining options, including a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a rooftop terrace bar with panoramic views of the city, and a bar serving cocktails and tapas. 

Hotel 1898 Barcelona has been awarded the ISO 14001 environmental management certification; it has implemented measures such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and reducing water usage. The hotel also sources its food locally, supporting the local economy and reducing its carbon footprint.

Hotel Barcelona Catedral

Hotel Barcelona Catedral is a stylish four-star hotel in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, a 20-minute walk from Aquarium Barcelona. The hotel features 80 modern and elegantly designed rooms and suites. It offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine and a bar serving cocktails and tapas. Guests can also enjoy access to a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.

Hotel Barcelona Catedral has been awarded the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification; it has implemented measures such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and reducing water usage. The hotel also sources its food locally, supporting the local economy and reducing its carbon footprint.

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa Barcelona is a modern four-star hotel located in the El Born district of Barcelona, about 2km away from Aquarium Barcelona. The hotel features 60 stylish and contemporary rooms and suites, all equipped with high-end amenities and minimalist furnishings. There are several dining options, including a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city, and a bar serving cocktails and tapas. 

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa Barcelona has been awarded the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification; it has implemented measures such as using energy-efficient lighting, recycling waste, and reducing water usage. The hotel also sources its food locally, supporting the local economy and reducing its carbon footprint.

Hotel Photos Credit: All hotels images courtesy of Nananai World’s affiliate partner booking.com