AQUARIUMS · FRANCE
This is the shortlist you would send a friend flying in: 5 aquariums worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you buy.
Visit Aquarium de Paris beneath the Trocadéro Gardens with a self-guided ticket. See sharks, jellyfish, stingrays, koi, and species linked to the Seine and Reunion Island. Add touch pools, films, workshops, and live shows for a calm one- to two-hour family stop.
“I had so much fun. They had some great marine life. The only downside is it’s rather small”
Spend four to six hours at Nausicaá, National Sea Centre, with admission covering 85 aquariums, tanks, and terrariums. You’ll see giant manta rays, sharks, penguins, sea lions, and about 1,600 species. The English booking option helps with purchase, but check your voucher carefully because it may need exchanging at the ticket desk.
“Total voll, auf dem Audio-Guide ist nur die Rede von tollen Sachen die angekündigt werden aber dann nur auf französisch sind! Macht echt keinen Sinn!”
Spend a day exploring SEA LIFE Paris at Val d'Europe, home to more than 2,250 sea creatures. See king and gentoo penguins, sharks, turtles, and seahorses, then try the rock pool, Virtual Aquarium, I-Sand Creation, feeding sessions, and the SEASCAN app.
“Expérience intéressante. Ludique pour les enfants. Illustrations agréables et jeux à l'appui.”
Spend about two hours at SEA LIFE Paris Val d'Europe, meeting around 2,200 marine creatures in four themed zones. See sharks, rays, penguins, turtles, and seahorses, catch feeding times, and use your mobile ticket for a planned entry slot. Food and transport are not included.
“Not impressed. Not worth the price at all. I wish I didn’t waste my money on it as a family of 6 because the kids didn’t enjoy it and I was over faster than expected”
Spend a full day at Lyon Aquarium exploring six exhibitions and 310 aquatic species from European rivers, tropical waters, coral reefs, and the open sea. See sharks and octopuses, watch Ocean 360 projections, enjoy a snack, and catch a short film. French and English guides cost 4 euros.
“Super ! Grand aquarium, bonne visite des bassins. Plusieurs espèces différentes. Malgré le monde, nous avons passé un bon moment avec + de connaissances…”
By kind of visit, by what it costs, or by who is on the other side of the glass.
