Oceanario de Lisboa
About
The Lisbon Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa) is a modern marvel of aquatic design, located in the Parque das Nações. Its iconic, aircraft‑carrier‑shaped structure houses a colossal 5,000‑m³ central tank that mirrors the open ocean, surrounded by four themed habitat tanks showcasing the North Atlantic, Antarctic, Temperate Pacific kelp forests and Tropical Indian coral reefs. Visitors encounter more than 16,000 marine creatures, including penguins, sea otters, rays, sharks, a spectacular sunfish and the world’s largest temporary freshwater exhibit, "Forests Underwater" by Takashi Amano. The aquarium’s innovative layout, lush displays and dedicated educational programs make it a leading destination for families, nature lovers and anyone fascinated by the wonders of the deep. An average visit lasts about three hours – enough time to stroll through each zone, watch feeding sessions, and explore the interactive exhibits. The museum closes at 7 pm every day, so mornings offer a quieter experience before the crowds grow. For visitors planning a trip to Lisbon, the best times to visit are spring (March‑May) and fall (September‑November) when the weather is mild and visitor numbers are lower than the peak summer crowds.
Highlights
- Central Ocean Habitat
- Penguin & Polar Exhibit
- Sunfish Sanctuary
- Forests Underwater
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and Fall
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours