The Oceanorium

The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest public aquarium in Europe. It brings together more than 25 thousand specimens of high seas in 7 million liters of salt water. Appreciated by both children and adults, it has already welcomed more than 10 million visitors. Although it is possible to visit the entire oceanarium in 2 hours, you are strongly advised to stay longer to contemplate this fascinating underwater world.

Opened in 1998, the Oceanarium was the central piece of the last 20th century Universal exhibition, whose theme was "Oceans, the inheritance for the future". In this way, this building eternally unites Lisbon with the oceans. With more than a million visitors a year, the Oceanarium is the museum that hosts the largest number of customers in Portugal.

By having a look to some incredible exhibits, visitors learn about the oceans and, more importantly, how to take action in everyday life to actively promote nature conservation.

Just like most of the modern aquariums, the Oceanarium is continually developing new fun activities, focused on today's environmental challenges, which are the main awareness-raising mission of this museum.

This is why the Oceanarium supports multiple research projects, most of which focus on the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of the oceans. A team of expert biologists and engineers provide exhibits of state-of-the-art technology and unequal animal welfare. This team is often called as consultants for other similar institutions.

The Oceanarium also signs up for , and intrinsically in its entrepreneurial growth, the implementation of an Integrated Management and a Quality System. This philosophy has allowed it to be the first public aquarium in Europe to obtain a certificate 9001, 14001 and EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme).

The unforgettable attraction that the Oceanarium offers to families with children (over 4 years old) is a special night beside sharks. Prior reservation is required the minimum number of participants is 10 and the maximum 16 people.

Prices start from 60 € per person. The night with sharks starts at 8pm and ends at 10am overnight. You have to bring your own sleeping bag, a pillow and comfortable clothes.

During the evening, several attractions are planned: the visit of the various parts of the aquarium, a cinema session (with popcorn), the nocturnal observation of sharks and rays, the visit of the local one where the food is prepared for animals, as well as breakfast and a guided morning tour of the permanent exhibition.