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Why visit the Oceanário de Lisboa

Lisbon Oceanário marine life with diverse fish and underwater scenery.
Penguin standing on rocks at Oceanario Lisboa.
Oceanario de Lisboa building on the waterfront in Lisbon, Portugal.
Visitors viewing ocean exhibit at Lisbon Oceanário.
Underwater scene at Lisboa's Oceanário with aquatic plants and fish.
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One of Europe’s largest and most immersive aquariums

The Oceanário de Lisboa is Portugal’s largest indoor aquarium and among Europe’s finest. Housing over 15,000 marine creatures across 500+ species, it offers a sweeping view of global ocean life. A central tank and four themed ecosystems create a 360° underwater journey few aquariums can match.

Environmental education at the core

The Oceanário isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s an educational experience. Each exhibit highlights marine conservation issues like coral bleaching and ocean plastics. Interactive displays and kid-friendly explainers make learning engaging, perfect for families and eco-conscious travelers.

An architectural wonder floating on water

Designed by Peter Chermayeff, the building appears to float on the Tagus River, reflecting its oceanic theme. Inside, clever lighting, soundscapes, and walkways create a fully immersive feeling of being under the sea, enhancing every moment of your visit.

Innovative exhibits & cultural collaborations

Rotating exhibitions, like Takashi Amano’s Forests Underwater, blend art, science, and philosophy. These ever-changing showcases ensure no two visits are the same, drawing both first-time visitors and locals back for new perspectives.

Active conservation & research programs

Beyond display, the Oceanário drives global conservation efforts, from funding endangered species research to rehabilitating marine life. Its strong scientific mission adds purpose to every visit, appealing to travelers who value sustainability and impact.

What’s inside the Oceanário de Lisboa

Central Ocean Tank

At the heart of the Oceanário lies a massive 5-million-liter tank where sharks, rays, and barracudas glide through crystal-clear waters. Its 360° design gives you the feeling of standing inside the ocean itself.

Tropical Indian Ocean

This zone offers a glimpse into the world of vibrant coral reefs and species like the clownfish, dazzling butterflyfish, and the rare surgeonfish. The colors and movement bring the tropics alive before your eyes.

Temperate Pacific Ocean

Wander through a kelp forest where sunlight dances through the water, revealing leafy sea dragons and garibaldi fish. It’s a tranquil yet thrilling glimpse of the Pacific coastline.

North Atlantic Zone

Explore rugged rocky shores where wolffish lurk and starfish cling to boulders against crashing waves. The raw beauty of the North Atlantic is on full display here.

Antarctic Coastline

Watch King Penguins waddle, dive, and play in a setting that mirrors their icy home. Multimedia displays also highlight the impact of climate change on our oceans and the entire Antarctic ecosystem.

Forests Underwater by Takashi Amano

Takashi Amano’s 40-meter-long masterpiece blends art and nature with lush aquascapes, exotic plants, and freshwater fish. It’s a serene escape within this marine wonderland that’s been recognized for its ingenuity.

History of the Oceanário de Lisboa 

Built as a part of the Expo '98, a celebration of 500 years of Vasco da Gama's historic voyage to India, the Oceanário opened on 22 May 1998. It was designed by Peter Chermayeff and stands as a striking symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage.

Construction began in 1995, combining bold architecture with a deep respect for the ocean. Today, it is Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, attracting millions of visitors every year.

Spanning over 8,000 square meters, it features four unique marine habitats, from vibrant coral reefs to icy Antarctic coasts, and is home to over 15,000 marine animals across 500+ species.

History of the Oceanário de Lisboa

Architecture & design of the Oceanário de Lisboa

Lisbon Oceanário exterior with surrounding greenery and water.

The Oceanário de Lisboa is a modernist structure that appears to float on the Tagus River, symbolizing Lisbon's connection to the sea. Built using steel, glass, and concrete, its ship-like form features clean lines, cantilevered decks, and open spaces that echo maritime engineering.

Inside, the design maximizes immersion. Tiered walkways wrap around a massive central tank, while 360° viewing platforms offer multiple perspectives of marine life. The tank itself is made of acrylic and wraps around you in all directions. Carefully calibrated lighting, acoustics, and spatial planning mimic natural underwater conditions, creating a sense of being submerged.

Frequently asked questions about the Oceanário de Lisboa

The Oceanário is located in Lisbon’s waterfront district, Parque das Nações. Its address is Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal | Find on Google Maps.