Oceanário de Lisboa | Highlights, History & Architecture

Quick Information

ADDRESS

Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

Timings

10:00–20:00

VISITORS PER YEAR

1000000

TICKETS

From $27.70

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Enjoy the Ocean Sunfish at Oceanarium Lisboa—it's the world's largest bony fish, resembling a child's drawing as it rests on the water's surface. This rare sight is a unique feature of the aquarium, given the challenges in caring for these giant sunbathing rocks.

Keep an eye out for the aquarium's two massive spider crabs, affectionately nicknamed "King" and "Queen." These impressive creatures, with leg spans exceeding 3 meters, are the largest of their kind on display in Europe.

The central tank is larger than four Olympic-sized pools and is home to one hundred kinds of fish and other marine life. Being on two levels allows you to see it from various angles, allowing you to spot fish that might otherwise be difficult to notice.

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Combo: Lisbon Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Oceanário de Lisboa Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Combo (Save 12%): Lisbon Card + Oceanário de Lisboa Tickets

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Combo (Save 15%): Oceanário de Lisboa + Telecabine Cable Car Tickets

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Why visit the Oceanário de Lisboa

1/5

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

School of barracudas swimming over a shallow coral reef.

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.

Two clownfish nestled in purple sea anemone, Great Barrier Reef.

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.

Starfish on ocean floor at Oceanario Lisboa.

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.

Penguins on rocky terrain at Oceanario Lisboa.

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.

Underwater plants and fish at Lisboa's Oceanário.

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

Where is the Oceanário de Lisboa located?

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.

When was the Oceanário de Lisboa constructed?

The Oceanário was constructed in 1998 to celebrate 500 years of Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India. It opened to the public on 22 May 1998.

How many floors is the Oceanário spread over?

The Oceanário spans two floors, with the primary entrance on the upper level. The Central Ocean Tank is read across both floors, and as the name suggests, is in the structure’s center.

How many oceanic zones does the Oceanário have on display?

The Oceanário is home to four major oceanic zones, each with its own underwater ecosystem. These are the Antarctic Coastline, the North Atlantic Zone, the Temperate Pacific Ocean, and the Tropical Indian Ocean.

How many creatures and species can you find at the Oceanário?

The Ocenaario is home to a whopping 15,000 oceanic creatures across 500+ species. Some of these include the rare sunfish, clownfish, shark, stingrays, and even the stunning King Penguins.

Is the Oceanário de Lisboa wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Oceanário features ramps and elevators at all access points to ensure easy access across both levels. The restrooms are also adapted to cater to visitors with limited mobility.