Acuario de Gijón
Discover diverse marine life across 12 ecosystems, from local waters to tropical oceans. Features sharks, turtles, and unique VR experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Acuario de Gijón
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse marine life across 12 ecosystems, from local waters to tropical oceans. Features sharks, turtles, and unique VR experiences.
"A beautiful place with amazing exhibits, loved the education and the VR experience!"
Book 'Acuario Oculto' Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look! Book the 'Acuario Oculto' tour for a unique experience.
VR Experience is a Must
Don't miss the 'La Última Frontera' VR experience for an amazing deep-sea dive!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Ocean Tank
Main exhibition hall
Marvel at the impressive main tank, home to sharks, sea turtles, and a vibrant array of fish. It's a truly mesmerizing spectacle.
Jellyfish Exhibit
Dedicated gallery
Lose yourself in the ethereal beauty of the jellyfish exhibit, a mesmerizing display of nature's delicate wonders.
Touch Pools
Interactive zone
Engage directly with marine life in the touch pools, offering a hands-on experience for all ages.
Virtual Reality Experience
Special exhibit area
Dive deep into the ocean with the 'La Última Frontera' VR experience, an immersive journey to the marine abyss.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Experiences
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book 'Acuario Oculto' Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look! Book the 'Acuario Oculto' tour for a unique experience.
VR Experience is a Must
Don't miss the 'La Última Frontera' VR experience for an amazing deep-sea dive!
Great for Toddlers
Toddlers absolutely loved it! It's a fantastic family-friendly outing.
Variety of Species
See species you won't find elsewhere. Amazing variety of marine life.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book 'Acuario Oculto' Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look! Book the 'Acuario Oculto' tour for a unique experience.
VR Experience is a Must
Don't miss the 'La Última Frontera' VR experience for an amazing deep-sea dive!
Great for Toddlers
Toddlers absolutely loved it! It's a fantastic family-friendly outing.
Variety of Species
See species you won't find elsewhere. Amazing variety of marine life.
Educational & Engaging
Loved the educational aspect and the engaging exhibits. Highly recommended!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Acuario de Gijón for its engaging exhibits and the impressive variety of marine life, noting it as a great family-friendly outing. While not the largest or most modern, its well-maintained habitats and unique species make for a memorable experience. The educational aspects and special events are also frequently highlighted as positives.
"My toddler loved this aquarium and it was as they say “fun for the whole family”. It’s not super big but who cares, it seems like all the animals had clean habitats and they were some really nice exhibits. The big tank with the sharks And the sea turtles was really amazing."
Bianka “Bianka” Cramblit
"Beautiful place, the kids loved it and highly recommend the VR experience. We loved the education element, we would love to go there again."
Merili Padilla
"Very nice aquarium. Not the biggest or the most modern. But they had a lot of species I have not seen in other aquariums."
Diego Flores
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Acuario de Gijón is conveniently located on Playa de Poniente. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. If you're driving, there are parking options available in the vicinity, though they can get busy during peak times.
Yes, there are parking facilities near the Acuario de Gijón, particularly around Playa de Poniente. However, it's advisable to check real-time availability, especially on weekends or during events, as parking can be limited.
Absolutely! The Acuario de Gijón is situated along the beautiful promenade of Playa de Poniente, making it a pleasant walk from many parts of Gijón. It's a great way to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Several bus lines serve the area around Playa de Poniente, providing easy access to the Acuario de Gijón. Check local bus schedules for routes and stops closest to your location in Gijón.
The Acuario de Gijón is generally accessible, with ramps and elevators to navigate different levels. Visitors with disabilities may also be eligible for a reduced ticket price.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by age and concessions. General admission for adults (15-64 years) is €21.00, with reduced rates for children (3-14 years) at €12.50, seniors (+65 years) at €13.50, and students/youth card holders at €14.50. Children under 3 enter for free.
Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Visit the official Acuario de Gijón website for online booking.
The Acuario de Gijón is open every day of the year. However, specific opening and closing times can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, discounts are available for children, seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities. Check the official website for the most current pricing and eligibility requirements for these concessions.
The 'Acuario Oculto' guided tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes experience of the aquarium's operations and conservation efforts. Many visitors find it highly informative and worthwhile for a deeper understanding.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The aquarium houses over 5,000 animals from 460 species across 60 freshwater and saltwater aquariums. You'll find diverse ecosystems, from local Cantabrian waters to tropical oceans, including sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, and more. 
Yes, the Acuario de Gijón features interactive touch pools where visitors can get hands-on with certain marine creatures. It's a highlight for younger visitors and families.
The 'La Última Frontera' virtual reality experience offers an immersive expedition to the marine abyss, allowing you to discover the deep sea in a unique way. It's highly recommended by visitors.
A typical visit to the Acuario de Gijón can last anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and interest in the exhibits. The 'Acuario Oculto' tour will add extra time.
Yes, the aquarium often hosts educational talks by their educators, providing insights into marine life and conservation. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for timings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Acuario de Gijón typically has a cafe or snack bar where you can purchase refreshments and light meals. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally advisable to check with the aquarium regarding bringing outside food and drinks. There are often designated areas for consumption if permitted.
Being located on Playa de Poniente, there are numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area offering a variety of dining experiences, from casual bites to more formal meals.
The aquarium has hosted unique events like 'Cena Bajo el Mar' (Dinner Under the Sea), offering a romantic and memorable dining experience. Keep an eye on their events calendar for such special occasions.
The cafe usually offers a selection of snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. It's perfect for a quick bite or a coffee break while exploring the aquarium.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Acuario de Gijón for personal use. However, flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
The main ocean tank with sharks and turtles, the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit, and the colorful coral reef displays offer fantastic photo opportunities. The touch pools can also yield fun shots.
The main restriction is usually on using flash, as it can stress the marine life. Always be mindful of your surroundings and other visitors.
Video recording is typically permitted for personal use, similar to photography. Again, avoid using excessive lighting or flash that might disturb the animals.
Popular shots include close-ups of unique species like seahorses, wide-angle views of the large tanks, and candid moments of families enjoying the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking the 'Acuario Oculto' tour for an educational and engaging experience that older children might particularly enjoy. The VR experience, 'La Última Frontera,' is also a hit for its immersive nature. Remember to check the daily schedule for any educational talks that might interest your little ones.
+1💑 Couples
Keep an eye out for special events like 'Cena Bajo el Mar' or 'A la Luz de las Velas,' which transform the aquarium into an exceptionally romantic venue. These events offer a truly memorable experience for couples looking for something out of the ordinary.
📚 Educational Travelers
+1Don't miss the 'Acuario Oculto' tour for a behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts and animal care. The educational talks and the focus on rehabilitation programs provide valuable insights into the challenges and importance of protecting marine life.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ecosystems
Each ecosystem is meticulously recreated to mimic natural habitats, providing a rich and educational experience. You'll encounter everything from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to the warm currents of the tropics, offering a global perspective on aquatic life. The aquarium's commitment to showcasing these varied environments highlights the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems worldwide.
Key ecosystems include the Mediterranean Sea, African rivers and lakes, and the Indian Ocean. This variety ensures that there's always something new and fascinating to discover, making each visit a learning adventure. The sheer scope of the exhibits makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in marine biology or simply the wonders of the natural world.
Conservation and Education Efforts
Visitors can learn about these conservation efforts through various educational programs and talks. The 'Acuario Oculto' tour, for instance, provides an in-depth look at the daily operations, including animal care and research. This transparency helps foster a greater appreciation for the challenges and importance of protecting marine biodiversity.
The aquarium also emphasizes the importance of responsible tourism and encourages visitors to be mindful of their impact on marine environments. Through engaging exhibits and informative displays, they aim to inspire a sense of stewardship for the oceans and their inhabitants, making it a valuable educational experience for all ages.
Unique Visitor Experiences
For an even more immersive adventure, the 'La Última Frontera' virtual reality experience transports visitors to the deepest parts of the ocean. This cutting-edge technology allows for an unparalleled exploration of the marine abyss, offering a perspective rarely seen. It's a highly recommended addition to any visit, especially for those seeking an extraordinary encounter.
Furthermore, the aquarium occasionally hosts special events like 'A la Luz de las Velas' (In the Light of Candles), where live music is performed in a candlelit atmosphere, creating a magical ambiance. These special events provide a different way to appreciate the beauty of the aquarium and its inhabitants.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit