Fancy a fascinating dive without even donning a wetsuit? Aquariums are true invitations to travel, where you can admire impressive sharks, bewitching jellyfish and an incredible diversity of tropical fish. Whether for a family outing, an unusual getaway or simply to marvel at the richness of the seabed, these magical places are well worth a visit. From the largest to the most original, discover our selection of the 15 most beautiful aquariums in France, where you can discover, marvel and learn more about the preservation of the oceans!
1. Océanopolis - Brest (Finistère)
Ideal for a rainy-day outing or simply for the pleasure of a stroll, Océanopolis is one of France's most beautiful aquariums and a must-see in Finistère. Located in Brest, it offers a fascinating immersion in polar, tropical and Breton marine ecosystems. With 77 tanks and over 1,000 animal species, a family visit becomes a true underwater adventure. From the polar regions to tropical waters and temperate environments, Océanopolis is home to almost 10,000 animals. You'll be able to observe such remarkable marine creatures as the Napoleon fish, blue-spotted stingrays and Aurelie jellyfish. Its impressive aquarium, with a million liters of seawater, is also home to sharks, clownfish, moray eels and many more.
Thanks to faithfully reconstituted habitats, young and old alike can discover the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems. In this way, Océanopolis raises visitors' awareness of ocean preservation while offering an immersive and enriching experience.
Read more: Tips and tricks for organizing your day at Brest's Océanopolis
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2. La Rochelle Aquarium (Charente-Maritime)
An exceptional oceanic aquarium, the Aquarium de la Rochelle is home to almost 12,000 marine animals and some 600 aquatic species from around the world, spread over two floors. One of La Rochelle's most emblematic land marks, its vast glass facade is sure to stand out from the crowd. The underwater journey lasts over two hours and takes you on a voyage of discovery of the world's seas: the Atlantic, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean... The tropical greenhouse is surprising, but it 's the Shark Theater that impresses most. A fascinating space to learn more about these often misunderstood predators in one of France's most beautiful aquariums.
Good to know: As Charente-Maritime's leading tourist attraction, the aquarium attracts many visitors, especially in summer and on rainy days. For a more enjoyable visit, Petit Futé advises you to go as soon as it opens in the morning, or in the evening from 6pm, when the atmosphere becomes even more magical. In July and August, take advantage of nocturnes until 11pm for a unique experience!
Read more: Top 19 theme parks in France
3. Nausicaà - Boulogne-sur-Mer (Pas-de-Calais)
Located on the Côte d'Opale in Boulogne-sur-Mer, Nausicaá - Centre National de la Mer - is one of the must-see attractions in the Hauts-de-France region. Europe's largest aquarium, it's the ideal place for a family getaway. Much more than just an observation area, Nausicaá raises awareness among young and old alike of the crucial issues involved in preserving the oceans, through an experience that's both fun and educational. The Voyage en Haute Mer exhibition plunges visitors into the heart of the ocean, with sound and visual installations recreating the movement of the waters and the life of the great marine species. Two flagship attractions are particularly impressive: an impressive 18-metre-long tunnel, where you find yourself surrounded by fish swimming overhead, and a gigantic 20-metre-long bay offering a close-up view of an incredible diversity of species, including majestic manta rays.
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Read more: Nausicaá: journey to the heart of the ocean in Europe's largest aquarium
4. Cité de la Mer - Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Located in the former Gare Maritime Transatlantique, La Cité de la Mer is one of Cherbourg's must-see attractions, dedicated to ocean exploration and the relationship between man and the sea. The adventure begins aboard Le Redoutable, the world's largest visitable submarine. Among the key experiences, "Ocean on Tap" transports you into the world of underwater sound: an astonishing immersion where you'll discover the incredible sounds emitted by marine species and can even (virtually) pilot a submarine! Then it's on to "The Ocean of the Future", a spectacular space where 17 colorful aquariums invite you to explore the planet's last wilderness. Don't miss theAquarium Abyssal, a vertiginous 10.70 m-high water column offering a fascinating recreation of a Tahitian atoll. La Cité de la Mer also lets you relive the last hours of the Titanic, which called at Cherbourg. Immerse yourself in the history of this legendary liner through an immersive staging, authentic objects from the wreck and a poignant reconstruction of the atmosphere on board.
Good to know: Allow a full day for this unique experience ! As soon as you arrive, don't forget to ask for the digital tour companion, Poisson Pilote, to enhance your discovery. Take advantage of our partner's rates by booking here your tickets for La Cité de la Mer !
Read more: Top 14 of the most beautiful zoos and animal parks to visit in France
5. Planet Océan Montpellier (Hérault)
Get ready for an immersive adventure through the world's oceans at Planet Ocean Montpellier, one of France's most beautiful aquariums! This unique aquarium invites you to explore the richness of the marine abyss through some 30 tanks housing almost 300 species. Here, protecting biodiversity is a priority: every day, the caretakers look after the 5,000 residents, ensuring their well-being and taking an active part in preservation and conservation missions. The fun, interactive and scientific tour begins in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, before taking you to meet a colony of penguins in a nature reserve. Then it's on to the depths with an immersion in a hyper-realistic submarine, before crossing a coral lagoon, a tropical forest and a mangrove swamp. A must-see in Montpellier!
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Good to know: Throughout the year, free conferences address major themes such as climate change, sustainable management of marine resources and the Earth's unique place in the Universe. The aquarium also takes part in major events such as World Ocean Day, the Fête de la Science and European Fishing Week.
Read more: What to do in the Hérault? 19 must-sees and must-visits
6. The Grand Aquarium in Saint Malo (Ille-et-Vilaine)
Get ready for a fascinating immersion in the aquatic world at the Grand Aquarium de Saint Malo ! From the icy abysses to the crystal-clear waters of the tropics, over 600 species and 10,000 fish await you for an unforgettable show. Explore ten universes representing different marine environments and marvel at unique immersive experiences. Cross the Ring of the Seas, a 360° panoramic aquarium, and plunge into the mysterious atmosphere of a sunken galleon. You can also board the Nautibus or be surprised by theAbyssal Descender, a sensory experience that transports you to the ocean depths.
Want to go further? Become a caretaker for a day and get up close and personal with these incredible marine creatures. A magical visit that will enchant the whole family and is one of Saint-Malo's must-sees.
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7. Seaquarium - Grau du Roi (Gard)
With over 2,400 m² dedicated to marine life, the Seaquarium invites you on a fascinating exploration of the oceans. Here, over 2,000 fish from the Mediterranean and the Tropics swim alongside impressive sharks, curious seals and playful sea lions. Conceived as a truly interactive journey, the Seaquarium's exhibits, workshops and immersive activities makelearning fun. Throughout the year, events and activities enhance this unique experience, supported by an institute committed to protecting the coast and raising awareness of marine biodiversity. A captivating visit that will amaze young and old alike in one of France's most beautiful aquariums.
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8. Museum-Aquarium - Nancy (Meurthe-et-Moselle)
A veritable institution since 1930, the Museum-Aquarium (MAN) is a must-see if you're visiting Nancy. Immerse yourself in an exceptional aquatic universe through some sixty aquariums housing 220 species of freshwater, tropical or temperate saltwater, and even brackish water. Seahorses, clownfish, pufferfish, eels, rays and flying scorpionfish move about in settings inspired by the waters of America, Africa, Asia, the Pacific and the Caribbean.
But the exploration doesn't stop there! Upstairs, a 400 m² gallery displays nearly 600 specimens from the heritage collections: butterflies, insects, mammals, fossils, the great shark and giant squid rub shoulders with zoological treasures for a journey through the ages in one of France's finest aquariums.
Please note free admission on the first Sunday of the month and reduced rates after 5pm. A captivating outing for the whole family!
9. Aquarium du Limousin - Limoges (Haute-Vienne)
Housed in a former vaulted water reservoir - a setting as unusual as it is magical - the Aquarium de Limoges invites you to plunge into a fascinating world where over 3,800 animals evolve before your very eyes. Along the way, you'll see emblematic species such as giant catfish, sturgeon and electric fish, not forgetting coral reef stars like the clownfish, surgeonfish and kashmir fish. Thrill-seekers will be impressed by Teddy and Lili, two majestic blacktip sharks, and the stonefish, considered the most dangerous in the world. Blue-spotted rays, guitar rays, turtles and other aquatic reptiles complete this immersive dive in one of Limoges' must-sees.
Since it opened in 1993, the Aquarium de Limoges has also been the only aquatic animal sanctuary in Central France, playing an essential role in species preservation.
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10. Biarritz Aquarium (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)
In Biarritz, the Cité de l'Océan invites you to explore the mysteries of the oceans in a fun, interactive and sensational way, thanks to state-of-the-art technology. Here, every experience is an adventure in its own right! Have you always dreamed of surfing the perfect wave? With Virtual Surf, feel the adrenalin of a pro and climb onto the podium. Surf Sensation 5D puts you squarely in the shoes of a surfer, standing on a board and wearing a virtual reality helmet. Thrill-seekers can board the Bathyscaphe, a dynamic 4D cinema, or push back their limits with Seaborg, an immersive journey into the open sea. Dive into the heart of the underwater world with Virtual Trip 360° and discover the fascinating expedition 700 sharks in the night, where you'll swim right into the heart of a pack of predators in Polynesia.This is one of the most beautiful aquariums in France and a must-do in Biarritz!
To book: Take advantage of our partner's special rates and book your ticket your ticket for the Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz.
Read more: Visiting the Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz: information and tips
11. Océarium - Le Croisic (Loire-Atlantique)
With 55 aquariums and more than 4,000 fish, the Océarium du Croisic offers a wide range of aquatic diversity: yellow surgeonfish, clownfish, Napoleon fish, moray eels, not to mention 25 sharks and 25 penguins. The tour takes you on a journey of exotic stops: the Lagoon, Australian sharks, the Cyclades, Belle-Île, Île d'Yeu, Vancouver Island, and of course the underwater tunnel for total immersion. Younger visitors will particularly appreciate the touch pool and the adventurer's notebooks for solving fascinating riddles. And don't miss the highlights of the visit: feeding the penguins and fish in the tunnel, accompanied by commentary on the sharks by the groomers. A must-see experience in Le Croisic!
Click here to book your ticket for the Océarium du Croisic.
12. Aquarium de Lyon - Lyon (Rhône)
One of the most beautiful aquariums in France, the Aquarium de Lyon in the Confluence district of Lyon invites you on a captivating journey into the depths of the aquatic world. With over 3,000 fish, representing almost 300 species, divided into 39 ecosystems, this space offers a veritable tour of the underwater world. Much more than a place for observation, the aquarium provides a better understanding of the diversity and specific characteristics of each species, thanks to explanations accessible to all. Young and old alike will marvel at the shark pit and the Reefs of the World, two must-see exhibits. An ideal activity if you're wondering what to do with children in Lyon!
Click here to book your ticket for the Aquarium de Lyon.
See also: Top 15 free activities in Lyon
13. Aquarium Tropical de la Porte Dorée - Paris
Created in 1931 for the Colonial Exhibition, the Tropical Aquarium at the Palais de la Porte Dorée today houses an incredible collection of 5,000 animals representing 300 species. During your visit, you'll discover fascinating fish such as primitive fish, true witnesses of evolution, as well as surprising species such as electric fish, catfish, mandarin fish, archer fish and piranhas. The aquarium is also home to invertebrates and even alligators, for a unique immersion in waters from all over the world. An ideal activity if you're visiting Paris as a family with children!
Click here to book your ticket for the Aquarium tropical de la Porte Dorée.
See also: What to do in Paris when it rains? 13 ideas for activities
14. Oceanographic Museum - Monaco
Discover the wonders of the Mediterranean and explore underwater life through a unique exhibition at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, perched on the Rock and one of the city's must-see attractions! Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I of Monaco, it captivates all visitors with its cabinet of curiosities, whale skeletons, aquarium and sea turtle tank facing the sea. The Museum, one of the most beautiful aquariums in France, also offers numerous activities for children: animations, games, vacation courses, and even an escape game.
For reservations : click here to book your tickets for the Monaco Oceanographic Museum.
Read more: Discover the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco!
15. Sea Life - Marne-La-Vallée (Seine-et-Marne)
Welcome to the Aquarium de Chessy, a fun and educational space with play areas, an adventure pack and interactive workshops. Here, you can explore the marine world in a fun and educational way, in contact with over 2,500 marine animals, including clownfish, octopus, seahorses and sea turtles. Admire the manatee house and cross the 360-degree ocean tunnel for a fascinating encounter with sharks. Watch the animals being fed, and discover starfish, crabs, sea anemones and even a shark's egg through an underwater camera.
Click here to book your ticket for the Sea Life Val d'Europe aquarium.
