At the edge of the Port Vell, where the old harbour meets the sea, L’Aquàrium de Barcelona is one of the most visited attractions in the city and one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Its 80-metre transparent tunnel through a shark tank — with sharks, rays, and large pelagic fish gliding overhead — remains one of the most viscerally impressive experiences Barcelona has to offer.
The Mediterranean Focus
The aquarium’s permanent collection focuses primarily on Mediterranean marine ecosystems — the sea that surrounds Barcelona and that has shaped Catalan culture for millennia. The 35 tanks cover everything from the rock pools of the Catalan coast to the deep waters of the continental shelf, presenting the extraordinary biodiversity of a sea that is often underestimated. Seahorses, octopuses, moray eels, groupers, and enormous schools of anchovies are among the highlights.
The Oceanarium and Shark Tunnel
The centrepiece is the 36-metre-diameter Oceanarium — a circular tank holding 4 million litres of water and housing sand tiger sharks, large rays, and hundreds of other species. The 80-metre walkway passes through the tank via a transparent tunnel, giving visitors a 360-degree view of the sharks swimming overhead. It’s an experience that never quite loses its ability to impress, regardless of age.
Practical Information
L’Aquàrium is at Moll d’Espanya in Port Vell, a short walk from the Barceloneta metro station (L4) or Drassanes (L3). Open daily from 10am; closing times vary by season. Book tickets online to avoid queues, especially during school holidays and summer months.