Barcelona Aquarium – Dive into a Family Underwater Adventure

Explore Barcelona Aquarium at Port Vell — walk through the shark tunnel, meet penguins, and enjoy hands-on marine fun for the whole family.

BARCELONA WITH KIDSATTRACTIONS

Essi

9/17/20252 min read

Sharks, Penguins & Rays: Family Fun at the Aquarium

Dive into an underwater world right in the heart of the city at the Barcelona Aquarium — one of the largest and most important marine centers in Europe. For families looking for unforgettable things to do in Barcelona with kids, it’s a place where curiosity and excitement flow together.

Children will love walking through the 80-meter shark tunnel, watching penguins play, and spotting colorful Mediterranean fish just inches away. Parents, meanwhile, can appreciate how the aquarium combines fun with education, teaching little ones about marine ecosystems in a way that feels like pure adventure.

Recently, the aquarium was renovated with new species and cutting-edge technology, making the experience even more engaging and up to date. Whether it’s your first time in Barcelona or a return visit, the aquarium offers a magical family outing that delights toddlers, teenagers, and adults alike.

Why Families Love It

  • The Oceanarium – A 80-meter glass tunnel where sharks, rays, and colorful fish swim all around you.

  • Mediterranean focus – Unique exhibits highlighting the rich marine life of the local sea, perfect for kids to connect with their surroundings.

  • Interactive children’s spaces – Touch pools, hands-on exhibits, and play areas where young explorers can learn while having fun.

  • Central location – Easy to combine with a family stroll along the harbor or a meal in the Maremagnum shopping complex next door.

What to Expect

  • 35 large tanks with over 450 species, from tiny seahorses to giant sunfish.

  • Penguin habitat – always a favorite with kids.

  • Explora! zone – a dedicated children’s area with interactive displays and discovery games.

  • Daily feedings and talks – check the schedule for shark and ray feeding times.

Tips for Visiting

  • Great choice for rainy or hot days, since it’s fully indoors.

  • Best for all ages — toddlers will love the colors and water-themed play zones, while older kids will be fascinated by the shark tunnel and diving experiences.

  • Arrive earlier in the morning to avoid the busiest times.

  • Combine with a harbor boat ride or shopping stop for a full family day out.

  • Bring a stroller if needed — the aquarium is stroller-friendly.

Tickets

You can buy tickets for the Barcelona Aquarium both online and at the entrance. To skip the queues and guarantee your visit, it’s best to book in advance.

The easiest option is through the official Barcelona Tickets website, available in English with instant confirmation.

Why It’s a Must-Do

The Barcelona Aquarium offers families a chance to step into another world — one filled with sharks, penguins, rays, and countless species of marine life. It’s educational, interactive, and spectacular, all within a convenient central location.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable family outing by the sea, Barcelona Aquarium is the perfect mix of learning, fun, and wow-factor.