Paris Aquarium (Aquarium de Paris)
5 Ave. Albert de Mun, Paris, Île-de-France, 75016
Located across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower, the Paris Aquarium—also known as the Cinéaqua—is the most prominent aquarium in the city. Host to a shark tunnel, more than 10,000 marine species, a movie theater, and other attractions, it was founded in the 19th century, making it one of the world’s first aquariums. Visit this family-friendly destination to admire diverse critters that hail from French waters and overseas French territories.
The Basics
Located on the site of the former Trocadéro Aquarium, which was built for the 1878 World’s Fair, the Paris Aquarium has long been a popular, family-friendly destination in central Paris. Closed for a period of renovation between 1985 and 2006, the aquarium is now host to over 10,000 sea creatures (or 450 individual species) that hail from French waters and overseas French territories. Its shark tank is a major highlight, as is the recently added Médusarium: the largest jellyfish tank in Europe.
Tickets to the Paris Aquarium can be booked in advance online for your convenience. Given the landmark’s proximity to other major Paris attractions, it’s simple to plan an independent visit as part of a sightseeing excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Paris Aquarium has on-site dining options and a free cloakroom.
The aquarium is fully accessible to strollers and to visitors with limited mobility.
Guided tours for larger groups can be booked in advance.
The on-site shop sells a range of aquatic-themed souvenirs.
How to Get There
The Paris Aquarium is located in the 16th arrondissement’s Trocadéro Gardens. To visit the aquarium by Metro, take line 6 or 9 to Trocadéro station. The aquarium is also served by the RER C, which stops at the nearby Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel station, as well as bus lines 22, 30, 32, 63, and 82. It can additionally be reached on foot, by taxi, or by Vélib’ bike.
When to Get There
The Paris Aquarium is open daily 10am–7pm (last entry is at 6pm, except on Saturdays, when late opening hours extend to 10pm). It is open on most major public holidays, with the exception of Bastille Day (July 14). The Paris Aquarium also hosts special holiday events, ranging from Easter egg hunts to Valentine’s Day festivities; research in advance to see what’s on.
The Eiffel Tower
The Paris Aquarium is a popular, family-friendly destination in its own right, and it also offers one of the city’s best views of the Eiffel Tower. Pause to capture photos of the world-famous landmark, or even cross the river Seine via the Pont d’Iéna for an up-close visit following your aquarium excursion.
Ways to explore
Given the Paris Aquarium’s proximity to other major city attractions, it’s simple to plan an independent visit to break up a sightseeing excursion or hop-on hop-off bus tour. Book tickets in advance online to avoid a wait at the entrance, and spend a few hours admiring colorful marine life from across the globe, plus all kinds of shows, films, and educational presentations. Check the website to reserve tickets for any programs that interest you.
Accessibility
The Paris Aquarium is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible elevators, parking spaces, and visitor routes.
Age limits
With kid-focused educational shows and presentations, the aquarium is an ideal attraction for visitors of all ages.
What to pack
Camera and battery pack, water bottle
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, layers
Not allowed
Luggage and large bags, scooters, helmets
Amenities
Restrooms, gift shop, café
Address
The Paris Aquarium is located in the 16th arrondissement’s Trocadéro Gardens, opposite the Eiffel Tower. It’s easy to visit by public transportation, or walk from nearby attractions. Driving isn’t recommended, since there isn’t any parking.
Driving
Though you can approach the aquarium along Avenue des Nations Unies, the building is set inside the park and there is no parking. Arrive by taxi or with public transportation to skip the hassle of driving.
Public transportation
To visit the aquarium by metro, take line 6 to Trocadéro station or 9 to Iéna station. The aquarium is also served by the RER C, which stops at the nearby Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel station, as well as bus lines 30, 32, 63, and 82.
Best times to visit
The aquarium tends to get busy with school groups in the morning, so visit in the afternoon—or on Saturday evening, when extended hours keep the doors open until 9pm—to avoid crowds.
Best days to visit
Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days of the week, especially during inclement weather. Weekday afternoons are the best option for a quieter visit.
Best months to visit
The aquarium is completely indoors, making it comfortable to visit year round. From spring through fall, you can pair your trip with time in the Trocadéro Gardens.
Special events
The Paris Aquarium hosts temporary exhibitions and events. These are constantly changing, so check the website in advance to see what’s on.
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