The entrance fee for Aquarium de Paris in 2025 is 25€ per adult. Seniors aged 65 and above pay a reduced rate of 18€, while students can enter for 20€ upon presenting valid identification. Children from 3 to 11 years old can visit for 12€, and those under 3 years of age can enter free of charge. From June through August, the aquarium welcomes visitors daily between 10:00 and 20:00; for the rest of the year, visiting hours run from 10:00 to 19:00. We visited Aquarium de Paris on January 22, 2025, and these details reflect the conditions as of that date.
History and Main Sections
Aquarium de Paris traces its origins to the late 19th century. Initially constructed to coincide with the 1878 World’s Fair, it served as a pioneering venue for bringing the wonders of aquatic life to the general public. Over the decades, the facility expanded and underwent extensive renovations, particularly in the early 2000s, to incorporate modern technology and improved living conditions for marine species. This revamp also introduced interactive displays and educational areas, offering visitors of all ages a more engaging and insightful experience.
Upon entering, visitors pass through a lobby leading into the first set of galleries. These smaller exhibits highlight colorful coral reef inhabitants such as clownfish, seahorses, and a variety of tropical species. Beyond this introductory area lies a substantial collection of freshwater habitats, showcasing river ecosystems from different continents. We find this section especially informative, as it sheds light on the diversity of aquatic environments beyond the ocean. Farther along, the shark tunnel stands out as a focal point, allowing visitors to walk beneath a mesmerizing display of sharks and other fish as they glide through the water. Near the tunnel, a dedicated lagoon area focuses on marine life found in French territorial waters, illustrating the unique ecosystems located closer to home. An adjacent jellyfish section offers a captivating view of these delicate creatures in softly illuminated tanks, creating a tranquil yet striking ambiance.
At the lower level, an interactive zone presents opportunities for hands-on learning, featuring touch pools where children can have a safe encounter with select marine species. Live feeding sessions take place at scheduled times, and we encourage checking the aquarium’s timetable upon arrival to enjoy demonstrations that highlight the animals’ behaviors and feeding habits. We usually allocate two to three hours for a comprehensive visit, as the variety of exhibits and educational talks can easily fill an afternoon.
Recommendations and Tips
We suggest wearing comfortable footwear and keeping a camera ready, although flash photography is restricted in certain sections to protect sensitive species. We also recommend arriving early if you wish to experience the feeding presentations without heavy crowds. For those looking for a calm moment, there are seating areas throughout the aquarium that allow you to pause and appreciate the aquatic life around you.
Aquarium de Paris
Nearby Attractions
After exploring the aquarium, the Trocadéro Gardens are a short walk away, offering panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. We suggest visiting the nearby Palais de Chaillot for additional cultural exhibits and an excellent vantage point of the city. For a meal, you might enjoy the refined cuisine at Le Café de l’Homme, while Café Kléber provides a more relaxed setting. If you have time to spare, the surrounding area features various souvenir shops and cafés where you can rest or pick up a few keepsakes. We recommend ending your excursion with a leisurely walk along the Seine, which complements the aquarium experience by showcasing another facet of Parisian charm.