“The ocean in the heart of Lyon.” That’s not just a saying. It’s the reality awaiting you at the Aquarium de Lyon.
The Aquarium de Lyon opened its doors in 2002. Maurice Chichportiche founded it. He also founded the Grand aquarium Saint-Malo. Now, the Spanish group Aspro-Ocio owns it. This group also owns Aqualand parks.
Inside the Aquarium de Lyon, 39 ecosystems thrive. They house 3,000 specimens. These represent 300 species. It’s all staged within 1,000,000 liters of water.
The largest ecosystem is the shark pit. Its lower window is thick. It is 23 cm of Methacrylate. This resists the water’s force. You can see blacktip, zebra, and nurse sharks here.
The Aquarium de Lyon is organized into different zones. “La Confluence” features temperate freshwater fish. “La Balade tropicale” showcases tropical freshwater fish. “Les Récifs du monde” displays coral reefs. Finally, “Les curiosités marines” presents marine oddities.
For over 15 years, the Aquarium de Lyon has cultivated coral. They nurture at least 20 coral species. The aquarium also runs conservation programs. These focus on seahorses, clownfish, dogfish, and sharks.
Take part in themed encounters. These activities are available all year. They are suitable for the whole family. Observe the fish and learn their secrets. You can even watch the animals being fed live. Explore new activities around the shark pit. These include commentary, feeding, and diving demonstrations.
Do you want to identify a fish? The Aquarium partners with Fishipedia. This app offers descriptions in several languages.
Planning your visit? The Aquarium de Lyon is located at 7 rue Stéphan-Dechant, La Mulatière. It is open daily. Opening times are from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. The Aquarium closes exceptionally on January 1st and December 25th.
Tickets vary in price. An adult ticket costs between 15.50 and 18 euros. Child tickets are cheaper. There are also family passes. The Lyon City Card offers discounts.
The Aquarium de Lyon is accessible. It caters to visitors with visual disabilities. It’s also accessible for wheelchairs.
Getting there is easy. Take the M7 highway, exit number 2. Buses 8, 63, C7, C10, and 15 stop at Bastero Aquarium. Gare Perrache train station is 5 minutes away. Part Dieu station is 15 minutes. Saint Exupéry International Airport is 30 minutes away. Free parking is available.
Before resuming your journey, enjoy a break. Treat yourself to sweet or savory. The Aquarium de Lyon offers a panoramic view of the confluence. This is where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet.
So, dive into the depths. Explore the Aquarium de Lyon. Discover a world beneath the surface.