Barcelona Aquarium Entry Tickets with Underwater Shark Tunnel

The Oceanarium and its shark tunnel

The Oceanarium is the heart of Barcelona Aquarium and the reason many people book Barcelona Aquarium tickets. It is a large circular tank, five metres deep and 36 metres across, crossed by a transparent tunnel about 80 metres long. As you walk through it, sharks, sea bream, moray eels and rays glide around and above you.

The tunnel is among the longest of its kind in Europe, and the moving walkway makes it easy for children and less mobile visitors to enjoy. Many visitors slow down here to take photos, so allow more time than the walkway suggests.

Mediterranean and tropical aquariums

Beyond the Oceanarium, the aquarium follows a journey from the Mediterranean Sea to warmer tropical waters. Spaces inspired by the Medes Islands and the Ebro Delta show the sea life that lives on Catalonia's own coast, and other tanks show seahorses, sea dragons, jellyfish and colourful reef fish.

The Mediterranean is the main theme, with a strong message about marine conservation. Texts are offered in four languages, including English, so you can follow along without a guide. In total there are more than 80 tanks, which makes for a varied and educational visit.

Immersive and interactive rooms for families

The newly renewed aquarium adds more interactive spaces, including Europe's largest interactive digital floor, an immersive room called Journey to the Depths, and areas where children can design a digital fish and see it swim in a virtual ocean. The mangrove area and the conservation-themed rooms use games and sensory installations to teach visitors of all ages.

The Planeta Aqua exhibition uses all five senses to show why water matters for the planet, and it is a natural stop for younger visitors. A café and a shop are available at the end of the visit.

Planning your visit and getting to Port Vell

The aquarium is at Port Vell, close to the Maremagnum shopping area and the end of La Rambla, so it combines easily with a walk along the harbour. The nearest metro station is Drassanes, and Barceloneta is also within walking distance. Allow around two hours for the visit.

Opening hours change by season, and the last entry slot is roughly an hour and a half before closing. Choose your date and time in the booking panel and arrive punctually, especially if you pick one of the last slots. Families with young children often find mornings calmer, so choose an earlier slot if you can.