Lisbon: Oceanário de Lisboa Guided Tour & Behind the Scenes

Imagine spending a couple of hours wandering through one of Europe’s most impressive aquariums, then getting a peek behind the curtain into how it operates. That’s exactly what this guided tour at the Oceanário de Lisboa offers, for just around $40 per person. Led by passionate guides, you’ll explore incredible exhibits featuring over 8,000 marine creatures from 500 species, then step behind the scenes to see how this marine sanctuary keeps its aquatic residents healthy and thriving.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see habitats representing the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans—each recreated with detailed care and realism. Plus, the privilege of visiting the saltwater factory and exclusive areas of the main aquarium offers an insider’s view that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A key consideration is that the “Behind-the-Scenes” part isn’t suitable for children under 13 or those with mobility challenges, so it’s best suited for older kids, teens, and adults who want a deeper understanding of marine conservation. Also, this isn’t a quick, superficial visit; it’s a well-structured tour that takes about 2 hours, making it a good choice for those with a few hours to spare in Lisbon.

Overall, if you’re interested in marine life, enjoy learning about conservation efforts, or simply appreciate well-organized guided experiences, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially valuable for travel enthusiasts who want a meaningful, educational outing that combines fun with insight.

Key Points

• Immersive exhibits showcase over 8,000 marine creatures from 500 species.
• Behind-the-scenes access reveals operational secrets like saltwater maintenance and breeding areas.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with passionate, knowledgeable commentary.
• Varied habitats from the Atlantic to Antarctic waters provide a comprehensive marine overview.
• Privileged views of the central aquarium are a highlight for photography and curiosity.
• Suitable for all ages, except for the behind-the-scenes visit, which has age and mobility restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Oceanário de Lisboa Guided Tour

When you start this tour at the Ticket Office, located conveniently at the entrance of the Oceanário, you immediately get a sense of the scale and complexity of this impressive facility. The guided exploration of the immersive exhibits is where we truly get our money’s worth. With over 8,000 marine creatures from 500 different species, the aquarium doesn’t just showcase fish; it offers a glimpse into the diversity of life beneath the waves.

One of the most striking features is the way the habitats are designed to resemble real ocean environments. The Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic sections are interconnected, creating a seamless underwater landscape. This design isn’t just aesthetic; it helps visitors understand the differences and similarities between these ecosystems.

Our guide was enthusiastic and full of interesting facts. We loved the way they explained how the aquarium balances animal care with conservation. For example, we learned about ongoing efforts to breed certain species like corals, which are vital for reef health but often difficult to sustain in captivity.

The highlight for many visitors is the chance to witness feeding sessions in the main aquarium, where the guide explains what the animals eat and how their diets are managed. According to reviews, this is a lucky moment; “we were lucky enough to see feeding in the main aquarium,” one visitor recalled, emphasizing how well-timed encounters make the tour memorable.

Behind the Scenes: Secrets of the Oceanário

After the main exhibit exploration, you’ll get to go behind the scenes—a true treat for those curious about the science and logistics of running such a large facility. Here, you’ll see how seven million liters of saltwater are carefully maintained—an impressive feat in itself. The tour takes you to the saltwater factory, where you’ll see firsthand how the aquarium produces and manages the water that sustains its marine life.

This part of the tour is where the educational value really shines. You’ll learn about feeding routines, animal health management, and breeding programs. The guides explain how they work to ensure the well-being of the animals and contribute to marine conservation efforts.

One review pointed out how this behind-the-scenes visit offers “an exclusive perspective,” which is true—most visitors only see the public areas, so this adds a whole new dimension. It’s a rare opportunity to explore the inner workings of a world-class aquarium, guided by specialists who are passionate about their work.

It’s worth noting, however, that this part of the tour isn’t suitable for children under 13 or those with reduced mobility, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with family members who fall into these categories.

What to Expect: The Experience and Practicalities

The tour lasts about two hours, which is enough time to enjoy the exhibits without feeling rushed. It begins inside the main exhibition areas, where your guide will lead you through the different ocean habitats. Expect to see colorful fish, playful sea otters, and imposing sharks, all explained with clarity and context.

The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for questions and personalized attention. Since the tour is guided in English and Portuguese, language barriers are minimal, especially if you’re fluent in either.

Once you’ve explored the main exhibits, you’ll proceed to the behind-the-scenes sections. Here, access is limited, so don’t expect a full-blown tour of every operational area but rather a curated look at some of the most interesting parts, like the saltwater plant and breeding tanks.

The experience ends back inside the main exhibit space, leaving you free to revisit your favorite sections or enjoy additional time exploring the aquarium on your own. No transportation is included, so plan your arrival and departure accordingly.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $40 per person, this tour offers excellent value for marine enthusiasts and those wanting a deeper understanding of how aquariums operate. The combination of guided exploration and behind-the-scenes access is a rare treat, especially since the latter is typically only available to staff or researchers.

Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later—and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind. The tour is well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy learning about science and conservation.

The only caveat is that transportation isn’t included—so you’ll need to plan how to get to and from the Oceanário. Also, keep in mind that children under 13 and individuals with mobility issues** may not be able to access the behind-the-scenes part.

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Why This Tour Will Delight You

We loved the knowledgeable guides who clearly care about marine life and conservation. Their passion makes the experience engaging and educational, especially when explaining complex topics like saltwater management and breeding programs.

The stunning views and realistic habitats make the exhibits captivating. Watching the colorful fish dart through coral reefs or observing the gentle sway of the kelp forest felt like a mini underwater vacation.

For travelers interested in marine biology, conservation, or simply seeking a meaningful activity in Lisbon, this tour hits the sweet spot. It combines entertainment with education, making it perfect for curious minds and families alike.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided tour of the Oceanário de Lisboa is an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just a casual visit. If you’re passionate about marine life, conservation, or science, you’ll find this experience enriching and inspiring. The behind-the-scenes access offers a unique window into the daily life of a leading aquariums, making it a memorable highlight of your Lisbon trip.

Even if you’re not a marine buff, the opportunity to see diverse ocean habitats and watch feeding sessions is charming and fun. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise make it an engaging experience for adults and older children.

Keep in mind that mobility and age restrictions for the behind-the-scenes part mean this isn’t for everyone, but the core exhibit tour remains accessible and engaging for all.

In the end, this tour provides a well-rounded, educational, and visually stunning glimpse into the underwater world—definitely worth considering if you want to add a meaningful, science-focused activity to your Lisbon itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to plan how to get to and from the Oceanário de Lisboa on your own.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including guided exploration and behind-the-scenes access, lasts about two hours—a manageable amount of time to enjoy without fatigue.

Are children allowed on the behind-the-scenes part?
No, the behind-the-scenes tour is not accessible to children under 13 or those with reduced mobility, but the main exhibit tour is suitable for all ages.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is available in English and Portuguese. Guides are bilingual and knowledgeable.

Is there a chance to see the animals being fed?
Yes, many visitors have the luck of witnessing feeding sessions, which are often highlights of the tour.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

This guided tour of Lisbon’s Oceanário offers an engaging blend of marine wonder and behind-the-scenes insights, making it a worthwhile addition for anyone interested in fish, conservation, or just seeking a well-organized, informative outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: