The Aquarium of Lyon is an indoor aquarium in La Mulatière, south of Lyon, with freshwater and marine habitats from France and other parts of the world. Its tanks bring together sharks, rays, seahorses, jellyfish and tropical fish, while a large shark tank and an underwater tunnel give the visit a close-up feel. Children can use interactive activities and touch a tank; adults can follow the route through different aquatic environments or pause on the benches. English descriptions appear at some exhibits, though much of the interpretation is in French.
Aquatic habitats from rivers to the sea
The Aquarium of Lyon is in La Mulatière, south of central Lyon, where the Rhône and Saône converge. Its exhibits cover freshwater and marine environments, including waters from France and tropical regions such as the Amazon. The route moves among different habitats, with fish and other aquatic animals displayed in themed tanks.
Species mentioned among the exhibits include sharks, rays, eels, seahorses and jellyfish. The large shark tank is a focal point, and an underwater tunnel lets you look through the water around you. The aquarium also has an Ocean360 room with an animated underwater experience.
A visit with children
Children can get close to the tanks, try interactive activities and use a touch tank. Some activities include quizzes and a colouring task that can be uploaded to a screen. The tanks are set at a height that makes it easier for children to see the animals without being carried.
Interpretation is mostly in French, although some exhibits have English descriptions. A translation app can help with the other displays. Benches are available for a pause during the visit.
Planning your time
A visit can take around 30 minutes if you move through the exhibits without stopping for the activities, or longer if you watch the animals at a slower pace and explore the interactive features. Fish-feeding times at the large tank are another reason to check the schedule on arrival.
Weekdays outside school holidays tend to be quieter than holiday periods. The aquarium has on-site parking, though finding a space can be harder when it is busy. Advance ticket booking is recommended.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at the Aquarium of Lyon?
Allow around 30 minutes for a quick visit, or up to about two hours if you stop for the interactive activities and spend longer at the tanks.
Is the Aquarium of Lyon suitable for children?
Yes. Children can use interactive activities, visit the touch tank and view tanks set at a child-friendly height.
Are the aquarium displays explained in English?
Some exhibits have English descriptions, but much of the interpretation is in French. A translation app can help with other displays.
Can you park at the Aquarium of Lyon?
On-site parking is available. It can be harder to find a space during busy periods.
