Turn your getaway into a total immersion experience at the largest aquarium in Europe. Allow half a day to explore the tanks and enjoy the shows. Book now to secure your spots.
Prices and conditions
From 30 €.
Experience the next level of spectacular at Europe's largest aquarium.
Thousands of visitors have already booked their visit: reviews and testimonials
★ 4.6/5 · 12 reviews collected directly from visitors and moderated by Visit Tickets
"A must-see for our children! The Malpelo tank is stunning, you feel like you're in the ocean. The underwater tunnel is a masterstroke, fish swim right above you. The visit takes a good half-day, so plan accordingly. The staff was very attentive and explained the coral nursery center with passion. Only frustration: the queue for the shows, we arrived 15 minutes early as advised."
"A very beautiful museum, but the price of €31.50 is a bit steep for the content. The Coasts and Men exhibition is well documented, you learn quite a bit about maritime history. The tunnel in the main tank is superb for photos. Note that it is cool in the tanks, we were warm with the children. The walk to the beach after the visit is a plus for stretching your legs."
"We came as a couple and it was magical. The Grand Large augmented reality experience is truly immersive, you feel like you are diving in the open sea. The explanations are clear and the place is well organized. We booked online so there was no queue at the entrance. The food is simple, we had lunch before 11:30 as advised to avoid the crowds. A perfect escape near Boulogne. - author: Sophie R., location: Brussels"
"For a family with two children, it is paradise. The 10,000 m3 Malpelo tank is impressive, sharks and rays swim very close to the tunnel. The children loved seeing the penguins and sea lions. The climate exhibition is well presented, we learned many concrete things. Bring a light sweater, it is cool in the rooms. The exit to the beach after the visit is a real bonus."
"Very well designed, even if the 4h30 duration is long for the younger ones. The educational aspect is strong, particularly thanks to the mission of the coral nursery center. The shows are well done, but the time slots are rigid, you must check the schedule carefully. We avoided the crowds by arriving at opening at 9:30 AM. The underwater tunnel offers superb photos, beware of reflections, we had to turn off the flash."
"Truly above what we had seen in other aquariums in Europe. The main tank is gigantic and the transparent tunnel allows you to feel surrounded by marine life. The In the Eye of the Climate exhibition is engaging and well done, you leave with good resolutions. The staff is welcoming. We took skip-the-line tickets online, essential during peak times. The beachside setting is ideal for the end of the day."
"Discovered it solo, it was a moment of calm and wonder. The Malpelo tank is soothing, you can stay a long time in front of the tunnel without getting bored. The architecture is modern and the paths are well thought out. The exhibition on the relationship between man and the sea is fascinating. I really recommend coming early, the place is crowded in the afternoon. The proximity to the sea allows you to finish the visit with a relaxing walk. - author: Nadia K., location: Antwerp"
"Beautiful site, but the €31.50 price tag is a barrier for some. The animations are nice and the staff explains well, especially about the coral nursery center which is a real leader in Europe. The shows are not to be missed, we arrived 15 minutes early. The on-site food is correct but expensive, we preferred to have lunch before. The wait at the entrance can be long without an online reservation."
"It is the second tourist site in the North, you understand why when you go there. The Malpelo tank is a concentration of marine life, the 10,000 m3 give an impressive scale. The Coasts and Men exhibition is well documented. We loved the tunnel, sharks pass right in front. The place is well thought out for families, with accessible explanations. The walk to the beach after the visit is a real bonus."
"Very good welcome, the staff is attentive. The educational aspect is well balanced, particularly with the exhibition on ecological awareness. The underwater tunnel of the Malpelo tank is the highlight, we took beautiful photos. Note that the place is large and the visit can be tiring, especially with small children. We booked online to avoid the queue at the entrance, a real time saver. The weather was mild, we could enjoy the terraces."
"A total immersive experience, especially with the Grand Large augmented reality extension. You really feel in the open sea, it is stunning. The main tank lives up to its reputation as the largest aquarium in Europe. The shows are well choreographed and the staff explains with passion. We followed the advice to have lunch early to avoid the crowds. A site to do again without hesitation, until the opening of Grand Nord in 2028. - author: Julien C., location: Ghent"
"Came as seniors, we appreciated the quality of the explanations and the cleanliness of the place. The Malpelo tank is a real spectacle, the transparent tunnel allows you to see marine life up close. The exhibition on the history of the sea is well written. We took the skip-the-line ticket, a good choice to avoid the wait. The place is a bit large, we had to take breaks, but it is pleasant by the sea. The proximity to the beach is a plus to rest."
Everything you need to plan your visit
PMR
Full access for people with reduced mobility with elevators and wide pathways.
Family
Spaces adapted for strollers and rest areas for infants.
Audio guide
French, English, Spanish
Current conditions and forecast to plan your visit
A European reference since 1991
Annual visitors
Malpelo tank volume
Coral breeding
Grand Nord Opening
Nausicaá is much more than just an aquarium; it is a major scientific center welcoming over 800,000 visitors per year. Located in Boulogne-sur-Mer, it holds the European record thanks to its immense 10,000 m3 tank dedicated to Malpelo Island. This ranking makes it the second most visited tourist site north of Paris, just behind Astérix.
Inaugurated in 1991, this complex pays homage to the Phaeacian princess from the Odyssey while recalling the former local casino. Its mission goes beyond simple tourism: it has become the first coral breeding center in Europe. This scientific expertise helps preserve endangered species while offering a living spectacle for families coming to discover exceptional marine biodiversity.
The ecological commitment is strengthened with the exhibition « Dans l'œil du climat » (In the Eye of Climate), opened in 2020. It aims to actively raise public awareness, particularly among younger generations, about ocean preservation issues. A recent agreement with ADEME confirms this essential educational approach to understanding human impact on marine resources.
The future of the site looks ambitious with the « Grand Nord » project. Funded by the European Commission, this new extension will open its doors in 2028. It will offer an immersive theme centered on polar ecosystems, thus consolidating Nausicaá's position as a leader in maritime research and scientific mediation.
The tour often begins with « Des rivages et des Hommes », a fascinating historical exhibition. It traces the evolution of the relationship between man and the sea through the centuries. It is an excellent starting point to contextualize the biological richness you will subsequently discover in the various thematic tanks of the center.
The must-see remains the Malpelo Island tank, a true architectural and biological jewel. With its 10,000 m3 of water, it faithfully recreates the ecosystem of this isolated volcanic island. The underwater tunnel offers an unobstructed panoramic view of sharks, rays, and giant turtles, creating a magical moment for children and adults alike.
Since 2022, the « Grand large » (High Seas) exhibition offers innovative digital immersion. Thanks to augmented reality, visitors can virtually navigate the high seas and observe species that are difficult to capture. This modern technology perfectly complements traditional exhibitions and significantly enriches the overall experience offered to curious families.
Nausicaá is a vast place that requires time; allow at least half a day. It is crucial to check the specific showtimes on the day of your visit. Food distributions and diver interventions are scheduled at precise times that should not be missed to fully enjoy the activities.
The geographical location is ideal for combining culture and relaxation. Situated between the active fishing port and the beach of Boulogne-sur-Mer, the center allows for a seaside break after the visit. Take advantage of this to walk on the sand or admire the fishing boats, thus extending the marine immersion in an authentic natural setting.
For families, remember to bring warm clothes despite the season. The ambient coolness due to the air conditioning of the tanks can be felt, especially by young children. Furthermore, be sure to book your dated tickets online to secure your entry and benefit from advantageous rates adapted for children and groups.
Marine immersion and scientific discoveries
Insider tips
Presentations have fixed daily time slots. Arrive 15 minutes before each show to find a good spot near the Malpelo tank and avoid discomfort caused by dense crowds, particularly during fish feeding sessions.
Skip the lines at reception by booking in advance. Secure your time slot now to guarantee entry, especially during busy weekends and school holidays.
The underwater tunnel offers the best photographic views. Watch out for reflections if flash is prohibited: use night mode or lower exposure to capture the beauty of the sharks without disturbing the animals.
On-site restaurants are packed at noon. Prefer outdoor terraces if the weather is mild, or lunch before 11:30am to enjoy a quiet moment facing the sea during your visit, or opt for the quick self-service.
After the visit, take advantage of the immediate proximity to the beach. A short walk allows for a natural relaxation break, ideal for digesting your meal and peacefully observing the waves of the English Channel from the waterfront.
The marine chill and the tank air conditioning can be felt by children. Bring a light sweater or scarf to keep your little ones comfortable throughout the exploration.
Just a few minutes' walk away, the living port perfectly complements the marine theme. Watch the boats return with their day's catch to understand the direct link between the aquarium and the local profession.
The 'Dans l'œil du climat' (In the Eye of Climate) exhibition is educational and relevant for raising awareness among young people. Take the time to read the interactive panels to better understand current environmental issues related to oceans.
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Book my ticketsLittle-known anecdotes
Nausicaá holds this prestigious title thanks to its colossal 10,000 m3 tank. It faithfully reproduces the unique ecosystem of Malpelo Island, offering an unparalleled immersion for visitors curious about the high seas.
With an average of over 800,000 annual visitors, it outpaces all sites except Astérix north of Paris. This massive attendance testifies to its enduring appeal among families and school groups.
It is the largest coral breeding center in Europe, highlighting its major scientific mission. This #1 status in Europe reinforces its crucial role in preserving globally threatened coral reefs.
A new extension funded by the EU will open in 2028, focused on the Grand Nord. The European Commission has released €17 million for this ambitious project, which will considerably enrich the local cultural offer.
The 'Grand large' exhibition allows for digital immersion in the high seas since 2022. This technological innovation offers a unique sensory experience, perfectly complementing the traditional visit of the existing physical tanks.
The name pays homage to the Phaeacian princess from the Odyssey but also to the former casino on the site. The word 'Nausicaá' also recalls 'ca-si-no', in memory of the former Boulogne-sur-Mer casino that was located on this site.
Three itineraries depending on available time
Rich in history, the city of Boulogne-sur-Mer still bears the marks of its past.
From 78,38 €
Find the attraction and nearby places to visit
Make time to explore the surrounding area
5 min walk
Enjoy a seaside stroll after your visit to breathe the iodized air and observe boats offshore, from the neighboring marina.
10 min walk
Discover the largest fishing port in France with its lively auctions and restaurants offering ultra-fresh produce.
15 min walk
Admire this unique Gothic cathedral in the world with its wrought-iron spire dominating the historic city center.
12 min walk
Guided tour available of this iconic Art Nouveau tower, offering an unobstructed panoramic view of the bay and harbor.
8 min walk
Typical establishment serving mussels and fries and monkfish fillets right opposite the port, perfect for lunch.
3 min walk
Peaceful green space adjacent to Nausicaá, ideal for a relaxing break or a family picnic after your visit, with clear views of the ocean.
Estimated travel times from the main points in the city
Metro : Nausicaa (1 min walk) Bus : Nausicaá (1 min walk)
Find a hotel near Nausicaá
Everything you need to know before your visit
A preview of this exceptional place before your visit
See what to expect during your visit
Quick comparison with other major sites
| Nausicaá | Portvendres Aquarium | Océanopolis Brest | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of creation | 1991 | 1968 | 1991 |
| Indicative adult rate | 31,50€ | ~€15 | ~€19 |
| Recommended visit duration | Half-day | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours |
| Special feature | Largest aquarium in Europe | First French aquarium | Unique spherical architecture |
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