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Explore a marine wonderland at Istanbul Aquarium

Go on an underwater journey at Istanbul Aquarium and see marine life from the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Amazon rainforest. With its 18 habitat zones and about 1,500 species like sha...

Also Known As

Istanbul Akvaryum, Flora Aquarium

Founded On

2011

About

Quick information

ADDRESS

Şenlikköy, Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. No:93, 34153 Florya/İstanbul, Türkiye

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

Timings

10am–7pm

VISITORS PER YEAR

1000000

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

Every land and sea creature at Istanbul Aquarium lives in a zone designed to mirror its actual habitat as closely as possible.

Its 64 tanks hold a staggering 7,000 cubic metres or 7 million litres of water.

Quick facts about Istanbul Aquarium

Capacity: 7 million litres

No. of tanks: 64

No. of habitats: 18

No. of animals: More than 15,000

No. of species: 1,500

Popular animals: Lemon Shark, Sand Tiger Shark, Sandbar Shark, Reef Shark, Stingrays, Gentoo Penguins, Red-bellied Piranhas, Cownose Ray, Eagle Ray, Mediterranean Moray, Spotted Garden Eel, Clownfish, Humphead Wrasse.

Highlights of the Istanbul Aquarium

Habitats

There are 18 habitats at Istanbul Aquarium, connected by a 1.2 km route with 64 tanks that house 1,500 species of marine creatures. These zones are designed to replicate the animals’ natural environments as closely as possible. The most popular zones include the Amazon rainforest and the Pacific Ocean.

Observation areas

Visit the aquarium’s observation areas in the Marmara and the Pacific Ocean habitats to observe the sharks, rays, and other marine animals. The viewing panels in these zones measure 8 by 4 metres (27 by 13 feet), giving you a huge, scenic window into the depths of the ocean.

Underwater glass tunnel

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to stand at the bottom of the sea, surrounded by fish, the aquarium’s underwater glass tunnel is your answer. You’ll see sharks and rays majestically glide by above you while thousands of smaller fish dart around. It’s one of the most magnificent sights at the aquarium.

Live feeding sessions

Catch the live feeding sessions at the aquarium, one of the most popular activities. Get the chance to see the animals up close and observe their eating habits. The feeding areas are located in the main tank shared between the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Western Atlantic, and Panama Canal habitats.

Touch pools

Meet starfish and sea urchins at the aquarium’s touch pool, located at the Suez Canal zone. One of the highlights of the aquarium is that it gives you the chance to interact with these animals under the supervision of the aquarium’s expert staff. It’s a rare and unique opportunity to connect with marine life.

5D cinema

Take a virtual 5D journey into the underwater abyss at the aquarium’s cinema. Sit back in your seats and watch a panoramic film, accompanied by fog, wind, and water effects, which make you feel like you’re at the bottom of the ocean.

Discover the habitats at Istanbul Aquarium

1/18

Habitat: Black Sea

What to see here: Russian Sturgeon

Sharks

At Istanbul Aquarium, you'll see Lemon sharks, Sand tiger sharks, Sandbar sharks, and Reef sharks.

See all photos

Frequently asked questions about Istanbul Aquarium

Why should I visit the Istanbul Aquarium?

It’s one of Turkey’s largest aquariums and is home to over 15,000 marine animals. It has a 1.2-kilometer route of exploration that takes you through 18 geographical habitats, with animals like sharks, rays, penguins, piranhas, and many more.

How do I book Istanbul Aquarium tickets?

You can purchase your Istanbul Aquarium tickets online. Booking online is easy and convenient. You can buy your tickets in advance, choose a day and time that best suits you, and your entry is reserved upon confirmation of payment.

What are the Istanbul Aquarium opening hours?

The aquarium is open on weekdays from 10am to 7pm, and on weekends, from 10am to 8pm.

What is the best time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium?

The aquarium is more crowded on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday. Reach the aquarium closer to the aquarium’s opening times on weekdays to avoid the rush later in the day.

What can I do at the Istanbul Aquarium?

At the aquarium, you can watch a live feeding session, take a walk in the underwater tunnel, spend time at the aquarium’s observation areas, watch a 5D film, and meet some animals at the touch pool.

Is Istanbul Aquarium wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the aquarium is accessible for wheelchair users and people with disabilities, including those with mobility problems. The route is navigable by wheelchair and there are designated elevators to move between floors.

Are there dining options available at Istanbul Aquarium?

Yes, there are restaurants and cafes at the aquarium where you can have a meal or a quick coffee and a snack. At the restaurant, which shares a large glass wall with the Panama Canal tank, you can enjoy your food while watching the fish.

Is photography allowed at the Istanbul Aquarium?

Yes, you can take pictures and videos at the aquarium. However, flash photography is not allowed.