Bioparc Aquarium of Gijon Entry Ticket

Visiting the Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón offers a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world, featuring more than 60 aquariums filled with freshwater and saltwater species from around the globe. With a modest entry fee of $23, this experience provides a fantastic opportunity for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone curious about ocean life. It’s a spot that combines education with entertainment, all set in the beautiful surroundings of Asturias, Spain.

What really catches the eye is the way the aquarium manages to showcase an impressive range of species—over 2,000 cubic meters of water, in fact. From sharks and turtles to colorful tropical fish, every corner promises an engaging and educational experience. Our favorite aspect? The chance to get up close with some creatures in small pools, like starfish and sea cucumbers, making it ideal for tactile learning.

Of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to consider is that the visit is limited to a single day, so planning your timing is essential to soak in all the exhibits. This tour suits travelers of all ages, especially those keen on marine life, family groups looking for a fun educational outing, or anyone wanting a break from city sightseeing with a touch of nature.

Key Points

• Diverse Marine Life: Over 5,000 animals across 60 aquariums bring global seas and rivers to life.
• Educational and Interactive: Touch pools and detailed displays foster engaging learning experiences.
• Affordable Entry: At $23, it offers excellent value for a day packed with fascinating sights.
• Suitable for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will find plenty to marvel at or learn from.
• Accessible and Convenient: Wheelchair-friendly facilities ensure everyone can enjoy the exhibits.
• Highly Rated: A solid 4.7 out of 5 based on 14 reviews, with visitors praising the exhibits and guides.

An In-Depth Look at the Aquarium Experience

The Aquarium Layout and Exhibit Variety

The Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón spreads out over a well-organized space, showcasing both freshwater and saltwater environments. As you wander through, you’ll encounter more than 60 aquariums representing different habitats. The saltwater tanks are especially impressive, with detailed recreations of ecosystems from the Caribbean Sea, Pacific and Indian Oceans, the Red Sea, and subtropical Atlantic waters.

The freshwater exhibits focus on species native to the rivers of Asturias and the Cantabrian Coast, such as salmon, trout, eel, and sturgeon. These displays allow visitors to understand the diversity of local aquatic life, which is often overlooked in larger, more generic aquariums.

Notable Marine Species

Among the standout animals are bull sharks nearly three meters long, alongside grey sharks and nurse sharks. These are displayed in tanks that offer a close-up view, providing a sense of the size and power of these formidable predators. Loggerhead turtles also grace the exhibits, giving visitors a chance to learn about these endangered species.

The reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, with visitors noting that the guides are particularly helpful and enthusiastic — a crucial factor when trying to understand complex marine ecosystems.

Interactive Features and Touch Pools

One of the highlights, especially for families and younger visitors, is the touch pools. Small pools enable visitors to gently handle starfish, sea cucumbers, and small fish, making the experience tactile and memorable. This element of hands-on interaction elevates the learning process and appeals to kids’ curiosity.

A review from Angel Toledo describes the experience as “Excelente experiencia a mis hijos le encanto,” emphasizing how engaging and fun the touch pools can be for children.

Educational Focus and Conservation Messages

Beyond entertainment, the aquarium emphasizes ocean conservation and education. Informative panels and guided talks (sometimes with knowledgeable staff like the guides praised in reviews) help visitors grasp the importance of protecting marine environments. This aspect makes the visit meaningful, especially for those interested in environmental issues.

Practicalities: Ticketing, Timing, and Accessibility

The entry ticket at $23 offers good value, considering the number of exhibits and the educational content. The ticket is valid for one day, so it’s worth planning your visit well—checking the available starting times to avoid crowds and ensure ample time to explore.

The facility is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. However, as the tour is non-refundable, confirm availability and opening hours beforehand to maximize your experience.

How Does It Compare to Similar Experiences?

The aquarium stands out for its intimate, educational environment and focus on local species and habitats, unlike larger, more commercial aquariums. For travelers who appreciate guided insights, the knowledgeable staff add value to the visit, transforming it from a simple sightseeing stop into an educational adventure.

While some visitors suggest arriving early or during quieter hours to avoid crowds, the overall experience is praised for its stunning views and well-curated exhibits. It’s particularly recommended for families, nature lovers, or anyone keen to learn more about marine biodiversity.

Who Should Consider Visiting?

This tour is best suited for families with children, given the tactile pools and engaging displays. It’s also ideal for travelers interested in marine ecosystems and conservation, thanks to the educational content. The affordability, accessibility, and variety of species make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a meaningful, fun, and visually stunning experience in Asturias.

Final Thoughts

The Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón offers a well-rounded marine experience packed with beautiful species, interactive moments, and educational value—all at a reasonable price. Its focus on local rivers and international seas gives visitors a broad perspective on aquatic biodiversity, making it enriching for both casual travelers and serious nature enthusiasts.

While the visit is limited to a single day, the variety of exhibits and the quality of the guides make the experience worth planning around. If you’re traveling with kids or simply love observing marine life, this aquarium will delight and inform, providing plenty of photo-worthy moments and inspiring insights.

This attraction strikes a beautiful balance between fun, education, and conservation, making it a standout activity in Gijón for those wanting a closer look at the incredible world beneath the waves.

FAQs

How much does the ticket cost?
The entry ticket costs $23 per person, offering good value considering the variety of species and interactive features included.

Is the aquarium accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can explore the exhibits comfortably.

How long is the visit valid for?
Your ticket is valid for one day. Be sure to check the starting times and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of it.

Are there guided tours or staff included?
While the ticket includes entry, there are knowledgeable guides available, praised for their helpfulness and enthusiasm, which enhances the experience.

What animals can I expect to see?
Expect to see salmon, eels, trout, sturgeons, large sharks (including bull sharks, grey sharks, and nurse sharks), and loggerhead turtles. There are also about 5,000 animals across the exhibits.

Can I touch any of the animals?
Yes, in the small pools, you can touch starfish, small fish, and sea cucumbers — great for hands-on learning.

Is there outdoor or scenic viewing involved?
While the main focus is on the aquariums and pools, visitors have noted the stunning views and well-designed layout, which makes the walk through the exhibits visually appealing.

In summary, the Bioparc Aquarium of Gijón is a thoughtfully curated, engaging space that offers plenty to see and learn. Its affordability and focus on conservation make it a worthwhile addition to your Asturias itinerary—especially if marine life sparks your curiosity.