What to See and Do

The aquarium features 22 tanks that showcase a variety of aquatic environments, including:

• Freshwater Tanks: These tanks represent Italian rivers and lakes and are home to species such as trout and tench.
• Marine Tanks: Divided into different sections, these tanks exhibit creatures from sandy seabeds and rocky coasts, including sturgeons, jellyfish, leopard sharks, and stingrays.
• Tropical Tank: This special tank depicts the Red Sea’s madreporic barrier and illustrates potential changes in the Mediterranean due to global warming.

Highlights

• Educational Exhibits: The aquarium offers educational paths with over 100 species of aquatic organisms displayed in numerous fresh and marine water tanks.
• Outdoor Garden: Overlooking a public garden, the semi-circular portico at the back of the aquarium features tanks and artificial basins that replicate ecosystems of the Po Valley. However, some visitors have noted that the garden may be somewhat neglected.
• Bridge Tank: A standout feature of the aquarium, the bridge tank allows visitors to observe sharks and rays swimming above their heads, providing a unique viewing experience.
• Library: The aquarium’s library, open to the public, is one of the most prestigious libraries in marine biology.

Visitor Tips

• Plan Your Visit: Allocate approximately 30-45 minutes for your visit. If you are visiting with children, it may take longer as they tend to explore each exhibit more thoroughly.
• Book Tickets in Advance: To ensure entry, it is recommended to purchase tickets online, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Accessibility: The aquarium is wheelchair accessible. However, please note that there are no lockers available, so you will need to carry your belongings with you.
• Outdoor Area: Don’t miss the outdoor garden, although its condition may vary depending on the season. It is a pleasant spot to take a short break.
• Combine Visits: The aquarium is conveniently located next to other attractions in Sempione Park, such as the Civic Arena and the beautiful park itself, making it easy to combine visits.

Getting There

The Acquario Civico is easily accessible by public transport:

• Metro: Take the M2 (Green Line) and get off at the Lanza station.
• Tram: Lines 2, 4, 12, and 14 all stop at Lanza M2.
• Bus: Line 57 also serves the area.

For those who prefer biking, numerous BikeMi stations are located around Parco Sempione, offering convenient bicycle parking.

Opening Hours: The aquarium is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Ticket Prices:

• Full ticket: €5.00
• Reduced ticket: €3.00