Travel bucket list idea:
National Aquarium Denmark
Copenhagen, Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark
Last updated: 28 April, 2024
Every city these days has an aquarium, but in Copenhagen’s case, it’s a bit special. This national aquarium (also known as ‘The Blue Planet’) reopened in 2013 to become the largest aquarium in northern Europe.
Inside there are more than 50 separate aquaria housing almost 17.000 animals and 700 species, including 4m hammerhead shark, sea otters and moray eels.
The building is also notable for its innovative architecture: clad in scale-like aluminium panels, the aquarium resembles a giant whirlpool from above, while from the ground it appears to float in a circular reflection pool.
Logistics
Price from: £18
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
The aquarium is located next to the airport, a short walk from the Kastrup metro station. Alternatively, it’s a 45-minute cycle ride on bike lanes, via Amager Strandpark.
You can buy tickets at the entrance, but it’s better to do so in advance via the aquarium website; this will save you money and help avoid the entry queues, which can be long. Tickets can be printed out or simply scanned on your smartphone.
The popular museum restaurant serves local fish and seafood in Nordic style, with a focus on sustainable, accessible, and affordable food, made from local and seasonal products.
When to do it
The aquarium is open all year round, seven days a week.
In the week it can get busy with school groups – less of an issue in the summer months when they can get outside to eat and use the play areas. The aquarium opens late on a Monday evening – one of the best times to go.
