Are you looking for an unforgettable aquatic adventure in Istanbul? If so, you should not miss the Istanbul Aquarium, the world’s largest thematic aquarium that features 17 themes, one rainforest, and over 1,500 species of aquatic animals. Whether you want to explore the underwater wonders of the world, dive with the sharks, or watch a movie in a 5D theater, the Istanbul Aquarium has something for everyone.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to the Istanbul Aquarium and its surroundings, including its timings, entry fees, transportation, and nearby attractions. Read on to discover why the Istanbul Aquarium is one of the best attractions in Istanbul and how to plan your visit.
Why Visit the Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is not just an ordinary aquarium, but a thematic aquarium that takes you on a journey across the world’s oceans, seas, and rivers. The Istanbul Aquarium is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the aquatic animals, from the Black Sea to the Pacific, from the Mediterranean to the Amazon, and from the Antarctic to the rainforest. You can see over 1,500 land and water species, such as penguins, sharks, crocodiles, piranhas, seahorses, and jellyfish, in more than 60 tanks that hold 6,800 cubic meters of water.
The Istanbul Aquarium is also an educational and entertaining destination, where you can learn about the geography, history, and culture of the regions that you visit, as well as enjoy various activities and facilities, such as live feeding sessions, diving courses, movie theaters, gift shops, and cafes. The Istanbul Aquarium is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure.
What to Expect at the Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is a huge complex that covers an area of 100,000 square meters, with 22,000 square meters dedicated to the exhibition area. The Istanbul Aquarium is divided into four main sections: the themes, the species, the activities, and the facilities. Here is what you can expect at each section:
Themes
The Istanbul Aquarium features 17 themes that represent different regions of the world, each with its own unique flora and fauna. The themes are:
Black Sea: The first theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the fish and plants that live in the Black Sea, such as anchovies, bonitos, mullets, and seaweeds. The Black Sea theme also showcases the historical and cultural aspects of the region, such as the ancient city of Sinop, the Ottoman fortress of Rumeli, and the fishing boats of Trabzon.
Bosporus: The second theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the marine life that inhabits the Bosporus, the strait that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, and separates Europe and Asia. The Bosporus theme also displays the landmarks and monuments of Istanbul, such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Galata Tower.
Dardanelles: The third theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the aquatic animals that live in the Dardanelles, the strait that connects the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean Sea, and forms part of the Turkish Straits. The Dardanelles theme also depicts the historical and military significance of the region, such as the Gallipoli Campaign, the Trojan War, and the Hellespont Swim.
Aegean Sea: The fourth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the diverse and colorful creatures that dwell in the Aegean Sea, such as octopuses, moray eels, groupers, and sea urchins. The Aegean Sea theme also illustrates the cultural and natural beauty of the region, such as the Greek islands, the Turkish coast, and the olive trees.
Mediterranean Sea: The fifth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the exotic and endangered species that inhabit the Mediterranean Sea, such as sea turtles, dolphins, monk seals, and corals. The Mediterranean Sea theme also portrays the rich and ancient civilizations of the region, such as the Egyptians, the Romans, and the Phoenicians.
Red Sea: The sixth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the stunning and vibrant life that thrives in the Red Sea, such as clownfish, lionfish, butterflyfish, and anemones. The Red Sea theme also presents the religious and historical aspects of the region, such as the Exodus, the Suez Canal, and the Mecca Pilgrimage.
Suez Canal: The seventh theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the transition and contrast between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, as well as the artificial and natural elements of the region, such as the Suez Canal, the Sinai Peninsula, and the mangroves.
Indian Ocean: The eighth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the tropical and diverse life that flourishes in the Indian Ocean, such as clown triggerfish, surgeonfish, angelfish, and starfish. The Indian Ocean theme also depicts the cultural and geographical diversity of the region, such as the Maldives, the Seychelles, and the Madagascar.
Atlantic Ocean: The ninth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the large and majestic animals that roam in the Atlantic Ocean, such as sharks, rays, tunas, and barracudas. The Atlantic Ocean theme also displays the historical and scientific aspects of the region, such as the Titanic, the Bermuda Triangle, and the Challenger Deep.
Pacific Ocean: The tenth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the amazing and varied life that exists in the Pacific Ocean, such as seahorses, clownfish, lionfish, and corals. The Pacific Ocean theme also shows the cultural and natural diversity of the region, such as the Polynesia, the Hawaii, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Antarctic: The eleventh theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the cold and hardy animals that survive in the Antarctic, such as penguins, seals, whales, and krill. The Antarctic theme also exhibits the scientific and environmental aspects of the region, such as the research stations, the icebergs, and the climate change.
Panama Canal: The twelfth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the transition and contrast between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, as well as the artificial and natural elements of the region, such as the Panama Canal, the rainforest, and the crocodiles.
Caribbean Sea: The thirteenth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the beautiful and diverse life that inhabits the Caribbean Sea, such as parrotfish, angelfish, seahorses, and sponges. The Caribbean Sea theme also portrays the cultural and natural beauty of the region, such as the Cuba, the Jamaica, and the coral reefs.
Amazon: The fourteenth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the exotic and dangerous animals that live in the Amazon, such as piranhas, anacondas, electric eels, and arapaimas. The Amazon theme also illustrates the cultural and ecological aspects of the region, such as the indigenous tribes, the deforestation, and the biodiversity.
Rainforest: The fifteenth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the terrestrial and aerial animals that dwell in the rainforest, such as monkeys, toucans, frogs, and butterflies. The rainforest theme also demonstrates the cultural and environmental aspects of the region, such as the Brazil, the Colombia, and the conservation.
Nautilus: The sixteenth theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the mysterious and ancient animals that reside in the deep sea, such as nautiluses, squids, cuttlefish, and crabs. The nautilus theme also reveals the scientific and technological aspects of the region, such as the submarines, the ROVs, and the bioluminescence.
Istanbul Strait: The seventeenth and final theme of the Istanbul Aquarium, where you can see the local and familiar fish and plants that populate the Istanbul Strait, such as bonitos, bluefish, mussels, and algae. The Istanbul Strait theme also reflects the historical and cultural aspects of the region, such as the Ottoman Empire, the Republic of Turkey, and the Istanbul Aquarium.
Species
The Istanbul Aquarium houses over 1,500 land and water species, from the smallest to the largest, from the cutest to the scariest, and from the most common to the most rare. Some of the most popular and unique species of the Istanbul Aquarium are:
Penguins: The Istanbul Aquarium is home to two species of penguins, the Gentoo and the King, which are native to the Antarctic. You can see them in their specially designed enclosure, which mimics their natural habitat, with snow, ice, rocks, and water. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even feed them yourself, if you book a special experience. Penguins are one of the most adorable and charismatic animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely melt your heart with their cute and funny antics.
Sharks: The Istanbul Aquarium is also home to several species of sharks, such as sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and zebra sharks, which are native to various oceans and seas. You can see them in their large and impressive tanks, which simulate their natural environment, with sand, rocks, corals, and fish. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even dive with them, if you book a special experience. Sharks are one of the most thrilling and fascinating animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely awe you with their size and power.
Crocodiles: The Istanbul Aquarium is also home to two species of crocodiles, the Nile and the Dwarf, which are native to Africa and South America. You can see them in their realistic and spacious enclosure, which replicates their natural habitat, with water, mud, plants, and logs. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even touch them, if you book a special experience. Crocodiles are one of the most exotic and dangerous animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely impress you with their strength and speed.
Piranhas: The Istanbul Aquarium is also home to a large school of piranhas, which are native to the Amazon. You can see them in their circular and transparent tank, which allows you to observe them from all angles. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even feed them yourself, if you book a special experience. Piranhas are one of the most notorious and feared animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely shock you with their appetite and aggression.
Seahorses: The Istanbul Aquarium is also home to several species of seahorses, such as the common, the big-belly, the pot-belly, and the leafy, which are native to various oceans and seas. You can see them in their delicate and colorful tanks, which imitate their natural environment, with seaweeds, corals, and rocks. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even adopt one, if you book a special experience. Seahorses are one of the most adorable and unique animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely charm you with their beauty and grace.
Jellyfish: The Istanbul Aquarium is also home to several species of jellyfish, such as the moon, the blue, the spotted, and the lion’s mane, which are native to various oceans and seas. You can see them in their mesmerizing and luminous tanks, which create a magical atmosphere, with lights, music, and bubbles. You can also watch them being fed by the staff, or even touch them, if you book a special experience. Jellyfish are one of the most amazing and mysterious animals of the Istanbul Aquarium, and they will surely captivate you with their elegance and movement.
Activities
The Istanbul Aquarium offers a variety of fun and exciting activities that will make your visit more memorable and enjoyable. Some of the activities are:
Live Feeding Sessions: The Istanbul Aquarium organizes live feeding sessions for some of the animals, such as the penguins, the sharks, the crocodiles, and the piranhas, where you can watch them eat their favorite food, such as fish, meat, and fruits. You can also learn more about their diet, behavior, and conservation from the staff, who will explain and answer your questions. The live feeding sessions are scheduled at different times and days, depending on the animal, so make sure to check the website or the information boards for the latest updates.
Diving Courses: The Istanbul Aquarium offers diving courses for both beginners and experienced divers, where you can dive with some of the animals, such as the sharks, the rays, the groupers, and the barracudas, in their naturalistic and safe tanks. You can also get a certificate and a souvenir photo of your diving experience. The diving courses are conducted by professional and certified instructors, who will teach you the basics and the safety rules of diving. The diving courses are available at different levels and prices, depending on your age and skill, so make sure to book in advance and bring your ID and swimsuit.
Movie Theaters: The Istanbul Aquarium has two movie theaters, one 5D and one 6D, where you can watch movies that are related to the themes and the animals of the aquarium, such as the Antarctic, the Amazon, the sharks, and the penguins. You can also experience the effects of the movies, such as the wind, the water, the smell, and the motion, which will make you feel like you are part of the action. The movie theaters are open every day and have different shows and times, depending on the movie, so make sure to check the website or the information boards for the latest updates.
Gift Shops: The Istanbul Aquarium has two gift shops, one at the entrance and one at the exit, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts that are related to the themes and the animals of the aquarium, such as toys, books, clothes, accessories, and magnets. You can also find some exclusive and special items, such as the adopt-a-seahorse program, the diving certificate, and the souvenir photo. The gift shops are open every day and accept cash and credit cards, so make sure to visit them and get something to remember your visit.
Cafes: The Istanbul Aquarium has two cafes, one at the entrance and one at the exit, where you can relax and refresh yourself after your visit. You can also enjoy the view of the aquarium and its surroundings, such as the Istanbul Strait and the Florya Beach, from the cafes. You can find a variety of food and drinks, such as sandwiches, salads, cakes, coffee, and tea, at the cafes. The cafes are open every day and accept cash and credit cards, so make sure to stop by and treat yourself.
Facilities
The Istanbul Aquarium provides a number of facilities and services that will make your visit more comfortable and convenient. Some of the facilities are:
Parking: The Istanbul Aquarium has a large and secure parking lot, where you can park your car, motorcycle, or bicycle, for a small fee. The parking lot is open every day and has a capacity of 1,200 vehicles. You can also find electric vehicle charging stations, disabled parking spaces, and car wash services at the parking lot.
Lockers: The Istanbul Aquarium has a locker room, where you can store your belongings, such as bags, coats, umbrellas, and strollers, for a small fee. The locker room is open every day and has different sizes of lockers, depending on your needs. You can also find baby changing stations, first aid kits, and lost and found services at the locker room.
Restrooms: The Istanbul Aquarium has several restrooms, where you can use the toilets, sinks, and mirrors, for free. The restrooms are open every day and are located throughout the aquarium. You can also find disabled toilets, baby changing stations, and sanitary napkin dispensers at the restrooms.
Wheelchair Access: The Istanbul Aquarium is wheelchair accessible, where you can use the ramps, elevators, and handrails, for free. The wheelchair access is available every day and covers all the areas of the aquarium. You can also find wheelchair rental services, disabled toilets, and disabled parking spaces at the aquarium.
Wi-Fi: The Istanbul Aquarium has free Wi-Fi, where you can connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, to the internet. The Wi-Fi is available every day and covers all the areas of the aquarium. You can also find information kiosks, interactive screens, and QR codes at the aquarium, where you can access more information and content about the aquarium.
How to Plan Your Visit to the Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is open every day of the year, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, except on some special days and occasions, such as New Year’s Eve, Ramadan, and Eid. The Istanbul Aquarium is located in the Florya district of Istanbul, near the Ataturk International Airport, and is easily accessible by public or private transportation. The Istanbul Aquarium has different admission fees, depending on your age and status, and also offers discounts and packages, depending on your group size and preferences.
The Istanbul Aquarium also has different weather conditions, depending on the season and month, and also offers different events and programs, depending on the day and time. Here is how to plan your visit to the Istanbul Aquarium, according to the timings, the entry fees, the transportation, and the weather.
Timings
The Istanbul Aquarium is open every day of the year, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, except on some special days and occasions, such as New Year’s Eve, Ramadan, and Eid, when the opening and closing hours may vary. The Istanbul Aquarium is usually less crowded on weekdays, mornings, and evenings, and more crowded on weekends, holidays, and afternoons. The Istanbul Aquarium also has different events and programs, such as live feeding sessions, diving courses, and movie shows, which are scheduled at different times and days, depending on the animal and the activity. The best time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium depends on your preferences and availability, but we recommend that you visit the Istanbul Aquarium on a weekday, morning, or evening, when you can enjoy the aquarium with less crowds and more time. We also recommend that you check the website or the information boards for the latest updates on the opening and closing hours, and the events and programs, before you visit the Istanbul Aquarium.
Entry Fees
The Istanbul Aquarium has different admission fees, depending on your age and status, and also offers discounts and packages, depending on your group size and preferences. The admission fees are as follows:
Adults: 120 Turkish Liras
Students: 90 Turkish Liras
Children (3-14 years): 80 Turkish Liras
Seniors (65+ years): 80 Turkish Liras
Infants (0-2 years): Free
The admission fees include access to all the themes, species, activities, and facilities of the Istanbul Aquarium, except for the diving courses, the movie theaters, the gift shops, and the cafes, which require additional fees. The admission fees are subject to change, depending on the season and demand, so make sure to check the website or the ticket office for the latest updates. We also recommend that you buy your tickets online or in advance, to avoid the queues and save money.
Transportation
The Istanbul Aquarium is located in the Florya district of Istanbul, near the Ataturk International Airport, and is easily accessible by public or private transportation. The transportation options are as follows:
Bus: The Istanbul Aquarium is served by several bus lines, such as the 73F, the 73Y, the BN1, and the BN2, which connect the aquarium with various parts of the city, such as the Taksim Square, the Sultanahmet Square, and the Bakirkoy Square. The bus stop is located in front of the aquarium, and the bus fare is around 3 Turkish Liras, depending on the distance and the type of the bus. You can also use the Istanbulkart, a smart card that allows you to pay for public transportation, and get discounts and transfers.
Metro: The Istanbul Aquarium is also served by the M1A metro line, which connects the aquarium with the Ataturk International Airport, the Yenikapi Station, and the Aksaray Station. The metro station is located about 2 kilometers away from the aquarium, and you can either walk or take a shuttle bus to reach the aquarium. The metro fare is around 2.6 Turkish Liras, depending on the distance and the type of the metro. You can also use the Istanbulkart, a smart card that allows you to pay for public transportation, and get discounts and transfers.
Taxi: The Istanbul Aquarium is also reachable by taxi, which is a convenient and fast way to get to the aquarium, especially if you have luggage or children. The taxi stand is located near the entrance of the aquarium, and the taxi fare is around 20 Turkish Liras, depending on the distance and the traffic. You can also use the BiTaksi, a mobile app that allows you to book and pay for taxis, and get discounts and ratings.
Car: The Istanbul Aquarium is also reachable by car, which is a flexible and comfortable way to get to the aquarium, especially if you have a large group or a special need. The parking lot is located next to the aquarium, and the parking fee is around 10 Turkish Liras, depending on the duration and the type of the car. You can also use the Google Maps, a mobile app that allows you to get directions and traffic information, and get the best route and time to the aquarium.
Weather
The Istanbul Aquarium has different weather conditions, depending on the season and month, and also offers different events and programs, depending on the day and time. The weather conditions are as follows:
Spring: The spring season in Istanbul lasts from March to May, and is characterized by mild and pleasant weather, with an average temperature of 15°C, and moderate rainfall, with an average precipitation of 50 mm. The spring season is a good time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium, as you can enjoy the aquarium with less crowds and more flowers. The spring season also offers some events and programs, such as the Easter celebration, the Earth Day celebration, and the Spring Festival.
Summer: The summer season in Istanbul lasts from June to August, and is characterized by hot and humid weather, with an average temperature of 25°C, and low rainfall, with an average precipitation of 30 mm. The summer season is a popular time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium, as you can enjoy the aquarium with more activities and air conditioning. The summer season also offers some events and programs, such as the Summer Camp, the Shark Week, and the Sea Turtle Day.
Autumn: The autumn season in Istanbul lasts from September to November, and is characterized by cool and rainy weather, with an average temperature of 18°C, and high rainfall, with an average precipitation of 80 mm. The autumn season is a nice time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium, as you can enjoy the aquarium with less heat and more colors. The autumn season also offers some events and programs, such as the Halloween celebration, the World Animal Day celebration, and the Autumn Festival.
Winter: The winter season in Istanbul lasts from December to February, and is characterized by cold and snowy weather, with an average temperature of 8°C, and heavy rainfall, with an average precipitation of 100 mm. The winter season is a cozy time to visit the Istanbul Aquarium, as you can enjoy the aquarium with less noise and more warmth. The winter season also offers some events and programs, such as the Christmas celebration, the New Year celebration, and the Winter Festival.
What Else to Do and See Near the Istanbul Aquarium
The Istanbul Aquarium is not only an attraction by itself, but also a gateway to other attractions and activities near the aquarium, such as the Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, the Florya Beach, the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall, and the Istanbul Aviation Museum. Here is what you can do and see near the Istanbul Aquarium:
Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion
The Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion is a historical and cultural site that was the summer residence of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey. The mansion is located about 1 kilometer away from the aquarium, and is open every day, except on Mondays and Thursdays, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The admission fee is 10 Turkish Liras, and the guided tour is free. The mansion is a beautiful and elegant building, with a wooden and white exterior, and a classical and modern interior. The mansion has 17 rooms, which display the original furniture, belongings, and photos of Ataturk, as well as the views of the sea and the garden. The mansion also has a museum, which exhibits the personal and political life of Ataturk, as well as the history and culture of Turkey. The mansion is a must-see attraction for anyone who is interested in the history and culture of Turkey, and who wants to learn more about the life and legacy of Ataturk.
Florya Beach
The Florya Beach is a popular and scenic beach that offers a variety of water sports and activities, such as swimming, surfing, sailing, and fishing. The beach is located about 2 kilometers away from the aquarium, and is open every day, from sunrise to sunset. The admission fee is free, and the rental fee for the sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and cafes varies depending on the season and demand. The beach is a long and sandy beach, with clear and blue water, and green and shady trees. The beach also has a pier, a playground, a park, and a mosque, which add to the charm and convenience of the beach. The beach is a perfect attraction for anyone who loves nature, water, and relaxation, and who wants to enjoy the sun, the sea, and the sand.
Aqua Florya Shopping Mall
The Aqua Florya Shopping Mall is a modern and spacious shopping mall that features a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, such as cinemas, bowling, and arcade games. The mall is located next to the aquarium, and is open every day, from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. The admission fee is free, and the prices for the shops, restaurants, and entertainment options vary depending on the brand and the service. The mall is a stylish and elegant building, with a glass and steel exterior, and a colorful and lively interior. The mall has over 140 shops, which offer various brands and products, such as Zara, H&M, Starbucks, and McDonald’s. The mall also has over 30 restaurants, which offer various cuisines and dishes, such as Turkish, Italian, Chinese, and American. The mall also has a cinema, a bowling alley, and an arcade, which offer various movies, games, and fun. The mall is a great attraction for anyone who loves shopping, dining, and entertainment, and who wants to have a fun and enjoyable time.
Istanbul Aviation Museum
The Istanbul Aviation Museum is a fascinating and educational museum that displays a collection of aircraft, engines, weapons, and uniforms from the history of Turkish aviation. The museum is located about 3 kilometers away from the aquarium, and is open every day, except on Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The admission fee is 10 Turkish Liras, and the guided tour is free. The museum is a large and impressive complex, with an indoor and an outdoor area, and a total of 12 halls. The museum has over 100 aircraft, which include fighters, bombers, helicopters, and gliders, from different eras and countries, such as the World War I, the World War II, the Cold War, and the NATO. The museum also has over 50 engines, which include jet, propeller, and rocket engines, from different models and manufacturers, such as the Rolls-Royce, the Pratt & Whitney, and the General Electric. The museum also has over 20 weapons, which include missiles, bombs, and guns, from different types and calibers, such as the Sidewinder, the Napalm, and the Gating, from different models and manufacturers, such as the AIM-9, the MK-82, and the M61. The museum also has over 10 uniforms, which include flight suits, helmets, and badges, from different ranks and branches, such as the Air Force, the Navy, and the Army. The museum is an amazing attraction for anyone who loves aviation, history, and technology, and who wants to learn more about the achievements and challenges of Turkish aviation.
The Istanbul Aquarium is a wonderful attraction that will take you on a journey across the world’s oceans, seas, and rivers, and show you the amazing and diverse life that lives in them. The Istanbul Aquarium is also a fun and educational destination, where you can enjoy various activities and facilities, such as live feeding sessions, diving courses, movie theaters, gift shops, and cafes. The Istanbul Aquarium is also a gateway to other attractions and activities near the aquarium, such as the Florya Ataturk Marine Mansion, the Florya Beach, the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall, and the Istanbul Aviation Museum. The Istanbul Aquarium is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Istanbul, and who wants to have a memorable and enjoyable time. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and visit the Istanbul Aquarium, the world’s largest thematic aquarium.
