Istanbul Aquarium tickets open the door to a magical underwater world that combines both entertainment and education. Located in the Florya neighborhood of Bakirkoy district, this aquarium is one of the largest thematic aquariums in the world, boasting over 17,000 sea creatures across 16 different themed sections.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your experience, from purchasing Istanbul Aquarium online tickets to enjoying its top attractions and tours.
Fast Facts
- Book Tickets Online: Purchasing Istanbul Aquarium tickets online helps you skip long lines, get discounts, and secure shuttle services from central areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet.
- Top Attractions: Explore 16 themed zones, including the Ocean Tunnel and Rainforest, with over 17,000 sea and land creatures.
- Visiting Tips: Weekdays and mornings are the best times to visit to avoid crowds.
- Guided or Self-Guided Tours: The aquarium is designed for self-guided tours, but guided tours provide deeper insights into exhibits.
- Shuttle Service Available: Convenient shuttle services are offered with some ticket packages from popular locations.
How can I buy Istanbul Aquarium tickets online?
You can easily purchase Istanbul Aquarium tickets online through the aquarium’s official website or third-party platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator. Online tickets often offer skip-the-line benefits and may include shuttle services from central areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet. Booking your tickets online in advance ensures you secure your preferred visit time and avoid long queues, especially during peak hours.
Online Fast Track Entry Tickets
If you are looking for the best Istanbul Aquarium skip-the-lines tickets, trust our recommendations, save time and money, we have you covered. Below are some of best experiences you can find!
- Istanbul Aquarium Ticket & Shuttle Bus from Sultanahmet & Taksim (great one with fast entry and shuttle service)
- Istanbul Aquarium, Wednesday Bazaar & 212 Mall (Solo – Group)
- Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour (good one)
- Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Independent Shopping Trip (good one)
You can check their calendar for available days below, and book in advance. Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
What to Expect?
Embark on a captivating journey from the Black Sea to the Pacific by following a geographical route composed of a total of 17 themes and a rainforest at Istanbul Aquarium, the world’s latest marvel in comparison to its kind.
Unlike traditional aquariums, Istanbul Aquarium stands out with its unique features such as the itinerary, theming, interactivity, rainforest, and state-of-the-art technology. Each area within the aquarium is meticulously themed to reflect its cultural, geographical, historical, and architectural characteristics.
The decor includes fitting decorative elements, interactive games, films, and visual graphics providing detailed information about the respective regions. The integration of sound and lighting systems is also tailored to complement the thematic experience, creating an immersive and educational atmosphere for visitors.
Are you ready to explore the diverse underwater worlds and experience a cutting-edge blend of technology and marine fascination at Istanbul Aquarium? The journey promises not only to showcase the richness of marine life but also to provide a holistic and enlightening adventure for enthusiasts of all ages.
Covering a 6,000 square meters area, the Istanbul Aquarium is special-themed and 1,2 km long travel route originating in the Black Sea towards the Pacific, the fish species, rain-forest, a gift shop with an area of 470 square meters.
It has a restaurant with the Panama Canal view on one side and the sea view on the other. You can also enjoy a great leisure time and make shopping at the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall.
Attractions & Activities
You can enjoy a great day out by following a geographical route, travel on a route that hosts 16 themes and 1 rain-forest going from the Black Sea towards the Pacific.
Activities include; Diving With Sharks, Fish Feeding Hours, Diving Course, Opening Banner In The Main Tank, Photo Shoot, etc.
Istanbul Aquarium Features:
- Water volume: 6.800 cubic meters; 64 tanks in total,
- A two-storey giant project with total area of 22.000 square meters on 100-decare land,
- Parking lot area of 32.000 square meters/1.200 vehicles belonging to Istanbul Aquarium,
- Visitor area of 6.000 square meters,
- A special-themed, 1,2 km long travel route originating in the Black Sea towards the Pacific,
- Approximately 1.500 species, 15.000 land and sea creatures in total, which are interesting from each other,
- 2, 15-person, 6-axle 5D movie houses, providing the option to watch 7 separate films, an extraordinary system that makes live some effects such as wind, fog and water,
- A gift shop with an area of 470 square meters within Istanbul Aquarium,
- 3 cafeterias on the travel route,
- 1 restaurant having the Panama Canal view on one side and the sea view on the other.
Amazon Rainforest
At Istanbul Aquarium, an extraordinary adventure awaits, promising to immerse visitors in the unique wonders of the Amazon Rainforest. This special section is designed to evoke the sensations of the Amazon, complete with the right temperature, humidity, and an array of diverse species.
Encounter vibrant, tiny yet venomous frogs, and witness the miniature wonders of the world’s smallest crocodile species, the dwarf caimans. Every plant in this section is imported from Costa Rica, ensuring an unforgettable experience reminiscent of the natural beauty of the Amazon.
Dive alongside Sharks
For the more adventurous, the Aquarium offers the opportunity to dive alongside sharks in the main tank, a massive 4,000 cubic meters habitat hosting 5,000 marine inhabitants, including sharks and rays.
Following a 30-minute dive session, participants are awarded the Istanbul Aquarium Diving Certificate, marking this unique experience with an official recognition of their underwater adventure.
Video Tour
Aqua Florya Shopping and Lifestyle Center
Aqua Florya Shopping and Lifestyle Center seamlessly blends entertainment and shopping, serving as a captivating destination in Istanbul. Beyond the aquatic wonders, the center boasts a spectacular sea-view cafe and restaurants offering delightful flavors from various cuisines. The expansive amphitheater hosts a variety of events, adding a distinctive touch to the center’s appeal.
The center features a covered parking area, an open-air amphitheater with a seating capacity for 900 people, 11 cinema halls accommodating 1,280 people, 52,000 square meters of landscaped and walking areas, exhibition spaces, cultural areas, a grand 13,000-square-meter square, an Open Market area, and an extensive array of brand choices.
With its enchanting scenery and an atmosphere that makes you feel truly special, Aqua Florya welcomes visitors seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Visiting Hours & Admissions
Opening Hours
Istanbul Aquarium operates from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays and extends its services until 8:00 PM on weekends.
Suitable for visitors of all age groups, the Aquarium, holding the distinction of being the world’s largest thematic aquarium, provides an opportunity to explore various marine and terrestrial creatures from different geographical regions in Turkey and around the world.
The aquarium is open to visitors of all ages, making it a family-friendly destination. With its thematic richness and interactive exhibits, it offers an immersive experience for both children and adults alike.
Guided Tours & Shuttle Services
For a more enriching experience, consider booking one of the Istanbul Aquarium tours. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the exhibits, helping you understand the ecological significance of different marine species and the aquarium’s conservation efforts.
Tour options include:
- Guided tours with transportation: These tours typically include a shuttle service from Sultanahmet or Taksim, offering a convenient and comprehensive experience.
- Full-day tour packages: Combine your aquarium visit with other attractions in the area, such as the Aqua Florya Shopping Mall, located right next to the aquarium.
- VIP experiences: Some tours offer VIP access, including a personal guide, skip-the-line entry, and additional perks like dining at the aquarium’s sea-view restaurant.
Visiting Tips
To make the most of your visit, consider the following tips:
- Best times to visit: Weekdays and early mornings are the best times to visit, as the aquarium tends to be less crowded.
- Recommended visit duration: On average, visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium, but those who wish to dive deeper into the exhibits and interactive experiences can easily spend up to 4 hours.
- Accessibility: The aquarium is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, making it a family-friendly destination for visitors of all abilities.
Additionally, the adjacent Aqua Florya Shopping Mall offers a variety of dining options, allowing you to grab a bite or enjoy a meal with stunning views of the Marmara Sea.
Tickets & Pricing Options
Purchasing Istanbul Aquarium tickets in advance is highly recommended, as this allows you to skip the line and save valuable time. Tickets are available both at the venue and online, but booking Istanbul Aquarium online tickets often comes with benefits like discounts, bundled deals, and shuttle services from key areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet.
- Standard entry ticket: Approximately €22 per person, providing full access to the aquarium.
- Discounted tickets: Available for children, students, seniors, and groups.
- Skip-the-line options: Available online to avoid long queues during peak hours.
- Shuttle service: Many ticket packages offer a free Istanbul aquarium shuttle service, which picks up visitors from central locations in Istanbul, making the trip to Florya Aquarium Istanbul hassle-free.
Booking your tickets online ensures you get the best deals and can avoid any last-minute disappointments due to high demand during holidays or weekends.
Best Online Tickets with Skip-the-line Access
Online tickets are by far the best option when going to theme and amusement parks. Feel free to book online in advance (as you’ll get discounts), by choosing the eco-friendly option of online tickets.
Istanbul Aquarium Ticket & Shuttle Bus from Taksim and Sultanahmet
Discover the world’s largest thematic aquarium with a skip-the-line ticket and benefit from the free shuttle service departing daily from Taksim and Sultanahmet square.
Includes: Skip-the-line entrance, Shuttle transfer from Taksim Square and Sultanahmet Square provided by ‘Hop On Hop Off Travel’
Buy Istanbul Aquarium Ticket with Shuttle Bus
Istanbul Aquarium, Wednesday Bazaar & 212 Mall
The Biggest Thematic Aquarium Of The World. Meet and mingle with locals in Istanbul’s Wednesday Market. Shopping of brand clothes at very reasonable prices different kind of adventure. Pick up & Drop off; Private tour guide & car.
Buy Istanbul Aquarium and 212 Mall Ticket
Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall Tour
Experience the world’s largest thematic aquarium on an 5-hour tour of Istanbul. See marine life from the world’s rainforests to the Black Sea at Istanbul Akvaryum. Watch stunning 5D films and more. Then, enjoy some free time in the Aqua Florya Mall.
Includes: Transportation only from European Side of Istanbul, Entrance fee
Buy Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Mall Ticket
Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Independent Shopping Trip
Glimpse into the underwater world of the Aquarium on this 5-hour tour, plus check out one of the largest shopping complexes in the city. Visit the Aqua Florya and discover an aquatic paradise consisting of 16 marine environments, more than 1,500 species and interactive demonstrations at every turn.
You will stroll inside shark-laden hideouts, stare at the undersides of stingrays and sea turtles and ogle exotic frogs and feisty piranhas. Then, at your leisure, enjoy all your senses at a 5D movie house (own expense). End your day indulging in some light shopping or lunch within the mall (own expense).
Buy Istanbul Aquarium and Aqua Florya Ticket
How to Get There?
Location
You’ll find the Istanbul Aquarium is located at the Florya neighborhood of Bakirkoy district, by the Marmara sea coast. See the location map.
Transportation
Marmaray: Accessible via Marmaray, you can reach Istanbul Aquarium by disembarking at the Florya Aquarium Station.
Metrobus: Utilize the Metrobus system by stopping at the Beşyol station and taking the Florya minibus directly to Istanbul Aquarium, which is the final stop.
Municipal Bus: Several bus lines connect to Istanbul Aquarium, including BN1 from Halkalı to Eminönü, 73Y from Kuyumcukent to Istanbul Aquarium, 73B from Bakırköy to Florya, and 73F from Taksim to Florya.
IDO Sea Bus: For those preferring sea transport, take the IDO Sea Bus from Bakırköy Pier to the BN1 Halkalı – Eminönü route.
Metro: Utilize the metro system by taking the Atatürk Airport Metro line to Şirinevler Station, then transfer to bus lines 73B Bakırköy – Florya or 73F Taksim – Florya.
Check Municipal public bus routes and timetables from iett.istanbul (just type the location on the search bar and it will show the bus lines with routes and stops)
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
While visiting the Florya Aquarium Istanbul, make sure to explore other nearby attractions to enhance your trip:
- Aqua Florya Shopping Mall: Located right next to the aquarium, this mall features over 200 stores, sea-view cafes, and an outdoor amphitheater, making it the perfect spot to relax after your aquarium adventure.
- Florya Beach: Just a short walk from the aquarium, this beach offers a peaceful escape with picturesque views of the Marmara Sea.
- Miniaturk Park: A great addition to your Istanbul itinerary, Miniaturk showcases miniature models of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks.
These nearby attractions make the aquarium an ideal stop during a day of exploring the European side of Istanbul.
Contact Details
Address: Senlikköy district, Yesilköy Halkali Street. No:93 Florya-Istanbul
Tel: 444 9 744 (PBX)
Web: istanbulakvaryum.com
FAQs
What are the opening hours of Istanbul Aquarium?
Istanbul Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, and until 8:00 PM on weekends. It’s best to check the official website before visiting, as hours may vary during holidays or special events.
How can I get to Istanbul Aquarium?
You can reach Florya Aquarium Istanbul by bus, metro, or private transport. Shuttle services are available from popular areas like Sultanahmet and Taksim. Public buses like 73F and 73B stop near the aquarium, and taxis are a convenient option as well.
Where is Istanbul Aquarium located?
Istanbul Aquarium is located in the Florya district, on the European side of Istanbul. The exact address is Yeşilköy Halkalı Cd. No:93, 34153 Florya, Istanbul, close to the Marmara coast and Aqua Florya Shopping Mall.
How much are Istanbul Aquarium tickets?
Standard Istanbul Aquarium tickets cost around 743 TL (€22) for adults. Discounts are available for children, students, and seniors. You can save time and avoid lines by booking your tickets online, which sometimes includes shuttle services from central areas.
What are the main attractions at Istanbul Aquarium?
The Aquarium features 16 themed zones representing different marine ecosystems. Highlights include the Ocean Tunnel, the Rainforest Zone, interactive touch tanks, and opportunities to watch shark feedings. You can also enjoy a 5D cinema for an immersive oceanic experience.
Why should I visit Istanbul Aquarium?
Istanbul Aquarium is one of the largest thematic aquariums in the world, offering an immersive educational experience with over 17,000 sea and land creatures. Visitors of all ages will enjoy interactive exhibits, marine life from around the world, and stunning oceanic displays, making it an ideal family destination.
How long should I plan to spend at Istanbul Aquarium?
On average, visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the Istanbul Aquarium attractions, but with interactive exhibits and a 5D cinema, you could easily extend your visit to 4 hours or more, especially if you include a visit to the adjoining Aqua Florya Shopping Mall.
What is the best time to visit Istanbul Aquarium?
The best time to visit Istanbul Aquarium is during weekdays, especially in the morning or early afternoon, to avoid crowds. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier, so opting for early visits or purchasing skip-the-line tickets can enhance your experience.
How can I skip the lines at Istanbul Aquarium?
To skip the line at Istanbul Aquarium, it’s best to purchase tickets online in advance. Many online platforms offer skip-the-line tickets, which allow you to bypass long queues and enjoy faster entry, especially during peak visiting times.
Conclusion
Ready to dive into an unforgettable experience at one of the world’s largest thematic aquariums? Book your Istanbul Aquarium tickets online today to enjoy skip-the-line entry, exclusive discounts, and shuttle services that make your visit hassle-free. Don’t miss the chance to explore this underwater wonderland—plan your trip now for an exciting, educational adventure that’s perfect for all ages!