Aquarium de Touraine
Looking for an original and entertaining activity in the Loire Valley? Why not consider a visit to Aquarium de TouraineEurope's largest freshwater aquarium? Nestled between Tours and Amboise, at Lussault-sur-Loire, in the department d'Indre et Loirein the region Center Val de LoireThis aquarium offers you the opportunity to discover over 300 aquatic species, from majestic koi carp to mysterious sharks, not forgetting piranhas and fascinating electric eels.
In this space, you'll be amazed by 70 aquariums that reproduce the aquatic ecosystems of the Loire, other regions of France and distant lands. Whether you're planning an outing with family, friends or even on your own, Aquarium de Touraine promises a memorable experience.
This guide provides you with all the information you need to organize your visit to the Aquarium de Touraine: opening hours, prices, services available and activities on offer. You'll have everything you need to make the most of this unique and instructive adventure.
Want to discover another aquarium? Read our article about the La Rochelle aquarium.
Discover the Aquarium de Touraine
Dive into the heart of the Aquarium de Touraine, a fascinating world where three aquatic ecosystems come together in one place. From the freshness of mountain streams to the mysteries of vast seas, this aquarium stands out as Europe's largest freshwater sanctuary. Come and explore this marvel through its 70 basins, housing over 2 million liters of water.
An overview of the Aquarium
Founded in 1989 by Jean-Claude and Martine Borelly, lovers of aquatic biodiversity, the Aquarium de Touraine is located in Lussault-sur-Loire, between Tours City and Amboise. Established on the site of a former troglodytic farm, it attracts over 150,000 visitors a year. These visitors come to admire an impressive collection of over 2,500 specimens, representing more than 300 species of fish, crustaceans, reptiles and amphibians.
The must-see tour
Don't miss these top attractions when you visit the Aquarium de Touraine:
The shark tunnel
a fascinating experience that takes you through a 30-metre tunnel, encircled by sharks and rays.
The touch basin
an interactive experience where you can touch fish such as koi carp, sturgeon and catfish.
The piranha pond
a spectacular demonstration of the voracity of these fish during daily feedings.
The electric eel pond
discover these amazing fish capable of generating electrical discharges of over 600 volts.
The turtle pond
an encounter with these fascinating reptiles that can live up to 100 years.
Three fascinating ecosystems
At the Aquarium de Touraine, three ecosystems await you, each reflecting the diversity of underwater life:
- The waters of the Loire: explore the first ecosystem to feature the fauna of the royal river and its tributaries, with species such as pike, pike-perch and catfish.
- The waters of France: the second ecosystem takes you on a tour of France's aquatic environments, from lakes to ponds and marshes, populated by trout, carp, frogs and crayfish.
- The waters of distant seas: the last ecosystem takes you on a journey to the world's oceans and seas, where you'll encounter exotic species such as sharks, rays, piranhas, electric eels and turtles.
Aquarium de Touraine - Plan your visit
Want to explore the Aquarium de Touraine but don't know where to start? Don't worry, we'll provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit in the best possible conditions. Just follow the guide!
Opening hours
The Aquarium de Touraine welcomes you all year round, except on December 25th and January 1st. Opening times vary according to the season, but we generally open at 10:30am and close at 6pm.
Check our official website for exact times. We recommend you allow at least two hours for a complete experience.
Ticket prices
Entrance fees vary according to age and type of ticket. Here are our rates for 2024:
- Adults (13 and over): €16
- Children (aged 3 to 12 inclusive): €12
- Free for children under 3
- Reduced rate (large families, disabled persons): €14
- Tribe pack (4 people including 2 children): €50
- Combined ticket with Parc Mini-Châteaux: Adults 24€, Children 18€.
Buy your tickets online on our website or from our partners for priority access and one-year validity. Tickets can also be purchased on site, in cash, by credit card or vacation vouchers.
Tips for a pleasant visit
Here are a few tips for an unforgettable experience:
- Choose weekdays and off-peak periods for a more leisurely visit.
- Check the program of events on our website or at reception to make sure you don't miss a thing.
- Bring a picnic or make a reservation at the Aquarium's restaurant, which offers a varied menu.
- Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture your favorite moments.
- Follow safety and cleanliness instructions, and avoid touching the aquarium windows.
- Take advantage of the explanatory panels, interactive quizzes and guides available to learn and have fun at the same time.
Services and activities
Explore much more than underwater wonders at Aquarium de Touraine. We offer a wide range of services and activities to enhance your experience and keep you entertained during your visit.
If you're looking for a special offer, a place to eat, or a unique event, Aquarium de Touraine will meet your expectations.
Exclusive offers
Take advantage of our exclusive offers at Aquarium de Touraine, including discounts and additional benefits. Choose the combined ticket with the Parc Mini-Châteaux for access to two attractions at a reduced rate. The Tribe Pack offers free access for the fourth family member. With the annual pass, enjoy unlimited access to the Aquarium for a year, invitations to special events and discounts with our partners. For more details on these offers, visit our website.
Catering and souvenir stores
Our restaurant offers a variety of menus to suit all tastes. Enjoy regional specialties, salads, sandwiches, pizzas or crêpes, while admiring the sharks. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, and until 5:30 p.m. during school vacations. Book your table online or by phone.
You can also bring your own picnic and enjoy our outdoor picnic area. Be sure to visit our souvenir stores to discover a selection of unique items, such as plush toys, books, games, jewelry and clothing, perfect for keeping a souvenir of your visit or giving to loved ones.
Events and news
Aquarium de Touraine hosts regular events and activities designed to make your visit memorable. Take part in special occasions, fun workshops or shows. The European Heritage Days, Japanese calligraphy workshops, manga drawing or the Mantawa goose game invite you to explore fascinating cultures. Don't miss the fish feedings, magic shows or Halloween entertainment for moments of pure pleasure. Keep up to date with the latest news and events by visiting our official website or subscribing to our newsletter.
Aquarium de Touraine - Conclusion
The Aquarium de Touraine is an exceptional destination that invites you to explore the wonders of the underwater world. Whether your interest in fish is a passion, a curiosity about nature, or you're simply looking for a unique activity, the Aquarium de Touraine will amaze you.
With over 300 species to observe, from majestic koi carp to impressive sharks, intriguing piranhas and fascinating electric eels, the aquarium offers a rich and educational biological diversity. What's more, a variety of services and activities complete the experience: a restaurant for your gourmet breaks, souvenir stores to take a little magic home with you, exclusive offers to make the most of your visit, and special events that promise to make your visit even more memorable.
Don't miss this opportunity to plunge into a fascinating aquatic universe. Book your ticket for the Aquarium de Touraine today and prepare yourself for a rewarding and unforgettable experience!
Aquarium de Touraine - FAQ
What are the prices and how can I book tickets for the Aquarium de Touraine?
Visiting the Aquarium de Touraine costs €14.50 for adults, €11.50 for children aged 3 to 12, while admission is free for children under 3. To buy tickets, visit the aquarium's official website or use online ticketing platforms such as E.Leclerc.
What species of fish and marine animals can be seen at the Aquarium de Touraine?
Located in Lussault-sur-Loire, in the Indre-et-Loire département, the Aquarium de Touraine specializes in freshwater species. It houses over 60 species of fish and marine animals from the Loire, France and around the world.
Visitors can discover fascinating species such as the wels catfish, Europe's largest freshwater fish, the bull shark, a predator of tropical waters, and the clownfish, a famous resident of sea anemones.
What activities does the Aquarium de Touraine offer for children and families?
The Aquarium de Touraine offers a range of entertainment and activities for children and families to enjoy, including :
- Le Labo, a fun, interactive adventure behind the scenes of the aquarium with an aquarium keeper.
- The Soigneur d'un jour experience, allowing you to discover the daily life of the soigneurs.
- An immersive sound walk, with audio commentary on species, ecosystems and the aquarium itself.
- A treasure hunt, inviting children to solve riddles during the visit.
- Touch pools, where visitors can interact with koi carp.
- Shark and caiman feeding sessions, organized on certain days.
How do I get to the Aquarium de Touraine from Paris or Tours?
From Paris or Tours, several options are available to reach the Aquarium de Touraine:
- By car: Follow the D952 along the Loire.
- By train: Get off at Amboise station, then take line C of the fil vert bus.
- By bus: Head for Montlouis and get off at the Aquarium stop.
Find out more about the Touraine aquarium, visit the official website here.
