Aquarium de Touraine
Looking for a unique and fun activity in the Loire Valley? Why not consider a visit to the Touraine Aquarium, Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium? Tucked away between Tours and Amboise, in Lussault-sur-Loire, in the department of’Indre et Loirein the region Center Val de Loire, this aquarium offers you the chance to discover more than 300 aquatic species, from majestic koi carp to mysterious sharks, not to mention piranhas and fascinating electric eels.
In this area, you’ll be amazed by 70 aquariums that recreate the aquatic ecosystems of the Loire River, as well as others regions of France and from faraway places. Whether you’re planning an outing with family, friends, or even on your own, the Touraine Aquarium promises a memorable experience.
This guide provides all the information you need to plan your visit to the Touraine Aquarium: hours, admission prices, available services, and activities offered. You’ll have everything you need to make the most of this unique and educational adventure.
Want to discover another aquarium? Read our article at the La Rochelle Aquarium.
Discover the Touraine Aquarium
Dive into the heart of the Touraine Aquarium, a fascinating world where three aquatic ecosystems come together in one place. From the cool mountain streams to the mysteries of the vast oceans, this aquarium stands out as Europe’s largest freshwater sanctuary. Come explore this marvel through its 70 tanks, which hold more than 2 million liters of water.
An Overview of the Aquarium
Founded in 1989 by Jean-Claude and Martine Borelly, enthusiasts of aquatic biodiversity, the Touraine Aquarium is located in Lussault-sur-Loire, between Tours City and Amboise. Located on the site of a former cave farm, it attracts more than 150,000 visitors each year. These visitors come to admire an impressive collection of more than 2,500 specimens, representing over 300 species of fish, crustaceans, reptiles, and amphibians.
The must-see tour
Don't miss these top attractions during your visit to the Touraine Aquarium:
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, which can live up to 100 years.
Three fascinating ecosystems
At the Touraine Aquarium, 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 journey to discover France’s aquatic environments—from lakes to ponds, including marshes—teeming with 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 Touraine Aquarium but not sure where to start? No problem—we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your visit so it goes as smoothly as possible. Follow the guide!
Opening hours
The Touraine Aquarium is open year-round, except on December 25 and January 1. Hours vary by season, but the aquarium is generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the season.
Check our official website for exact times. We recommend you allow at least two hours for a complete experience.
Ticket prices
Admission prices vary depending on age and the type of ticket selected. Here are our prices 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 through our partners for priority access and a one-year validity period. Tickets can also be purchased on-site with cash, credit cards, or vacation checks.
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 out the event schedule on our website or at the front desk so you don't miss a thing.
- Bring a picnic or make a reservation at the Aquarium restaurant, which offers a variety of menus.
- Don't forget your camera or smartphone so you can 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 just the wonders of the underwater world at the Touraine Aquarium. We offer a wide variety of services and activities to enhance your experience and make your visit even more enjoyable.
Whether you're looking for a special offer, a place to eat, or a unique event, the Touraine Aquarium is sure to meet your expectations.
Exclusive offers
Take advantage of our exclusive offers at the Touraine Aquarium, including discounts and additional perks. Choose the combo ticket with the Mini-Châteaux Park for discounted access to both attractions. The Family Pack offers free admission for the fourth family member. With the annual pass, enjoy unlimited access to the Aquarium for one year, invitations to special events, and discounts from our partners. For more details on these offers, visit our website.
Catering and souvenir stores
Our restaurant offers a variety of menu options to suit every taste. Enjoy regional specialties, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, or crepes while watching the sharks. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day, and until 5:30 p.m. during school breaks. Reserve your table online or by phone.
You can also bring your own picnic and enjoy our outdoor picnic area. Be sure to visit our gift shops to discover a selection of unique items—such as stuffed animals, books, games, jewelry, and clothing—that are perfect as souvenirs of your visit or as gifts for your loved ones.
Events and news
The Touraine Aquarium hosts regular events and activities designed to make your visit memorable. Take part in special events, fun workshops, or shows. European Heritage Days, Japanese calligraphy workshops, manga drawing sessions, and the Mantawa board game invite you to explore fascinating cultures. Don’t miss the fish feedings, magic shows, or Halloween activities for moments of pure fun. Stay up to date on the latest news and events by visiting our official website or subscribing to our newsletter.
Aquarium de Touraine - Conclusion
The Touraine Aquarium is an exceptional destination that invites you to explore the wonders of the underwater world. Whether your interest in fish stems from a passion, a curiosity about nature, or you’re simply looking for a unique activity, the Touraine Aquarium is sure to amaze you.
With more than 300 species to see—ranging from majestic koi carp to impressive sharks, not to mention intriguing piranhas and fascinating electric eels—the aquarium offers a rich and educational display of biodiversity. In addition, a variety of services and activities round out the experience: a restaurant for your dining breaks, gift shops where you can take a little magic home with you, exclusive offers to help you make the most of your visit, and special events that promise to make your visit even more memorable.
Don't miss this chance to dive into a fascinating underwater world. Book your ticket to the Touraine Aquarium today and get ready for an enriching and unforgettable experience!
Aquarium de Touraine - FAQ
What are the ticket prices and booking procedures for the Touraine Aquarium?
Admission to the Touraine Aquarium costs €14.50 for adults and €11.50 for children ages 3 to 12, while admission is free for children under 3. To purchase tickets, you can 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 Touraine Aquarium?
Located in Lussault-sur-Loire, in the Indre-et-Loire department, the Touraine Aquarium specializes in freshwater species. It is home to more than 60 species of fish and marine animals from the Loire River, 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 well-known resident of sea anemones.
What kinds of events and activities does the Touraine Aquarium offer for children and families?
The Touraine Aquarium offers a variety of events and activities for children and families to enjoy, including:
- Le Labo, a fun and interactive behind-the-scenes adventure at the aquarium with a zookeeper.
- The “Caregiver for a Day” experience, which offers a glimpse into the daily lives of caregivers.
- An immersive audio tour featuring audio commentary on the 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 you get to the Touraine Aquarium from Paris or Tours?
From Paris or Tours, there are several options for getting to the Touraine Aquarium:
- By car: Follow the D952 along the Loire.
- By train: Get off at the Amboise train station, then take the green bus line C.
- By bus: Take the bus toward Montlouis and get off at the Aquarium stop.
To learn more about the Touraine Aquarium, visit the official website here.
