Aquarium of Lyon (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Aquarium of Lyon?
What makes it 81% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can stroll 50+ tanks, join feeding talks, use the Fishipedia app and read at the river-view café; the compact site lasts under two hours and can feel busy on weekends.
Positives:
- Small-Group Interactions: Feeding talks host under 20 people, making it easy to ask questions.
- Quiet River Views: Seating by the windows offers a peaceful spot to rest and reflect.
Challenges:
- Limited English Labels: Some species descriptions are only in French—rely on the Fishipedia app.
- Snack Bar Hours: Outside school holidays, the snack bar is closed on weekdays—plan accordingly.
What is Aquarium of Lyon?
- A riverside aquarium at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône housing nearly 50 tanks and around 300 aquatic species
- Collections span diverse habitats, from coral reefs to temperate freshwater ecosystems
- Facilities include a dedicated shark pit and an interactive touch pool
What is so special about Aquarium of Lyon for solo trip?
- Witness sand tiger sharks glide overhead in the shark pit.
- Use the Fishipedia app for self-guided species insights.
- Join live feedings in small groups to learn from keepers.
- Enjoy riverside seating for a solo snack break.
- Skip lines with the online “Billet Malin” ticket.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to explore all galleries, join a feeding show, and relax without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Aquarium of Lyon
Shark Pit Viewing:
Stand at the viewing window to watch sand tiger and nurse sharks swim overhead.
Tip: Arrive early or late in your visit to avoid peak crowds at the pit.
Live Feeding Talks:
Attend scheduled feedings for rays, sharks, and tropical fish.
Tip: Pick up the daily feeding schedule at the entrance for exact times.
Fishipedia App Exploration:
Use the free Fishipedia app to scan QR codes and learn species facts in your language.
Tip: Download the app before your visit to save time underground.
Mini-Cinema Shark Film:
Watch the 10-minute movie about the shark habitat in the 200-seat cinema.
Tip: Catch the film between feeding shows when crowds are low.
Riverside Snack Break:
Grab a coffee or pastry at the snack bar overlooking the Rhône–Saône confluence.
Tip: Visit on weekdays in winter for quieter seating and river views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Aquarium of Lyon
- Skip the Line: Buy the dated “Billet Malin” online to cut the ticket queue.
- Plan Your Route: Start at the shark pit when you enter to avoid crowds later.
- Check Show Times: Grab the feeding schedule at the desk and build your visit around key talks.
Reviews of Aquarium of Lyon
Alex
The aquarium in Lyon turned out to be quite small, with very few fish. In my opinion, the price is too high — for one adult and three children (aged 13, 10, and 9), I purchased a Family Pack for €60, otherwise it would have been even more expensive. The visit takes a maximum of 30 minutes — spending more time there doesn’t really make sense.
Chloe Park
Small but cute place, had good memories and would recommend but do not expect too much! Nothing too special. Good to spend some time with your loved ones.
Emily Hall
The aquarium was practically empty when I visited which was great, and I enjoyed my visit a lot. All information plaques and talks are in French of course but Google translate had me covered. The problem is that it's pretty small, they recommend 90-120 minutes to get through but that's really only if you have kids and are doing the interactive stuff designed for them like the online quiz. As an ad...
Iryna Konovalova
Visited in December 2023. The aquarium isn't that big. There are a lot of benches to take a break and enjoy the view. There are quizzes online, on the floor and in a booklet to make a visit more interesting. You can find out more about marine life on the screens next to the tanks. There are also short educational lectures a few times per day. There's a cafeteria and a gift shop with plenty of toys...
Nopphol Tha
A little disappointed. It is smaller than I expected, especially when compared with the price. It is more like a walking around fish tanks than the aquarium. Even the biggest tank has few fish. The good point is that it is clean, well organized, and easy parking
When is the best time to visit Aquarium of Lyon (Lyon, France)?
Summer brings longer lines—book the “Billet Malin” online. Winter weekdays are quieter with shorter wait times.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Billet Malin adult ticket | EUR 15.5 |
| Snack and drink | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 20.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Aquarium of Lyon
Address: 7 Rue Stéphane Dechant, 69350 La Mulatière, France
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About Aquarium of Lyon
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+33 4 72 66 65 66Explore Popular Things to Do
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