On a weekday afternoon, with grey skies above and rain on the way, we visited Aquarium Oniria. As expected, it was quite crowded. Thankfully, we had bought our tickets online in advance, which saved us a long wait at the entrance.
Calling Oniria simply an "aquarium" doesn’t quite cover it. The experience begins not with fish tanks, but with a symbolic climb to a mountain peak, following the path of water as it flows from the heights down through rivers and wetlands, eventually reaching the sea. This storyline gives the visit a strong sense of direction and discovery.
Unlike traditional aquariums that focus mainly on the ocean, Oniria offers a wider perspective, showcasing various freshwater and marine environments along the way. There are also a few interactive elements scattered throughout, mainly aimed at children, which add some variety to the visit without being overwhelming.
Due to the weather, it was unfortunately very busy, which made it harder to fully enjoy the experience. In total, we spent around an hour and a half inside.
For our family of two adults and two children, the total cost was €48, which felt reasonable given the uniqueness of the setup. However, to really appreciate the atmosphere and design, I would recommend visiting during quieter times.