Barcelona Guide
The waterfront
L'Aquàrium
Address: Moll d'Espanya, Port Vell
Opening time: Daily: July & Aug 9.30am–11pm; Sept– June 9.30am–9pm, until 9.30pm at weekends
Price: €16
Telephone: 932 217 474
Website: www.aquariumbcn.com
L'Aquàrium drags in families and school parties throughout the year to see "a magical world, full of mystery". Or, to be more precise, to see 11,000 fish and sea creatures in 35 themed tanks representing underwater caves, tidal areas, tropical reefs and the planet's oceans. It's vastly overpriced and despite the claims of excellence it offers few new experiences, save perhaps the eighty-metre underwater tunnel which brings you face to face with gliding rays and cruising sharks. Some child-centred displays and activities, and a nod towards ecology and conservation matters, pad out the attractions before you're tipped out in the aquarium shop.