Den Blå Planet

Smart travelers plan ahead for Den Blå Planet. Located just outside central Copenhagen, this modern aquarium draws crowds from morning to evening, especially on weekends and rainy days. Busy periods see school groups and families filling the grand lobby, but quiet weekday afternoons promise a gentler pace and more time with the turtles. Tickets are available online—buying in advance will save both time and stress at the door. Located close to Kastrup metro station, the aquarium is well-connected, and its facilities are designed with accessibility in mind, making it welcoming for strollers and wheelchairs. Allow two to three hours for a relaxed visit, though true enthusiasts may linger even longer.

• Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons outside of school holidays.
• How to get there: Metro Line M2 to Kastrup Station, then a 10-minute walk; cycling paths and parking available.
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible; free wheelchairs available by request; baby changing and family rest areas on site.
• Average visit duration: 2–3 hours for most, more for marine life fans.

Den Blå Planet stands out from the start. Its dramatic, swirling roof leads straight to a grand entrance, hinting at the wonders inside. The main highlights cover watery worlds from the cold Nordic seas to the vibrant coral reefs of the tropics. Sharks and rays draw instant attention, but many visitors find moments of quiet joy beside the small tanks—like eels weaving through rocks or seahorses wrapping round kelp fronds. Along with big showpieces, the aquarium offers hidden corners, educational talks, and hands-on experiments. Every path encourages children and adults alike to ask, “What’s that?” and learn something new. Don’t rush—the best moments often happen when watching, not just walking.

• Key sights and features: The Ocean Tank with its swirling hammerhead sharks, the Amazon Rainforest zone, and the Northern lakes with their otters and pike.
• Unique experiences: Walking through a clear underwater tunnel as rays slide overhead; join a behind-the-scenes tour (book in advance).
• Photo-worthy locations: Panoramic viewing windows in the main hall, and the light-filled exterior facing Øresund Strait.
• Cultural and historical facts: Opened in 2013, Den Blå Planet maintains Denmark’s central role in marine research and public education about the oceans.