Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

Aquarium in Saint-Malo

Grand Aquarium Saint Malo
Grand Aquarium Saint Malo
CC BY-SA 3.0 / MaxTab

The Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo is the kind of place that turns a coastal trip into something more immersive: not just sea views from the ramparts, but a close-up look at the marine world that shapes Brittany's identity. You'll find it in the La Madeleine area (Avenue du Général Patton), a short hop from Intra-Muros, and it's widely considered one of the top attractions in Saint-Malo for families, rainy-day planners, and anyone who wants a break from wind-on-the-walls sightseeing.

What makes it stand out is the mix of classic aquarium halls with genuinely playful experiences, from the famous 360° shark ring to a submarine-style journey that feels like a mini expedition. It also works well as a contrast stop on a walking tour of Saint-Malo: do the ramparts and beaches when the weather's bright, then head here when you want something hands-on, warm, and surprisingly atmospheric.

History and Significance of the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

Opened in 1996, the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo has grown into one of Brittany's best-known visitor attractions by leaning into an “explore the oceans” storyline rather than simply displaying tanks. That framing matters here, because Saint-Malo's relationship with the sea isn't abstract: this is a city built on maritime routes, tides, and salt-air resilience, and the aquarium offers a modern way to understand the living ecosystems behind the coastline.

The site is designed around variety and pacing. Instead of a single linear hall, you move through themed worlds that shift from Breton coastal habitats to warmer tropical zones and colder, deeper-water environments. For many visitors, the aquarium's significance is practical as well as educational: it gives Saint-Malo an all-weather anchor attraction that still feels connected to the city's seafaring character.

Things to See and Do in the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

The signature moment is the Ring of the Seas, a 360-degree tank where sharks and sea turtles circle overhead and alongside you, creating that rare “I could stay here all day” feeling. It’s not just a good photo stop; it’s a slow-down-and-watch space, especially when you catch the rhythm of animals gliding past in loops that feel almost hypnotic.

For a more tactile experience, the touch pool is the highlight, particularly if you're travelling with kids or anyone who learns best by doing. The staff keep the tone gentle and respectful, and it's a nice reminder that the aquarium isn't about thrills alone-it's also about building curiosity and care for living things.

Finally, make time for Expédition Nautibus, the submarine-style experience that adds storytelling and a sense of descent into the deep. It’s the most “theme-park” element of the visit, but it’s done with a strong marine-exploration mood, and it’s a smart way to keep energy up when attention starts to dip in the later rooms.

How to Get to the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

The aquarium is outside the Intra-Muros walls in the La Madeleine area, so it's easiest to think of it as a short transfer from the old town rather than a walk-you-stumble-into sight. The nearest airports for Saint-Malo are Dinard-Pleurtuit-Saint-Malo (DNR) and Rennes-Saint-Jacques (RNS). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Saint-Malo on Booking.com.

If you arrive by train, Saint-Malo station is your main hub, typically via Rennes, and from there you can continue by local bus, taxi, or a short drive depending on where you're staying. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. From Intra-Muros, local buses and taxis make the hop straightforward, and it often feels faster than you expect because you’re not battling narrow old-town lanes.

Driving is simple, and it’s one of the most convenient ways to include the aquarium if you’re combining it with other stops along the Emerald Coast or travelling with family gear. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

  • Entrance fee: Adult €19.90
  • Opening hours: Daily: 10:00–17:30
  • Official website: https://www.aquarium-st-malo.com/
  • Best time to visit: Late morning is ideal for a relaxed start before the busiest afternoon wave, and it’s a particularly good choice on windy or rainy days when the ramparts feel intense.
  • How long to spend: Plan for a solid half-day feel rather than a quick pop-in, especially if you want to do the immersive experiences without rushing.
  • Accessibility: The visit is generally step-light and family-friendly, with indoor routes that suit strollers and slower pacing, though it’s still worth allowing extra time at peak periods.
  • Facilities: Expect family-oriented essentials like toilets, a shop, and places to pause; it’s easy to plan this as a self-contained outing without needing to duck out mid-visit.

Where to Stay Close to the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

For a culture-heavy itinerary, the best base is Intra-Muros or just outside it so you can walk to the ramparts, cathedral, and restaurants at the best times; if your trip focus is families, easy parking, and quick access to modern conveniences (including the aquarium), La Madeleine is the most practical area to stay.

If you want to be close enough to treat the aquarium as an easy morning or late-afternoon plan, staying in La Madeleine keeps logistics simple and usually improves value. ibis Saint-Malo La Madeleine is a reliable option for a straightforward base with quick access to the aquarium area. Kyriad Prestige Saint-Malo works well if you want a slightly more comfort-forward stay while still being convenient for both the aquarium and the old town by short transfer. B&B HOTEL Saint-Malo Centre is a good-value pick that keeps you well positioned between modern Saint-Malo and the historic core.

Is the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you want a Saint-Malo day that isn't entirely defined by weather, tides, and wind. The aquarium delivers a satisfying mix of “quiet wonder” spaces (like the 360° ring) and higher-energy moments (like the submarine-style experience), which makes it work for a wide range of travellers.

It’s also one of the smartest ways to balance a trip: pair it with the ramparts and beaches when skies are bright, then use the aquarium as your indoor anchor when conditions turn. Even for adults travelling without kids, it’s surprisingly engaging when you give it enough time to move slowly and actually watch the animals rather than speed-reading the signage.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.1 (20,397)

Grand Aquarium Saint Malo on Rue du Général Patton is a modern indoor aquarium with a wide variety of fish, crustaceans, turtles and sharks, large touch-pool areas for hands-on encounters, clear displays and helpful electronic signage in French and English, plus a popular submarine-style ride/underwater-station simulation that many visitors highlight as a fun finale; reviewers praise the layout, animal welfare and value for families, note it can get busy and some videos are only in French, and point out good parking including covered spaces.

Julian Kemmink
4 months ago
"Very nice aquarium, not only regular fish, but also a variety of more obscure, more interesting fish. The ride at the end is very entertaining andcreative. Beware of loud children though, they’re not just shark bait unfortunately…..."
Kirsty Marie Phillips
4 months ago
"Really lovely trip out. I think the price was reasonable considering it is similar to prices back in England and that doesn't even include afantastic submarine ride, like here at the Grand Aquarium. Fantastic selection of fish, crustaceans and turtles to see, some I've never seen before. Lovely clean glass on the aquariums. Huge multiple touch pool area with sharks, rays, fish and crabs to touch. Animal welfare seems really good here too. Throughly enjoyed ourselves. The only thing I think they could improve on is having english subs or dub on some of the videos, so we can understand a little better. We entered at 12 noon and there was no queue, no rush to enter as open until 7pm. Spent a few hours walking around and then went on to Dinard close by for a seaside walk...."
Chris Wilson
4 months ago
"A visit for the kids who love their fish and other sea animals after a walk round the old town of Saint Malo. Lots of parking, some under cover sothe car isnt too baking when you return to it. Entrance fee was reasonable for family of 4, less than UK Seaworlds. The signs were electronic and helpfully cycled through each animal in each tank in French and English, more informative than lots of tired UK Seaworld signs. Lots of different sea creatures to see, including turtles in the main tank and spider crabs, a nice flow to the different sections, and a surprise at the end, a simulation of a visit to an underwater station and submarine ride. Quite slow moving queue (whole thing probably took an hour) in a confined area, the videos along the way are all in French, and the sub ride itself is arguably more exciting than what you can see outside of the sub, but a welcome addition to end the visit on that a UK place would make you pay extra for. Worth a visit, rain or shine...."

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

This is an easy win for families because the visit naturally alternates between “wow” visuals and interactive stops, which helps avoid the museum-style fatigue that can set in with younger travellers. The trick is pacing: treat the 360° ring and touch areas as built-in breaks, not just quick stops, and you’ll find the whole experience runs smoother.

If you’re visiting in peak season, arriving earlier often means more space at the hands-on sections and less waiting for the immersive experience. It’s also a strong option for mixed-age groups, because toddlers get the sensory impact while older kids can engage with the themes of habitats and depth.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the aquarium works best as a change-of-pace stop rather than the centrepiece of your Saint-Malo trip. It's a good shared experience when you want something calm, warm, and visually rich-especially if the weather is doing its dramatic coastal thing outside.

Make it part of a “contrast day”: old-town lanes and sea views first, then the aquarium, then back into Intra-Muros for dinner. That rhythm keeps the trip feeling varied without adding complicated travel time.

Budget Travelers

While it’s a paid attraction, it can still be good value if you use it strategically as your main indoor activity for the day, especially in poor weather when you’d otherwise be hopping between cafés. It also helps that the experience feels substantial, so you can pair it with free ramparts time before or after and still feel like you’ve had a full day.

If you’re budgeting tightly, look out for online ticket options and aim for off-peak timing when possible. Even small savings can add up when you’re travelling as a pair or family.

FAQs for Visiting the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

Getting There

It’s in the La Madeleine area on the mainland side of Saint-Malo, outside the Intra-Muros walls. It’s a short transfer from the old town rather than a central, walk-past-it sight.
If you enjoy longer walks, you can head out of Intra-Muros toward the mainland side and follow main roads toward La Madeleine, but many visitors prefer bus or taxi for convenience. The simplest approach is usually to treat it as a short ride from the centre.
From the station, a quick taxi or local bus connection is usually the easiest option. It’s close enough that you don’t need a long transfer, but it’s far enough that you’ll appreciate not doing it on foot with bags.
Yes, driving is convenient here because you’re outside the tight streets of Intra-Muros and parking is generally simpler than in the walled city. If you have a car for the wider region, this is one of the easiest Saint-Malo attractions to reach by road.

Tickets & Entry

A standard ticket covers the aquarium route through themed habitats and the headline viewing areas like the 360° tank. Immersive experiences may have their own capacity management, so it’s worth planning your route so you don’t miss them.
In school holidays and summer, booking ahead is a sensible move to protect your schedule. Outside peak periods you can often be flexible, but advance purchase can still simplify entry.
The big one is touch-pool etiquette: it’s meant to be gentle and supervised, and staff will guide you if you’re unsure. Also, expect common-sense limits around flash photography in sensitive areas.

Visiting Experience

If you’re rushing, you can still hit the highlights, but it’s more enjoyable when you allow time to linger at the big tanks and immersive section. A short visit works best when you prioritise two or three key zones rather than trying to “complete” everything.
It depends on your priorities: if your day is about ramparts, tides, and Intra-Muros atmosphere, keep it outdoors. If weather is poor or you’re travelling with kids, it can be the most reliable way to make the day feel complete.
It’s excellent in bad weather, because you get a full experience without the wind exposure that can dominate Saint-Malo’s coastal sights. Many travellers end up calling it their “save the day” plan when the sea is spectacular but the streets are unforgiving.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Most classic tours focus on Intra-Muros, the ramparts, and maritime landmarks, so the aquarium is usually a separate outing. It’s best treated as a dedicated half-day plan rather than a quick add-on.
A good mini-plan is to do the aquarium first, then head back toward Intra-Muros for a short ramparts section and a café stop. That pairing gives you indoor immersion plus outdoor views without overcomplicating logistics.

Photography

Yes, especially if you like moody, low-light scenes with moving subjects and reflections. The 360° ring is often the most photogenic space because the animals and viewing angles do a lot of the work.
Quieter periods make photography easier because you can take your time at the glass without pressure. Earlier visits tend to be calmer, which helps for both photos and overall enjoyment.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally, yes-the aquarium is designed with families in mind and the indoor route is typically manageable. The main variable is crowding, so timing can matter more than physical access.
Yes, there are natural pause points built into the route where you can sit and reset. Treat these as part of the experience, especially if you’re visiting with kids or doing the aquarium on a packed day.

Food & Breaks Nearby

This area is practical rather than romantic, so it’s ideal for an efficient meal before returning to Intra-Muros. Many travellers do lunch here, then save the atmospheric dining for the old town later.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s a straightforward, modern area that feels functional and easy to navigate. Evening visits are usually about convenience rather than atmosphere, so plan your “pretty” time for Intra-Muros.
Earlier is often more comfortable for crowds and for taking your time at the big tanks. Later visits can work well too, especially if you’re using the aquarium as a wind-and-rain escape after a morning on the ramparts.

Nearby Attractions to the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo

  • Saint-Malo Intra-Muros Ramparts: A classic wall-top circuit with sea panoramas, beaches below, and the city's granite rooftops.
  • Saint-Vincent Cathedral: A peaceful interior landmark in the heart of the walled city, ideal as a calm contrast to the coast.
  • Bastion de la Hollande: A broad ramparts lookout where you can watch the tide and take in the full sweep of the bay.
  • Plage du Sillon: Saint-Malo's long seafront beach, perfect for a bracing walk and wide-open coastal views.
  • Cité d'Aleth and Tour Solidor: A quieter, more local-feeling area in Saint-Servan with strong viewpoints over the Rance and harbour approaches.

The Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Malo!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily: 10:00-17:30

Price:

Adult €19.90

Address: Grand Aquarium Saint Malo, Rue du Général Patton, Saint-Malo, France
Saint-Malo: 4 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs