How to get to the Barcelona Aquarium in Barcelona

Where Is Barcelona Aquarium Located?

Address: Moll d’Espanya del Port Vell, s/n, 08039 Barcelona, Spain | Find on Google Maps

the Barcelona Aquarium is located in Port Vell, the city’s historic harbour area, right by the waterfront promenade. It sits within the Maremàgnum leisure complex, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and marina views. The location is central and easy to reach, especially if you are already exploring La Rambla or the Gothic Quarter.

Closest landmark: Columbus Monument, about 500m away | Find on Google Maps

Plan Your Visit To Barcelona Aquarium

Getting to the Barcelona Aquarium by public transport

By metro

  • Travel time: 15 minutes from Plaça de Catalunya
  • Closest station: Barceloneta (L4) or Drassanes (L3)
  • Timings: First trains around 5am; services run until midnight (later on weekends)

The easiest option is to take Line L4 towards La Pau and get off at Barceloneta. From there, it is a pleasant 10-minute walk across the waterfront bridge to Port Vell. Alternatively, take Line L3 to Drassanes and walk down from La Rambla towards the harbour.

Passengers boarding a coach bus with smiles, ready for a tour.
  • Travel time: 20 minutes from Plaça de Catalunya
  • Closest stops: Passeig de Colom / Port Vell area
  • Timings: Daytime services run frequently, typically from early morning until late evening, depending on the route.

Bus lines such as V15, D20, 59, V17, and H14 connect central Barcelona to the Port Vell area. Get off near Passeig de Colom and walk 5 to 7 minutes towards the waterfront and Maremàgnum complex.

Person smiling while driving a taxi with a passenger in the back seat.
  • Travel time: 10 to 15 minutes from central Barcelona
  • Closest drop-off point: Port Vell entrance near Maremàgnum

Taxis are widely available across Barcelona and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like Free Now. This is a convenient option if you are traveling with children or prefer a direct route without transfers. Fares vary depending on traffic and time of day, but are generally reasonable for short city distances.

Getting to the Barcelona Aquarium by car

Driving route

  • Travel time: 10 to 15 minutes from Plaça de Catalunya
  • Distance: ~2 km
  • Peak traffic hours: 8am to 10am, 5pm to 7pm

Drive via La Rambla or Via Laietana towards Port Vell. The final stretch near the waterfront can get busy, particularly in the afternoon and on weekends, so allow a little extra time. | Explore the route

Parking facilities

On-site parking: No dedicated aquarium parking

However, the aquarium is located within the Maremàgnum complex, which has a large parking facility directly next to the attraction.

Nearby parking lots:

  • Parking Maremàgnum (1-2 minute walk)
  • Aparcament Port Vell (300m away)
  • Parking Barceloneta Centre (800m away)

Parking rates vary by provider and time of day, and are typically on the higher side due to the central waterfront location. Spaces close to the aquarium can fill up quickly during weekends and holidays, so arriving earlier helps.

Accessibility

The Barcelona Aquarium is generally easy to access, with smooth, level pathways leading to the entrance and step-free access throughout the surrounding Port Vell area.

Public transport: Metro stations like Barceloneta and Drassanes are equipped with elevators, and most buses in Barcelona are wheelchair accessible with ramps.

Driving and parking: Nearby parking facilities offer accessible spaces, though availability can vary during busy periods.

Entrance: The main entrance is step-free and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Plan your visit to the Barcelona Aquarium
Why not explore Barcelona on foot?

Walking around the bustling streets of Barcelona is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the city, and walking to the Barcelona Aquarium fits naturally into a day out. A walk from Plaça de Catalunya takes about 25 minutes and leads you down La Rambla, past street performers, cafés, and historic buildings, before opening up to the scenic Port Vell waterfront.

Compare your travel options

Mode of transportTravel timeEstimated costBest forGet directions

Metro

15 mins

€2 to €3

Fast and reliable

Get Directions

Bus

20 mins

€2 to €3

Budget-friendly with scenic views

Get directions

Car / Taxi

10–15 mins

Varies by traffic

Comfort and doorstep pick-ups and drop-offs

Get directions

Walking

25 mins

Free

Exploring the city

Get Directions

Frequently asked questions about getting to the Barcelona Aquarium

The metro is the most efficient and reliable option for most visitors, as it avoids traffic and connects directly to stations within a short walking distance of the aquarium. It is especially useful during busy periods when roads near the harbour can get congested.