Behold the grandeur of the Adriatic's crown jewel, the Aquarium of Cattolica- the second-largest aquarium in Italy! It is an underwater realm stretching over 110,000 square meters, home to an eclectic cast of characters from the deep blue. Imagine strolling through an enchanting exhibition space where 3,000 captivating creatures from 400 diverse species captivate your senses. Majestic sharks patrolling, elegant penguins waddling, and the elusive otter royalty eagerly await your presence. Descend further into the aquatic wonder for a rendezvous with the Asian small-clawed otter, known for its playful nature, originating from the marshes of Bangladesh. Transitioning to the waterside and land intersection, observe chameleons, geckos, and iguanas that will splash wonder into your experience.
Know Before You Go
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 2-3 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | Spring/early summer |
| 🎟️ Cattolica Museum Ticket: | €22.26 |
Must-see at the Cattolica Aquarium
- Ocean Tank
- Shark Tunnel
- Penguin Coast
Getting There
Piazzale delle Nazioni, 1A, 47841
Cattolica - Italy
Get Directions
Opening Hours
April-December : 10 AM to 4:30 PM
January-March : 10 AM to 5:30 PM
What to expect at Cattolica Aquarium?
- See 100 display tanks and pools teeming with captivating marine life. From sharks to penguins, pelagic stingrays to jellyfish, this underwater journey promises unforgettable encounters with a diverse array of aquatic stars.
- Embark on the Yellow Trail and witness the fascinating world of freshwater streams. Encounter fearsome alligators and playful otters, and reflect on the vital role of water in Earth's life cycle.
- Immerse yourself in the enchanting Green Trail, where exotic animals take center stage. Marvel at chameleons, frogs, insects, and snakes as they captivate your senses.
- Venture into the Purple Trail to uncover the hidden genius behind insects' triumphs. Learn how their small size enables them to navigate diverse environments, from the icy poles to scorching deserts, lush forests, bustling cities, and even our own crops and freshwater habitats.
- Delve into mesmerizing feeding sessions featuring sharks, penguins, otters, and stingrays, guided by experts who reveal intriguing facts about these animals
Recommended Cattolica Aquarium Tickets
Cattolica Aquarium History
In the early 1930s, the visionary "Figli del Littorio" foundation collaborated with architect and engineer Clemente Busiri Vici to give life to a marine colony in Cattolica's northeast. Completed in just nine months, the colony's inauguration in 1934 marked a significant moment with the presence of Benito Mussolini. The "Le Navi" complex's symmetrical layout, resembling ships, planes, and more, drew attention from the global press. The colony underwent various transformations over the years, from a self-sufficient naval cadet structure to a military hospital during World War II. Post-war, it regained its status as a holiday center before transitioning to the "Le Navi International Youth Centre" in the 1980s.
In 1997, the municipality's endeavors led to the establishment of the "Parconavi SpA," aiming to create a marine park. The year 2000 saw the realization of this vision, with the park's inauguration. Today, the reimagined "Le Navi" complex stands as a captivating blend of history, culture, and marine education—a testament to its enduring legacy and commitment to preservation and restoration.
Heroes of Cattolica Aquarium
1Majestic Bull Sharks
With a gray-beige hue adorned by brown spots, the bull shark boasts a distinctive skin texture akin to sandpaper due to dermal denticles. This Italian giant, the largest in the country at up to 3.2 meters, flaunts an ever-so-slightly ajar mouth lined with long, slender teeth. Found in shallow waters near the coast, this Mediterranean resident is particularly prevalent in Sicilian waters.
Shark feeding session: Wednesday / Friday and Sunday 3:15 PM
2Adorable Humboldt Penguins
Thriving along the coastlines of Peru and Chile, resilient Humboldt penguins endure varying temperatures from -3°C to +24°C. These medium-sized birds, standing at 60 cm tall and weighing 5 kg as adults, can live up to two decades. Savoring mollusks, sardines, and Krill, they dive no deeper than 30 meters for prey, often in groups.
Penguin feeding sessions: Every day 10:30 AM / 2:30 PM
3Stingrays
Discover the Trigoni or Dasyatis violacea, fascinating stingrays that can stretch up to 80 cm in width and 190 cm in length. With their deep brown-violet hue, they're like shadowy gems of the sea. These relatives of sharks share the Adriatic waters, dining on jellyfish, squid, crustaceans, and fish. Watch out for their protective stingers at the tail's base!
Stringray feeding seesion: Tuesday / Thursday / Saturday: 12:15 PM
4Diverse Alligator Family
Belonging to the Crocodilia group, alligatorids encompass alligators and caimans, inhabiting the Americas and even China. Their distinguishing features include wider, shorter heads, less webbed legs, and aversion to salinity, unlike crocodiles. Caimans, predominant in Central and South America, lack a nasal bone septum, bearing bone shields on their underbellies.
5Four Leaf Clover Jellyfish
Comprising 90% water, jellyfish intrigue with their parachute-like forms and stinging tentacles. The Four Leaf Clover Jellyfish, a Mediterranean inhabitant, showcases a gelatinous, frayed-edged bell with distinct four-leaf clover patterning, spanning up to 40 cm. Utilizing its short tentacles for hunting, it captures small organisms, adding a touch of mystique to aquatic ecosystems.
6 Friends of Nemo
Delve into the world of clownfish and their unique companionship with anemones. Their tough skin and playful behavior enable them to dance through the anemone's stinging tentacles, forming an amazing partnership. These little adventurers lay around 200 eggs, with doting dads caring for the young while moms stand guard. Spot them in vibrant gatherings near rocky seabeds. Dive in and get to know these sea buddies!
7Mystical Moray Eels
Meet the enchanting Murenidi family, a clan of diverse Moray eels. These tropical wonders thrive in shallow, vibrant coral reefs, donning shades of brown, nettings, or even bright blue! Some can stretch beyond 3 meters—quite the spectacle! Keep an eye out for the Mediterranean's Muraena helena and the rare Gymnothorax unicolor.
8Aussie Giant Tree Frog
Hop into the rainforests of Australia and New Guinea to discover the Australian Giant Tree Frog, also known as the Caerulea. Vibrantly green with a Buddha-like plumpness, these agile climbers showcase brown hues when feeling shy. Listen for their nighttime serenade, a charming call to attract potential mates.
9Leopard Gecko
Say hello to the Leopard Gecko—a quirky member of the Gekkonidae family. With their mobile eyelids, chunky build, and quick legs, they're nature's little entertainers. Born weighing just a few grams, these carnivorous cuties snack on insects, larvae, and other invertebrates. Watch them grow from 10 cm to an impressive over 100 gr!
10Constricting Boa
While not the biggest snake in town, the constricting boa boasts elegance in its own right. With a penchant for small mammals, birds, and saurians, these boas use a constricting technique to capture prey, living up to their name. They can even devour creatures larger than their heads! Don't be surprised if you spot them nurturing a bundle of 5 to 60 snakelets after a 100-150-day gestation period.
Best Time to Visit Cattolica Aquarium
For an optimal experience at Cattolica Aquarium, choose your timing wisely. Beat the crowds by aiming for mornings or late afternoons during the summer months. For a more serene visit, consider exploring in the pleasant spring and fall seasons. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the marine wonders without the hustle and bustle of peak times.
Cattolica Aquarium Opening Hours
-
April-December
- Ticket office: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Closing time: 6:30 pm
- Last entrance to the Blue route: 5 PM
- Last entrance to Yellow, Green and Purple routes : 6 PM
January-March
- Ticket office: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Closing time: 7:30 pm
- Last entrance to the Blue route : 6 PM
- Last entrance to Yellow, Green and Purple routes: 7 PM
Getting There
Bus
If you're coming from Rimini, hop on line number 11 that heads to Riccione (P.le Curiel). From there, switch to line number 125 heading towards Cattolica (stop number 71 "Acquario di Cattolica")
Train
Arrive at Cattolica railway station and then catch bus number 125, getting off at stop number 71 "Cattolica Aquarium". For train schedules, you can visit www.trenitalia.com.
Car
Simply take the A14 motorway and exit at Cattolica. The park is a short 4 km from the motorway exit, situated along the Cattolica seafront. You'll find it right on the border with Portoverde di Misano Adriatico. If you're using a navigator, input "via Francia" for accurate directions.
Insider Tips to Visit Cattolica Aquarium
- To avoid crowds, consider visiting the Cattolica Aquarium during weekdays or during non-peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide a quieter and more relaxed experience.
- Take part in the interactive feeding sessions for sharks, penguins, otters, and stingrays
- Take your time to observe the marine creatures and read the informative displays. Engaging mindfully with each exhibit can offer a richer understanding of the underwater world.
- Embrace the aquarium's conservation message by following eco-friendly practices during your visit.
Restaurants Near Cattolica Aquarium
Experience a unique culinary journey at Birroteca 88, where craft beer meets gourmet cuisine. Indulge in a wide array of carefully selected beers paired with delectable dishes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that cater to both beer enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike.
Distance: 1.9 km
Immerse yourself in traditional Italian flavors at Ristorante La Puracia. Their diverse menu features a blend of regional dishes, providing a cozy atmosphere where you can savor authentic tastes and warm hospitality.
Distance: 170 meters
Craving pizza or classic Italian cuisine? Look no further than Ristorante Pizzeria Lamo. With a varied selection of pizzas, pasta, and more, it's a family-friendly place to enjoy a satisfying meal after your visit to the aquarium.
Distance: 1.1 km
Explore a fusion of culinary creativity and local ingredients at Bizulà. This restaurant offers a contemporary twist on Italian cuisine, making it a great choice for those seeking a modern dining experience with a touch of innovation.
Distance: 500 meters
Delight in the flavors of the region at Il Coloniale Cattolica. This charming restaurant offers a selection of Italian and seafood dishes, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal near the aquarium.
Distance: 400 meters
Places to Stay Near Cattolica Aquarium
Luxury Stays
Economy Stays
Hostels Stays
Things to Do Near Cattolica Aquarium
Get ready for a splashing good time at Aquafan Water Park , a thrilling aquatic paradise just a stone's throw from Cattolica Aquarium. With its exciting water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and adrenaline-pumping rides, Aquafan promises a day filled with laughter and excitement for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking heart-pounding thrills or a relaxing soak in the sun, this water park has it all. Don't miss out on the chance to conquer the towering slides, float down the lazy river, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of water-based fun.
Distance: 13.7 km
Step into a world of enchantment at Italia in Miniature, where you can explore Italy's most iconic landmarks, cities, and landscapes—all scaled down to miniature sizes! This unique attraction offers a fascinating blend of education and entertainment, allowing you to journey across Italy in a matter of hours. Marvel at the intricate details of famous monuments, discover the diverse regions of Italy, and even ride miniaturized versions of iconic Italian attractions. Italia in Miniature is a perfect blend of discovery and whimsy, making it a must-visit attraction for families and travelers with a sense of wonder.
Distance: 29.2 km
Dive into a realm of nature, science, and adventure at Oltremare, an immersive park that celebrates the beauty and wonders of the animal kingdom. From awe-inspiring dolphin shows that highlight the intelligence and grace of these majestic creatures to interactive exhibits that delve into marine life, Oltremare offers an educational and entertaining experience. Engage with fascinating marine species, witness captivating bird shows, and embark on a journey of exploration that brings you closer to the marvels of the natural world.
Distance: 13.7 km
Step back in time and explore the medieval charm of San Leo Fortress , a historic stronghold perched atop a dramatic hill. This fortress, with its formidable walls and commanding views, offers a captivating glimpse into Italy's past. Wander through ancient courtyards, climb the battlements for panoramic vistas, and uncover the stories that echo through the centuries. The mix of history, architecture, and stunning vistas make a visit to San Leo Fortress a memorable journey into Italy's rich heritage.
Distance: 53.9 km
Marvel at the enchanting Fontana delle Sirene, a mesmerizing fountain that captures the essence of mythical allure and artistic beauty. Located near Cattolica Aquarium, this fountain depicts graceful mermaids known as sirens, surrounded by intricate sculptures and intricate details. As you gaze upon the flowing water and the delicate forms of the sirens, you'll be transported into a world of fantasy and imagination. Take a moment to appreciate the harmonious blend of nature, art, and folklore that the Fontana delle Sirene encapsulates, making it a delightful addition to your Cattolica journey.
Distance: 3.9 km
FAQs
A visit to Cattolica aquarium typically last between 2 to 4 hours.
The openin hours of Cattolica Aquarium are from 10 AM to 4.30 PM. From January to March it is 10 AM to 5.30 PM
Yes, the pavilions are indoors. However, during inclement weather, the Aquarium tends to be more crowded.
Cattolica Aquarium is the second largest in Italy, home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species, including the largest bull sharks in Italy, penguins, otters, caimans, snakes, saurians, amphibians, insects, and more. However, it does not house dolphins or cetaceans.
Small dogs and pets are allowed, but only when carried in arms, carriers, or bags. Guide dogs for visually impaired individuals are an exception.
No, swimming with sharks is not possible – for their sake and yours.
No, the Viola route features educational exhibits and informative displays without live animals.
Yes you can feed the shark, stringrays, penguins and otters. All of them have different feeding timings.
Yes, photos and videos are allowed, excluding flash use for the animals' well-being.
