Den Blå Planet – National Aquarium Denmark

A Modern Marvel Beneath the Surface

Den Blå Planet stands as Northern Europe's largest and most modern aquarium, a striking architectural achievement that draws visitors into an underwater universe. The building itself is an award-winning design that seamlessly integrates with its waterfront setting near Copenhagen Airport. Inside, 7 million liters of water support over 24,000 animals representing 735 different species, creating one of Scandinavia's most comprehensive marine and freshwater ecosystems under one roof.

Immersive Encounters with Marine Life

The aquarium transcends traditional exhibition design by inviting visitors to step into carefully curated habitats rather than simply observe from behind glass. The centerpiece is the enormous Ocean Tank, where sharks, rays, and other large predators swim directly overhead, creating an unforgettable sense of immersion. Interactive touch pools allow visitors to handle Danish sea creatures like crabs and flounders, while the popular ray-feeding experience lets guests assist in nourishing the cownose rays and witness their remarkable sensory abilities firsthand. The facility is one of only a few places in Europe where visitors can encounter rescued sea otters—all animals at the aquarium have been rehabilitated after separation from mothers or injury in the wild.

Diverse Habitats and Themed Experiences

Beyond the main ocean exhibits, Den Blå Planet features a dedicated Rainforest section where visitors encounter tropical birds, reptiles, and a resident sloth in a lush, humid environment. Themed feeding demonstrations occur throughout the day, including piranhas, giant arapaimas, and sea otters, each accompanied by educational commentary about animal behavior and ecology. During summer months, the aquarium expands its offerings with outdoor water play areas, The Wild Pond where visitors can net and examine small creatures with magnifying glasses, and special evening sessions after 7 PM featuring curated feeding demonstrations and guided stories at reduced admission rates.

Year-Round Access and Practical Amenities

The aquarium operates 365 days annually, including all holidays, with standard hours from 10 AM to 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday and extended Monday hours until 9 PM. During peak seasons—including summer (late June through August), winter holidays, Easter, and autumn half-term—the facility extends to 10 AM to 9 PM daily. Visitors must book timed-slot tickets online, which offer savings of 33 Danish kroner per adult ticket compared to on-site purchase. The building features full level access for people with reduced mobility, a cloakroom for coats and luggage, and Café Plankton offering food and beverages with views across the Øresund strait. Photography is permitted throughout the facility, and WiFi is available to guests.

Strategic Location and Transportation

Situated at Jacob Fortlingsvej 1 in Kastrup, the aquarium sits immediately adjacent to Copenhagen Airport and the Metro system, making it highly accessible from central Copenhagen. The location places it within Copenhagen's rapidly evolving western districts, characterized by contemporary architecture and modern urban development. The surrounding area includes TV-Byen (Denmark's equivalent to the BBC), golf facilities, and other cultural attractions, positioning Den Blå Planet as part of a broader leisure and cultural destination.

Educational and Conservation Focus

Beyond entertainment, Den Blå Planet emphasizes education and animal welfare, meeting established guidelines for responsible animal care. Themed talks throughout the year connect visitors with animals and their native ecosystems, from Alaskan sea otters to Costa Rican sloths and Tanzanian cichlids. Special exhibitions, such as the Underwater Photographer of the Year display, rotate seasonally to provide fresh perspectives on marine conservation and ocean biodiversity.