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Zoos #9 in Copenhagen

Den Blå Planet

4.4 · 20,627 reviews
Serene and immersive with a modern, minimalist aesthetic.
Den Blå Planet, Jacob Fortlingsvej 1, 2770 Kastrup, Denmark
Interesting facts
1

The building's floor plan is inspired by the movement of a whirlpool, creating five distinct arms radiating from a central foyer.

2

The aquarium utilizes an advanced water filtration system that treats sea water sourced directly from the Øresund.

3

The facade's 33,000 aluminum shingles reflect the color of the sky and water, causing the building to shift in appearance based on weather conditions.

4

The Ocean Tank features a curved acrylic tunnel, allowing visitors to walk beneath hammerhead sharks and rays.

5

The complex is designed to be climate-resilient, situated on a site that can withstand rising sea levels.

6

It maintains a dedicated Amazon exhibit featuring piranhas, anacondas, and Arapaima fish.

7

The central stairwell connects the different aquarium levels while offering views into the main tanks.

8

The total area of the aquarium spans approximately 10,000 square meters.

Overview

Den Blå Planet is Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, designed by 3XN architects to resemble a swirling whirlpool from an aerial perspective. The facility houses 20,000 animals across 53 individual aquariums, utilizing over 7 million liters of water. The Ocean Tank is the largest display, featuring a 16-meter tunnel and a multi-story viewing window. The site functions as a saltwater aquarium, drawing intake water directly from the Øresund Sound. Specialized zones replicate diverse environments, including tropical rivers, coral reefs, and cold-water Nordic habitats. A distinct feature is the external architectural cladding, consisting of 33,000 aluminum shingles designed to mimic fish scales. The institution focuses on marine conservation and sustainable exhibition practices. It is positioned on a promontory, extending partially into the sea to maximize the connection between the building and its aquatic surroundings.

Photo spot

The large panoramic window in the Ocean Tank, which provides a full-height view of the sharks and rays.

Insider tips

Check the daily feeding schedule upon arrival, as these events are highly popular and offer the best view of the animals in motion.

Visit the outdoor touch pool area to interact with marine life under the guidance of staff.

Bring a light layer, as the building's climate control maintains cooler temperatures to protect various animal habitats.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to touch the animals outside of designated interactive stations or supervised areas.

Good to know

Open daily, but occasionally closes early for private evening events; check official site for holiday-specific variations.

Etiquette

Avoid using flash photography near the tanks to protect the animals' eyes and minimize stress.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid large school groups and weekend crowds.
Address
Den Blå Planet, Jacob Fortlingsvej 1, 2770 Kastrup, Denmark
55.638, 12.656
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsThe Ocean Tank and the Amazon Rainforest zone
Total speciesOver 450 species

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid large school groups and weekend crowds..

The large panoramic window in the Ocean Tank, which provides a full-height view of the sharks and rays.

Close by you'll find Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Kastrupgård.