Mallorca is an island full of experiences to suit every taste. Beyond its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes, the island is also home to unique attractions that allow visitors to discover the natural wonders of our planet in a different way.
Today, at Gran Hotel Sóller, we would like to recommend a different kind of day out to enjoy with family and friends: a visit to Palma Aquarium, one of the most important marine attractions in the Balearic Islands.
Located next to Playa de Palma, this outstanding marine park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ecosystems of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans through spectacular aquariums, immersive experiences, and activities for all ages. It is a visit we highly recommend, combining entertainment, education, and marine conservation in a truly unique setting.
WHAT IS PALMA AQUARIUM?
Since opening its doors in June 2007, Palma Aquarium has established itself as one of the leading tourist attractions in the Balearic Islands and an internationally recognised centre for marine education and conservation.
From the very beginning, Palma Aquarium has maintained a strong commitment to protecting seas and oceans around the world, actively participating in numerous environmental initiatives and projects, particularly those focused on preserving the Balearic Sea.
In 2016, the Palma Aquarium Foundation for Environmental Protection was officially established. This non-profit organisation promotes marine conservation, education, and scientific research through a wide range of awareness campaigns and research programmes.
One of the features that truly sets Palma Aquarium apart from many other aquariums, both nationally and internationally, is its internationally recognised expertise in maintaining and breeding coral reefs, making it a benchmark within the industry.
Over the years, millions of visitors have discovered the importance of protecting our oceans through its exhibitions, educational activities, and conservation projects, making Palma Aquarium an essential attraction for anyone wishing to explore the fascinating underwater world.
HOW TO GET TO PALMA AQUARIUM FROM GRAN HOTEL SÓLLER
There are several ways to reach Palma Aquarium from Gran Hotel Sóller, whether by public transport, car, or taxi.
If travelling by public transport, begin by walking approximately five minutes from the hotel to the Sóller (Carrer de Cetre) bus stop. From there, take the TIB Line 204 towards Palma and get off at Estació Intermodal, the final stop. Once in Palma city centre, take bus line 15, 23, or 25, all of which stop directly outside Palma Aquarium. The total journey takes approximately one hour and twenty minutes, making it a convenient option for a full-day excursion without the need for a car.
If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 45 minutes. Follow the Ma-11 towards Palma, then continue along the Ma-20 and Ma-19 until you reach Playa de Palma, where Palma Aquarium is located. Parking facilities are available close to the entrance.
Whichever option you choose, the visit is well worth it and offers the opportunity to discover one of the Balearic Islands' finest marine attractions.
A FULLY IMMERSIVE MARINE EXPERIENCE
Once inside Palma Aquarium, visitors can enjoy an extraordinary journey through some of the world's most fascinating marine ecosystems, featuring species from across the globe.
One of the highlights is the Big Blue, one of Europe's deepest shark tanks at 8.5 metres deep. Here, visitors can admire blue sharks and many other marine species while enjoying an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity.
Beyond its impressive aquariums, Palma Aquarium also offers a wide variety of experiences suitable for all ages.
Technology enthusiasts can enjoy the Undersea Explorer VR, an immersive virtual reality adventure that transports visitors to the depths of the ocean alongside sharks, manta rays, and dolphins.
Guests can also board the Shark Vision Boat, a glass-bottom boat offering a completely different perspective of the sharks swimming beneath.
For those interested in learning more about the aquarium's daily operations, the Backstage Tour provides exclusive behind-the-scenes access, revealing everything that happens beyond the public exhibits.
Without a doubt, one of the most memorable attractions is the 3D Cinema Aquadome, where visitors can immerse themselves in the incredible world of humpback whales through a spectacular 360-degree audiovisual experience.
For the more adventurous, Palma Aquarium also offers unforgettable experiences such as Shark Diving and Snorkelling with Rays, allowing participants to get closer to these magnificent animals in a safe and exciting environment.
Younger visitors will also find plenty to enjoy, including a children's area featuring a pirate ship, inflatable castle, and water playground.
During your visit, you can take a break at one of the aquarium's cafés or browse the souvenir shop before continuing your underwater adventure.
TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR VISIT
To make the most of your experience, we recommend allowing at least half a day to explore Palma Aquarium and enjoy its many attractions at a relaxed pace.
The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with the last admission at 5:00 p.m. Once inside, visitors are welcome to remain until closing time.
If you prefer to avoid the busiest periods, spring and autumn are generally the best seasons to visit. During the summer months, we recommend arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more comfortable experience.
All facilities are fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the aquarium with ease.
As some time slots can become particularly busy, we also recommend booking your tickets in advance and checking the aquarium's website for the latest opening hours, admission prices, and available experiences before your visit.
If you are staying at Gran Hotel Sóller and would like further information about Palma Aquarium, please do not hesitate to speak with our reception team. They will be delighted to assist you and help you plan your visit.