Visit the Barcelona Zoo and Aquàrium with BusPlana

When we talk about Barcelona, many people think of art, architecture or gastronomy, but the city is also a paradise for those who love animals and nature. If you are travelling with your family, with children or simply want to enjoy a different kind of day out, the excursion to the Barcelona Zoo and Aquàrium, organised by BusPlana, is the perfect option.  

This unique experience allows you to discover two iconic places in the city that combine fun, education and conservation, all with the comfort of a direct bus from Costa Dorada. In addition, we are the official airport shuttle service, so you can purchase official tickets for transfers from Barcelona Airport to Costa Dorada online.     

The Barcelona Zoo, where Wildlife Meets History  

A Zoo with more than a Century of History  

The Barcelona Zoo, located in the iconic Parc de la Ciutadella, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe. It was inaugurated in 1892 and since then has evolved to become a benchmark for conservation and animal welfare.  

In its early days, it housed exotic species donated by private collectors. Over time, it became a public space where thousands of families have encountered animals that they would otherwise never have seen up close. One of its most famous residents was the albino gorilla Copito de Nieve, the zoo's symbol for decades and the only one of its kind known in the world. Although Copito died in 2003, his legacy lives on in the zoo's commitment to research and species preservation.  

A Journey through the World's Habitats  

Across its 32 acres, you will find themed areas that recreate natural habitats: the African savannah, where giraffes, zebras and ostriches live together. Terrarium, one of the most complete ones in Europe, with snakes, alligators and turtles. Primate gallery, with gorillas, monkeys and macaques in enriched environments. Feline area, home to lions, leopards and tigers. Children's farm, a space specially designed for the little ones, where they can interact with domestic animals such as goats, cows and ponies.  

The tour is complemented by shaded areas, a picnic space, restaurants and children's games. There are also educational shows and interactive activities that change according to the season.  

Education and Conservation as Main Focuses  

One of the most valuable aspects of the Barcelona Zoo is its educational work. It is not just about observing animals, but also about understanding their behaviour, learning about their habitats and raising awareness about their protection. 

Aquàrium de Barcelona, a Total Immersion in the Marine Universe 

Welcome to the most Important Aquarium Dedicated to the Mediterranean 

Located in the city's old port, the Aquàrium de Barcelona is one of the most visited marine centres in Europe. Opened in 1995, it offers an immersive experience that transports you to the most fascinating marine ecosystems on the planet. With more than 60 Mediterranean and tropical aquariums, an 80-metre underwater tunnel and more than 11,000 specimens of 450 different species, the Aquàrium is a must-see for anyone who wants to learn about life under the sea without getting wet.  

From the Mediterranean to the Oceans of the World  

The visit begins with the Mediterranean area, with 16 aquariums representing the different habitats of our coasts, such as rocky areas, sandy beaches, underwater caves, the Ebro River Delta and the Medes Islands. Here you can see sharks, moray eels and gilthead seabream.  

You can move on to the Tropical Aquariums next, home to brightly coloured fish, corals, jellyfish and exotic creatures such as clownfish and angelfish. There are also areas dedicated to extreme environments such as the Antarctic Ocean, home to adorable penguins that swim and glide with surprising grace.  

The Shark Tunnel: The Jewel in the Crown  

Without a doubt, the most surprising part of the visit is crossing the impressive Oceanarium, a giant tank containing more than 4 million litres of salt water. Here you will find the transparent tunnel, which runs through the aquarium for 80 metres and allows you to observe the true kings of the ocean from below: sharks, rays, sunfish and schools of giant fish. It is an immersive experience that fascinates both children and adults alike. Seeing a shark swim above your head, so close that you can see its gills moving, is a feeling you will never forget. 

Learn, Experience and Play 

In addition to observing, the Aquàrium de Barcelona offers educational spaces where you can learn through games. There are interactive screens, videos, simulations and activities on the impact of climate change, marine pollution and the importance of protecting the oceans. Younger children can enjoy the ‘Explora!’ area, designed to encourage them to experiment and awaken their curiosity about the aquatic world. Everything is designed with an educational approach and is accessible to all ages.  

A Wild and Marine Day in Barcelona  

Nature, Fun and Learning on a Complete Excursion from Costa Dorada  

There is one excursion that stands out above all others: the combination of the Barcelona Zoo and Aquàrium. A day designed for all ages, where learning and fun come together in two of the city's most visited and beloved spaces.  

The day begins in the green heart of the city, the Parc de la Ciutadella, home to the historic Barcelona Zoo. After this land-based experience, the day continues with an immersion in the underwater world: a visit to Aquàrium de Barcelona, in Port Vell.  

Ideal for Families, but also for Everyone  

Although it is specially designed for families with children, this excursion is also perfect for couples, groups of friends or people who want to see another side of Barcelona, away from traditional tourism. The combination of nature, science and leisure makes this one of the most complete and entertaining plans of the season.  

With BusPlana, this excursion is carefully organised so that you can enjoy yourself to the fullest without worrying about a thing: transport picks you up and takes you back comfortably to your point of origin in Costa Dorada, and both the entrance to the Zoo and L'Aquàrium are included in the price.  

And much more to Discover with BusPlana  

The excursion to the Zoo and Aquàrium is just one of the many experiences that BusPlana offers to make the most of your stay on Costa Dorada. From scenic routes through Barcelona or Valencia to cultural getaways to Montserrat, Sitges or Andorra, the catalogue of excursions is designed to suit all tastes: culture, nature, family fun and unforgettable landscapes.  

BusPlana also offers a comprehensive network of regular bus routes so you can travel comfortably between the towns of Costa Dorada, Camp de Tarragona and even Barcelona. Check all schedules and routes on our website. Remember that we are the official airport shuttle service, and you can purchase official tickets for transfers from Barcelona Airport to Costa Dorada online.  

Because every trip is an opportunity to discover something new, let BusPlana take you out and transform your holiday into unforgettable memories.