Moskvarium is the largest oceanarium in Europe, occupying an area of over 12,000 square meters. The complex includes 80 aquariums, a hall for water shows with a capacity of 2,300 spectators, and a swimming center with dolphins. The total volume of the aquariums is 25,000,000 liters of seawater, requiring 80 tons of salt monthly to maintain its salinity.
How to Get There
Moskvarium is located in the heart of Russia's most famous exhibition venue, VDNKh. Getting there is very easy: simply travel to the metro station of the same name and walk a short distance along the main VDNKh alley. Before entering the oceanarium, security checks are required, and queues may form, so it's recommended to use the far-left frame, which typically has fewer people.
Upon entering, you'll find yourself in the main hall where regular ticket counters and self-service ticket terminals are located. It's better to use the terminals as they are faster, but note that only bank cards are accepted for payment. Tickets can also be purchased in advance on the official website, and their cost is the same as those bought on-site.
The ground floor houses the oceanarium itself, while the first floor accommodates a cafe, cloakroom (it's recommended to leave belongings here as the exhibition area is quite large), and restrooms. The upper floors feature a restaurant and a marine show. Descend to the lower level to enter the area with the aquariums. Remember that your ticket allows you to stay here all day from 10:00 to 22:00.
The tour starts with the freshwater zone, showcasing a variety of inhabitants of rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies. Special attention is given to the inhabitants of Russian waters, including enormous catfish, sturgeons, and sturgeons. Informational signs provide insights into these local aquatic species.
Next, you'll encounter the exhibition of tropical water inhabitants, presenting both familiar aquarium residents and stunning creatures from the "wild" seas. In the final part of this exhibition, you can observe leisurely caiman crocodiles and turtles.
Moving on, you'll reach the area with open aquariums, allowing observation of rays and sea stars without lids. However, reaching into the water is prohibited, so keep an eye on children. If you proceed to the dimly lit area (slightly to the left), you'll encounter aquariums with jellyfish, skates, and other mysterious sea creatures, illuminated in colorful lights, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Several cafes are located nearby, offering reasonably priced meals. Additionally, bringing your own food is allowed. Dining becomes more interesting when accompanied by the sight of killer whales and belugas, as the windows of their aquariums overlook the food court. However, seeing them might require a short wait.
After indulging in burgers, continue exploring. Move on to admire the diversity of coral reef life, with its whimsical, colorful inhabitants. Then, step into perhaps the most enchanting part of Moskvarium - the vast vaulted hall. Here, huge sharks, rays, and other marine giants swim right above you. Taking photos with them is pure delight. Finally, conclude your visit by marveling at some of the cutest inhabitants - the Baikal nerpa seals. Watching them is endlessly fascinating.
In total, our visit took about three hours. If you plan to read all the important and interesting information, allocate a whole day for your visit. If attending the marine show, plan your time accordingly.
In summary:
- Excellent place for a family visit;
- You can spend the entire day here;
- Spectacular exhibition and marine show.
