Have you ever dreamed of exploring the depths of the ocean, surrounded by magnificent and exotic marine creatures? Well, Italy has an underwater wonderland situated along its famous coastline.
This hidden gem is the Aquarium Cattolica Italy, which will surely captivate your imagination and leave you in awe of the marvels beneath the waves.
Just imagine strolling through an enchanting exhibition space, which is home to over 3000 fascinating marine creatures from 400 different species. That is exactly what awaits you at Cattolica Aquarium Italy.
Now, I visited this beautiful wonderland a couple of months ago, and today I am here to share my experience with you.
Uncover The Secrets Of The Sea At Aquarium Cattolica
Know Before You Go
Before we dive deeper, let’s cover some handy information to help you plan the visit.
- Suggested Duration 2 to 3 hours
- Best Time to Visit Spring/ early summer
- Cattolica Aquarium tickets €22.26
The place is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from April to December, and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from January to March.
This timing makes it easy to fit this tourist attractions in Italy into your Italy travel guide, whether you are on a quick getaway or an extended Italian vacation.
History of the Cattolica Aquarium in Italy
The Cattolica Aquarium History is as fascinating as the marine life it houses. In the early 1930s, a visionary foundation called “Figli del Littorio” collaborated with architect Clemente Busiri Vici to create a marine colony in Cattolica.
It was completed in just 9 months, which is testament to the determination and efficiency of the developers. The complex, known as “Le Navi,” has undergone numerous transformations over the years.
It started as a naval cadet structure, then served as a military hospital during World war II. In the post-war era, it regained its status as a holiday centre before transitioning to the “Le Navi International Youth Centre” in the 1980s.
In 1997, with the effort of the municipality, “Parconavi SpA” was established with the aim of creating a marine park. This vision became a reality in 2000 with the inauguration of the park.
Today, the reimagined “Le Navi” complex stands as a captivating blend of history, culture, and marine education and is a top attractions in Italy.
Which is the best time to visit this aquarium?
Timing is everything when planning your aquatic adventure. According to me, the best time to visit the Aquarium of Cattolica is during the spring or early summer months.
The weather is comfortable, and you will also get to avoid the peak summer crowd. This allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience as you explore the Underwater world.
If you are looking to beat the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or during non-peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide a quieter and more intimate experience with marine life.
Opening Hours
Planning your visit is easy with these opening hours:
April-December January-March
Aquarium of Cattolica Tickets Office :10 AM to 4:30 PM Aquarium of Cattolica Ticket Office :10 AM to 5:30 PM
Closing Time : 6:30 PM Closing Time : 7:30 PM
Last Entrance to the Blue Route : 5 PM Last Entrance to the Blue Route : 6 PM
Last Entrance to Yellow, Green and Purple Routes : 6 PM Last Entrance to Yellow, Green and Purple Routes : 7 PM
How to reach there?
Ready to set sail on this aquatic journey? Here is how you can visit Cattolica.
By Bus If you are coming from Rimini, take line number 11 heading to Riccione (P.le Curiel). From there, you can switch to line number 125 towards Cattolica (stop number 71 “Acquario di Cattolica”).
By Train You can arrive at Cattolica railway station and then catch bus number 125, get off at number 71 “Cattolica Aquarium”.
By Car Take the A14 motorway and exit at Cattolica. The park is just 4 km from the motorway exit, just situated along the Cattolica seafront.
This place is located just on the border with Portoverde di Misano Adriatico. Now, if you are using Google maps or any other navigation application, just put in “via Francia”for the accurate directions.
Things to Expect
Now you know how to reach this place, know about the timings, the cost and nest time. Let us focus on the things that you can expect to see at the second-largest aquarium in Italy.
As you enter, you will be greater by 100 display tanks and pools steaming with captivating marine life. From sharks to penguins, pelagic stingrays to jellyfish, this underwater journey promises unforgettable encounters.
Your adventure on this Family-friendly attractions Italy will begin on the Yellow Trail, where you will get to witness the fascinating world of freshwater streams. Visitors can also encounter fearsome alligators and playful otters and reflect on the vital role of water in the life cycle of the planet.
Next, it is time to immerse yourself in the enchanting Green Trail, where exotic animals take centre stage. Check out the chameleons, frogs, insects, and snakes as they captivate your senses.
If you are intrigued by the small wonders of nature, the Purple Trail uncovers the hidden genius.
You will learn how their small size enables them to navigate diverse environments, from the icy poles to the scorching deserts, lush forests, busy cities and even our own crops and freshwater habitats.
One of the biggest highlights of your visit to this massive aquarium will be the mesmerizing feeding sessions featuring sharks, penguins, otters, and stingrays. But don’t worry, the sessions will be under expert guidance who will also reveal interesting facts about these animals.
If you are going to Italy with your children just like I went last June, then I swear this place is definitely one of the finest Things to do in Cattolica Italy.
Things to Do
The Aquarium of Cattolica promises a wealth of experiences and attractions. Here are some of the must-see Things to do in Cattolica Italy during your visit.
Meet the Majestic Bull Sharks
These majestic creatures, with their grey-beige hue adorned by brown spots, can grow up to 3.2 M long. You can observe them slowly gliding through the water, showcasing their distinctive skin texture very similar to sand paper due to dermal denticles.
Oh, by the way, do not miss out the feeding session on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 3:15 PM.
Waddle with the Humboldt Penguins
These cute medium-sized birds, standing at a height of only 60 cm tall and weighing 5 kg as adults, are residence of the coastlines of Peru and Chile. You can watch them dive for prey and interact with each other during their feeding sessions, held daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Marvel at the Stingrays
Next you will come face to face with the fascinating Trigoni or Dasyatis violacea. These stingrays can reach up to 80 cm in width and 190 cm in length.
With their deep brown-violet hue, these aquatic creatures are like shadow gems of the sea. You can catch their feeding session on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 12:15 PM.
Encounter the Alligator Family
Next, let us learn about the Crocodilia group. It includes alligators and also caimans.
At this enclosure you can observe their distinguishing features such as wider, shorter heads and less webbed legs compared to crocodiles.
Discover the Four Leaf Clover Jellyfish
These unique underwater creatures, comprising 90% water, showcase a gelatinous, frayed-edges bell with distinct four-leaf clover patterning. They can span up to 40 cm.
Trust me you will be mesmerised as you watch them gracefully moving through the water, capturing small organisms with their short tentacles.
Find Nemo’s Friends
Now, let’s step into the world of clownfish and their unique companionship with anemones. If you are travelling with kids, trust me they would have a fun time observing these playful fishes as they dance through the stinging tentacles, forming an amazing partnership.
Spot the Mystical Moray Eels
Are you ready to meet the enchanting Murenidi family, a clan of diverse eels? These tropical wonders thrive in shallow, vibrant coral reefs, donning shades of brown, nettings or even bright blue.
Just keep an eye out for the Mediterranean’s Muraena helena and the rare Gymnothorax unicolor.
Meet the Aussie Giant Tree Frog
Let’s hop into the rainforests Australia and New Guinea. Here you will discover the Australian Giant Tree Frog, which is also known as the Caerulea.
They have a distinctive vibrant green colour and Buddha-like plumpness and are well-known for their agile climbing abilities.
Watch the Constricting Boa
Well this might not be the biggest snake around, but they have an elegance of their own. At this enclosure, you will get to learn about the Constricting Boa, it’s unique hunting techniques and feeding habitats.
Insider Tips from The Experts
- As I already told you, I have been to this place and the memory is fresh. So here is a list of advice from my end to enhance your experience at this Best aquariums in Italy.
- There is no rush, so take your time to observe the Marine creatures and read the informative displays. Engaging mindfully with each exhibit can offer a better understanding of the underwater world.
- Don’t miss the interactive feeding sessions for the sharks, penguins, otters, and stingrays. You will not only be entertained, but also learn valuable information about their behaviours and diets.
- Try to visit during the weekdays or non-peak hours for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide a quieter atmosphere, thereby allowing you for a more intimate encounter with marine life.
- Try to follow all the eco-friendly practices during your visit.
- If you are a photography enthusiast, remember that even though photos and videos are allowed, flash photography is prohibited for the well-being of the animals.
- For families with younger children, bring snacks and water. Even though there are several dining options, having some refreshments on hand can be helpful.
FAQs About Cattolica Aquarium
How long does a visit to Cattolica Aquarium usually take?
It will take you around 2-3 hours, but you can always stay longer if you want. The duration will depend on your pace and level of interest in each exhibit.
Is the Cattolica Aquarium open during rainy weather?
Yes, the aquarium is open rain or shine. In fact, it is a perfect indoor activity for a rainy day, allowing you to explore the wonders of the Underwater world regardless of the weather outside.
What animals can be seen at Cattolica Aquarium?
You will get to see a variety of marine life including sharks, penguins, stingrays, jellyfish, and various species of fish. The aquarium also houses reptiles, amphibians, insects, giving you the opportunity to observe and learn about a variety of creatures.
Can I bring dogs or other animals to Cattolica Aquarium?
Unfortunately, you cannot bring your pets inside the aquarium for the safety and comfort of marine life. Service animals, on the other hand, may be permitted with proper documentation.
Is swimming with sharks allowed at Cattolica Aquarium?
Well you cannot swim with the sharks, but you can get a close-up view of them in the shark tunnel. This provides a thrilling and safe way to observe these magnificent creatures in their habitat.
Are there animals on the Viola route of Cattolica Aquarium?
The Viola (Purple) route mainly focuses on insects and their incredible adaptations. Here, you will learn about how these small creatures navigate diverse environments and play crucial roles in various ecosystems.
Can I feed animals at Cattolica Aquarium?
No, visitors are not allowed to feed the animals. But you can always watch professional feeding sessions for various species.
These sessions are both entertaining and educational, providing insights into the diets and behaviour of different marine creatures.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to dive in and explore the marvels of the deep? The Aquarium of Cattolica is waiting to welcome you on an incredible underwater adventure.
Now, don’t forget to share your experiences and maybe inspire others to embark on this magical journey.