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Tropicarium Budapest
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Landmark
Tropicarium Budapest, often called the 'Shark Zoo,' is located within the Campona Shopping Center in the 22nd district of the Hungarian capital. Since its opening in 2000, it has offered a fascinating insight into tropical and marine wildlife across an area of approximately 3,000 square meters. The main attraction is the massive shark tank containing 1.4 million liters of saltwater, which is traversed by a 12-meter-long glass tunnel. Here, visitors can observe sand tiger sharks and rays from immediate proximity. In addition to the marine world, Tropicarium houses an artificial rainforest where a tropical downpour is simulated every 15 minutes, featuring alligators and exotic birds. The institution places a strong emphasis on education and organizes regular shark feedings for the public. It is a popular family destination and serves as an important center for the popularization of marine life forms in Hungary.
- Location: Budapest, Hungary
- Top sights: Tropicarium · Klauzál Gábor Budafok-Tétényi Művelődési Központ · KockaPark
- Nearby: Budapest (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 40 | 41 | 35 | 65 | 70 | 66 | 63 | 57 | 51 | 44 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Tropicarium Budapest is a fully accessible indoor attraction featuring a massive glass tunnel. Families can observe sharks and tropical fish up close.
Typical hours
Opening hours are typically daily from late morning until early evening. On public holidays, reduced hours often apply.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the Tropicarium, but without flash to avoid disturbing the animals. Selfies in front of the glass tunnel are very popular.
Time needed
A visit typically takes about one to two hours. Families with children may need a bit longer.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Aquaworld Resort or Budapest Zoo. The Campona shopping centre is also close by.
Getting there
The best way to get there is by tram 42 or bus 700. From the city centre, the journey takes about 30 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit the Tropicarium on a weekday late morning to avoid crowds. Book tickets online in advance to save waiting time.
Geography
Facts
- Tropicarium opened in 2000 as the largest marine aquarium in Central Europe.
- The shark tank holds 1.4 million liters of saltwater.
- The glass tunnel passing through the shark aquarium is 12 meters long.
- A tropical storm is simulated in the rainforest section every 15 minutes.
- It houses sand tiger sharks that can reach up to 3 meters in length.
- Visitors can pet rays in a specially designated tank under supervision.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tropicarium Budapest (10)
KockaPark
Attraction in Budapest, dedicated to the cube.
🌐 kockapark.com🕒 Mo-Sa 10:00-20:00; Su 10:00-19:00
Háros-szigeti Ártéri-erdő Természetvédelmi Terület
Island in Hungary, protected floodplain forest.
Barlanglakás Emlékkiállítás🏛 museum
Cave house museum in Budapest.
aqb mines
Arts centre in Budapest.
aqb project space
Contemporary art gallery in Budapest.
aqb nest
Arts centre in Budapest.
aqb foyer
Gallery in Budapest, part of the aqb complex.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the Tropicarium located?
It is located in the Campona shopping mall in Budapest's 22nd district, easily accessible by car or public transport.
When is the shark feeding?
Shark feeding usually takes place on Thursdays at 3:00 PM, when divers feed the animals in the main tank.
Are you allowed to pet the rays?
Yes, there is a special ray-petting pool where visitors can carefully touch the animals swimming near the surface.
How long does an average visit take?
The visit usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend at the various tanks and the rainforest.
Is the Tropicarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire exhibition area is accessible and can be comfortably toured with wheelchairs or strollers.
Tropicarium Budapest: where is it located?
Tropicarium Budapest is located in Budapest, Hungary.
Tropicarium Budapest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tropicarium, Klauzál Gábor Budafok-Tétényi Művelődési Központ, KockaPark.
Tropicarium Budapest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Tropicarium Budapest: why is it worth visiting?
Tropicarium Budapest, often called the 'Shark Zoo,' is located within the Campona Shopping Center in the 22nd district of the Hungarian capital.
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