Cattolica Aquarium (Acquario di Cattolica)
The Cattolica Aquarium is the largest on the Adriatic coast, with 400 species of fish and marine animals. Admire penguins, otters, chameleons, and jellyfish, among other creatures, housed in more than 100 tanks and in the interactive mangrove forest and deep-sea exhibit.
The Basics
Take a break from the beaches in the popular resort town of Cattolica to explore the historic Cattolica Aquarium (Acquario di Cattolica), built in the 1930s to resemble a fleet of ships and since renovated inside and out. Follow the aquarium’s marked pathways to see thousands of fish and marine animals: The Blue Route takes you to species dating from the prehistoric era, the Yellow Route to mammals and reptiles, the Green Route to amphibians and reptiles, and the Violet Route to creatures of the deep.
The aquarium is a top attraction in Cattolica, so book tickets in advance to skip the line at the entrance.
Things to Know Before You Go
Plan to spend about 2–4 hours visiting the entire aquarium.
There is a self-service restaurant, snack bar, and picnic areas for meals or snacks.
The Yellow and Green Routes are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; the Blue Route has an alternative itinerary to avoid the stairs. The Violet Route is not accessible.
Interactive and special programs for kids must be reserved in advance; enquire at the entrance for the daily schedule, prices, and availability.
How to Get There
From the Cattolica train station, take bus 125 to the Acquario di Cattolica stop. By car, take highway A14 and exit at Cattolica; the aquarium is about 2.5 miles (4 km) from the exit on the coast between Cattolica and Portoverde di Misano Adriatico. In July and August, the Costa Parchi shuttle bus runs between Cattolica and the aquarium, Italia in Miniatura (Italy in Miniature), Oltremare, and Aquafan parks.
When to Get There
The aquarium is one of the main draws in Cattolica and can be crowded on weekends and during the summer. Visit in the morning or late afternoon in summer, or in the slower spring and fall seasons.
Kid-Friendly Attractions on the Adriatic
The resort towns along Italy’s Adriatic coast are favorite destinations for families drawn to the shallow waters and all-inclusive beach clubs. For things to do with kids beyond the beach and aquarium, visit Oltremare in Riccione to learn about dolphins and other marine creatures, the Aquafan water park to play in water slides and wave pools, and the Italy in Miniature park to see models of Italian monuments and enjoy rides for smaller tots.
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