AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium in Lausanne
AQUATIS Aquarium-Vivarium, in Lausanne’s Vennes district, developed from the Vivarium de Lausanne into what is described as Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium-vivarium. It combines freshwater exhibits with reptiles and amphibians, and takes visitors through ecosystems from five continents using aquariums, interactive displays and multimedia installations. The institution’s work focuses on environmental education, biodiversity conservation and research. For visitor information, see the AQUATIS official site, Touring Switzerland and MyVaud.
History and development
The Vivarium de Lausanne was founded in 1964 by Dr. Philippe Zuber as a specialized center for reptiles and amphibians. For decades, it served as an educational and conservation hub, including through outreach programs. Its limited size eventually prompted expansion, and the opening of a new freshwater aquarium in 2017 marked the creation of AQUATIS (newinzurich.com).
Since opening, AQUATIS has become one of Lausanne’s top attractions, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Its development reflects the city’s commitment to scientific leadership and public engagement, and its conservation programs have received international recognition (AQUATIS official site).
What to see and do
AQUATIS has 3,500 square meters of exhibition space and 46 aquariums, vivariums and terrariums. Its collections include over 10,000 freshwater fish, 100 reptiles and amphibians, and 300 plant species. The themed route presents freshwater ecosystems from five continents (MyVaud).
The architecture and exhibits are designed to create an immersive experience, with large tanks, interactive displays and trilingual educational content. The facility was built to international standards for animal welfare and sustainability and is overseen by the Aquatis Foundation (AQUATIS Foundation).
Special exhibition
“Mission Polaire,” running from March 8, 2025, to March 22, 2026, explores polar environments and climate change. Admission is included with standard tickets (News.mc).
Education and conservation
Educational activities include temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops, guided tours and interactive displays about ecosystems, water conservation and environmental challenges. Themed tours and children’s parties are also available (AQUATIS education, Alpes Vaudoises).
AQUATIS works with organizations including EAZA, Zoosuisse, the Komodo Survival Program and Species360, and participates in global conservation programs (AQUATIS conservation, Aquatis Official). Its work includes protecting the European pond turtle and participating in the only European conservation program for the Mangshan viper. The collection also includes ancient species such as the Gila monster.
Practical visiting information
Opening hours
AQUATIS is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. The last admission is listed as 17:00 in one schedule; another listing gives the last entry as 17:10. Closing may be extended to 19:00 on weekends and public holidays. Check the official site for seasonal updates. The gift shop is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.
The AQUATIS Restaurant is open from 9:30 to 18:00, with lunch served from 11:30 to 14:00 (Aquatis Opening Hours).
Tickets and prices
Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance. Prices listed as of July 2025 are (Lausanne Tourisme):
- Adults: CHF 32
- Youth (16–20): CHF 28
- Children (5–15): CHF 22
- Under 5: free
- AVS/AI: CHF 25
- Family (2 adults and 2 or 3 children): CHF 89
- Group rates and happy hour tickets are available.
Discounted rates are also available for families, groups and schools. Online booking is recommended for discounts and to avoid queues or secure preferred time slots (Aquatis Official).
Location, transport and accessibility
AQUATIS is at Route de Berne 144, 1010 Lausanne, in the Vennes district. The Vennes stop on metro line M2 is directly in front of the aquarium, about 10 minutes by metro from Lausanne city center. By car, take the A9 motorway and the Lausanne/Vennes exit. The site has a 1,200-space parking garage (Aquatis visitor info, MyVaud).
The facility is fully wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and ramps. Assistance and audio guides can be requested for visitors with special needs. Lockers are free and located at the entrance (Aquatis FAQ).
Visitors staying in Lausanne hotels receive a free Lausanne Transport Card for local public transport. The site also has an AQUATIS Hotel with packages, a restaurant and a gift shop.
Contact
- Address Route de Berne 144, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Phone +41 (0)21 654 23 23
- Email [email protected]
- Official site https://www.aquatis.ch/en/
Tips
- Visit on a weekday or early in the morning for fewer crowds.
- Allow 2–3 hours for a complete visit (MakeMyTrip).
- Validate parking tickets at the shop for discounts (Touring Switzerland).
- Comfortable shoes are suggested. AQUATIS can also be combined with other city tours or lake cruises.
Nearby places
Nearby attractions include Lausanne Cathedral, the Olympic Museum, Ouchy waterfront, Collection de l’Art Brut and Château d’Ouchy.
Frequently asked questions
What are AQUATIS’s visiting hours?
It is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Last admission is listed as 17:00, while another schedule gives 17:10; weekend and public-holiday closing may be extended to 19:00. Check here for updates.
How can I purchase tickets?
Buy tickets online via the AQUATIS website or at the entrance.
Is AQUATIS wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The facility is fully accessible, with elevators and ramps.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Guided tours are available for groups and individuals; inquire in advance or at the entrance.
What attractions are nearby?
Lausanne Cathedral, the Olympic Museum, Ouchy waterfront, Collection de l’Art Brut and Château d’Ouchy.
