The Blue Planet

The Blue Planet, known locally as Den Blå Planet, is Denmark's national aquarium and a major attraction in the Copenhagen area. It replaced the previous aquarium in Charlottenlund and opened as a new purpose-built facility. The building's distinctive architecture resembles a whirlpool or water vortex when viewed from above, making it visually striking. It is located in Kastrup, near Copenhagen Airport, on the island of Amager. Peak seasons: daily 10:00–21:00. Outside peak seasons: Monday 10:00–21:00; Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–17:00. The 2026 peak periods are 7–22 February, 28 March–6 April, 14–17 May, 23–25 May, 27 June–31 August, 10 October–1 November, and 21 December–3 January 2027.

The aquarium features multiple themed sections representing different aquatic environments from around the world. Visitors can explore ocean tanks, coral reef displays, and exhibits showcasing marine life from various habitats including tropical waters and native Danish seas. The facility houses numerous species of fish, sharks, rays, and other sea creatures. Interactive elements and educational displays are incorporated throughout. The design emphasises immersive experiences, with some tanks allowing viewing from multiple angles and levels to observe animal behaviour in different ways.

A typical visit to The Blue Planet generally lasts between two and four hours, depending on individual interest levels and whether visitors attend scheduled feedings or presentations. Families with children may spend longer due to the interactive nature of certain exhibits. The spacious layout and numerous tanks encourage visitors to proceed at their own pace. Those with deep interest in marine biology or photography might extend their stay. Allow flexibility in scheduling. Most indoor and outdoor areas have level access, firm and even surfaces, wide doors, and adequate turning space.

Visitors should consult The Blue Planet's official website or contact the attraction directly for current opening times before planning their trip. Seasonal variations in hours may apply, particularly around Danish public holidays and school vacation periods. Weekends and school holidays typically attract larger crowds, particularly families with children. Morning visits may offer a quieter experience. Peak seasons: daily 10:00–21:00. Outside peak seasons: Monday 10:00–21:00; Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–17:00. The 2026 peak periods are 7–22 February, 28 March–6 April, 14–17 May, 23–25 May, 27 June–31 August, 10 October–1 November, and 21 December–3 January 2027.

Visitors must verify current admission fees through The Blue Planet's official channels before visiting. Combination tickets or annual passes may be available for frequent visitors or Copenhagen residents. Online advance purchase is commonly advisable for popular attractions to guarantee entry and potentially reduce waiting times. 2026 adult admission is DKK 249 at the door or DKK 219 online. Peak-season and weekend adult admission is DKK 259 at the door or DKK 229 online. Online tickets specify a one-hour arrival slot. Most indoor and outdoor areas have level access, firm and even surfaces, wide doors, and adequate turning space.

The Blue Planet is situated in Kastrup, approximately five kilometres from central Copenhagen and very close to Copenhagen Airport. Public transport access is available via the Copenhagen Metro; Kastrup Metro station on the M2 line is within reasonable walking distance of the aquarium. The address is Jacob Fortlingsvej 1, 2770 Kastrup. Take M2 Metro to Kastrup Station, then walk 600 metres east along Alleen. Bus 5C toward Lufthavnen stops at Den Blå Planet, about 200 metres from the entrance. From Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup Station is one Metro stop away; the aquarium is also a 1.5 km walk from the airport.

The aquarium's popularity means crowding can occur, particularly in front of major tanks and during scheduled feeding times. Visitors should be mindful of children in busy areas and maintain awareness of wet floors near tank displays. Photography restrictions may apply in certain sections or for specific purposes; signage should be observed. Most indoor and outdoor areas have level access, firm and even surfaces, wide doors, and adequate turning space. Platform lifts serving The Ocean, The Amazon, and The Faroese Bird Cliff accommodate loads up to 410 kg. Three public toilets are wheelchair accessible, and the second-floor Auditorium and School Services area is served by an elevator.

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most aquarium areas, though flash photography may be restricted to protect sensitive marine life and prevent disturbance to other visitors. The low-light conditions typical of aquarium environments present technical challenges; cameras with good low-light performance or fast lenses are advantageous. Reflections on tank glass can be problematic; positioning oneself at angles to glass surfaces and using lens hoods may help. Tripods and professional equipment may require advance permission. Platform lifts serving The Ocean, The Amazon, and The Faroese Bird Cliff accommodate loads up to 410 kg.