Nothing but water all around you, impressive fish species, and huge tanks—that sounds like a special summer plan. However, we’re not referring to the historic fishing village near Berlin or a free water playground in the middle of the city. Instead, plenty of water and, above all, a fascinating diversity of species await you at the fully modernized Aquarium Berlin. All areas have been open to visitors again since August 18, 2026 . After about three years, the extensive modernization project was officially completed on Tuesday.
Zoo and Wildlife Park Director Andreas Knieriem opened the modernized facility together with Berlin’s Senator for Economic Affairs, Franziska Giffey. The date was fittingly chosen, because exactly on August 18, 1913, the Aquarium first opened its doors and, with its full reopening, celebrated its 113th anniversary at the same time. Over the past three years, however, the Aquarium was not completely closed the entire time. The work was carried out in phases, so that parts of the facility remained open to visitors. As of August 18, all three floors are now fully accessible again for the first time.
The extensive modernization began in June 2023 and was carried out in three construction phases. The goal was to bring the historic, landmark-protected building up to modern technical and functional standards without losing its original character. As part of the work, the entrance areas, visitor restrooms, and various exhibition areas were upgraded, among other things. In addition , new elevator technology was installed , interactive educational programs were introduced, and room acoustics were improved. Fire safety systems were also modernized. Furthermore, work was carried out on the historic building structure and energy-related systems. The aim was particularly to improve accessibility and visitor comfort.
The reopening also holds special significance from a historical perspective. The aquarium was built between 1911 and 1913 and first opened on August 18, 1913. The facility can now look back on 113 years of history. The historic building is now a designated historic landmark. According to Zoo and Animal Park Director Andreas Knieriem, there are only a few aquariums of comparable age left in the world. Among the international examples he cites are the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
Behind the historic facade, approximately 20,000 animals representing around 1,000 species live today. And the aquarium is by no means limited to just fish. Among other things, visitors can see sharks, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and numerous other animal species. As a result, the aquarium boasts some impressive statistics: The building is 113 years old, houses around 20,000 animals representing about 1,000 species, and underwent modernization over a period of three years. The fish tanks alone contain a combined total of around one million liters of water.
