Vinpearl Aquarium: Information, Ticket Prices, Things To Do & Travel Guide

Immerse yourself in a world where the mysteries of the ocean come alive at Vinpearl Aquarium, an enchanting attraction under GTrip's meticulous spotlight. Known for its stunning exhibits and interactive marine experiences, Vinpearl Aquarium offers not just a visual feast but a profound appreciation of aquatic life. As you explore its vast halls, you'll discover stunning marine life and cutting-edge exhibits that make ocean learning fun and easy.

Amidst bustling tourist attractions, it stands as a unique escape into underwater wonders that intrigue both young adventurers and seasoned travelers. This article will delve into why Vinpearl Aquarium is more than just a stop on your itinerary. It’s an experience that deepens your connection with nature and creates unforgettable memories with every journey beneath the waves.

Introduction to Vinpearl Aquarium Times City

Address: 58 Minh Khai Street, Vinh Tuy Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
Opening hours:

• Normal daily: 10 AM - 10 PM
• Weekends and holidays: 9:30 AM - 10 PM

Vinpearl Aquarium Times City is one of Southeast Asia's top underwater attractions, offering an immersive marine journey right in the heart of Vietnam's capital. This world-class aquarium spans over 3,000 square meters and houses more than 30,000 marine creatures representing over 300 species from around the globe. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be immersed in a magical underwater world filled with vibrant tropical fish, elegant rays, majestic sharks, and playful sea turtles. The highlight is a 500,000-litre main tank with a 15-meter tunnel, letting visitors feel surrounded by marine life in their natural habitat.

Beyond its breathtaking displays, Vinpearl Aquarium Times City serves as an important educational hub that combines entertainment with marine conservation awareness. The aquarium includes themed zones like the Amazon, Southeast Asian rivers, coral reefs, and deep sea, each carefully designed to mirror real habitats. Touch pools let visitors safely interact with marine life, while feeding shows and talks offer insights into ocean biology and conservation. The aquarium features a 4D cinema and interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational spot for families, students, and marine enthusiasts.

Aquarium offers an immersive marine experience with over 30,000 sea creatures, themed zones, a 15-meter tunnel, and fun educational activities for all ages

Ticket prices of Vinpearl Aquarium

Vinpearl Aquarium offers a tiered pricing structure based on both the day of the week and visitor height. The weekday rates provide a more economical option for budget-conscious travelers or those with flexible schedules.

4 things to do at Vinpearl Aquarium

Vinpearl Aquarium offers a magical underwater journey with diverse marine life, interactive tunnels, shows, and feeding sessions, combining fun and education for all. Here's your complete guide to making the most of your visit with activities that transform a simple tour into an unforgettable marine adventure.

1. Take photos with the mascot

The fun mascot photo opportunities at Vinpearl Aquarium create perfect souvenirs for your visit. These delightful character interactions occur four times daily, with each session lasting approximately 15 minutes.

The mascot meet-and-greets follow a consistent daily schedule:

• 9:45 AM - Morning session
• 2:45 PM - Early afternoon session
• 4:30 PM - Late afternoon session
• 7:45 PM - Evening session

Visitors can pose alongside playful characters, including baby pandas, dolphins, Mario, and Alvin the chipmunk. These mascots are especially popular with children, though adults often find themselves equally charmed by these whimsical photo opportunities. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to get a good spot, as shows draw crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.

2. Exploring marine life exhibits

Vinpearl Aquarium divides its vast collection into four distinct zones, each offering unique glimpses into different aquatic ecosystems around the world.

Freshwater Fish Area

• Features species from the world's greatest river systems
• Showcases massive Arapaima gigas from the Amazon, reaching up to 3 meters in length
• Houses the endangered Giant barb from the Mekong River
• Presents various colorful tropical freshwater species in beautifully designed habitats

Saltwater Fish Area

• Centrepiece 90-meter transparent tunnel provides immersive underwater viewing
• Home to impressive whitefin sharks gliding overhead
• Features sixgill stingrays gracefully swimming along the sandy bottom
• Houses playful penguins in a climate-controlled habitat
• Displays various grouper species and other vibrant reef dwellers
• Creates the sensation of walking on the ocean floor while staying completely dry

Reptile Area

• Exhibits fascinating water monitor lizards in naturalistic enclosures
• Displays unique red cockroaches rarely seen in other aquariums
• Features the endangered elongated tortoise in specialized habitats
• Showcases emperor scorpions and other exotic insects
• Educational signage provides conservation information about these less-common species

Specimen Display Area

• Utilizes cutting-edge 3D lighting technology for dramatic presentation
• Contains over 200 preserved specimens of aquatic species
• Represents marine biodiversity from across the globe
• Offers educational insights into marine biology and taxonomy
• Provides scientific context for the living exhibits throughout the aquarium

Vinpearl Aquarium features four themed zones, each offering a unique look into global aquatic ecosystems with immersive displays and rare species

3. Watch live and exciting shows

Vinpearl Aquarium elevates the visitor experience with professionally choreographed performances that combine entertainment with marine education.

The enchanting Mermaid Shows feature graceful underwater performances that captivate audiences of all ages. These mythical-themed shows run on different schedules depending on the day of the week:

After each mermaid performance, visitors have the unique opportunity to take photographs with the performers. It’s creating magical memories especially treasured by younger guests. The performers remain in character throughout the meet-and-greet sessions, enhancing the whimsical experience.

For those seeking a more artistic experience, the "Ocean Dance" performance showcases professional dancers in marine-themed routines. These 30-minute spectacles occur twice daily at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM, blending contemporary choreography with oceanic themes. The shows incorporate special lighting effects and music that evoke the mysteries and beauty of the underwater world.

The high-energy flashmob shows surprises and delights visitors throughout the aquarium with spontaneous dance routines performed by staff members. These brief, unexpected performances create moments of joy and excitement, often encouraging visitor participation and making each visit unique.

Vinpearl Aquarium delights visitors with mermaid shows, ocean-themed dances, and surprise flashmobs that blend marine education with captivating live performances

4. Participate in feeding sessions and get acquainted with reptiles

Interactive animal experiences at Vinpearl Aquarium allow visitors to connect with marine life through scheduled feeding sessions and hands-on encounters with various species.

Penguin feeding sessions

• Three daily sessions: 10:00 - 10:15 AM, 3:00 - 3:15 PM, and 7:30 - 7:45 PM
• Expert staff explain penguin behavior and conservation efforts
• Observe penguins' playful feeding behaviors up close
• Learn about different fish species that make up the penguins' diet

Shark and ray feeding shows

• Twice daily at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM
• Each session lasts approximately 15 minutes
• Trained divers enter the tanks to feed these magnificent creatures
• Educational commentary provides insights into predator feeding behaviors
• Spectacular opportunity to witness sharks' precise feeding techniques

Other special feeding programs:

The Reptile Familiarization program stands out as one of the most thrilling interactive experiences at the aquarium. Under close supervision by trained handlers, brave visitors can experience the sensation of golden pythons or monitor lizards draped across their shoulders. Staff ensure complete safety while providing fascinating information about these misunderstood creatures, their habitats, and conservation status in the wild. This 30-minute program offers a unique photo opportunity and helps dispel common myths about reptiles by allowing direct, controlled interaction.

Vinpearl Aquarium offers hands-on animal encounters and feeding shows, from penguins and sharks to turtles and reptiles, blending fun with marine education

How to get to Vinpearl Aquarium?

Reaching Vinpearl Aquarium at Times City is straightforward with multiple transportation options available for visitors. Located within the Vincom Mega Mall complex at 458 Minh Khai Street, the aquarium is accessible via private vehicles, public transportation, or ride-hailing services. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your way to this underwater wonderland from anywhere in the city.

By private vehicle (car or motorbike)

Traveling to Vinpearl Aquarium with your vehicle offers flexibility and convenience, especially for families or groups. The route is well-marked and easy to follow:

• Follow Google Maps navigation to 458 Minh Khai Street, Hai Ba Trung District
• When you reach the intersection near Vietcombank, look for signs directing you into the Times City urban area
• Continue driving until you spot the distinctive Vincom Mega Mall archway on your right side
• Proceed approximately 50 meters further to locate the underground parking entrance (level B2)
• After parking, take the escalator or elevator up to basement level B1, where the aquarium entrance is situated

The parking area is spacious and secure, with 24-hour surveillance. Parking fees vary depending on your vehicle type and duration of stay, typically ranging from 20,000 VND for motorbikes to 40,000 VND for cars per hour (approximately $0.85-$1.70). For extended visits, consider the daily parking rate, which may be more economical.

By taxi or ride-hailing services

For travelers without personal transportation or those unfamiliar with Hanoi's streets, taxis and ride-hailing services provide a hassle-free option to reach Vinpearl Aquarium:

• Book a taxi through your hotel concierge or use popular ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM
• Set your destination to "Vincom Mega Mall Times City" or "458 Minh Khai Street"
• Request the driver to drop you off directly at the Vincom Mega Mall archway entrance
• From the drop-off point, simply follow the indoor signage toward VinKE and Vinpearl Aquarium

This transportation method is particularly convenient for tourists, families with children, or visitors arriving during inclement weather. Estimated fares from central Hanoi districts range between 50,000 - 150,000 VND ($2.10-$6.40), depending on your starting location, traffic conditions, and time of day. Most rides take between 15-30 minutes from the Old Quarter area.

By bus

Hanoi's extensive bus network offers an economical way to reach Vinpearl Aquarium with multiple routes serving the Times City area:

Key bus stops convenient for reaching the aquarium include:

• In front of Ha Noi Town on Hai Ba Trung Street
• 49 Hai Ba Trung near Thap Ha Noi
• Nga 3 Phan Boi Chau - Ly Thuong Kiet intersection

Bus fares are extremely affordable, ranging from 7,000 - 10,000 VND per journey ($0.30 - $0.43). Though a bit slower, buses provide a local experience and great savings, perfect for solo or budget travelers.

By metro

Hanoi's expanding metro system provides another transportation option for reaching Vinpearl Aquarium:

• Line 2A and Line 3 have stations relatively close to Times City
• From the nearest metro station, visitors can either:
• Take a short 10-15 minute walk to Times City
• Transfer to a connecting bus route (noted above)
• Catch a brief taxi ride for the final leg (typically under 30,000 VND)

The metro operates daily from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until approximately 11:00 PM, with trains arriving every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. Fares vary based on distance traveled, typically between 7,000 - 20,000 VND ($0.30 - $0.77), making this an efficient and affordable option for visitors staying near metro stations.

Hanoi’s metro lines 2A and 3 offer convenient, affordable access to Vinpearl Aquarium, with nearby stations just a short walk, bus, or taxi ride away

Tips for visitors when visiting Vinpearl Aquarium

Maximize your Vinpearl Aquarium adventure with these essential visitor tips that will help you navigate Vietnam's premier underwater attraction seamlessly. If you're traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, these recommendations will enhance your experience while exploring the magnificent marine world within.

1. Visit on weekdays if possible: Weekday visits offer smaller crowds and more space to enjoy exhibits without rushing through the tunnels and interactive zones.
2. Arrive early in the morning: Coming right after opening time (around 9-10 AM) allows you to experience the aquarium before peak crowds gather and ensures you can photograph exhibits without obstructions.
3. Allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit: The aquarium features numerous zones and interactive exhibits that deserve unhurried exploration to fully appreciate the diverse marine life.
4. Take advantage of guided tours: English-speaking guided tours offer fascinating insights about the marine species and conservation efforts that you might miss when exploring independently.
5. Bring a light jacket or sweater: The temperature inside the aquarium is kept cool to maintain optimal conditions for marine life, which may feel chilly for visitors wearing summer clothing.
6. Check feeding schedules in advance: Feeding demonstrations for sharks, rays, and other marine life are highlights that shouldn't be missed during your visit.
7. Use public transportation or ride-sharing services: Parking can be limited around Vinpearl facilities, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends.
8. Purchase tickets online before your visit: Buying tickets through the official website often provides discounts and allows you to skip potentially long queues at the entrance.
9. Bring your camera but avoid flash photography: While photos are encouraged, flash photography can disturb the marine animals and produce poor results through glass.
10. Visit the touch pools early in your itinerary: Interactive experiences like touch pools tend to get crowded later in the day, so prioritize them when they're less busy.
11. Consider combination tickets: If you're planning to visit other Vinpearl attractions, combination tickets offer significant savings compared to purchasing separate entries.
12. Follow the suggested route: The aquarium is designed with a logical flow that ensures you won't miss any exhibits and provides the best narrative experience of ocean ecosystems.

Maximize your visit to Vinpearl Aquarium with tips on timing, tours, transport, and ticketing to enjoy a smooth, enriching underwater adventure

Nearby attractions from Vinpearl Aquarium

After exploring Vinpearl Aquarium, extend your family trip with nearby attractions just minutes away. The surrounding area offers complementary experiences that make for a perfect day out, especially for families with children. Here are two standout destinations worth adding to your itinerary when visiting this part of Hanoi.

Eco Kids Farm - Times City

Located within the same Times City complex as Vinpearl Aquarium, Eco Kids Farm offers an educational experience that perfectly complements your aquarium visit. This interactive mini-farm creates an environment where children can connect with nature and agriculture in the heart of urban Hanoi.

At Eco Kids Farm, visitors can enjoy:

• Hands-on farming activities: Children can participate in planting vegetables, feeding farm animals, and learning about sustainable agriculture techniques
• Animal interaction zones: Meet and pet friendly farm animals including rabbits, goats, sheep, and various bird species
• Educational workshops: Regular sessions teaching children about ecosystems, plant growth, and environmental protection
• Mini botanical gardens: Featuring various plant species with informative displays about their growth and benefits

The facility maintains a comfortable indoor environment with controlled temperature, making it an ideal destination regardless of Hanoi's weather conditions. Tickets cost around 100,000-150,000 VND, with combo deals available when paired with aquarium entry.

Eco Kids Farm at Times City offers kids hands-on farming, animal interactions, and educational workshops, making it a perfect complement to your Vinpearl Aquarium visit

Park Hill Park

Park Hill Park offers a relaxing green space to unwind. This meticulously maintained park serves as the central recreational area for the Park Hill and Times City residential developments.

Park Hill Park features:

• Landscaped gardens with seasonal flowers, ornamental trees, and walking paths
• Children's playground equipment suitable for various age groups
• Water features, including fountains and small ponds, that create a tranquil atmosphere
• Outdoor fitness equipment for adults who want to incorporate some exercise
• Relaxation areas with comfortable seating and shade structures

The park is particularly beautiful in the evening when the lighting system illuminates the pathways and water features, creating a magical atmosphere. Many visitors choose to bring picnic supplies and enjoy a leisurely meal on the lawns after their aquarium visit.

What makes Park Hill Park especially convenient is its accessibility. You don't need any transportation to reach it from Vinpearl Aquarium, making it an effortless addition to your day's itinerary. The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and entrance is completely free, offering excellent value for travelers looking to maximize their experience in the area.

Park Hill Park is a beautifully landscaped, free-access green space next to Vinpearl Aquarium, perfect for relaxing, playing

As you explore the wonders of Vinpearl Aquarium, a world brimming with awe-inspiring marine life and captivating experiences unfolds. This attraction enhances your appreciation for aquatic ecosystems and promises an unforgettable adventure that beckons to all ages. In discovering the vivid biodiversity within its exhibits, you're reminded of both nature’s splendor and its fragility. While you've journeyed through this underwater paradise, perhaps you've uncovered inspirations for planning future adventures or deepened your zest for unique travel experiences. As you ponder the stories behind each vibrant tank or curious creature, there’s always more to discover. GTrip’s guides and resources nearby beckon you toward new horizons filled with wonder and exploration.