A fish gliding past at eye level, a python coiled behind the glass, a butterfly landing on a shoulder: these outings have one unbeatable advantage — they don’t care in the slightest about the weather.
French-speaking Switzerland has a fine line-up of aquariums, vivariums and tropical greenhouses, all under cover and open all year. Here is where to go, and what makes each one special. Check opening hours and prices on the official websites before setting off.
AQUATIS in Lausanne: the great freshwater journey
AQUATIS is the largest freshwater aquarium-vivarium in Europe. You follow the rivers and lakes of the world from one continent to the next, on an immersive route that works with children of any age.
It is our safe bet for a rainy day: you stay warm, the route is signposted, and the wonder is guaranteed from the very first tanks.
Le Papiliorama in Kerzers: the jungle under a dome
At the Papiliorama, in the Fribourg Seeland, you step into a dome of free-flying butterflies, walk through a tropical jungle and discover a tropical night filled with nocturnal animals.
It is the venue in our selection that makes the biggest impression on the youngest: butterflies sometimes land on their arms, and no screen can replace that. Kerzers sits at the crossroads of several CFF lines, so it is very easy to reach by train.
Le Tropiquarium de Servion: the tropical bubble near Lausanne
The Tropiquarium de Servion offers a tropical immersion twenty minutes from Lausanne, in any weather and all year round.
Handy tip: Servion has two animal attractions right next to each other. You can carry on to the Zoo de Servion and fill the day without getting back in the car.
Le Vivarium de Meyrin: 200 reptiles on the edge of Geneva
The Vivarium de Meyrin is home to more than 200 reptiles from around the world, to be discovered in the warm and under cover. A short, out-of-the-ordinary outing, perfect when you want an idea lasting an hour or two a stone’s throw from Geneva.
La Maison de la Rivière in Tolochenaz: our own fresh water
In Tolochenaz, on the banks of the Boiron, la Maison de la Rivière introduces children to local freshwater aquariums, taxidermied animals and even a submarine. A living, interactive nature museum, less well known than the big names and, for that very reason, far quieter.
Le Musée du Léman in Nyon: lake fish and sailors’ tales
By the water, le Musée du Léman brings together aquariums, model boats and stories of navigation. It is a good choice from age 3, with a short, gentle visit that connects the fish in the tank with the lake you can see through the window.
Our tips for this kind of visit
- Keep it short: attention in front of the glass fades quickly. An hour and a half well spent beats three hours dragged out.
- Let your child lead: these places work very well visited out of order, stopping for a long time at two or three tanks.
- The dim light can be daunting for the youngest on immersive routes: warn them before going in.
- Avoid a rainy Sunday afternoon, the slot when the whole region has the same idea. Opening time in the morning remains the best moment.
- One layer fewer: tropical greenhouses are hot and humid, and you soon overheat with a winter coat on.
Want more ideas under cover? Discover our indoor play parks, our underground adventures and all our Museums and Nature & Animals activities.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can you see a big aquarium in French-speaking Switzerland?
Which animal outing works when it rains?
From what age can you take a child to an aquarium?
Can you combine several animal outings on the same day?
Michael @ Kidora
Kid Adventure Planner