Dive into Diversity: Wilhelma’s Aquarium & Reptile World
From the North Sea to the Pacific, from alpine rivers to tropical reefs, Wilhelma’s Aquarium and Terrarium Complex offers a vibrant journey through Earth’s aquatic and semi-aquatic worlds. Divided into three main zones—cold and temperate waters, tropical aquatics, and reptile/terrarium exhibits—the experience spans ecosystems across the globe. The building, completed in 1967, still retains its original architecture, but inside, the exhibits have been transformed to reflect modern habitat design and animal care standards.
At a glance:
Animal species: fish, crustaceans, frogs, snakes, lizards, and crocodiles
Fun fact: Wilhelma was the first display aquarium in Germany or Europe to successfully breed species like archerfish, surf perch, four-eyed fish, and even king penguins (kept until 2010).
Explore Aquatic Realms
Start your tour in the cold-water zone, home to North Sea species like turbot, dogfish, and lobster. The freshwater section features Danube salmon, brown trout, pike, and even alligator gars, ancient fish species dating back to the Cretaceous period.
The Mediterranean tanks house long-snouted seahorses, scorpionfish, and moon jellyfish floating under deep blue light—creating a stunning underwater show.
Reptile Encounters
The terrariums bring visitors face-to-face with desert and rainforest reptiles. Highlights include the Burmese python, green tree python, and horned viper, as well as the elusive Matamata turtle camouflaged in leaf litter. Desert lizards like the chuckwalla and blue rock iguana thrive in dry environments, while coral-toed tree frogs and leaf frogs share lush tropical setups.
Crocodile Hall: A Jungle in the City
Built on the site of the old Moorish Banqueting Hall, the Crocodile Hall recreates Australia’s Daintree Rainforest. Saltwater and freshwater crocodiles coexist in this lush space, alongside red-bellied turtles, zebra finches, and diamond doves that fly freely throughout the vegetation-rich dome.
Tropical Waters & Colorful Coral Reefs
Explore South America’s river life with lungfish that breathe air, electric eels, and red piranhas. The coral reef tanks dazzle with lemon pufferfish, clownfish, surgeonfish, and masked rays. Coral reefs are among the most diverse habitats on Earth—and Wilhelma captures that energy perfectly.
Outdoor Terrariums & Karst Landscapes
Outside the aquarium, native reptiles and amphibians bask in the sun. Discover the European adder, sand lizard, and marsh frogs in naturalistic settings. Behind the Crocodile Hall, the Mediterranean tortoise garden features cork oaks and aromatic herbs, offering a slice of southern Europe.
Sea Lion Shows & Training
Since 1956, California sea lions have lived in the mineral spring pool near the Long Lake. Fed by natural waters at a constant 15°C, the crescent-shaped pool holds 35,000 liters. Twice a day, sea lions showcase their intelligence during commented feedings, which also serve to support medical check-ups and treatments. Pups are born almost every June after an 11-month gestation.