The Blue Planet (National Aquarium Denmark)

The Blue Planet (Den Blå Planet) is Northern Europe's largest and most modern aquarium, opened in 2013 in Kastrup, Copenhagen. Designed by 3XN architects, the distinctive building resembles a whirlpool or starfish with five spiral arms extending from a central core. The aquarium houses over 20,000 fish and aquatic animals from 450 species in 7 million liters of water. The Ocean tank is the centerpiece featuring hammerhead sharks, sand tiger sharks, rays, and large ocean fish in a massive cylindrical tank with viewing from multiple levels. The Amazon section recreates South American rainforest with arapaima (one of the world's largest freshwater fish), piranhas, caimans, and tropical vegetation in climate-controlled humid environment. Coral Reef showcases colorful Indo-Pacific reef fish, sea turtles, and living corals. The Evolution and Adaptation section explores how marine life has evolved. Scandinavia's Waters highlights local species from the North Sea and Baltic including cod, plaice, and eels. The Touch Pool allows hands-on interaction with starfish, crabs, and sea anemones. Africa's Great Lakes features cichlids from Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika. Daily feedings and presentations provide educational entertainment, with scuba divers entering tanks for underwater feeding demonstrations. The Children's Corner features interactive exhibits and activities designed for young visitors. The architecture itself is award-winning with the building's flowing design creating intuitive visitor flow through themed areas. The aquarium café overlooks Øresund strait, and the gift shop sells marine-themed items. Located just 10 minutes from Copenhagen Airport and 20 minutes from city center via metro, it offers excellent accessibility. The combination of stunning architecture, comprehensive species collection, hammerhead sharks, and modern exhibits makes The Blue Planet Scandinavia's premier aquarium.