Discover an underwater world of sharks, corals and thousands of fishes at the Aquarium Mare Nostrum. Tour two floors that are filled with large tanks containing nearly 400 fish species from all the world's oceans.

See marine life swimming in re-creations of different Mediterranean environments including an underwater cave. Go to the Balcony of the Ocean, a large sloping window that creates the impression that you are hovering over the water. Observe grey sharks, sand tiger sharks and a giant octopus. Venture into the tropical forest area and find piranhas and iguanas. Walk across the bridge to get a closer view of the waterfall.

Climb aboard the replica of a cargo ship to experience the storm simulator. As the vessel rolls and pitches you’ll see realistic projections of waves and lightning effects. Learn about the formation of icebergs at the iceberg exhibit and touch the large central column of ice. Visit the aquarium’s colony of penguins and watch them swimming and diving in their pool.

Encounter life at the bottom of the ocean when you step inside the Station of the Abyss. The exhibit is decked out like a submarine and through its portholes you can see giant spiders that are 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter, pinecone fish and hairy sea anemones.

Take a break from your tour by going to the Theater of the Ocean. The amphitheater has 60 seats that look into the main aquarium. Stare at sawfish, rays and sharks through the large window.

Young children will enjoy the play areas that feature slides, games and touch tanks. There’s also a fun cave that they can clamber through.

Aquarium Mare Nostrum is open every day except for Christmas. There is an entrance fee with discounts for children, students and disabled and unemployed persons.

Located close to the center of Montpellier, the aquarium is served by bus and tram routes. On-site parking is free for the first 2 hours.