If you're looking to do something offbeat in Paris, head over to the Paris Aquarium (also known as Cinéaqua). Built in 1867, it is one of the oldest aquariums in the world and is home to over 13,000 sea creatures that swim in 4 million liters of water. The attraction also features mermaid shows, an aquatic cinema, and a shark basin - all this, smack in the heart of Paris!

The tanks at the aquarium host life from both tropical regions, as well as those closer to home. For the latter, you'll get to see an entire section with carp, sturgeon, and roach in a recreation of the Seine River. There are also recreated versions of Tahiti and New Caledonia with vibrant-hued fish like angelfish, clownfish, and triggerfish jockey darting around corals. The highlight, however, has to be the sharks. There are four species of sharks that you can spot, bound to elicit nervous laughs and excited squeals from the audience.

There are also two large screens that show aquatic documentaries, a touch tank where you can stroke Koi fish, and live feeding demos to make it a magical day with your family.