Planning a trip to Genoa? The city’s magnificent aquarium should be at the top of your list! As Italy’s largest aquarium, this underwater wonderland houses an impressive collection of marine life that will captivate visitors of all ages. For the best experience, I recommend purchasing tickets online to skip the long lines, especially if you’re visiting during weekends or holidays.
When I visited last summer, I was amazed by the variety of sea creatures on display – from playful dolphins to colorful tropical fish and fascinating jellyfish. The facility is incredibly well-maintained, clean, and designed to make viewing easy for everyone, including children.
Located in Genoa’s Old Port area, the aquarium is easily accessible. You can park about 500 meters away at the Old Port parking area and walk to the entrance.
I found that arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon helped me avoid the biggest crowds, giving me more space to enjoy each exhibit at my own pace.
Planning Your Visit
Good planning makes all the difference when visiting the Genoa Aquarium. I’ve found that knowing when to go, which tickets to buy, and how to get there can save you time and money while maximizing your experience.
Best Times to Visit
I recommend visiting the Genoa Aquarium on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, when crowds are typically smaller. Early mornings (right after opening) or late afternoons (2-3 hours before closing) offer the most peaceful experience.
School holidays and summer months (June-August) bring larger crowds. If you must visit during these peak times, arrive early to beat the rush.
Winter visits are my secret tip – fewer tourists mean more space to enjoy the exhibits. The indoor nature of the aquarium makes it a perfect rainy day activity in Genoa.
Plan to spend about 2-3 hours exploring the entire facility. This gives you enough time to see all exhibits without rushing through this amazing underwater world.
Ticketing Options
Several ticket options are available for the Genoa Aquarium, with prices varying based on age and package type.
Standard Tickets:
- Adults (13+): €27-32
- Children (4-12): €19-22
- Children under 3: Free
- Family packages: Available for 2 adults + 2 children at discounted rates
I strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance through the official website or Get Your Guide. This typically saves money and lets you skip the entrance lines.
Consider combination tickets if you plan to visit other Porto Antico attractions. The “Acquario Village” pass includes the Biosphere and Galata Maritime Museum for better value.
Annual passes are worth considering for locals or those staying in Genoa for extended periods.
How to Get There
The Genoa Aquarium sits prominently in the Porto Antico (Old Port) area, making it easy to find and access from most parts of the city.
By Public Transport:
- Bus: Lines 1, 9, and 20 stop near the aquarium
- Metro: Darsena station is about a 10-minute walk away
- Train: From Genova Piazza Principe station, it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk
If driving, several parking garages are located near Porto Antico, though they can be pricey (€2-3 per hour). I find the Parking Porto Antico to be the most convenient option.
Walking to the aquarium is delightful if you’re staying in central Genoa. The route through the historic center offers charming views of the old city and harbor.
Highlights of Genoa Aquarium
The Genoa Aquarium offers a breathtaking journey through marine ecosystems with attractions that will leave you in awe. As the largest aquarium in Italy and one of the most impressive in Europe, it houses incredible exhibits that showcase the diversity of aquatic life.
The Elements of the Aquarium
When I first walked into the Acquario di Genova, I was immediately struck by the sheer size of the main tanks. The Blue Planet exhibit features a mesmerizing array of tropical fish in vibrant colors that seem to dance through the crystal-clear water.
Don’t miss the shark tank! It’s truly spectacular to watch these majestic predators glide silently overhead as you walk through the underwater tunnel.
The penguin area is another favorite of mine. These charming birds waddle about on their rocky habitat, occasionally diving into the water with surprising grace.
The jellyfish displays are absolutely hypnotic. Watching these translucent creatures pulse through specially lit tanks creates an almost otherworldly experience that I found myself returning to multiple times during my visit.
Dolphin Pool & Biosphere
The Dolphin Pool is hands-down one of the most captivating parts of the Genoa Aquarium. I spent nearly an hour watching these intelligent mammals play and interact with their trainers.
The pool is designed to mimic their natural habitat, giving them plenty of space to swim and jump. If you time your visit right, you might catch one of the educational demonstrations where trainers showcase dolphin behaviors.
Just outside the main aquarium building, you’ll find the Biosphere. This glass sphere houses a complete tropical environment filled with exotic plants and butterflies. Walking through this humid mini-ecosystem feels like being transported to a rainforest.
The Biosphere provides a perfect complement to the marine exhibits, helping visitors understand the connection between land and sea ecosystems. I found it to be a peaceful place to catch my breath after the excitement of the main exhibits.
Immersive Experiences & Educational Tours
The Aquarium of Genoa offers visitors several ways to enhance their visit beyond the standard self-guided experience. These specialized options provide deeper insights into marine life and create memorable moments with the aquarium’s fascinating inhabitants.
Guided Tour Offerings
I discovered that the Aquarium of Genoa provides several exclusive interactive experiences that truly elevate your visit. The “Face to Face with Dolphins” program was a highlight of my trip, allowing me to get remarkably close to these intelligent creatures. Another popular option is the “Night with Sharks” tour, where I saw these magnificent predators from a unique perspective.
For families, I highly recommend the special penguin encounters. My niece was thrilled when she got to learn about these charming birds from an expert guide. Educational tours are offered in multiple languages and typically last about 45 minutes.
Popular Guided Experiences:
- Face to Face with Dolphins
- Night with Sharks
- Penguin Encounters
- Behind-the-scenes tours
- Emotional dinners (dining alongside aquarium habitats)
Exploring on Your Own
I found that self-guided exploration at the Aquarium of Genoa offers its own unique advantages. With 70 rooms housing over 12,000 animals, you can set your own pace and linger at exhibits that interest you most. The aquarium is thoughtfully designed with informative displays beside each habitat.
My favorite approach was using the Aquarium’s mobile app which provided deeper context than what’s on the standard placards. It helped me understand the conservation efforts behind many exhibits.
Don’t miss the touch pools where you can feel starfish and other marine creatures. I noticed many visitors rush past these interactive stations, but they’re perfect for hands-on learning.
The freedom to revisit favorite exhibits was also valuable. I returned to the dolphin area three times during my visit!
Around Genoa’s Old Port
After visiting the aquarium, take some time to explore the surrounding Porto Antico area. This revitalized waterfront district offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern attractions, making it an essential part of any visit to Genoa.
Cultural Attractions & Landmarks
The Old Port (Porto Antico) was redesigned by architect Renzo Piano for the 1992 Columbian Celebrations, transforming what was once a declining industrial zone into a vibrant cultural hub. I recommend taking a ride on the panoramic lift, Bigo, for breathtaking views of the harbor and the historic center.
Walking through the area, you’ll notice monuments dedicated to Christopher Columbus, Genoa’s famous son who changed world history. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum (Galata Museo del Mare) which tells the fascinating story of Genoa’s seafaring past.
For a deeper dive into local culture, wander into the maze-like caruggi (narrow alleyways) of the old town just behind the port. These medieval passages house hidden gems including ancient churches, small shops, and authentic eateries.
Dining & Local Delicacies
Liguria’s cuisine shines in the restaurants around the Old Port. I always make time for focaccia, the region’s famous flatbread that’s crispy outside and soft inside. Try it plain with olive oil or topped with onions, olives, or cheese.
For lunch, look for places serving authentic pesto alla Genovese. Unlike versions you’ve had elsewhere, genuine Genoese pesto has a bright, fresh flavor from local basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Another must-try is farinata, a savory pancake made from chickpea flour that makes a perfect street food snack while exploring the port area.
If you’re looking for a wider selection of shops and restaurants, head up toward Via XX Settembre, Genoa’s main shopping street that’s just a short walk from the Old Port area.
Day Trips & Nearby Wonders
After exploring Genoa’s magnificent aquarium, I recommend venturing beyond the city to discover the breathtaking Ligurian coast. These nearby destinations make perfect day trips and showcase Italy’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and remarkable culinary traditions.
Cinque Terre & Portofino
Cinque Terre, a string of five colorful fishing villages perched on dramatic cliffs, sits just 90 minutes from Genoa by train. I love starting in Monterosso and hiking the scenic coastal trail connecting all five towns. The views of terraced vineyards tumbling down to the azure Mediterranean are simply unforgettable!
Portofino, a glamorous fishing village turned luxury destination, is closer to Genoa and easily accessible by boat or bus. Its picture-perfect harbor lined with pastel buildings attracts celebrities and yacht owners alike.
When visiting, I always make time for:
- A hike to Castello Brown for panoramic views
- Fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant
- Shopping in Portofino’s boutiques for local olive oil and handcrafted souvenirs
Camogli & Santa Margherita Ligure
Camogli, a hidden gem on the Italian Riviera, captivates with its laid-back fishing village charm. The waterfront promenade features tall, narrow buildings painted in warm tones that create a postcard-worthy scene.
I recommend trying the local focaccia at one of the seaside bakeries – it’s divine!
Santa Margherita Ligure offers a perfect blend of elegance and authenticity. The town’s beautiful Romanesque church, Villa Durazzo’s gardens, and palm-lined boulevards create a sophisticated atmosphere without Portofino’s crowds or prices.
Both towns are connected by a stunning coastal path that winds through olive groves and offers breathtaking sea views.
The journey between them makes for a perfect day trip from Genoa, especially when combined with a refreshing swim and gelato break.
