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Aquarium · Gênova, Liguria
Acquario di Genova
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, at the Porto Antico, with around 70 tanks, dolphins, manatees and a pavilion about biodiversity in an anchored ship.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Acquario di Genova
The Acquario di Genova was built for the 1992 exposition that marked the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage, and is located on the quay of the Porto Antico. It is one of the largest aquariums in Europe, with around 70 tanks and thousands of animals of hundreds of species.
The main route goes through Mediterranean, tropical sea and polar environments, with sharks, seals, penguins, jellyfish and manatees. The manatee tank is one of the few in Europe open to the public.
The Padiglione Cetacei, designed by Renzo Piano, has four outdoor tanks with dolphins, viewed from two levels. The Padiglione della Biodiversità is housed in an anchored ship alongside and shows species from the Mediterranean and Madagascar, with a tank where rays can be touched.
The aquarium receives more than a million visitors a year, and queues are common on weekends and during European school holidays.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2.5 to 3 hours for the full visit.
Best time
Right at opening or late afternoon on weekdays. In July and August and on Italian public holidays visitor numbers are usually higher.
How to get there
It is on the quay of the Porto Antico, about a 10-minute walk from Piazza De Ferrari. San Giorgio metro station is the closest.
Tip
Buy tickets in advance, with a reserved time slot, to avoid the ticket line. Confirm opening times before you go.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Acquario di Genova
Do you need to buy a ticket beforehand?
It is recommended. A timed ticket bought in advance avoids the ticket-office line, especially on weekends and in summer.
How long does the visit take?
About 2.5 to 3 hours for the complete route, including the dolphin pavilion.
Is the aquarium good for children?
Yes. There are low tanks, the dolphin pavilion, and a tank where you can touch rays, in the biodiversity pavilion.