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RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
Timings
10:00–20:00
VISITORS PER YEAR
1200000
TICKETS
From $35.59
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Originally, the Genoa Aquarium was built for the 1992 World Expo to celebrate 500 years since the sailor Christopher Colombus discovered the New World.
The Aquarium's design is inspired by the nautilus shell, a beautiful seashell with a spiral chambered interior. This reflects the building's focus on showcasing the ocean's wonders.
The aquarium isn't entirely built on land, but partially also on a boat which is connected to the main building by a walkway.
Total animals: 12,000+
No of species: 600+
No of exhibits: 70+
Types of habitats: Freshwater, saltwater, coral reef, and Mediterranean environments.
Popular animals: Dolphins Manatees, Sharks, Sea horses, Stingrays
Conservation programs: Species breeding, research collaborations, education outreach
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, home to over 400 species including the iconic Clownfish and majestic Zebra Shark. Catch state-of-art exhibits like "The Blue Planet" and "The World of Corals.
Take a peek into the Mediterranean's rich marine life, from the elusive Moray Eel to the colorful Wrasse. Witness exhibits like "The Moray Cave" and "The Biodiversity Pavilion."
Experience the chilling beauty of the Arctic and Antarctic regions, observing creatures like the Common Seal and Gentoo Penguin. Don't miss exhibits such as "The Island of Seals" and "The Kingdom of Ice."
Delve into the wonders of tropical biodiversity, featuring creatures like the Tubercled Iguana and Golden Cape Frog. Highlights include cool exhibits such as "The Tropical Forest" and "The Routes of the Tropics."
It's akin to taking a walk through the lush rainforest-inspired settings, see fascinating creatures like the Antillean Manatee and Red Piranha. Lookout for "The Mermaid Lagoon" and "Shark Bay" exhibits.
A gripping video mapping experience covering marine life from all the oceans, highlighting the vital role of water in sustaining life on our planet.
A cylindrical tank that is 6 meters in height, the Moray Eel Cave is named after the menacing fish that live here. It is also home to moray eels, scorpion fish, seahorses, and the clever octopus.
Meet our friendly manatees, possibly the real-life inspiration for mermaids. These endangered creatures find a safe haven at the Aquarium of Genoa, making it a rare treat for visitors to see them up close.
Named for its formidable inhabitants, Shark Bay houses a variety of sharks from around the globe, along with other marine species. Swipe the ocean floor for sawfish native to the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Catch playful seals from the Atlantic, Pacific, and North Sea at the aquarium. Some were born here, while others were rescued after being abandoned. Watch them play on a small bridge, taking breaks from the water.
Experience the Antarctic's magic with invertebrates, fish, and Gentoo and Magellanic penguins. Witness their vibrant habitats and behaviors up close.
Foster a personal connection with bottlenose dolphins at the Cetacean Pavilion. Enjoy their beauty and behavior from two viewing levels, offering both surface and underwater perspectives.
Guests will enter the Grande Nave Blu of the Aquarium, interact with various skate species and observe sturgeons, ancient fish. A learning space offers insights into coral ecology and biology through 3D reconstructions, videos, and animated films.
Tropical forests are home to more than half of the animal and plant species on earth. Be amazed by Italy's first plant wall designed by architect Patrick Blanc, featuring over 150 tropical plants nestled in cavities.
This is the last exhibit of the biodiversity pavilion and is dedicated to the naturalists and explorers of the past, such as Darwin, Humboldt, and Columbus. You’ll find freshwater and seawater habitats here.
Explore one of the most endangered marine ecosystems in the world - coral reefs. This exhibit features 3 small tanks. The first one depicts the fluorescence of corals, with the help of special lamps that imitate the conditions of a full-moon night.
Unearth the ancient secrets of the underwater world - jellyfish. It has 9 tanks with jellyfish species from across the globe. You can observe the first few stages of life of these ancient creatures while listening to an intriguing soundtrack and an eye-catching light system.
These dolphins are a highlight of the aquarium, with a large outdoor pool where you can observe them swimming and jumping.
The Aquarium of Genoa was originally built as part of the International Exhibition Genoa ‘92 - Colombo ‘92. The expo was to celebrate 500 years since Christopher Columbus’s expedition to discover the world. The aquarium is designed in the shape of a ship that is about to head out to sea. The aquarium was designed by renowned Genoese architect, Renzo Piano. The interiors of the building as well as some of the early exhibits were designed by Peter Chermayeff and his team from Cambridge Seven Associates.
The original exhibit aimed to showcase the Ligurian Sea, as well as the Caribbean and North Atlantic reefs. Additionally, it also aimed to cover these areas over two time periods, one during Columbus’ expedition in 1942, and the second, a more ecological awareness from 1992.
AcquarioVillage at Genoa is a combination of several attractions within the aquarium complex including the Aquarium itself.
Italy's largest aquarium is home to 12,000 marine animals spanning 200 species. Engage in educational exhibits, enjoy dolphin and penguin shows, and learn about marine conservation.
Indulge in hands-on learning through sensory exploration in this interactive museum. Designed for children and teenagers, it offers a colorful environment for self-discovery, with rooms encouraging interactive play and education.
Step into a stunning glass habitat exhibiting over 150 species of rare tropical plants and animals. Learn about the fragile beauty of tropical ecosystems, their interconnectedness, and the conservation efforts needed to protect them.
Soar above Genoa's historic center with a thrilling 360° aerial view from 40 meters high. Designed by Renzo Piano, enjoy panoramic vistas, multilingual audio guides, and a unique perspective of the city's architectural landmarks.
The Genoa Aquarium was built for the Genoa Expo held in 1992. It was built to celebrate 500 years after Christopher Columbus’s expedition to discover the new world.
With over 12,000 animals from 400 species across 43 tanks and 70 ecosystems, the Genoa Aquarium offers an immersive journey through the wonders of the underwater world. Here are a few of its main highlights:
Yes, you can interact with marine animals at the Genoa Aquarium. The aquarium offers interactive experiences such as the petting pool where visitors can touch and interact with stingrays, and behind-the-scenes tours that provide insights into the daily management of the animals and the complex workings of the aquarium. Additionally, there are opportunities for face-to-face encounters with penguins and dolphins, where you can learn in-depth about the animals and their care.
The aquarium has several exhibits and experiences tailored for children. Here are a few popular ones:
The recommended duration to visit the aquarium is at least 3 hours, although you could easily spend an entire day exploring the various exhibits and environments. With over 12,000 animals from 400 species across 43 tanks and 70 ecosystems, there is plenty to see and discover at this expansive aquarium.
Yes, the Genoa Aquarium offers several educational programs and guided tours for visitors:
The Genoa Aquarium participates in various conservation efforts, including:
Yes, visitors at the Genoa Aquarium can enjoy access to both casual, quick dining options as well as a more formal, sit-down restaurant experience without having to leave the aquarium complex. Here are the options you can explore:
The AcquarioVillage at the Genoa Aquarium combines various attractions within the complex by offering a multifaceted experiences. It includes the Genoa Aquarium itself, The City of Children and Teens, Bigo, and Biosphere. You can explore the wonders of the marine world, engage in interactive educational experiences, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, and enjoy the a tropical forest ecosystem, all within the same complex.
Genoa Aquarium Tickets
Combo: Genoa Aquarium + FantaCinema Museum Tickets
Combo: Genoa Aquarium + Lighthouse of Genoa Tickets
Combo (Save 9%): Genoa Aquarium Tickets + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
