A 27,000-square-meter space in the old port of Christopher Columbus’ birthplace. We are talking about the Aquarium of Genoa, Europe’s second largest aquarium after Valencia! A chance to dive into the mysteries of the sea through 39 sea water and fresh water tanks, plus 4 outdoor pools housing 12,000 marine species in perfectly recreated habitats: from high-temperature zones for tropical fish to the depths of Antarctic winter for penguins. The larger pools are the size of an apartment and the animals are free to swim and move around as much as they like.
During the tour, which takes about 2/3 hours on average, you’ll meet seals, get scared by the sharks and gaze in amazement at the colors of the barrier reef…not to mention the dolphins’ pool: be prepared to get splashed while they play!
Take note of the must-see attractions: the Cetaceans Pavilion where the dolphins play, the Biodiversity Tank (where you can pet stingrays), the thrilling Shark Room, the Seals’ Island, the Antarctica Room with penguins, the Jellyfish Room (the most relaxing of the entire aquarium), the Sea Horse Tank, and the Depths Room where you can enjoy an augmented reality experience into the depths of the sea.
Another amazing experience can be enjoyed every Saturday and Sunday at 7.30 am, to watch the tanks being opened: you can spend two hours with the staff of aquarists while they get the aquarium ready for the opening to the public.
WHAT TO SEE IN THE SURROUNDINGS: BIOSPHERE AND BIGO
As you leave the Aquarium, on the same quay, you’ll see a large glass and steel sphere floating on the water. It’s the Biosphere designed by the great Genoese architect Renzo Piano. This spectacular structure houses about 150 species of plants and tropical animals. It feels like walking straight into a lush tropical forest populated with piranhas, scarlet ibis, screaming parrots, tree ferns, coffee plants and sapodilla trees.
Instead, in the middle of the area is the Bigo elevator, a crane-inspired lift, 40 meters high and rotating 360 degrees. If you wish to enjoy a breathtaking view of Genoa from a height, take a ride in the lift, the view from up there is simply spectacular!
Aquarium of Genoa:
Opened or closed in compliance with ministerial guidelines (when opened, the Aquarium ensures visitors’ safety through the Biosafety Trust Certification issued by RINA).
Ticket prices vary according to day of the week (weekdays, Sundays and public holidays), month of the year and high/low season.
Booking required
For info and opening hours Aquarium: tel. +39 010 23451 from 9 am to 6 pm
For info and opening hours The Biosphere: +39 010 234 5659
