Aquarium of Genoa - Tickets and Visitor Information
What is the Aquarium of Genoa?
The Aquarium of Genoa, or Acquario di Genova, is one of the main attractions in Genoa's Porto Antico and one of Europe's largest aquariums.
- It has a large collection of marine and freshwater species, with around 400 animal species and approximately 12,000 specimens.
- The Aquarium covers different aquatic environments, including tropical, temperate and cold seas.
- Other areas recreate tropical forests and tropical freshwater environments.
- Animals include dolphins, sharks, penguins, manatees, seals, jellyfish and many different species of fish.
- The Aquarium also has a new Blue Planet room with video mapping and displays about the importance of water for life.
Quick Information
- Address: Acquario di Genova, Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genoa,
- Opening Hours: Opening times vary - check during ticket booking process.
- Suggested Visit Duration: Around 2.5 hours.
- Aquarium of Genoa Ticket Options
Is the Aquarium of Genoa Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy marine life or are visiting Genoa with children.
- The Aquarium is much larger than a small city aquarium.
- The variety of habitats and animals means there is plenty to see, from dolphins and sharks to penguins, jellyfish and manatees.
- Its location in the Porto Antico also makes it easy to combine with other attractions in Genoa's historic harbour area.
- It is one of the main attractions to consider during a visit to Genoa.
What Can You See at the Aquarium of Genoa?
The Aquarium has a large exhibition route covering different marine and freshwater environments. It is home to both familiar marine animals and species that are less commonly seen in aquariums, including:
- Dolphins, Sharks and Penguins: Some of the most popular animals include dolphins, sharks and penguins. The aquarium also has large tanks where you can see marine animals from different viewing areas.
- Manatees: The aquarium is home to manatees, which are large aquatic mammals that are sometimes known as sea cows. They are one of the less common animals to see in European aquariums.
- Jellyfish and Tropical Fish: There are several displays featuring jellyfish and colourful tropical fish, as well as coral reef environments and other tropical marine habitats.
- Tropical Forests: The visit isn't limited to marine life. Some areas recreate tropical forest environments and contain animals and plants associated with these habitats.
- Biosphere at the Aquarium of Genoa: The Biosphere is a separate attraction next to the Aquarium in the Porto Antico. The glass and steel structure contains a tropical environment with plants and animals, including birds, reptiles and butterflies. If you want to visit the Aquarium and Biosphere, you can choose a combined ticket rather than buying separate ones.
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Aquarium of Genoa - A Quick Ticket Comparison
About The Aquarium of Genoa
The Aquarium of Genoa, also known as the Acquario di Genova was opened in 1992 as part of the celebrations for the 500th anniversary of the 'discovery of America' by Christopher Columbus, who was born in Genoa.
The aquarium is in the beautiful old harbour and has around 70 ecosystem set-ups from different areas around the world including the Mediterranean, the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Amazon Rainforest and others.
It has more than 12,000 creatures from over 400 species including turtles, sharks, penguins and fish. The aquarium also has a Tropical Forest section that has reptiles including iguanas, frogs and snakes.
The aquarium ecosystems are different shapes and sizes. Larger animals such as the dolphins and sharks are in the biggest tanks with big viewing panels.
Biosphere at Aquarium of Genoa
The Biosphere is a separate attraction next to the Aquarium in the Porto Antico. It is housed in a glass and steel structure designed by architect Renzo Piano and contains a tropical environment with over 150 plant species and animals including birds, reptiles and butterflies.