Ticket prices at the Genoa Aquarium vary based on the type of admission and booking method chosen. Fixed date tickets start from €26.00 for adults (with a checkout price of €31.00), while children aged 0-3 years enter free.
Visitors can choose from several ticket options to suit their needs. Single tickets provide access to the Acquario di Genova only, with fixed date options offering the best prices when booked in advance. An Open Flexi ticket is available for those wanting maximum flexibility in scheduling their visit.
Combined tickets offer access to multiple attractions. The AcquarioVillage package includes the aquarium, La Città dei bambini e dei ragazzi (children's city), Bigo panoramic lift, and Biosfera. The Pianeta Acquario combo covers the aquarium, Bigo, and Biosfera, while another option pairs the aquarium with La Città dei bambini e dei ragazzi.
Special experiences are also available, including "Night with the sharks" for children aged 7-11 years (starting from €86.00 per person) and emotional dinner experiences. For frequent visitors, an annual Aquario Pass subscription provides unlimited access throughout the year. Children aged 0-1 or 0-3 years (depending on the attraction) receive free admission with most ticket types.
The Genoa Aquarium offers free admission for young children, making it more accessible for families. Children aged 0-3 years can enter free with the standard aquarium ticket and most combined ticket options.
For combined tickets that include additional attractions like La Città dei bambini e dei ragazzi, the free age range adjusts to 0-1 years. This reflects the different age appropriateness of various attractions within the aquarium complex.
Standard Discount Categories:
Visitors can save additional money by purchasing tickets online in advance rather than at the door. The aquarium's pricing structure rewards early booking, with the fixed date tickets offering lower prices than standard admission rates. The checkout price of €31.00 for adults can be reduced to as low as €26.00 when booking ahead.
Annual pass holders represent another category of discounted visitors. The Aquario Pass Subscription provides unlimited entries throughout the year, making it cost-effective for locals or frequent visitors. Families planning multiple visits should calculate whether the annual subscription offers better value than individual tickets.
The Genoa Aquarium does not offer free general admission for regular visitors. All guests aged 4 and above must purchase a ticket to enter the facility.
Free Entry Exceptions:
Children between 2-3 years receive free admission to most attractions, though they require a €7 ticket for certain combined packages like the Acquario Village. Infants under 2 are free across all ticket options.
Disabled visitors with proper documentation qualify for reduced-rate tickets rather than free entry. Their companions must present the disability certification at the ticket counter to collect the free companion ticket, even if tickets were purchased online.
Ticket Flexibility:
The aquarium operates 365 days per year, and tickets are non-nominal. This means visitors can transfer their tickets to others if they cannot attend. Anyone purchasing tickets online can pass them along to friends or family members without restrictions.
For those seeking budget-friendly options, the standard children's ticket (ages 4-12) costs less than the reduced-rate ticket for disabled visitors in that age range. The aquarium recommends purchasing the children's ticket in these cases.
No animals except certified guide dogs are allowed inside the facility. The aquarium suggests contacting the Porto Antico Tourist Information office for dog sitting services in the area.
Yes, the Genoa Aquarium offers guided tour options that provide deeper insights into marine life and access to special areas. Visitors can choose between standard group tours or private experiences with marine biology experts, and these tours typically last around 2 hours with departures throughout the day.
Guided tours at Genoa Aquarium provide significant added value for visitors interested in learning beyond what standard exhibits offer. The "Expert With You" private tour allows groups of up to 10 people to explore with a dedicated guide for 2 hours, focusing on specific topics like marine mammals, the Mediterranean Sea, tropical seas, or dangerous animals. This experience costs €110 for Italian language tours and €130 for other languages, though these fees don't include aquarium admission tickets.
The "Dietro le quinte" (Behind the Scenes) tour reveals hidden aspects of the aquarium's operations and shares curiosities about the tanks and animals. Tours run on weekends and daily during school holidays, with multiple departure times from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Both tour options include access to reserved areas not available to general admission visitors, making them worthwhile for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a more immersive educational experience.
Genoa offers several combo ticket options that pair the aquarium with other popular sites, providing both convenience and cost savings for visitors. These packages allow travelers to experience multiple attractions while reducing overall admission costs.
Popular Combo Ticket Options:
The Aquarium and Lighthouse combo remains the most popular choice. It provides skip-the-line access to both venues, though visitors need to select a specific time slot for the lighthouse during booking. The attractions sit close to each other along the old harbor, making it easy to visit both in a single day.
These combo tickets work particularly well for families and travelers with limited time. The packages eliminate the need to purchase separate admissions and often include fast-track entry, helping visitors avoid long queues during peak season.
Booking in advance is recommended for all combo options. This guarantees entry at preferred times and prevents disappointment, especially during busy tourist periods. Most combo tickets are valid only for the selected date, so careful planning ensures visitors can maximize their experience at each location.
The Genoa Aquarium is located in the Old Port area of Genoa, making it accessible by multiple transportation options.
By Train
Visitors arriving by train have two main station options. From Genoa Brignole station, travelers can take the subway toward Brin (Certosa) and get off at San Giorgio stop, which places them directly in front of the Aquarium. From Genoa Piazza Principe station, the journey is even shorter. Passengers simply board the subway toward Brignole, exit at San Giorgio stop, and the Aquarium is right there.
The walk from Piazza Principe station takes approximately 20 minutes for those who prefer to go on foot.
By Car
Drivers should head toward the Old Port area of Genoa. Parking facilities are available near the attraction, though visitors should plan to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
By Bus or Taxi
Public buses service the Old Port area regularly from various points throughout the city. Taxis offer a convenient alternative for those traveling with luggage or preferring door-to-door service.
Address Information
The Aquarium's official address is:
The central location makes the Aquarium easy to reach whether visitors are staying in Genoa or arriving from other cities in Italy. Most navigation apps provide accurate directions to the Porto Antico area.
The Genoa Aquarium operates 365 days a year, making it accessible to visitors regardless of the season or holiday. Standard opening hours run from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the last admission allowed at 6:00 PM.
During the summer months of July and August, the aquarium extends its hours to accommodate more guests. The facility stays open until 10:30 PM during this peak season, with final entry permitted at 8:30 PM.
Visitors should plan their arrival time carefully to ensure they have adequate time to explore the exhibits. The aquarium houses over 12,000 marine animals across numerous tanks and exhibits, which typically requires several hours to view properly.
The aquarium's parking facility operates on a different schedule than the main attraction. The on-site car park remains open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This parking area offers 167 spaces total, including 4 designated spots for disabled visitors.
Guests cannot reserve parking spaces in advance, but additional parking options exist throughout the Porto Antico area. These include both covered and uncovered lots for those who find the main lot full.
It's worth noting that tickets are not nominal, meaning they can be transferred to other people if plans change. This flexibility applies to all structures within the AcquarioVillage complex, including the aquarium itself.
The Genoa Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive destination for all visitors. The facility has been designed to accommodate guests with mobility challenges throughout the entire venue.
Wheelchair users can navigate all main exhibition areas without barriers. The aquarium provides ramps and elevators to ensure smooth transitions between different levels and sections. Strollers are also welcomed throughout the facility, which benefits families traveling with young children.
Accessibility Features:
Visitors with disabilities are entitled to reduced admission prices when presenting documentation certifying their disability. Companions accompanying visitors with 100% disability status receive complimentary entry. These companions should collect their free ticket at the cash desk by showing the appropriate certification.
The aquarium's parking facility operates 24 hours daily and includes designated accessible parking spaces. While it's not possible to reserve a specific parking spot in advance, the facility ensures that accessible spaces remain available for those who need them.
Advanced ticket booking is recommended for all visitors, including those requiring accessibility accommodations. This helps ensure a smooth entry experience and allows guests to select their preferred time slot without waiting in long queues at the entrance.
Genoa offers numerous attractions beyond its famous aquarium that visitors can explore. The UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli showcases elegant Renaissance and Baroque palaces that once hosted visiting dignitaries. These historic buildings demonstrate the city's rich architectural heritage.
The Galata Maritime Museum provides insight into Genoa's seafaring history. This museum is one of the largest maritime attractions in the Mediterranean and includes access to the Nazario Sauro submarine, giving visitors a chance to explore a real Italian submarine from the inside.
La Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi is a family-oriented attraction spanning over 3,000 square meters. This interactive play area offers educational activities designed specifically for children.
The Lighthouse of Genoa stands as Europe's tallest operational lighthouse and serves as a symbol of the city. Visitors can climb to the viewing terrace for panoramic views and explore the lighthouse museum.
The Biosphere is a glass and steel sphere located in the old port area. This structure houses a tropical environment with over 150 species of exotic plants, trees, flowers, and butterflies.
Boccadasse is a charming fishing village within the city that offers a contrast to Genoa's urban center. The area features colorful houses and a picturesque waterfront.
The city's Gothic cathedrals and historic center provide additional cultural experiences. Visitors can explore narrow streets, local markets, and traditional Genoese architecture throughout the old town area.
Booking tickets online is the smartest way to avoid long queues at the entrance. This is particularly important during peak times when the aquarium experiences heavy foot traffic.
Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience compared to weekends and public holidays. Visitors who arrive in the morning typically encounter fewer crowds and can enjoy the exhibits at a more leisurely pace.
The aquarium is located in Genoa's Old Port area, making it easily accessible by public transportation. From Genova Brignole station, travelers can take the metro toward Brin and exit at San Giorgio stop. From Genova Piazza Principe station, the metro toward Brignole also stops at San Giorgio.
Best visiting times by season:
Last entry is typically at 6:00 PM regardless of season. The aquarium operates 365 days a year, so travelers have flexibility in planning their visit.
Combining the aquarium with nearby attractions can maximize the experience. Several combo tickets include access to the Galata Maritime Museum, the Biosphere, or the Genoa Lighthouse. These options provide better value while allowing visitors to explore multiple sites in the Old Port area.
Residents of Genoa receive special discounts on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM onward, though this doesn't apply on holidays.
Visitors often have practical questions about tickets, pricing, and logistics before planning their visit to the Genoa Aquarium. The aquarium operates year-round with flexible ticketing options, and understanding the details helps ensure a smooth experience.
Standard ticket prices for the Genoa Aquarium vary based on age and ticket type. Adult tickets typically range from €25 to €30, while children aged 4-12 receive reduced rates around €15 to €20. Children under 4 years old enter free of charge.
The aquarium offers two main ticket categories: Fixed Date tickets and Flexi tickets. Fixed Date tickets require visitors to select a specific date and time slot at purchase, which must be honored. Flexi tickets remain valid for one year from purchase and allow date changes, providing more flexibility for those with uncertain schedules.
Several discount options exist for different visitor groups. Disabled visitors with proper documentation qualify for reduced ticket rates. Companions of visitors with 100% disability certification receive free entry when presenting appropriate documentation at the ticket desk.
Families with disabled children aged 4-12 should note that child tickets often cost less than reduced tickets. Combined tickets that include other Porto Antico attractions like La Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi, Bigo, or Biosfera can provide better value than purchasing separate admissions.
Tickets are non-nominal and transferable to others if plans change. Online purchases show the buyer's name but can be used by anyone.
The Genoa Aquarium does not feature traditional dolphin shows or scheduled performances. The facility focuses on naturalistic marine exhibits and conservation education rather than entertainment shows. Visitors can observe dolphins and other marine life in their habitat environments throughout the day during normal visiting hours.
Most visitors spend approximately 2 to 3 hours exploring the aquarium. This timeframe allows guests to view the extensive exhibits at a comfortable pace without rushing. Families with young children or marine enthusiasts may prefer to allocate 3 to 4 hours.
The aquarium houses over 70 tanks with diverse marine species, making it one of Europe's largest facilities. Those interested in reading all information panels and observing animals closely should plan for the longer end of this time range.
The Genoa Aquarium is situated in the Porto Antico area of Genoa, Italy's historic harbor district. This waterfront location makes it easily accessible from the city center and other tourist attractions.
The aquarium maintains 365-day annual operation with no closures. Standard operating hours typically run from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though visitors should verify current timings on the official website as schedules can vary seasonally. Time slots must be reserved when purchasing tickets.
An on-site parking facility operates 24 hours daily with 167 spaces, including 4 designated spots for disabled visitors. Additional parking options exist throughout the Porto Antico area. Parking spaces cannot be reserved in advance.
The Genoa Aquarium ranks as one of Europe's largest aquariums and serves as Italy's most popular marine attraction. It houses extensive collections of Mediterranean and tropical species across thoughtfully designed exhibits. The facility emphasizes marine conservation and education alongside visitor experience.
Families with children find particular value in the aquarium's educational programs and interactive displays. The variety of marine life, from sharks to dolphins to tropical fish, provides appeal across age groups. The location within Porto Antico allows visitors to combine their aquarium visit with other attractions and dining options in Genoa's revitalized harbor area.
Animals are not allowed inside except service dogs for blind visitors. Dog sitting services are available in the area through tourist information contacts.