Acquario di Genova

Overview

The Acquario di Genova is the largest aquarium in Europe and second-largest in the world by number of animal species. Located at Porto Antico, it was designed by Renzo Piano for the 1992 Columbian Expo and showcases over 12,000 animals from 600 species across 70 tanks spanning all the world's oceans.

Highlights

• Dolphin Pavilion: Watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a massive open-air tank with underwater viewing galleries.
• Shark Tank: Walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by sand tiger sharks, hammerheads, and rays.
• Tactile Pool: Touch live stingrays and starfish in a supervised hands-on experience — a family favourite.

History

Opened on 15 October 1992 for the Columbian Expo celebrating the 500th anniversary of Columbus's voyage. Renzo Piano designed the original building on the old harbour docks. Major expansions in 1998 (Nave Italia) and 2013 (Cetacean Pavilion) doubled the exhibition space.

Visitor Tips

• Book online: Timed-entry tickets avoid long queues, especially in summer.
• Allow plenty of time: The route is sequential and takes at least 2.5 hours.
• Duration: 2.5–3 hours.