Aquarium of Genoa

The Acquario di Genova sits on the redeveloped Porto Antico waterfront and ranks as the second-largest aquarium in Europe, housing more than 70 habitats and roughly 12,000 specimens from 600 marine species. It opened in 1992 to mark the 500th anniversary of Columbus's voyage to the Americas — a pointed tribute given that Genoa is the explorer's birthplace. The building was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Peter Chermayeff as part of Piano's broader regeneration of the historic harbor district. Expanded several times since its inauguration, the aquarium today features shark tanks, dolphin lagoons, and deep-sea exhibits alongside interactive educational displays. Opening hours are Monday–Friday 10:00–18:00 and Saturday–Sunday 09:00–20:00; entry is paid and the venue is fully wheelchair accessible.