Genoa Old Town & Aquarium Shore Excursion

The focus of this tour is the port city of Genoa. You enjoy a walking tour of the old town, photo stops at panoramic overlooks, and a visit to the city's famous aquarium, widely regarded as one of the largest in Europe.

Your first stop today is the Aquarium of Genoa, which can be an emotional experience as you take in the immensity of the ocean and the richness it holds beneath the surface. This unique experience opens a universe teeming with life and full of mysterious and strange creatures. Seals, dolphins, penguins, sharks and fish of all shapes and colors accompany you along your path of discovery through this marine world.

Following the aquarium visit you have free time for lunch in a local pizzeria or restaurant (meal not included).

After lunch you begin your city tour with a stop at the panoramic terrace of Castelletto, with views over the historical center of Genoa, the port and the Lanterna lighthouse, considered the symbol of the city.

Next you enjoy a walking tour of the old town starting at the House of Columbus near the medieval gate of Porta Soprana. You visit Piazza De Ferrari, the contemporary heart of the town, home to the Carlo Felice Opera House and several fountains. You also see the Ducale Palace, with its neoclassical facade, once the seat of government of the Republic of Genoa.

Then you walk to Piazza San Matteo, one of the best preserved examples of a medieval residential quarter in Italy. San Matteo was the square of the Doria family, and it still largely retains its medieval look, with palaces, porticoes and the traditional black and white striped facades typical of Genoese architecture.

Churches seen include Saint Andreas, considered a masterpiece of Genoese baroque, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Consecrated in 1118 and largely rebuilt in Gothic style after a fire in 1296, the cathedral's distinctive black and white striped facade was completed in 1312.

If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Genoa tours and Genoa Shore Excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Genoa tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.