The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

Take a deep breath and immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Aquarium of Genoa. This is the largest aquarium in Europe, featuring sharks, dolphins, penguins, seals, sea turtles, jellyfish, giant Japanese spidercrabs, and more. Discover new ecosystems such as the flooded forest, the mangroves, the Madagascar reef and the Moluccan Islands. Adventurers of all ages will be swept away!

Other Fun Things to Do

• Climb 375 steps to the top of the Lanterna, a majestic lighthouse perched on the rocks in Genoa's harbor since 1543.
• Admire the 16th-century Galleria di Palazzo Bianco (White Palace) and the fantastic art collection within. See Portrait of a Lady by Lucas Cranach the Elder as well as works by Bernardo Strozzi, Murillo, Caravaggio, Veronese and Jan Steen.

Get a Taste of Local Flavor

While in Genoa, let your taste buds experience authentic pesto, typically served with a combination of pasta, green beans and potatoes. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, try focaccia (flatbread) stuffed with cheese and topped with vegetables, olives, onions, herbs or prosciutto. Or check out farinata; similar to a crepe made from chickpea flour and cooked in olive oil, farinata can be filled with any combination of vegetables, sauces and cheese. Other delicious temptations include gelato, crema (frozen egg custard) and granites (shaved ice with fresh fruit flavorings).

Shopping for Bargains

When looking for souvenirs, keep an eye out for the local specialties: olive wood, marble, velvet, fine laces, macramé and ceramics.

Local Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Italy. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.

Weather in Genoa, Italy