With over 12,000 animals from 400 species across 43 tanks and 70 ecosystems, the Genoa Aquarium offers an immersive journey through the wonders of the underwater world. Here are a few of its main highlights:

• Dolphin pool: Watch the playful antics of bottlenose dolphins in the large outdoor pool.
  
• Shark bay: Marvel at the majestic sand tiger sharks and reef sharks in this dedicated exhibit.
  
• Mermaid lagoon: See the gentle manatees swaying in a lagoon-like setting, inspired by the mythical mermaids.
  
• Ice kingdom: Observe the Gentoo and Magellanic penguins and Antarctic fish in their icy habitat.
  
• Tropical reefs: Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with clownfish, sea anemones and other tropical marine life.
  
• Jellyfish exhibit: A whole room dedicated to showcasing various species of jellyfish.
  
• Petting pool: Visitors can touch and interact with stingrays and other marine animals in the dedicated touch pool exhibit

Yes, the Genoa Aquarium offers several educational programs and guided tours for visitors:

• Educational workshops: The aquarium provides engaging educational workshops and programs designed to foster an understanding of marine life and conservation efforts. These workshops are suitable for visitors of all ages, including children and students.
  
• Educational tours: The aquarium offers 90-minute educational tours that include explanations of the exhibits and how they are maintained. These tours offer a deeper understanding of the aquarium's operations and the animals it houses.
  
• Face-to-face encounters: You can participate in guided encounters to observe the daily activities of specific animals, such as dolphins and penguins, and learn about their behaviors. These encounters include feeding sessions. 
  
• Behind-the-scenes tours: You can enjoy guided tours behind the scenes to explore the technical areas and labs, discovering how the aquarium's tanks are maintained and animals cared for.

The Genoa Aquarium participates in various conservation efforts, including:

• European Conservation Project: The aquarium is involved in a European conservation project that includes about 20 structures, making it the only facility in Europe where you can see manatees, also known as "sirens of the sea".
  
• Research and Conservation Projects: The aquarium is engaged in research and conservation projects aimed at protecting and preserving marine ecosystems. It also participates in restocking and recovery programs for threatened marine species.
  
• Mediterranean Monk Seal Conservation: The Fondazione Acquario di Genova Onlus, the Genoa Aquarium Foundation, is working on a project to promote Mediterranean Monk Seal conservation in the Pelagos Sanctuary and the wider Mediterranean Sea. This project includes a pilot trial of bio-activators to improve water quality in Genoa's polluted Ancient Harbour.
  
• Citizen Science: The aquarium collaborates with public and private bodies to raise awareness and educate the public on conservation, management, and responsible use of aquatic environments. This includes organizing educational programs, exhibitions, conferences, environmental awareness campaigns, and applied scientific research projects.

Yes, visitors at the Genoa Aquarium can enjoy access to both casual, quick dining options as well as a more formal, sit-down restaurant experience without having to leave the aquarium complex. Here are the options you can explore:

• Tender Cafe- This is a fast food bar located inside the aquarium that offers quick snacks and meals prepared fresh daily using quality ingredients.
  
• Gusto A Bordo Restaurant- This is a full-service restaurant within the aquarium that serves a refined, high-quality menu featuring traditional Ligurian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant has a suggestive and elegant atmosphere.