The Best of Winter in Genoa
While most people think of Italy as a summertime destination, there are wonders to be found in this northern port city any time of year—especially winter! With hardly any tourists in these cooler (and slightly wetter) months, the city is quiet and calm and opens its doors to some incredible art exhibits, live operas, and wintertime flavors.
Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova GE, Italy
Although it touts itself as one of the largest aquariums in Europe, personally I find the aquarium to be incredibly overpriced by Genoa standards (at 23 euro for an adult ticket, I was expecting greatness), and more importantly, quite sad. With just a few exhibits and even fewer animals, it doesn’t make for any sort of real ‘wow’ afternoon. But, with small children, and on a really rainy or cold winter day, it can provide a great indoor entertainment option. And starting in May, a new exhibit on beluga whales is set to open - so hopefully that will breathe some new life into the space.
Calata De Mari Ansaldo, 1, 16126 Genova GE, Italy
If you love ‘experiential learning’, the Galata museum is a great winter option for exploring the maritime history of the port of Genoa. With great ‘hands-on’ exhibits, and a beautiful roof top observation deck, this museum is one of the best in Genoa. And at only 11 euro, it is priced quite effectively. Make sure you don’t miss the “Tempest” exhibit -- a 4D experience of surviving a massive storm in a tiny life boat off Cape Horn. You can also pay a supplemental fee to explore the submarine parked in the harbor in front of the museum - but if you suffer from claustrophobia at all, I’d steer clear, as the space inside is incredibly small.
