Things to Do in Genoa with Kids: 10 Family-Friendly Attractions Not to Miss

Aquariums, submarines, panoramic lifts, seaside walks and parks where children can run and play. Genoa offers far more family-friendly activities than many visitors expect, with many of its main attractions located within easy reach of one another.

From the Porto Antico waterfront to the Parks of Nervi, passing through interactive museums and viewpoints overlooking the city, there are plenty of opportunities to combine fun, discovery and time outdoors.

In this guide, we've selected 10 attractions worth including in your itinerary if you're looking for things to do in Genoa with kids during a family holiday or weekend break.

Among them, of course, is the Aquarium of Genoa. If you're planning a visit, take a look at our stay and Aquarium package, which includes discounted accommodation and tickets delivered before your arrival.

1. Aquarium of Genoa

The Aquarium of Genoa is one of the city's must-see attractions for families. Home to hundreds of species from around the world, it offers the chance to get up close to sharks, dolphins, jellyfish, penguins and sea turtles. Most visits take at least two or three hours, making it one of the highlights of the Porto Antico area.

2. The Children's City (La Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi)

Just a short walk from the Aquarium, this interactive experience is entirely dedicated to children. Through hands-on activities focused on the five senses, young visitors can learn while playing and experimenting. It's an excellent option on rainy days or for families looking to alternate traditional sightseeing with something more engaging.

3. Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine

The Galata Maritime Museum explores Genoa's long relationship with the sea through exhibitions, reconstructions and displays dedicated to navigation and maritime history. For many children, however, the highlight is the Nazario Sauro submarine moored outside the museum. Stepping aboard offers a fascinating glimpse into the confined spaces where sailors lived and worked during their missions.

4. The Bigo and Views over the Porto Antico

One of the most recognisable landmarks of the waterfront is the Bigo, the panoramic lift designed by Renzo Piano. As the cabin slowly rotates during the ascent, visitors enjoy 360-degree views of the harbour, the historic centre and the hills surrounding the city. The experience only lasts a few minutes, but it is often one of the activities children remember most.

5. Renzo Piano's Biosphere

Located next to the Aquarium and the Bigo, the Biosphere is a glass and steel sphere housing a small tropical ecosystem. Inside, visitors can discover plants from different parts of the world alongside a variety of animal species. The visit is relatively short and can easily be included in a day spent exploring the Porto Antico district.

6. Spianata Castelletto

For one of the best views in Genoa, head to Spianata Castelletto. This panoramic terrace overlooks the rooftops of the historic centre, the harbour and the sea beyond. Children often enjoy spotting places they have already visited from above, while adults can take a break before continuing their exploration of the city.

7. Boccadasse

The former fishing village of Boccadasse is one of Genoa's most iconic spots. Colourful houses overlook a small beach, fishing boats rest along the shore and a pleasant seafront promenade stretches nearby. It's an ideal place to slow down for a while, perhaps with an ice cream, while children play on the beach or watch the boats coming and going.

8. The Parks of Nervi

Families looking to spend some time outdoors should head to the Parks of Nervi, a large green area combining historic villas, lawns and tree-lined paths. It is one of the favourite spots among local families for a stroll, a quiet break in the shade or simply letting children run around freely.

9. The Anita Garibaldi Promenade

The Anita Garibaldi Promenade runs along the coastline of Nervi and offers a series of beautiful sea views. The route is mostly flat and easy to walk, even with younger children. Along the way you'll find viewpoints, benches and plenty of places to stop and admire the scenery. On a clear day, it's one of the most enjoyable walks in Genoa.

10. Villetta Di Negro

Located close to Piazza Corvetto, Villetta Di Negro is an urban park featuring lawns, centuries-old trees, walking paths and open views across the city centre. The park also includes an artificial waterfall and several panoramic spots that make it particularly pleasant to explore. It's a great place to take a break from sightseeing before continuing your day.

Between aquariums, museums, seaside walks and city parks, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities in Genoa. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a longer holiday, these attractions offer a great way to discover the city while combining different experiences that are easy to fit into the same itinerary.