This itinerary balances Genoa's top-tier family attractions with delightful free activities, perfect for residents looking for a memorable and budget-conscious weekend. It focuses on interactive experiences and places where children can play, learn, and engage, ensuring a fun time for ages 3-12.

Embark on a unique journey through Genoa's UNESCO-listed Rolli Palaces as part of 'The Rolli Experience'. While specific children's activities for this event aren't detailed far in advance, a family-friendly guided walk through these magnificent residences can introduce older children (7-12) to art and history. The event is scheduled for this weekend and may include live music or cultural performances suitable for a relaxed family viewing.
Suitable for families with older children who appreciate history and architecture. Smaller children might enjoy the grand spaces but may need a stroller for longer walks. Look for specific family-oriented tours or highlights of the event program closer to the date. Accessible restrooms typically available in museum palaces.
The historic center is best explored on foot. Parking is available at nearby garages like Parking Acquario or Marina Porto Antico, a short walk away. Public buses also serve the area, with stroller-accessible routes.
Enjoy an early, kid-friendly dinner at Pizzeria Le Cose Buone.
They offer delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas made with organic ingredients and provide high chairs, making it a comfortable spot for families.
Kids will love choosing their own pizza toppings. The relaxed atmosphere and early timing are perfect for families with young children. Restrooms available.
Located in the Albaro neighborhood, accessible by public transport (bus) or a short taxi ride from the city center. Street parking might be available, but can be challenging. Consider public transport for ease.
Dive into the wonders of the Genoa Aquarium, one of Europe's largest.
Your children will be mesmerized by sharks, dolphins, penguins, and vibrant coral reefs. Combine this with a visit to 'La Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi' (City of Children and Teens), an interactive museum designed for kids aged 2-13, featuring hands-on exhibits that encourage scientific discovery through the five senses.
Perfect for energetic kids, offering hours of engagement. Stroller-friendly throughout both attractions, with numerous restrooms and baby changing facilities. Plan for at least 4-5 hours for both. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for weekends.
Located in the Porto Antico area, easily accessible by public transport. Several parking garages are available nearby, such as Park Acquario or Marina Porto Antico, with hourly rates (around €2.20/hour).
Enjoy a casual family lunch at Eataly in the Porto Antico area.
Their food hall offers a variety of Italian specialties with child-size portions of pesto pasta and gluten-free options. It's a great spot for a quick, quality meal with options for everyone.
Kids can choose from different food stations. Ample space for families, including high chairs. Restrooms available. Consider grabbing a picnic from here to enjoy by the water if the weather is good.
Conveniently located within the Porto Antico area, just a short walk from the Aquarium and City of Children. Parking is available in the surrounding Porto Antico garages.
Explore the Galata Museo del Mare, Italy's largest maritime museum.
Kids can discover life-size reproductions of ancient ships, learn about seafaring history through interactive displays, and embark on a unique VR journey. Older children (aged 4+) can also visit the Nazario Sauro Submarine, the only Italian submarine that can be visited while in water.
Highly interactive and engaging for children. The submarine visit is a thrilling experience but has narrow paths, so not suitable for very young children or strollers. The 'Storm Room' is also an intense simulation, potentially scary for small kids. Restrooms and stroller access in the main museum building are good. Children under 6 might enter the museum for free.
Also located in the Porto Antico area, a short walk from Eataly. Parking available in nearby Porto Antico garages.
Cap off your Porto Antico day with a ride on the Bigo Panoramic Lift.
This rotating lift offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and port, providing a unique perspective of Genoa's skyline and the Ligurian Sea as the sun begins to set. It's a quick and thrilling experience that kids will love.
A short, exciting ride with fantastic photo opportunities. Good for all ages, including those with strollers. Check for possible closures due to strong winds before visiting.
Located centrally in the Porto Antico area, easily accessible on foot from the previous activities. Parking in Porto Antico garages.
Spend a relaxing morning at the beautiful Nervi Parks.
These sprawling gardens offer vast meadows for playing, ancient trees, and a fantastic playground at the northern entrance. It's an ideal spot for kids to run around, play ball, or enjoy a picnic. From the park, you can also access the picturesque seaside promenade.
Perfect for energetic kids, with plenty of space to explore. Good for all ages. Restrooms are available. Stroller-friendly paths throughout the park. Consider packing a picnic lunch for a truly budget-friendly experience.
Nervi is a bit east of the city center, accessible by train (Genova Nervi station is close) or bus. Parking can be found in the surrounding area, but may require some searching.
Discover the University Botanical Garden, a hidden gem within Genoa's historic center.
This garden boasts a diverse collection of plants, including tropical species in its greenhouses, aquatic tanks, and a Mediterranean forest area. It offers a calm, educational experience where children can learn about different plant life.
A peaceful and educational activity suitable for all ages. The greenhouses are particularly engaging for curious children. Restrooms available. Note that Sunday opening hours should be confirmed closer to the date, as general opening is Mon/Wed/Fri mornings and Tue/Thu extended. Free guided tours may be available.
Accessible by public transport (bus) or a short walk from Piazza Corvetto. Limited street parking in the vicinity; public parking garages might be a better option.
Wind down the weekend with a stroll through Genoa's charming Old Town (Caruggi) and a delicious gelato treat. Stop at Gelateria Profumo, known for its legendary ice cream, which even offers free babyccinos! Wandering through the narrow, historic alleys offers a free exploration and a taste of local life.
Kids will love picking their gelato flavors. The Old Town can be a maze, but it's part of its charm; keep a close eye on small children. Stroller access can be challenging in some of the narrower alleys. Many small shops to peek into. Restrooms available at various cafes.
The Old Town is a pedestrian area. Accessible via public transport to Piazza De Ferrari or Porto Antico, then on foot. Parking in central garages like Piazza della Vittoria or Porto Antico.
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