The Acquario di Livorno sits on the seafront at Piazza Mascagni, next to Terrazza Mascagni. It is a municipal aquarium that shows Mediterranean marine life alongside species from further afield. Sea turtles, sharks and seahorses share the tanks with a new octopus exhibit, and a separate section on the first floor holds living reptiles and amphibians. The spacious, well-organized interior and a terrace with a view over the seafront make it a good stop for families and anyone interested in the sea.
Diacinto Cestoni and the building
The aquarium is dedicated to Diacinto Cestoni, a 17th-century biologist. He was the first researcher to find that corals and sponges are animals.
The aquarium stands on the city's seafront. Its building is valued for its historical and architectural character, which links it to the life of the area around it. It is a municipal aquarium, with a focus on marine life from the Mediterranean and other seas.
What you see inside
The main tanks hold sea turtles and sharks, including the blacktip shark and the leopard shark. Seahorses and many small, brightly coloured fish share the displays, along with underwater plants and animals.
The collection also includes crustaceans, molluscs and coral reef fish. A new octopus exhibit has been added, and the aquarium has an underwater archaeological exhibition.
On the first floor, a section covers living reptiles and amphibians. It also includes an ant colony, which sets the aquarium apart from many others.
The interior is spacious and well organized. The gift shop sells items to take home.
Reading the displays
Explanatory panels are a large part of the visit. They describe the species and explain how people affect the sea and the animals that live in it. Give them time, especially if you visit with children who like to ask questions.
Some tanks are compact. The panels are where you learn the most about each species, so it is worth stopping at them rather than walking past.
Getting there and getting in
The aquarium is not in the city centre. Visitors coming from the main station can reach it by bus.
Paid parking is next to the building. The parking lot can only be entered from one direction, so plan your approach if you are coming from the other side.
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Tickets can be bought online, and booking ahead is recommended. Even with online tickets, a queue can form at busy times, so arrive with a little time in hand.
FAQ
Is the aquarium good for children?
Yes. It is family friendly, and sea turtles, sharks and colourful fish are the main attractions.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, and tickets can be bought online. Queues can form at busy times.
Is the aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Which days is the aquarium open?
The aquarium is open on weekends. It is closed from Monday to Friday.
How do I get there from the main station?
The aquarium is not in the centre. Visitors coming from the main station can reach it by bus.
