Lungomare Nazario Sauro
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Nazario Sauro (S518) Submarine

4.4
·2k reviews·Genova, Italy

Step aboard the Nazario Sauro S518, Italy's only floating submarine museum, for an immersive dive into naval history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Lungomare Nazario Sauro

Nazario Sauro (S518) Submarine

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step aboard the Nazario Sauro S518, Italy's only floating submarine museum, for an immersive dive into naval history. Instagram

4.4
(2k reviews)

"An unforgettable experience offering a unique glimpse into life underwater. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Get Your Helmet & Hairnet

Pick these up at the Galata Museo del Mare ticket office before boarding for a safer and more authentic experience.

Audio Guide is Key

Enhance your visit with the multi-language audio guide for fascinating historical insights.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.4 · 1,937 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Inside the Nazario Sauro

Inside the Nazario Sauro

Galata Museo del Mare, Genoa

Step into a real Italian Navy submarine and experience life underwater. Explore cramped quarters and intricate machinery.

Periscope and Sonar Stations

Periscope and Sonar Stations

Control Room

Get a feel for naval operations by peering through the periscope and learning about the sonar and radar systems.

Crew Quarters and Engine Room

Crew Quarters and Engine Room

Below Deck

Appreciate the daily lives of submariners in their compact sleeping bunks and the powerful engine room.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Ticket in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking tickets for the Nazario Sauro S518 submarine, especially during peak season, is recommended to avoid queues. Consider purchasing a combined ticket with the Galata Museo del Mare for a comprehensive experience. Reddit

Prepare for Tight Spaces

This is a real submarine, so expect narrow corridors and steep ladders. If you're claustrophobic, venturing inside might be challenging. Wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for families, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Exploring an old Italian submarine, Nazario Sauro S518 Full video on YouTube. #explore #urbex #travelvlog
jamie_does_life
24 likes • 705 views

Get Your Helmet & Hairnet

Pick these up at the Galata Museo del Mare ticket office before boarding for a safer and more authentic experience. Reddit

Audio Guide is Key

Enhance your visit with the multi-language audio guide for fascinating historical insights. Reddit

THE SUBMARINE “NAZARIO SAURO S 518”
george_c_sebastian
42 likes • 1.6K views
⚓️ Il Nazario Sauro è tornato più bello che mai! È rientrato il sottomarino S518, l'unico museo galleggiante in Italia, nella Darsena di Genova dopo i lavori di risistemazione avvenuti nell’Arsenale di La Spezia. Dopo un’accurata ispezione tecnica, sono partiti i lavori di refit: in un primo momento è stato sottoposto a un lavaggio ad alta pressione per liberarlo dalle incrostazioni, a seguir...
genovamorethanthis
4.1K likes • 89.1K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be navigating narrow passages and steep ladders, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Great Photo Ops

The stern end offers some fantastic photo opportunities of the submarine. :camerawithflash:

Nazario Sauro s518, is one of the most amazing attractions of the Museum of the Sea Galata. It’s not a reconstruction, but a real submarine of the Italian Navy! #wheningenova #familytime #roadtrip #holiday2022 #nazariosauro #submarine
carminacarlos
13 likes • 532 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Get Your Helmet & Hairnet

Pick these up at the Galata Museo del Mare ticket office before boarding for a safer and more authentic experience. Reddit

Audio Guide is Key

Enhance your visit with the multi-language audio guide for fascinating historical insights. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be navigating narrow passages and steep ladders, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Great Photo Ops

The stern end offers some fantastic photo opportunities of the submarine. :camerawithflash:

Combine with Museum Visit

The submarine is part of the Galata Museo del Mare; a combined ticket offers great value. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Nazario Sauro S518 submarine for its immersive and authentic experience, offering a unique glimpse into life aboard a real Italian Navy vessel. The opportunity to explore the cramped quarters and intricate machinery is a highlight, though some caution that the confined spaces may not suit those with claustrophobia. Reddit

"Quick glimpse into life on a small submarine, get helmet and hairnet from Galata del Mare ticket office"

Alex Irvine

"Visiting the Submarine Nazario Sauro at the Galata Museo del Mare in Genoa is an unforgettable experience! As Italy’s first submarine open to the public, it offers a unique glimpse into life underwater.

The tour allows you to step inside the cramped quarters and marvel at the intricate machinery, giving you a deep appreciation for the sailors who lived and worked in such confined spaces. The audio guide (available in multiple languages) provides fascinating insights into the submarine’s history, its missions, and the challenges of underwater navigation.

The experience is immersive, from the periscope to the tiny sleeping bunks, and it’s a must-see for history buffs, engineering enthusiasts, or families looking for an educational adventure. Be mindful of the narrow passages and steep stairs—it might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges."

Wisanu Tuntawiroon

"definitely something worth visiting if you can. I didn't venture inside the sub because I'm claustrophobic, but u wish I had. there is fee but I don't know how much.
there's a set of metal steps at the stern end where you can get some good pics"

Brian Gilligan

What People Like

Authentic submarine experience
Immersive historical insight
Fascinating machinery

What People Dislike

Confined spaces
Steep ladders

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nazario Sauro S518 submarine is docked at the Galata Museo del Mare in Genoa's Old Port. You can reach the museum and submarine by walking from the city center or taking public transport to the Porto Antico area. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages near the Porto Antico, including the large underground parking facility. However, it's often easier and more enjoyable to explore Genoa's historic center on foot. Instagram

Typically, access to the Nazario Sauro S518 submarine is included with your ticket to the Galata Museo del Mare. It's recommended to visit both for a complete understanding of maritime history. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's usually part of the admission fee for the Galata Museo del Mare. Check the official museum website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Reddit

While not always strictly required, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is advisable to secure your spot and avoid long queues. Reddit

The submarine's visiting hours generally align with the Galata Museo del Mare's operating hours. It's best to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times. Instagram

The submarine experience is largely self-guided, with an audio guide available to provide historical context and details about the vessel's operations. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can expect a unique and immersive experience, stepping into the actual living and working spaces of a real Italian Navy submarine. You'll see cramped quarters, intricate machinery, and learn about submariner life. InstagramReddit

Due to its nature as a real submarine, access involves narrow passages and steep ladders, which may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility challenges or very young children. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the submarine, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions posted on-site. The stern end is noted as a good spot for pictures. Reddit

Comfortable, non-slip shoes are highly recommended due to the steep ladders and potentially wet surfaces. Dressing in layers is also a good idea as the temperature inside can be cooler. Reddit

Children often find the submarine fascinating, but parents should be aware of the confined spaces and steep stairs. It's a great educational experience for older children interested in history and technology. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The stern end of the submarine offers excellent vantage points for capturing the vessel's exterior. Inside, the control room and engine room provide unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to use natural light or a low-flash setting inside historical vessels to protect the artifacts and maintain the atmosphere. Always check for signage. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and museums to ensure safety and preservation. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted. TikTok

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