Nazario Sauro (S518) Submarine
Step aboard the Nazario Sauro S518, Italy's only floating submarine museum, for an immersive dive into naval history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Nazario Sauro (S518) Submarine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step aboard the Nazario Sauro S518, Italy's only floating submarine museum, for an immersive dive into naval history.
"An unforgettable experience offering a unique glimpse into life underwater. "
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Below Deck
Appreciate the daily lives of submariners in their compact sleeping bunks and the powerful engine room.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Ticket in Advance
Prepare for Tight Spaces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
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:
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.
Audio Guide is Key
Enhance your visit with the multi-language audio guide for fascinating historical insights.
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.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
While not always strictly required, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, is advisable to secure your spot and avoid long queues.
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.
The submarine experience is largely self-guided, with an audio guide available to provide historical context and details about the vessel's operations.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic way to make history tangible and engaging for younger visitors. Remember to emphasize the importance of following instructions and being careful on the steep ladders. Consider getting the helmet and hairnet for a fun, immersive touch. While the confined spaces might be a concern for very young children or those prone to anxiety, for most families, it's a memorable experience that complements a visit to the broader Galata Museo del Mare.
🏛️ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
You'll get an up-close look at the engineering, the operational systems like sonar and radar, and the strategic importance of submarines in naval warfare. The audio guide provides in-depth information about the submarine's design, its missions, and its place in maritime history. It's a chance to connect with the past on a visceral level, understanding the unique challenges and the daily routines of submariners.
📸 Photographers
Be mindful of the lighting conditions inside; while natural light filters in, some areas can be dim. Experiment with different angles to capture the sense of confinement and the technical details. The stern end is particularly recommended for capturing the submarine's imposing presence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Submarine Life
+1The experience is designed to be immersive, with audio guides detailing the submarine's history, its missions, and the technology that kept it operational. You can imagine the tension of silent running, the operation of sonar and radar, and the readiness of torpedo launchers. It's a stark contrast to life on the surface, highlighting the dedication and resilience required of those who served.
While the confined spaces and steep ladders might be a challenge for some, the chance to interact with such a significant piece of naval history is unparalleled. It’s a journey back in time, offering a tangible connection to Italy's maritime past and the technological advancements of submarine warfare.
Navigating the Nazario Sauro: Practicalities
Be aware that the submarine's interior is tightly confined. If you experience claustrophobia, you might find it challenging to explore all areas. The narrow passageways and steep ascents are part of the authentic submarine experience, offering a true sense of the environment sailors lived in.
For those interested in a deeper understanding, the audio guide is invaluable. Available in multiple languages, it provides rich historical context, technical details about the submarine's systems (like sonar and radar), and personal anecdotes that bring the vessel to life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit