The port Italian city of Genoa? Doesn’t sound familiar? Think again! Genoa, the birthplace of America’s discoverer Christopher Columbus, jeans, and delicious focaccia, is definitely worth a visit. The capital of Liguria and the province of Genoa has a lot to offer. In this guide, “Genoa, Italy: 34 Best Things to Do and See”, you’ll find tips on sights, activities, and good food.
When to Visit Genoa
Genoa usually has pleasant weather throughout the year. However, the best months to visit are from April to October.
The warmest days are during the summer season from July to August, and the coldest month is January. The rainiest month is November.
Genoa: where to Stay
In Genoa, I recommend staying near the center:
- cheaper alternative: Hotel Nologo,
- mid-range option: Hotel Genova Liberty,
- luxury option: Hotel Bristol Palace.
TIP: You can find inspiration for your vacation in Italy HERE.
Genoa, Italy: 34 Best Things to Do and See
Are you wondering what to see and do in Genoa? Don’t worry, I have a comprehensive list of attractions and sights you can visit in Genoa.
TIP: Are you drawn to Tuscany? Then read our article.
Cattedrale Di San Lorenzo
One of Genoa’s most significant landmarks is undoubtedly the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. The cathedral was built between 1100 and 1600, thus combining various architectural styles. The facade is predominantly Romanesque, while the interior and some exterior parts reflect Gothic and Renaissance influences.
Christopher Columbus’s House
If there’s one thing people immediately associate with the city of Genoa, it’s the discoverer of America, Christopher Columbus. And in Genoa, you’ll find the house where Columbus spent part of his life. This house is called Casa di Cristoforo Colombo and is located in the city’s medieval quarter.
Casa di Cristoforo Colombo is a traditional medieval house that now serves as a museum.
Piazza De Ferrari
Piazza De Ferrari is a square located in the heart of Genoa. This square is considered the main and most vibrant in the city, full of life and various activities.
In Piazza De Ferrari, you’ll find a magnificent fountain that has become one of the square’s characteristic features. The square is dotted with elegant buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Porto Antico (Old Port)
The Old Port was built in the 6th century and played a key role in the city’s commercial and maritime activities. Today, Porto Antico is a vibrant district full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural facilities.
Genoa Aquarium
The Genoa Aquarium is one of the largest and most significant aquariums in Europe. It is located near the port and offers visitors the opportunity to discover a diverse underwater world.
It covers an area of over 9,000 square meters and features transparent tunnels that allow visitors to walk underwater and observe life beneath the surface.
Biosfera
You definitely won’t miss this building, as it’s shaped like a glass sphere. You’ll also find it right by the port, and if you’re wondering what it is, the Biosfera serves as a multifunctional cultural and educational center.
It is designed as an interactive space that provides visitors with the opportunity to better understand the planet’s biodiversity and ecology.
Lanterna Lighthouse
While strolling through the Old Port, you’ll come across the Lanterna lighthouse. The Lanterna di Genova is a historic 16th-century lighthouse. The Lanterna di Genova served as a navigational point for ships sailing into the port. The lighthouse is approximately 77 meters tall and is now open to the public.
Le Strade Nuove
Le Strade Nuove is the name for a complex of historic streets in Genoa, which includes Via Garibaldi, Via Cairoli, and Via Balbi. These streets were built during a period of economic boom in Genoa and served as homes for wealthy merchants and nobility.
Le Strade Nuove were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2006, along with several palaces that line these streets.
Porta Soprana
Porta Soprana Gate is one of the symbols of Genoa’s historic fortifications and is considered the gateway to the old city. Porta Soprana is located on a hill, offering impressive views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
It was built in the 12th century and was part of the city’s medieval fortifications. It served as one of the main gates protecting the city and is a significant part of the city walls.
Galata Museo Del Mare
If you’re on a trip to Genoa, visit the maritime museum. The museum is dedicated to the city’s rich maritime history and its relationship with the sea. It is located in the historic Galata district and includes various artifacts, ship models, maps, and documents that chronicle the city’s rich seafaring tradition.
Royal Palace Museum
Genoa is also home to the Royal Palace, located in the city center, offering magnificent views. The palace also houses a museum on royal history.
Basilica Della Santissima Annunziata Del Vastato
One of the most beautiful churches in Genoa is the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato. Its interior is adorned with frescoes and sculptures.
Proloco Maris Boccadasse
Boccadasse is an old district of Genoa, and Proloco Maris Boccadasse is a bay with colorful houses and boats, offering one of the most photogenic spots in the city. Here, you can also soak up the typical Italian atmosphere and swim at one of the city’s beaches.
Staglieno Cemetery
Staglieno Cemetery, also known as Cimitero monumentale di Staglieno, is a significant cemetery in the city. Staglieno is renowned for its impressive tombstones, sculptures, and monuments that adorn the graves and avenues. Many of these artworks were created by prominent sculptors and artists.
Staglieno Cemetery is not only a resting place but also an open-air gallery. Visitors can admire sculptures, architecture, and other artworks here. It is also a place where important figures from Genoa’s history are buried.
Church of San Donato
Another significant Genoese landmark is the Church of San Donato, built in the 12th century and notable for its Neoclassical architecture and remarkable frescoes.
Mackenzie Castle
Mackenzie Castle can be found in Genoa, in the city center. This impressive palace is an example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and is part of the city’s cultural heritage. Palazzo Mackenzie was built at the turn of the 19. 19th and 20th centuries and served as a residence for prominent families in Genoa.
Currently, Palazzo Mackenzie is used for various cultural and social events.
Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta Di Carignano
The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta di Carignano is a significant sacred site in Genoa. It was built in the 17th century and is known for its Baroque architectural style and magnificent decoration.
D’Albertis Castle
D’Albertis Castle was built at the end of the 19th century and served as the residence for industrialist and traveler Enrico Alberto D’Albertis. Castello D’Albertis combines various architectural styles, including Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance. It stands on a hill, offering magnificent views.
Nervi District
On the eastern coast of the city lies the picturesque district called Nervi. It is known for its seaside atmosphere with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. In Nervi, you’ll find a port, a seaside promenade, and pleasant beaches.
Piazza Della Vittoria
This square is located in the city center and is full of beautiful buildings and monuments. One of the most prominent structures in the square is the Vittoria Tower. Piazza della Vittoria is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.
A Walk along via Garibaldi
Via Garibaldi is one of the most famous and beautiful streets in the historic center of Genoa. This street was built in the 16th century and is renowned for its magnificent palaces and rich history.
Via Garibaldi was originally built for Genoa’s wealthy merchants and nobility. Today, this street is home to several important museums and galleries. Many palaces have been converted into museums.
Palazzo Bianco
Palazzo Bianco is one of the significant palaces in Genoa, Italy, and is also part of the complex known as Strada Nuova Museums. This palace, translated into English as “White Palace”, is Baroque in style and served as a residence for prominent families in Genoa.
Commenda Di San Giovanni Di Pré
Another interesting landmark in the heart of Genoa is the 12th-century Commenda di San Giovanni di Pré, which served as the seat of a knightly order. Admission is free, and the entrance gate is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Nazario Sauro Submarine
The Nazario Sauro Submarine is an Italian Navy military submarine named after Nazario Sauro, an Italian naval officer and hero. The submarine was incorporated into the Italian Navy in 1976 and served until 2002.
Currently, the submarine serves as a museum.
Castello Di Punta Pagana
You’ll also experience breathtaking views on the hill where the beautiful Castello di Punta Pagana is located. The castle was built in the 16th century and served as a summer residence for a noble family. Today, you can explore it through organized tours.
Spianata Castelletto
Spianata Castelletto is a small square that offers impressive views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. This square is located on an elevated spot, allowing you to enjoy a panoramic view of the historic center and the surrounding landscape.
Monte Rama
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, head to Mount Monte Rama. Beautiful nature, tranquility, and amazing views await you there.
Monte Reixa
Another breathtaking mountain range is Monte Reixa. At its summit, you’ll find a small church and a tiny chapel, which are also worth a visit.
Genoa: Map with Points of Interest for your Phone
Save a map of the best places in Genoa directly to your phone. After purchase, you will receive a link to a private Google Map, which you can save by clicking ‘Follow’. This will copy it to your Google account and display it on all devices where you use Google Maps.
Day Trips around Genoa
Genoa is an ideal starting point for trips around the Ligurian region. Another advantage is that you can also take a train to more distant, popular cities in Italy.
TIP: Traveling between Italian cities is very fast, easy, and accessible. Just take the train. You can easily find individual connections on Trenitalia.com.
Portofino
Portofino is a picturesque seaside town and resort located on the Italian Ligurian Riviera coast. Portofino is known for its harbor, colorful houses, luxury yachts, and surrounding hills covered with Mediterranean vegetation.
The journey from Genoa to Portofino takes approximately one hour.
Santa Margherita Ligure
The town lies in a bay between Portofino and Rapallo and offers visitors beautiful beaches, a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, and pleasant walks along the coast. The history of Santa Margherita Ligure dates back to the Middle Ages, which can be seen in some of the historic buildings and churches in the area.
You can reach Santa Margherita Ligure from Genoa within an hour.
Turin
Turin, also known as Torino, is a city located in the northwestern part of Italy, the capital of the Piedmont region. Turin has a rich history, cultural heritage, and is a center of industry and innovation. You can also reach Turin from Genoa by train in two hours.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is the name for five picturesque fishing villages located on the cliffs of the Italian Ligurian Riviera coast. These villages are known for their beautiful natural scenery, colorful architecture, and terraced vineyards that surround the mountain slopes. You can reach Cinque Terre National Park from Genoa by train in an hour and a half.
TIP: You can find everything you need to know about Cinque Terre National Park HERE.
Pisa
From Genoa, you can also take a trip to the famous Tuscan city of Pisa with its Leaning Tower. If you board a train in Genoa, you’ll be at the Square of Miracles in approximately two hours.
TIP: You can find everything about Pisa in our article.
Milan
Milan is the second-largest city in Italy and the capital of Lombardy. The city is known for its impressive architecture, historical landmarks, rich cultural scene, and renowned fashion. You can reach Milan from Genoa by train in two hours.
What to Taste in Genoa
Genoa also boasts excellent Italian cuisine, so be sure to try something:
- Focaccia: An Italian flatbread similar to pizza, usually drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, often also containing rosemary. It’s a great dish for breakfast or as a snack.
- Pesto Genovese: Pesto is one of Genoa’s most famous products. It is a sauce made from basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Try it on freshly cooked pasta or bread.
- Trofie al Pesto: Trofie are traditional Ligurian pasta, often served with pesto.
- Anchovies in Green Sauce: Anchovies are very popular in Genoa. This dish is prepared with anchovies immersed in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley.
- Pandolce: For those with a sweet tooth, there’s Pandolce, a traditional Ligurian dessert. It’s a sweet bread full of raisins, nuts, and citrus peel.
Genoa: Interesting Facts
The Italian city of Genoa is associated with several interesting facts:
- Genoa has a history as a trading city, and some of the world’s first banks originated there.
- After the war with Venice at the end of the 14th century, the Republic of Genoa went bankrupt.
- Jeans also originated in Genoa — the cotton for their production was created there. Similarly, the word ‘jeans’ comes from the Italian name for Genoa, Gênes.
- In 2018, the Ponte Morandi highway bridge collapsed. 43 people died in this tragic event.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to get to Genoa?
Genoa is accessible by air via Cristoforo Colombo Airport, by train, bus, or car. It also has its own port for sea transport.
What are the main tourist attractions in Genoa?
Main attractions include the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the old port with the Lanterna lighthouse, the aquarium, and Le Strade Nuove with historical palaces.
How to get around Genoa?
The city has well-functioning public transport, including buses and the metro. However, the city center can be explored on foot.
What to do in Genoa with kids?
For example, visit the Genoa Aquarium or the Biosfera.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
