An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to do in Genoa

Last Updated on 25th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

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High mountains, seaside villages, and delicious cuisine are just a few of the reasons why Genoa (known as Genova in Italian) should be your upcoming destination when visiting Italy. This guide is all about the best things to do in Genoa…

Please note that Genoa is the English version of the word and the city is known as Genova in Italian.

Genoa is the capital of the Liguria region, in the northwestern area of the peninsula, and offers plenty of things to do no matter how long you plan to stay.

If you’re considering discovering this important city, you’re in the right place! In this article, we share some of the best things to do in Genoa, so keep reading to learn about the best attractions and activities that Genoa offers!

Where is Genoa and How to Get There

Genoa is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Mediterranean. It can be easily reached by train from different regions situated close by, including Lombardy, Piedmont, Emilia Romagna, and Tuscany.

Some important cities close to Genoa include Savona, a beautiful coastal town with fantastic beaches, and La Spezia, often described as the gateway to the Cinque Terre region is also close to Genoa. Finally, about 35 km from Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque harbor and beautiful coastline.

If you want to travel to Genoa from Rome, you can do so by train, this is the most popular choice as well as the fastest. The direct train from Rome to Geno takes around 3 to 4 hours, while high-speed trains, such as the Frecciarossa or Italo, provide faster travel times.

It’s also possible to get to Genoa from Rome by bus, the route is about 4 hours, but it also varies depending on traffic and stops along the way. FlixBus is a popular bus operator in Italy, offering direct connections between Genoa and Rome.

Driving is another alternative (from Rome or anywhere else in the country). For instance, you can rent a car in Rome and take the A1 highway north towards Genoa. The distance between Rome and Genoa is approximately 445 kilometers, and the drive usually takes around 4 to 5 hours.

When is the Best Time to Visit Genoa?

Although answering this question would need to take into account your preferences and the activities that most interest you, in general, we could suggest discovering Genoa during the warmer months of the year.

In spring, for instance, the temperatures are pleasant and the weather is generally mild, with the city starting to come alive with visitors. This weather is perfect to explore the city on foot, visit attractions, and enjoy outdoor activities without the large crowds of summer.

From June to August, summer is at its best. The weather can be quite hot and humid, but the proximity to the sea brings a relieving breeze, especially in the late afternoons.

Summer is ideal for enjoying the beautiful Ligurian coastline, taking boat trips, and soaking up the sun on the beaches. During this period, you will find bigger crowds and higher accommodation prices.

From the end of September until November, autumn brings colder temperatures, however, it remains a great moment to visit the city and enjoy outdoor activities. The fall season also brings harvest festivals and food events.

Winter in Genoa is mild and it can be rainy. While it’s the offseason for tourism, Genoa still has its charm, with plenty of museums and historical sites to check out. Finally, the Christmas season brings festive decorations and markets, adding to the city’s atmosphere.

Why You Should Visit Genoa

As you might imagine, there are several good reasons why discovering this somewhat underrated region, and that is not just its proximity to the more popular Cinque Terre.

Genoa’s Historic Center is one of the highlights of the area, locally known as Centro Storico, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring incredible medieval buildings.

Another reason why people choose Genoa is because of its incredible aquarium, which is considered one of the largest and most prestigious in Europe. 

Food and wine can be excellent reasons to discover the city. Genoa is known for its delicious cuisine, particularly seafood dishes and the famous pesto sauce that comes from the basil bushes that grow on the Ligurian hills. For more inspiration, check out some of the more traditional dishes from Genoa.

Besides, there are vibrant food markets, and the local wine, Vermentino, is a crisp white that has put the Liguria region on the map of the world’s top labels.

In the city, street art is stunning, featuring colorful murals and urban artworks adorning its streets. If you’re a fan of photography or simply enjoy learning about this popular art expression, then Genoa will be a great destination.

And if all that has been mentioned is not enough, along the coast you will find wonderful beaches and, within a fairly short distance, incredibly beautiful seaside settlements including Sanremo, Portofino, Lerici, and the Cinque Terre.

Now that you have an idea about why the city is worth visiting, let’s dive into the most interesting things to do in Genoa, Italy.

How long do you need in Genoa?

Thanks to its relatively small size and compact nature (with most of the major sites grouped together close to the port and in the historic old town), you can see most of the main attractions over the course of a day if that’s all you have time for. If you have more time, then three days is the ideal amount of time to discover Genoa.

Best Things to Do in Genoa

In no particular order, these are some of the attractions and best things to do in Genoa:

Discover the Attractions at the Port of Genoa

Locally known as the Port of Genova, is one of the largest and busiest seaports in Europe, it faces the Ligurian Sea and it has a long history dating back to ancient times. The port has played a significant role in the maritime trade and economic development of the region.

The pedestrian walkway along the port features some of the best restaurants in town, and easy access to several of Genoa’s attractions and places of interest.

Acquario di Genoa: The aquarium is located in the port area and it houses a vast collection of marine life, including dolphins, sharks, penguins, and tropical fish. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, and educational displays, and even witness animal feedings.

Galata Maritime Museum (or Sea Museum –Museo del Mare): This is another attraction in the heart of the port, showcasing historical artifacts, ship models, and interactive displays regarding the city’s seafaring heritage.

Biosphere: Also in the port area, the Biosphere is a unique glass and steel sphere that houses a tropical garden, representing different ecosystems from around the world. Visitors can explore the lush vegetation and learn about the importance of biodiversity.

Big Panoramic Lift: Considered an iconic structure in the port area, from here you can admire the most stunning views of Genoa and the surrounding coastline. The elevator takes you up to the top to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and the Ligurian Sea.

Porta Siberia and the Lighthouse: The historic gate known as Porta Siberia marks the entrance to the port area, it is located adjacent to the city’s lighthouse known as Lanterna, dating back to the 16th century, and which is one of the tallest lighthouses in the world. In case you were wondering, it is possible to climb to the top of the Lanterna for panoramic views of Genoa and the port.

Porto Antico: The Old Port or Porto Antico is a charming area within the port that has been revitalized with pedestrian promenades, restaurants, cafes, and shops, perfect for a stroll after a day at the beach, to enjoy waterfront dining, and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

 If you’re lucky, you might also find the “Nao Santa Maria,” a replica of the famous flagship used by Christopher Columbus during his first voyage to the Americas in 1492.

This replica can occasionally be found in the Port of Genoa as part of exhibitions or maritime events, and it is open for you to explore and learn about Columbus, Genoa’s most famous citizen, and his trips across the Atlantic Ocean.

Check Out the Historic Center

Seamlessly merging with the port of Genoa, the historic center – also known as Centro Storico or Genoa’s Old Town, offers a unique blend of maritime architecture.

This is quite a vibrant and charming district that showcases the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. It is one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The maze of narrow streets, alleys, and picturesque squares, is lined with beautiful buildings from medieval structures to Renaissance palaces, Baroque churches, and neoclassical facades, the district is a testament to the city’s architectural diversity and historical significance.

In the historic center, you will find numerous squares that serve as gathering spots for the locales. The main square is Piazza De Ferrari, a bustling hub with an iconic fountain, surrounded by impressive buildings like the Palace of the Doges and the Teatro Carlo Felice.

In this part of town, there are several palazzi, aristocratic homes that belonged to noble families during the city’s golden age.

These palaces, such as Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Reale, and Palazzo Spinola, now house museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, offering visitors a chance to explore their grand interiors and art collections.

Via Garibaldi (once known as Strada Nuova), is a famous street in the historic center famous for famous for its stunning palaces. It is lined with impressive Renaissance and Baroque buildings, such as including Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi.

Together, these palaces form the Strada Nuova Museums, which house extensive art collections open to the public.

Explore Genoa’s Carruggi

Known by this name in all the Liguria region, carruggi are the typical narrow and winding streets that have become an iconic feature of the historic center. 

These medieval alleys are filled with shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Exploring the carruggi is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover hidden gems. If you want to seek out hidden gems together with a local guide, consider booking a tour like this one.

Visit Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

The Cathedral of Genoa is dedicated to Saint Lawrence and is located in the heart of the historic center. Arguably one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, the cathedral features Romanesque architecture.

The ecclesiastical building also houses important religious relics and notable works of art, including the Sacra Sindone (Holy Shroud). This impressive building was built back in the 12th century and its facade impresses for its unique variety of decorative elements.

The main entrance of the cathedral is adorned with a richly decorated portal depicting biblical scenes. The central doorway is framed by multiple arches, while on top of it, you can appreciate a magnificent rose window made up of crafted stone tracery, forming geometric patterns. The facade is embellished with numerous sculptures and statues as well.

However, the most distinctive characteristic is the construction of the facade, made of alternating layers of black and white marble, creating a visually striking pattern, an amazing example of local craftsmanship and artistry.

Discover the Palazzi dei Rolli 

Genoa is also home to the Palazzi dei Rolli, a group of Renaissance and Baroque palaces that were residences for the city’s noble families during the times of the Republic of Genoa, a moment in history when the city was a powerful maritime stronghold.

The Palazzi dei Rolli were collectively recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their architectural and historical significance.

The term Rolli refers to the lists (or “Rolli”) created in the 16th century to determine which palaces were suitable to host state visits by important guests. The palaces listed in the Rolli were required to provide suitable accommodations for sovereigns, rich merchants, and diplomats visiting the Republic.

They all feature a wide range of architectural styles, including Renaissance, Baroque, and Mannerist. They are scattered throughout the historic center of Genoa, dotting the narrow streets (carruggi), and they create a fascinating labyrinth-like atmosphere. 

All these buildings were constructed to reflect the wealth and power of Genoa’s noble families, therefore having grand facades, intricate frescoes, elaborate decorations, and beautiful courtyards. Some palaces also have gardens and balconies.

Every May, Genoa celebrates the Rolli Days: In May each year, Genoa celebrates the “Rolli Days,” during which some of the palaces are open to the public free of charge. This event allows visitors to explore the interiors of these historic buildings and admire their architectural and artistic treasures.

Book a Palazzi dei Roll and Palazzo Reale Guided Tour here in advance.

Go to the Beach

Being a coastal city, there is plenty of opportunity to head to the beach in Genoa, where it’s easy to find a spot to relax, swim, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Whether you prefer sandy beaches or rocky coves, there are options to suit different preferences within a short distance from the old historic center.

These are some of the shores you can check out:

Boccadasse: Located east of Genoa’s city center, this small and picturesque neighborhood features a charming pebble beach with colorful houses lining the shore as well as restaurants and cafes.

Nervi: Nervi is a district situated about 9 kilometers east of Genoa’s city center and it features a long stretch of rocky coastline with small coves and crystal-clear waters. The area is known for its beautiful seaside promenade, gardens, and the famous Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi – a scenic cliffside walkway.

Enjoy Cultural Events

Genoa hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including festivals, music concerts, and exhibitions. The Genoa International Boat Show, held annually, attracts boating enthusiasts from around the world.

Make Time to Taste the Local Cuisine 

Genoese cuisine celebrates fresh and simple ingredients, often highlighting the flavors of the sea and the region’s bountiful produce, so – whenever in town – don’t miss some of its most distinctive dishes, including pesto Genovese and Focaccia Genovese.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to visit Genoa, the city is a beautiful Italian destination where to enjoy an interesting and very rich history, beautiful architecture, and unique culinary traditions only steps from the sea!

If you prefer to experience local food together with a guide, then you should consider booking a pasta and tiramisu class like this one. Another option is to book a traditional food tour that includes at least 5 foodie stops like this one.

Where to stay in Genoa

Though not the most popular city to visit in Italy, there remains a great choice of accommodation for all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Genoa based on web-reviews and location:

Budget- Ostello Bello Genova: This trendy hostel is just a few minutes walk away from Genova Piazza Principe train station and features amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a fitness centre on-site. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range- B&B Hotel Genova City Center: This well located B and B is comfortable and is conveniently located within easy reach of many of Genoa’s main attraction. Highlights include Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury- Grand Hotel Savoia: For a stay to remember during your time in Genoa you’ll want to look no further than this five star establishment. Set against the backdrop of a 19th-century building, amenities include a pool and spa. Check prices and availability here.

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Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book. She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.