Things To Do
in Genoa
Genoa is a historic port city on the Ligurian coast, renowned for its maritime heritage and compact old town. Its labyrinthine alleys (caruggi) wind to grand palazzi on Via Garibaldi and down to a lively waterfront. The city blends centuries of trade, art, and cuisine, from the spectacular Aquarium of Genoa to hillside viewpoints.
Today it offers a vibrant mix of seafood, culture, and dramatic coastal scenery that rewards slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the narrow alleys of Genoa's historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture of the medieval buildings. Visit the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, where you can admire the grand fountain and the surrounding palaces. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Italian coffee and a cornetto to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, head to the Palazzo Ducale, a former royal palace that now serves as a cultural center and exhibition space. Take your time to explore the art and history exhibitions that showcase the rich heritage of the city. As the afternoon sun shines down, wander through the charming streets and discover hidden artisan shops and boutiques.
As dusk approaches, make your way to the picturesque Porto Antico, where you can enjoy a scenic waterfront walk. Choose a local trattoria for dinner, savoring authentic Ligurian dishes such as trofie al pesto while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Finish your evening with a gelato as you relax by the harbor, watching the boats gently sway.
Begin your morning at the Galata Museo del Mare, the largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean, where you can learn about Genoa's seafaring history. Explore the fascinating exhibits, including historic ships and immersive experiences that transport you to the age of exploration. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to enjoy the sea breeze.
In the afternoon, visit the Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco, two stunning art galleries that house masterpieces by renowned artists such as Caravaggio and Van Dyck. Spend time admiring the beautiful frescoes and ornate interiors that reflect the opulence of Genoa's past. Don't forget to stroll through the nearby Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its magnificent palaces.
As the sun sets, head to the vibrant area of Boccadasse, a charming fishing village with colorful houses along the coast. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Conclude your day by watching the sunset over the Ligurian Sea, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍝Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee (regular) | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧀Snack or street food | $5-8 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (mid-range) | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime history and a walkable historic center
- Excellent seafood and iconic pesto cuisine
- Hilly terrain can be tiring to navigate
- Can be crowded and windy along the coast in peak season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Genoa
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand central square framed by the Opera House and elegant palazzi; a hub of city life.
Medieval cathedral with a rich façade and quiet cloisters, ideal for architectural detail shots.
A UNESCO-listed street of Renaissance palaces with ornate façades and courtyards.
Waterfront area with modern architecture, ships, and the distinctive Sky Rail/Bigos for panoramic shots.
A lookout terrace above the old town offering sweeping views over the roofs and harbor.
Genoa's iconic sea lighthouse; great for sunset silhouettes against the harbor.
Food in Genoa
Genoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Basil pesto traditionally made with pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil, tossed with trofie or trenette pasta.
Must-Try!
Short twisted pasta coated in vibrant Genovese pesto and often finished with parmesan.
Soft, olive-oil-brushed flatbread, sometimes topped with onions or olives.
Savory chickpea pancake baked in a flat tray, a crisp, peppery street snack.
Stuffed veal or chicken breast rolled with herbs and vegetables, a classic Ligurian dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively indoor market offering seafood, vegetables, cheeses, and ready-to-eat Ligurian specialties.
Walk the streets to find freshly baked focaccia, panisse, and fried polenta bites sold by vendors throughout the old town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Salve' and make eye contact; avoid loud behavior in churches.
Dress modestly for churches; speak softly in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Genoa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a small tip is appreciated but not always expected; a 5-10% contribution in restaurants is common if service charge is not included.
Cards are widely accepted; keep some cash for markets, small cafés, and tips. ATMs are common in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds; ideal for walking and coastal hikes.
Warm to hot days with humid heat; expect occasional sea breezes and busy promenades along the waterfront.
Pleasant days with cooler evenings and regular rain; a good time for museum visits and market strolls.
Mild but chilly, with possible rain and occasional chilly winds; excellent for indoor attractions and city cafés.
Genoa at Night
Hiking in Genoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail with sea views and a chance to visit the abbey at San Fruttuoso; a popular day hike from Portofino.
The famous Sentiero Azzurro trail between the five villages offers dramatic cliffside scenery (overnight stays possible).
Airports
How to reach Genoa by plane.
The city’s main airport, roughly 20-30 minutes by road from the center, with domestic and some international flights.
A larger international airport about 2-3 hours by train from Genoa; offers multiple European connections and connections to domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population around the universities contributes to a lively nightlife and affordable eateries.
Family-oriented neighborhoods near the harbor and along the coast offer playgrounds and calm promenades.
Generations of locals live in the historic core and hillside quarters, preserving traditional markets and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Genoa CFC is historically one of Italy's oldest clubs; football remains a local passion.
Sailing, kayaking and swimming along the Ligurian coast around the harbor areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Genoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy pesto-tossed pastas, focaccia, farinata, and seasonal roasted vegetables. When ordering fish stock-based dishes, request meat-free preparations when in doubt.