For 7 centuries, Genoa was the capital of a major European empire. The Kingdom of Genoa extended around the continent and beyond, enriching its rulers and the city itself.
That’s why Genoa is full of superb plazas, magnificent palaces, and exquisite churches. Let’s not forget delicious food, wine, memorable views, and warm hosts. You will have a blast here!
We visited the city several times. The last time, we spent over two weeks and felt it was not enough. The following are our favorite things to do in Genoa.
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Get Lost on the Streets of the Old Town
You can spend days walking about the Old Town and never get bored. The Old Town is next to the port. Its epicenter is Ferrari Square, famous for its lavish 1930s fountain.
One of Italy’s most famous Opera Houses presides over the plaza: Carlo Felice Theater from 1828. The 1912 Stock Exchange is opposite the opera. Giacomo Matteotti Square is next to Ferrari Square.
You have at least three churches to visit in the Old Town: Basilica di Santa Maria di Castello, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato and Chiesa del Gesu e dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea.
Visit the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
No matter how many churches you’ve seen in your life, the San Lorenzo Cathedral will take your breath away. The temple towers above San Lorenzo Square in the Old Town.
Construction of the temple begun in the 11th Century and ended in the 17th Century. That’s why you will see different styles. The facade from the 13th Century is Gothic, though the naves are Romanesque.
Most of the rich altars are from the 14th and 15th Centuries. The paintings inside the temple are exquisite. Don’t forget to check the Museum of the Treasury under the cathedral.
Walk along the Historic Via Giuseppe Garibaldi
Genoa’s most iconic street is Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. The 16th Century drag is so gorgeous, that UNESCO included it in its list of World Heritage Sites. It begins at the Piazza della Meridiana in the Old Town.
Every single building on the street is worth your time. We are talking about 12 UNESCO listed palaces! Most of the palaces were built between the 16th and 17th Centuries.
Three palaces make up the Strada Nuova Museum group. These are the Palazzo Doria Tursi, the Palazzo Bianco, and the Palazzo Rosso. Get the 15 euro three museum ticket and prepare to be dazzled.
Visit a Museum or Two
There are 33 museums within the 10 km of central Genoa. That’s why Italians call it the city of museums. We believe you should visit at least three.
The massive Royal Palace Museum is our favorite. We love its garden and the views from its open air terraces. For 2 euros extra you get access to the Spinola Palace.
The Galata Maritime Museum of Genoa is a contemporary building dedicated to the history of Genovese shipbuilding. The incredible 14th Century Palazzo Ducale was the home of Genoa’s first royal family.
Enjoy the Best Views of Genoa
One of the things we like about Genoa the most is its views. The city faces the Mediterranean Sea. Genoa’s center is mostly flat but a steep hill towers above the city.
The higher you go, the better the views. In the city, you have to go to Spianata Castelletto. The 1900s leafy esplanade offers jaw dropping views of Genoa. You can take the lift from Belvedere Castelletto.
You can walk or take the lift further up to Corso Firenze. The street curves along the hill that presides over Genoa. There are several viewing points. Our favorite is Bachernia.
Visit a Nice Castle
Several palaces and castles dot Corso Firenze. Our favorite is the Castello d’Albertis. The local explorer built his residence over a 16th Century fortress. The turrets are still there.
However, the palace built in the late 19th Century is mostly Gothic. Due to its location, it offers the best views of the port and the sea in the city.
The museum exhibits artifacts collected from all over the world. Therefore, it gives you an idea of how important Genoa was around the world. We strongly recommend having coffee there.
Take a Funicular to the Mountains
Genoa is famous around Italy for its treks. Granted, the city has outstanding palaces, temples, and museums galore. However, the surrounding mountains are even more impressive.
Not only that, but you can see ancient towers and fortresses. Our favorite walk is from Forte Sperone east to the medieval aqueducts. You can also walk east to Forte Begato.
You’ll be within the Natural Area of the Parco delle Mura. The best way to reach the area is with the funicular that departs from Zecca and reaches Righi.
Spend Some Time on the Beach
Yes, Genoa has beaches. The closest to the city are San Nazaro, Roma and Lido di Genoa, small pebbled beaches. It’s a half an hour walk from the center.
Boccadasse is a traditional Italian neighborhood around a small urban beach. We always have ice cream and cocktails overlooking the beach.
Vernazzola Beach is the next one. It’s our favorite beach in the city. You can see the mountains from this pebbled beach. We strongly recommend walking along the coast and taking bus 31 back to the city.
Walk along the Sea in Nervi
Nervi is a cute little town 6 miles (9 km) east of the city. You can walk there in two hours or take a public bus. Trains from Genoa Brignole take 30 minutes.
Fancy mansions dot the sea promenade Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi. There are several restaurants offering delicious sea food too. The Nervi Castle is on a rock next to the sea. It’s a museum now.
Walk east to Nervi Park. The English park faces the sea. There are countless mansions and three noteworthy museums: Galleria D’Arte Moderna, Wolfsoniana Museum, and the Frugone Collection.
Go on a Day Trip to Portofino
Since you’ll be in Genoa, it makes sense to go to Portofino. The fancy little fishing port is a sight to behold. Granted, it can be packed in high season. What where you expecting? It’s gorgeous!
Santa Margherita Ligure is bigger than Portofino but still a town. The beach is beautiful. You can walk to Portofino along the cliff admiring the views or take bus 782 that links both places.
We strongly recommend spending at least one night in Portofino at the incredible Piccolo luxury hotel. If you are a beach bunny stay at the Imperiale Palace Hotel, the best in Santa Margherita.
Where to Stay in Genoa
The best places to stay in Genoa are in or around the Old Town. If you have the money to splurge, book a room at the Bristol Palace Genoa: Italian luxury at its best.
The Hotel de Ville, is near the sea front and a couple of blocks from Garibaldi Street. The plush rooms are huge and have two levels. The hotel is full of Italian art.
Hotel Doria is in the heart of the Old Town. It’s a traditional Italian building with modern rooms. The best ones have balconies. You won’t get better rooms at this rate in the city.
