Genoa is a port city and the capital of northwest Italy’s Liguria region. Dating back to the 5th century BC, it’s known for its central role in maritime trade over several centuries.. The old town contains the Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its black-and-white-striped facade and frescoed interior. Narrow lanes open onto monumental squares like Piazza de Ferrari, the site of an iconic bronze fountain and Teatro Carlo Felice opera house. So check out these amazing places to visit in Genoa and prepare for the time of your life.
Top Places To Visit In Genoa That You Must Explore
Anybody who comes to Genoa will definitely get lost in its labyrinthine alleys, hypnotized by its medieval churches, and delighted by the sea views. From an adventurer to a history enthusiast to a foodie, Genoa has something to offer. Now let’s take a look at some of the best places you can pay a visit to when in Genoa.
1. The Old Port, Or Porto Antico
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The Old Port, in its more common appellation Porto Antico, is where the heart of Genoa pulsates. It smells of past and present intertwined. It was originally founded as a major trading centre but has now been redeveloped into a kaleidoscopic area of interest for tourists and locals alike. Of course, the crowning glory is the Aquarium of Genoa, featuring over 500 species, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins. It’s more than an aquarium, but a dive into an immediate experience that really puts you in front of the marine world.
Almost close by, Galata Museo del Mare relates to the sea-faring of Genoa through interactive exhibitions, among which a life-scale reconstruction of a 17th-century galley and a real submarine is foregrounded. Families with children will love the interactive science and technology museum-Museo Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi.
Address: Calata Molo Vecchio, 15, 16128 Genova GE, Italy
Timings: Open 24 Hours
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2. Palazzi Dei Rolli And Strade Nuove
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The Palazzi dei Rolli on the Strade Nuove are a series of fantastic palaces, built by the aristocracy of Genoa during the Renaissance. Now declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, these palaces were part of an official list used for hosting state visits. Nowadays, most of them-like Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi-are open to the public as museums, hosting impressive collections of art, furniture, and frescoes. Every palace will tell you a story of riches and power with the interiors and gardens, along with grand staircases showcasing the ultimate in the Genoese style. You can stroll through ornate rooms in these palaces and marvel at masterpieces by artists such as Caravaggio, Veronese, and Van Dyck.
Address: Via Garibaldi, 16124 Genova GE, Italy
Timings: 03:00 to 07:00 pm
3. Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale Di San Lorenzo)
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The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is the main cathedral in Genoa and is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its outstanding black-and-white striped marble façade forms an important element in the heart of the old town and essentially expresses the character of Genoa’s architecture. The interior is similarly impressive: frescoes illustrating biblical scenes, altars of exceptional beauty, and an exquisitely decorated nave.
Not to be missed is the Treasury Museum inside the cathedral. You can view sacred relics such as the Chalice of Genoa and the presumed Ashes of John the Baptist. There is even a Second World War bomb kept here a relic of a British air raid that miraculously failed to explode.
Address: Piazza S. Lorenzo, 16123 Genova GE, Italy
Timings: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm and 03:00 to 07:00 pm
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4. Boccadasse
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Boccadasse is a quaint, picture-postcard fishing village just a short bus ride from the centre of town where one can enjoy a very relaxed, quiet environment far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The village features coloured, pastel-painted houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a small pebble beach on which one can sit back and enjoy the sun. One can have peaceful strolls along the seafront promenade, pop into a local gelateria for a scoop of homemade ice cream or dine in one of the trattorias along the sea that serve up fresh catches of the day from local fishermen. It’s a picturesque setting, especially in the late afternoon, and one well in favour of both photographers and romantics alike.
Address: Via Aurora 7, Genova, 16146, Genoa, Italy
Timings: NA
5. Via Garibaldi (Genoa’s Street Of Palaces)
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Via Garibaldi, the “Golden Street,” stands out as one of the most beautiful streets in Europe. Here you will take a leisurely stroll through some of the best in Renaissance and Baroque buildings: Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi. Each palace has its own specific art collection along with a tapestry and historical artefact collection. Art lovers will find a special appeal in the vast collections of paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Caravaggio, while history buffs will find attractive salons and grand staircases that so eloquently speak to the sumptuousness of Genoese nobility. And then, of course, there’s the Cannone violin, famously used by the virtuoso Paganini, in Palazzo Doria Tursi.
Address: Via Garibaldi, 7, 16124 Genova GE, Italy
Timings: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
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6. The Lanterna
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The Lanterna is the iconic lighthouse of Genoa, from the 12th century, standing at 76 meters tall. This is nothing but the most towering lighthouse in the Mediterranean, besides serving as a symbol of Genoa. It can be climbed up through 172 steps right to the top, offering a panoramic view over the city and the Ligurian Sea, which is breathtakingly beautiful during sunset. The lighthouse also contains a small museum of maritime history in Genoa. The surrounding park is perfect for picnics or leisurely promenades because the grounds are spotted with sculptures and historical artefacts.
Address: Rampa della Lanterna, 16126 Genova GE, Italy
Timings: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm
7. Nervi
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Located to the east of the town centre, Nervi is a quiet district with well-presented gardens and striking sea views. The Parks of Nervi consist of several contiguous parks, beautifully set out with exotic plants, flowers, and centuries-old trees, ideal for a pleasant walk or a picnic amidst the verdure. The full glory of Nervi is its Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi: a 2-km-long cliffside promenade along the Mediterranean Sea, offering great views. It’s a perfect spot for an early morning jog or an evening stroll; the sound of waves crashing against the rocks below forms a soothing background soundtrack.
Address: 16167 Genoa, Metropolitan City of Genoa, Italy
Timings: NA
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Hence, Genoa is a city filled with culture and sceneries, delicious food, and all in all, charm. Be it the ancient port, the classiness of its streets, or trying all its food delicacies, every visitor falls in love with this city their own way. Be it alleys spewing secrets to buzzing markets showcasing the flavours of the city, there is always something in store for one. So what’s the wait for? Then start planning your trip to Italy now and explore these treasures of the fantastic city! Now that you know most of the incredible places to visit in Genoa, it is time to pack your bags and go to this enchanting city.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Genoa
What is Genoa known for?
The city of Genoa has held a leading role in maritime trade for many centuries as one of the most important Mediterranean ports. This facing of its long history is rounded with medieval buildings in its old town, narrow streets, and an ancient harbour called Porto Antico.
How do tourists get around in Genoa?
Public transportation in Genoa includes buses, metro, and trains, connecting different parts of the town and its environs. The best way to know the historic centre is on foot. There is also a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus, while the steep areas are connected by public elevators and funiculars.
Is it possible to visit Genoa with my family?
Genoa is ideal for family tourism as many types of attractions are available, appealing to every age group: the Aquarium of Genoa, a maritime museum, city parks, and beaches not so far away.
Are there beaches in Genoa?
Yes, there are beaches close to Genoa; more precisely, in the surrounding areas along the Ligurian coast, places such as Boccadasse-a small seaside village within Genoa-or nearby towns such as Recco and Camogli.
What should I pay most attention to in the case of a new visit to Genoa?
On a first visit to Genoa, if possible, wear comfortable shoes for the uphill access of the city, and note that afternoon siesta times may mean that shops or restaurants are only open for limited hours.
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