Compared to the rest of Italy, which relies on Rome and Venice, Genoa is a lesser-known town that has a rich history, striking architecture, and real Italian flair. Its nickname is “La Superba”-which in English means The Proud One, a fitting title for the ancient streets of Genoa, paved as they are with stories waiting to be told. A historical delight, a foodie’s dream, or simply the most beautiful escape will find plenty of things to do in Genoa to satiate that travel urge. Let’s delve into what to do in Genoa and the activities that should make it to every traveller’s list.
Top 9 Things To Do In Genoa For A Fun-Filled Trip
Genoa is an amazing Italian city that is filled to the brim with equally amazing activities and things to do. Some of the most popular things to do in Genoa are mentioned below:
1. The Historic Centre (Centro Storico)
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You can start your exploration of this beautiful city with its Historic Centre
Start the exploration from the historic centre of Genoa, among Europe’s largest medieval quarters. It’s an enchanting maze of narrow alleys running across the blocks: “caruggi.” Every turn offers something new—here a charming “piazza,” there is a café, a beautifully restored example of Renaissance architecture. It is lively but with such an atmosphere, as if time had stopped and allowed visitors to feel like they had been thrown centuries back.
On your walk, pay special attention to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, an extraordinary Romanesque-Gothic structure, and Via Garibaldi, lined with stunning palaces that now function as museums. The heart of the old town is perfect for getting lost and finding Genoa’s real soul.
Timings: Always open, but it is best viewed in the daytime when shops and markets are filled with action.
Address: Centro Storico, Genoa, Italy.
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2. Take An Old Port (Porto Antico) Walk
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Old Port or Porto Antico is a happening place that has transformed itself from a downtrodden dockyard into one of the most happening places in Genoa. Over 500 years old, it is today one of the cultural and recreational hubs of the city, built by the famous Italian architect Renzo Piano.
This offers everything from dining in restaurants overlooking the water to the Aquarium of Genoa, which is Italy’s largest. Take a ride up the Bigo Lift, an elevator offering a panorama over the harbour, or go to Biosfera, a glass-enclosed biosphere with tropical plants and animals.
Timings: Always open; however, each of the various attractions has its opening times.
Address: Porto Antico, 16128 Genoa, Italy.
3. Royal Palace Museum Tour – Palazzo Reale
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On Via Balbi, the Royal Palace Museum is an exemplary exponent of 17th-century architecture and magnificence. Once the residence of the aristocratic family of Balbi, this palace has been transformed into a museum depicting the highly luxurious way of life adopted by the earlier elite of Genoa.
It contains a rich collection of art, furniture, and tapestries, including the Throne Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and hundreds of paintings by various masters such as Van Dyck and Tintoretto. The palace’s rooftop offers a fantastic panorama over the city and, therefore, is one of the preferred spots for amateur photographers.
Timings: From Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; on Monday – closed
Address: Via Balbi, 10, 16126 Genoa, Italy.
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4. Take An Easy Stroll Along Corso Italia
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A leisurely walk along the main seaside promenade, Corso Italia, undoubtedly rounds off a visit to Genoa. From here, you can see spectacular views of the Ligurian Sea. This 2.5-kilometre stretch is highly recommended for early morning jogs, relaxing evening walks, or cycling tours.
Down the far end of Corso Italia is the picturesque fishing village of Boccadasse, with its pastel-coloured houses. Here, one can relax on its pebble beach, have coffee in a local café, or even enjoy fresh seafood with the sound of waves washing against the shores.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Address: Corso Italia, Genoa, Italy.
5. Admire The Palazzi Dei Rolli
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The Palazzi dei Rolli in Genoa were several palaces that served as hosts for visiting dignitaries during the 16th and 17th centuries. As UNESCO World Heritage sites, these palaces boast unique architectural features, grand staircases, and opulent interiors.
Some of the most famous ones include Palazzo Spinola and Palazzo Rosso, each with its own character and history. While a few of these palaces are still private residences, many others have been converted into museums and galleries that are accessible to all.
Open Times: Depends on the palace. Generally, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Address: Various locations in Genoa Historic Centre, Italy.
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6. Flavours Of Genoese Cuisine
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Food lovers will find the town of Genoa a haven because of its diverse local food, which is inspired by and derived from its maritime origins. The tour will not be complete without tasting its famous dishes.
Pesto alla Genovese: This is a well-known green basil sauce worldwide, usually served with trofie or trenette pasta. Another speciality that should not be missed is Focaccia, available in a variety of flavours-from the plain rosemary topping to the more intricately cheesy. A must-see place for a truly different experience, Mercato Orientale is an extremely busy marketplace where everything from fresh produce and seafood to delicacies of the region are sold.
Timings: The time varies according to different restaurants. It ranges from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Address: There are numerous locations in Genoa, Italy.
7. Lighthouse Of Genoa (La Lanterna)
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It is well rewarded at the top with 172 steps, offering great views over the city and the Ligurian Sea. At the bottom, there is a museum on the history of the lighthouse and Genoa’s maritime history, which gives a good insight into how long the city has lived with the sea.
Timings: Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM; closed on weekdays.
Address: Rampa della Lanterna, 16126 Genoa, Italy.
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8. Shop At Via XX Settembre
Its one avenue houses a mix of expensive boutiques, local shops, and international brands, making it simply perfect for a retail therapy day.
Timings: Various for every shop, but generally from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
Address: Via XX Settembre, 16121 Genova, Italy.
9. Explore The Giardini Botanici In Genoa
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Go for a stroll in the gardens at leisure with details about the various species of plants that can be found here and the environment. It also provides a good vantage point of the city and the coastal land, therefore a good place to behold for nature and photograph enthusiasts.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Address: Corso Dogali, 1M, 16136 Genoa, Italy.
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Alongside historic landmarks, beautiful old neighbourhoods, buoyant ports, and mouth-watering local food, Genoa – with its many sights and attractions – proves it has something for everyone. It retains its history, traditions and scenic beauty and is a perfect holiday destination for those who want to get acquainted with the actual Italy. Thus, we should put on our travel gear and proceed to uncover the lesser-known things to do in Genoa. Book a trip to Italy today and create unforgettable memories!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Genoa
What are the prime attractions required in Genoa?
There are universally popular and famous places of interest to visit in this city area, including the Historic Centre of Genoa and other attractions such as the Aquarium of Genoa, the Royal Palace Museum, and La Lanterna.
What should I eat in Genoa?
I suggest that you try Pesto alla Genovese, Focaccia, and other seafood delicacies since this city is famously associated with seafood products.
Is there anything families can see in Genoa?
Of course, there are many sightseeing places to enjoy with kids in Genoa, such as the Aquarium, Galata Museo del Mare, and Botanical Park.
How do you move from one place to another on foot in Genoa?
On foot is the preferred way of getting around Genoa, especially the historical city centre. If you wish, you can register for a walking tour that will guide you around some of the important places of tourist interest in Genoa.
When is the best time to come to Genoa?
You may visit Genoa between April and June because during these months, the temperature is favourable, or during the period between September and November.
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