15 Best Things to Do in Genoa, Italy

There is no better way to dive deeply into Italian history than by visiting Genoa (or Genova in Italian), which has been settled since around 4000 BC. With a history that stretches that far back, you know this north Italian city has seen some things.

Part of that story consists of amazing architecture, seaside views, and a never-ending art collection. Genoa has immaculate parks and world-class museums if you’re looking for culture, as well as over 40 restored palaces for the history buff and architecture nerds.

Along the way, visitors to Genoa will stumble upon several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Of course, Genoa is an old port town home to some simply sumptuous cuisine. The seafood here is something else!

So, come along with us as we discover artistic treasures, take the best tours, and learn a thing or two about the ancient port city of Genoa. Here are the best things to do in Genoa, Italy:

TL;DR

• Most significant landmark – Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
• Best park – Villa Durazzo Pallavicini
• Free activity – Villetta Di Negro
• Activity for kids – Acquario di Genova
• Activity for adults – Cantina Morino
• Place to eat – Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi
• Nightlife – Piazza Portello
• Place to stay – Hotel Bristol Palace

Things to Do in Genoa, Italy

1. Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi

Address: Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, 16167 Genova GE, Italy

Experience the glorious weather of the Mediterranean and wonderful views by walking along the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi. From this stunning walkway carved into the cliffside, you can watch the sun sparkling off the water as sailing ships pass.

Along this strip are cafes serving ice cream, gelato, and strong coffee, as well as fine-dining restaurants and bars. The walk is a great way to wake up and face the day, spend an afternoon following a busy day, or a romantic nighttime stroll with your boo.

I highly recommend the latter. It is worth seeing the way the lights from the town and harbor bounce across the water.

See Related: How Much is a Trip to Italy: Average Cost Per Day

2. Piazza De Ferrari

Address: Piazza Raffaele de Ferrari, 16121 Genova GE, Italy

The main square of Genoa, Piazza De Ferrari, is where all the action happens. Piazza de Ferrari is around 118,000 square feet of space surrounded by sheer architectural genius and centered by a gorgeous bronze fountain, which has since become a local landmark.

That’s kind of saying something since practically every building on the square is a landmark in its own right.

Among the notable stunning structures you can find on Piazza De Ferrari are the Palace of the Doges, home to a fantastic museum (which I’ll mention later), the Palace of the Ligurian Academy of Fine Arts, which was founded in 1741, and the neoclassical Carlo Felice Theatre (aka Teatro Carlo Felice—again).

We’ll get onto that later), the Palace of the New Stock Exchange, built-in 1912 (and as far as stock exchange buildings go, this is something else), and the Palace of the Duke of Galliera, Raffaele De Ferrari, the namesake of this square.

Phew! So, if studying incredible architecture is on your list, this is the right place. Another good reason to stop by here, aside from people (and fountain) watching, is this is one of the best places to start a day’s exploration of Genoa.

It’s very conveniently located near some of the city’s top attractions, and it’s also a popular place to be picked up by tour buses or meet for guided walking or Segway tours.

And while we’re on the subject of convenience, if you’re looking for somewhere to crash nearby, check into Albergo Locanda Alambra, just a few blocks away. It’s one of the best budget hotels in the city center.

3. Acquario di Genova

Address: Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova GE, Italy

The famous Aquarium of Genoa is the largest in Italy. The famous Genoa Aquarium is home to 12,000 aquatic species, including obscure aquatic plants all the way up to sharks and sea cows!

This is probably an activity you want to schedule a whole day around, as it takes at least 3 hours to navigate the Genoa Aquarium. There are 70 ecosystems to examine, including a Cetacean Pavilion.

A few especially informative exhibits include the Penguins, Antarctic Marine Species, and Predators of the Sea. There are also extra experiences where you meet with some of the animals who live there, like the penguins or dolphins, at the Cetacean Pavilion.

One of Europe’s largest aquariums, the Aquarium of Genoa is the perfect destination for young kids and those interested in life under the sea! Just do yourself a favor and get your Aquarium of Genoa tickets ahead of time, as the lines can be a little ridiculous.

See Related: Top Reasons to Travel to Italy

4. Villetta Di Negro

Address: Piazzale Giuseppe Mazzini, 16122 Genova GE, Italy

When it comes to free things to do in Genoa, Italy, a visit to this public park is one of the best. Spread out across five acres, the Villetta Di Negro Park is a breathtaking oasis in the heart of the city.

Originally part of the city’s walled fortifications, thanks to its natural elevation, the park was eventually converted into an English-style botanical garden in the early 1800s. The owner of the land at the time, the Marquis Gian Carlo Di Negro, commissioned a neo-classical villa to be built as the home of his new proposed botanical school.

The Marquis would die before realizing this dream, and the villa would go on to house several museums over the years before being heavily damaged by Allied naval bombardment in World War II. Rebuilt and restored in the mid/late 20th Century, the villa now houses the Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art.

Walking through the meandering paths of this verdant paradise, thick with various trees (including palm trees), bushes, and flowers, is simply mesmerizing. And don’t get me started on the fairy tale waterfalls and caverns (both added in the mid/late 1800s).

Walking through the park at a moderate pace takes about an hour, but I highly recommend you take your time. You could even pack a picnic and make the most of this majestic garden!

5. Teatro Carlo Felice

Address: Galleria Cardinal Siri, Passo Eugenio Montale, 4, 16121 Genova GE, Italy

The best place for the performing arts in Genoa is Teatro Carlo Felice, aka Carlo Felice Theatre. From opera to ballet to orchestral recitals and every kind of theatre performance, the Carlo Felice Theatre has entertained the masses since 1828. It bears the name of the then-king who had the opera house commissioned.

While the outside has the original 1800s facade, the interior has been completely renovated. This is largely due to the building suffering extensive damage during World War II, forcing operas and performances to be held in other parts of the city until the Carlo Felice Theatre was restored and reopened in 1991.

The main auditorium holds up to 2,000 patrons of the arts, and these seats tend to fill up quickly. Check out their calendar and plan beforehand if you’re considering taking in a show.

While we’re planning, if you’re going to enjoy the dramatics of the theatre, you should live it up in style by staying the night at the Hotel Bristol Palace. This centrally located hotel is just a short, scenic walk from Carlo Felice and is one of the most fabulous hotels in the country.

See Related: Day Trips from Rome, Italy: Top Getaway Ideas

6. Palazzo Rosso

Address: Via Garibaldi, 18, 16124 Genova GE, Italy

Want to scratch that art itch? Look no further than Palazzo Rosso. Built toward the end of the 17th Century, Palazzo Rosso (or Red Palace) is part of the Genoa: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli UNESCO World Heritage Site. One glimpse of this towering, red Mannerist marvel makes it plain to see why. The building itself is a work of art.

With a troubled and storied construction and many successful and failed attempts to renovate the building over the centuries, Palazzo Rosso now houses an art museum (part of the Musei di Strada Nuova complex). Many of the palace’s rooms have been beautifully preserved and are on display. The furnishings and decorations are beyond opulent.

The arty offerings on display aren’t to be sniffed at. The museum’s collection consists of a large number of pieces from some of history’s most celebrated Baroque and Renaissance artists, including works of Albrecht Dürer, Antoon van Dyck, Bernardo Strozzi, Guercino Barbieri, Gregorio De Ferrari, Guido Reni, Mattia Preti, and Paolo Veronese.

It’s a fantastic museum and well worth a day out, especially if you plan on rolling it in with a guided tour of the Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Villa Durazzo Pallavicini

Address: Via Ignazio Pallavicini, 13, 16155 Genova GE, Italy

Is it a park? Is it a Villa? A museum? An underground grotto? A statue park? Is it heaven? Well, if we’re honest, it’s all of this, and it’s all grand.

If you’re visiting Genoa on a romantic couple’s retreat, set aside a day and add this romantic destination to your schedule. The magical Villa Durazzo Pallavicini is a three-hour walk.

The park is named for the villa on its grounds, which now houses the Museo di Archeologia Ligure. But honestly, it’s the park that deserves all the praise here. It’s little wonder it’s been dubbed the most beautiful park in Italy!

Opened to the public in 1846, the park has undergone many changes, such as being created as a botanical garden and falling into near ruin before a concerted restoration effort in the early 1990s, which also honored Christopher Columbus’ travels to the New World.

You can tour the grounds on your own, but a guided audio tour of the park lets you learn about the history as well as the little things you might not notice. Featuring no shortage of eye candy and ornamentation, each aspect of this English romantic-style garden has a story.

Check out the beautiful ornamental pond and the stunning Chinese pagoda. My favorite aspect of this stunning park has to be the incredibly romantic Roman bridge, but I’ll let you decide what your favorite is!

See Related: Best Gardens in Europe to Visit

8. Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Address: Piazza S. Lorenzo, 16123 Genova GE, Italy

There are many historic places on this list (so far, most of them have been, but hey), but not many are over 900 years old! The Cathedral of San Lorenzo (often referred to as the Genoa Cathedral) was built in the 12th Century on the site of an older church around 400 years old.

The new cathedral was added over the next four centuries, the latest major addition being the bell tower.

So, to say this spot has a few stories to tell would be an understatement. It’s also just a strikingly pretty piece of architecture, featuring different styles that indicate the various changes made through the ages.

Locals see it as one of the most important churches (if not the most important) in the city and, perhaps, the region. Some of this concerns the various architectural styles still visible in parts.

Twenty years after its initial construction was completed, the church had a design change and became a Romanesque basilica. Two hundred years later, the style changed to Gothic following a fire.

Over the next few centuries, there would be a few more additions, both major and minor. Although suffering some damage, San Lorenzo Cathedral still stood after the city was bombarded during the Second World War.

It actually received a direct hit from the British battleship HMS Malaya, although the armor-piercing shell did not detonate. It’s still there, on display.

But an old 15-inch shell is the least interesting thing inside this magnificent cathedral. With beautiful brickwork, black and white marble, vaulted painted ceilings, numerous frescoes, and stained-glass windows, this house of worship is utterly spellbinding.

There’s a lot to take in, so you might want to stay a night at La Terrazza Bed and Breakfast nearby if you plan on hitting this place up when you visit Genoa.

9. Cantina Morino

Address: Via Adelaide Cairoli, 10 R, 16149 Genova GE, Italy

As you may be aware, there’s a lot of history and beauty to experience visually in Genoa. Now it’s time to taste it, too – by which I mean the recipes are historical; you’re not be eating last week’s lasagna.

Welcome to Cantina Morino, the first wine bar in the city with a cantina! Open since the 1930s, this superb winery has survived the test of time and stays contemporary with each new decade. The business has evolved, but the focus has always been Italian (particularly Genoese) wines.

Grab a few bottles of your favorite vintages or perfectly paired nibbles. You can schedule any experience you’d like, such as a taste test or birthday party.

Everything will be set up when you arrive. A wide array of fine wines is available, so try a few and discover a new favorite!

See Related: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe

10. Galata Museo del Mare

Genoa’s maritime museum is the largest in the region and the most modern in the entire country. This attraction is great for all ages and interest levels, particularly young kids and salty sea dogs!

Although it has its fair share of upsets, Italy’s maritime and naval history is largely filled with successes and incredible examples of innovation. This innovative spirit can be felt in the museum, as thanks to technology, the exhibits are both immersive and interactive.

You can learn about the Mediterranean and Ligurian Sea, submarines and human torpedos, shipwrecks, and even the ongoing Mediterranean migrant crisis.

Animations, hands-on activities, dramatic reenactments, and internships for particularly motivated students are available for the young (and young at heart).

You’ll see things such as a life ring from the RMS Lusitania, the life raft that adventurer Ambrogio Fogar and journalist Mauro Mancini used to stay afloat for 74 days after their sailboat was capsized by orcas, and an antique model globe made 500 years ago!

11. Piazza del Portello

Address: Piazza del Portello, Genoa, Italy, 16124

Looking for a little more of a loosey-goosey day on your Genoa itinerary? Piazza del Portello is one of the most important streets in Genoa. This is because Piazza del Portello has all the bars, restaurants, bookstores, boutiques, and high-end retailers you could ever hope to hit up.

As well as stunning architecture, palm trees, and narrow-gauge trains that run along the street, Piazza del Portello is also known for its public elevator, one of several throughout the city.

With all on offer, it can be a little touristy around here, but it’s well worth exploring for an afternoon. Grab a coffee and do some people-watching in this lovely part of Genoa’s old town.

See Related: Cheapest Shopping Destinations in the World

12. Loggia di Banchi

Address: Piazza Banchi, 16123 Genova GE, Italy

In the historic center of Genoa is the Loggia di Banchi. Built in a neighborhood known for trade and commerce, this building was constructed in the late 16th Century as a trading hub for merchants before becoming part of the nation’s Chamber of Commerce.

From there, it would host the Commodities Exchange and the Stock Exchange. Today, it’s owned by the Magistracy of Merchandise and serves as a gallery and event space.

The back side of this magnificent building overlooks Piazza del Campo. Over the centuries, it has received several touch-ups, the last addition being an interior upheaval two hundred years ago. It suffered damage during the Second World War, but repairs were swiftly made in the 1950s.

All in all, it’s a grand piece of architecture that is well worth stopping by and snapping a few pics of. The Gothic and Renaissance design makes it worth studying and enjoying.

13. Palazzo Ducale

Address: Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, 9, 16123 Genova GE, Italy

Palazzo Ducale (or The Doge’s Palace – no, not the Dogecoin Doge) is one of the many palaces in Genoa well worth visiting, famed for its two different facades and sheer opulence. Construction of the Palazzo Ducale started in 1251, intending to serve as the residence of the Doges of Genoa.

Before Italy became a unified country, there were several different kingdoms, republics, and city-states. A “doge” was an elected lord (roughly equivalent to a duke or duchess) and head of state of a city-state.

The last Doge of Genoa was in service just before the 1800s. When Napoleon conquered the city, the position was abolished and never resumed, even after the city was freed.

That’s okay, though, because if the doge lived here, we wouldn’t get to tour it! Added over the centuries, a giant restoration occurred in the late 1900s, leaving us with the (literal) palatial marvel it is today. Since then, Palazzo Ducale has been considered a cultural and historical icon.

Aside from the grand decor and luxurious furnishings, you can see ancient prisons and the looming Grimaldina Tower. There are also places you can grab a bite here, as well as gift shops for souvenir hunters.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy (Ranked!)

14. Palazzo Reale

Address: Via Balbi, 10, 16126 Genova GE, Italy

When it comes to sumptuous palaces, Genoa ain’t short of ’em. But I think it’s fair to say some are more sumptuous than others, and it’s easy to understand why a royal dynasty used the Palazzo Reale for two centuries after being built.

The Balbi family built this royal palace in the mid-1600s. By 1677, it had already changed hands after being sold to the Durazzo family. The Royal House of Savoy took ownership in 1823.

One hundred years later, it became the property of the Italian government. Funnily enough, the street it sits on is named after the family that first owned it—Via Balbi.

Today, it’s home to the Royal Palace Museum. Prepare to be exhausted after a long day of palace walking! This place is a luxury living paradise, from small sculptures to enormous ceiling paintings. Basically, deliberate or not, everything you rest your eyes on is a unique exhibit.

It doesn’t end with the interior, either! The palace is a cascading walk through art history, extending to the meticulously kept gardens.

This is definitely one of the most stunning palaces to see in Genoa, which is great considering it is very conveniently located near some of the city’s top attractions. If a convenient location is important to you, consider booking this lovely guest house with stunning port views just a few blocks away.

15. Lanterna di Genova

Address: Rampa della Lanterna, 16126 Genova GE, Italy

Any port with as much history as Genoa must have a lighthouse to fit the stereotype properly. Lanterna di Genova does not disappoint! There has been a lighthouse in this spot since at least the 12th Century, with this version of the Lanterna di Genova being the latest incarnation, completed in 1543.

As far as lighthouses go, it’s the third oldest in the world, the fifth tallest in the world (the second tallest traditional lighthouse), but it is arguably the most beautiful in history. I love this place.

Part of the Lanterna experience includes an open-air museum detailing its integration into the city walls and other fortifications built in the mid-1600s. Many visitors to Genoa have numerous attractions they’d like to see, so a combo ticket to the famous Genoa Aquarium and the Lighthouse of Genoa is a great idea.

I cannot say enough good things about this unique, breathtaking landmark. Pictures do not do it justice. It’s little wonder that the lighthouse has come to symbolize the whole city for so many people.

Tours in Genoa

FAQ

Related Resources

• Day Trips from Milan, Italy
• Best Travel Books for Italy
• Things to Do in Italy & Places to Visit