Discover 14 Essentials for Visiting Genoa in Italy

Capital of Liguria, Genoa is known for its port but also for its sublime Renaissance palace. Between authentic streets, remarkable buildings, seaside and museums, the city appeals to architecture lovers as well as visitors looking for a typically Italian atmosphere. From the historic center to the port, we offer you our selection of must-sees for visiting Genoa in Italy.

#1 Via Garibaldi

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Via Garibaldi is unmissable when visiting Genoa. Lined with magnificent palaces from the Renaissance erathis avenue promises to delight you as you stroll along. Beyond the architecture, you can really soak up the typical atmosphere of Genoa by strolling leisurely along this narrow pedestrian avenue. When visiting Genoa, plan to take your time on Via Garibaldi.

#2 The historic center of Genoa

Located between Porta Soprana and Porta di Vacca, the historic center of Genoa is vast. It is therefore ideally visited by strolling as you wish while having identified a few strategic points to discover. Between squares, arcades, religious buildings and small medieval pedestrian streetswe suggest, for example, not to miss Piazza San Matteo. Also take the time to admire the exceptional architecture of the majority of buildings in the old town of Genoa. In this area, you will indeed be able to spot many sublime palaces or even bas-reliefs.

#3 The Musei di Strada Nuova

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Musei di Strada Nuova are made up of a set of three superb Genoese palaces located on Strada Nuova. By visiting Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Doria-Tursiyou will be able to admire different collections and exhibitions between art, culture, history and even fashion. For your budget in Genoa, know that your ticket includes entry to the three palaces. During your visit, note that we advise you to leave time to enjoy the gardens and exteriors of the different palaces.

#4 Ferrari Square

Visiting Genoa seems impossible without passing through the main squarePiazza de Ferrari. With his huge gothic fountain in the center and its magnificent buildings, this square is really worth the detour to admire its architecture or take a pleasant break. Another good reason to go to Piazza de Ferrari, it houses the Teatro Carlo Felice which is the Genoa Opera. This hall offers a rich program of both classical concerts and ballets. In this place, do not hesitate to also visit the Accademia Ligustica di Belle Arti which includes a nice art museum and art training schools.

#5 The Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Built in white and black stones typical of the region, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a must when visiting Genoa. Built at 11^e century, it indeed presents an interesting architectural mix. Located in Piazza San Lorenzo, the Duomo will impress you with its superb facade and belfry. For your budget in Italy, know that entry to the cathedral is free but that the treasure museum which is located in the basement is chargeable. If you like religious art, we recommend this museum which exhibits sublime pieces.

#6 The Palazzo Reale

Genoa is a city known for the beauty of its palaces and their impressive number. Among these palaces, the Palazzo Reale dominates the port and is one of the most famous. Also called Palazzo Durazzo, it belongs to the Rolli palace system and was thus connected by a bridge to the other side of the road. If you like palaces, we also advise you not to miss the Palazzo Ducale. The former residence of the Doges of Genoa has now been converted into a very fashionable cultural center.

#7 La Via XX September

If you are looking for where to do shopping in Genoa, Via XX Settembre is the ideal place. You will indeed find all the main brands and many luxury boutiques there. You can also enjoy beautiful architecture, stroll in a pleasant atmosphere or even stop in one of the cafés on the avenue.

#8 The port of Genoa

Genoa has always been a port city and its port has made it famous in the Mediterranean basin and even around the world. If the modern part is not very interesting with the commercial boats, we advise you to take the time to discover the ancient port. A must-see for visiting Genoa, the port will allow you to take a beautiful stroll along the water's edge. You can also see cruise ships or the Neptune, a reconstruction of a pirate ship created for the cinema. During your visit to the port, note that we recommend that you visit the Galata which is the sea museum of Genoa and one of the most beautiful museums to discover on this theme.

#9 La Lanterna

The Lanterna is the lighthouse located in the ancient port of Genoa. To give yourself one of the best views of the city on a clear day in Genoa, we recommend climbing to the top of this lighthouse. The Lanterna is 77 meters high and is located on a rock of approximately 40 meters. At the top, you will dominate Genoa at a height of 117 meters. Note that the Lanterna is the tallest lighthouse in Italy and the second tallest lighthouse in the world.

#10 The Genoa Aquarium

Located on the ancient port, the Genoa aquarium is one of the most important in Italy. If you are looking for family activities in Italy, we suggest you visit this aquarium which will please young and old alike. From dolphins to sharks to corals, you can observe thousands of animals and plant species in a magnificent setting.

#11 The Montaldo lookout

To benefit fromone of the most beautiful panoramas of Genoawe advise you to head towards the Montaldo belvedere on a day when the climate in Italy is pleasant. From this terrace which overlooks the old town, you will indeed have a splendid view of all of Genoa and the sea. Please note that there is an elevator which leaves from Piazza del Portello to reach the belvedere in complete tranquility.

#12 Christopher Columbus’s house

To follow in the footsteps of History, we suggest you discover the remains from the house of Christopher Columbus. THE famous explorer was in fact born in Genoa. If the condition of the house is not exceptional, it remains a legendary place to discover. For visitors who love history, there are other interesting ruins around Columbus' home. Don't miss, for example, the remains of the church of San Andrea or the Soprano Gate.

#13 The Boccadasse district

Little fishing village located to the east of the city, the Boccadasse district is essential for visiting Genoa. With his houses with colorful facades overlooking the sea on their rockthis district offers a real Italian postcard setting. To benefit from the best views or take the most beautiful photos, don't hesitate to take a little height around the church of Sant-Antonio for example or plan to admire a sunset in the Boccadasse district.

#14 Corso Italia

Genoa remains a seaside city and we finally advise you to take the time to enjoy along the Mediterranean. Then join Corso Italia which is a magnificent 3 kilometer walk along the beaches and the sea. On Corso Italia, you can stroll along the beaches, stroll at your own pace, take advantage of the city's sports facilities or even admire a superb sunset. Beyond this pedestrian promenade, do not hesitate to plan a moment of relaxation on one of the beautiful beaches during your visit to Genoa.

And you, what do you want most? discover among the must-sees for visiting Genoa ? After your discovery of the famous port city, be sure to head towards the superb villages of Cinque Terre. Then continue to Pisa and finish with a visit to Florence (in Tuscany)! If you wish to continue your exploration of Italy, we suggest you discover our selection of places to visit in Italy: Rome, Naples, Milan, Venice and why not as far as Puglia?