41 Best Things to Do in Genoa, Italy (2026 Travel Guide)

Genoa, Italy is a beautiful city on the Ligurian coast. It's full of history, great food, and a cool old town. There's plenty to see and do. Check out my top picks for the best things to do in Genoa in 2026.

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Jump To

• Is Genoa Italy worth visiting?
• Best Things to Do in Genoa, Italy
• Is Genoa a walkable city?
• Is Genoa safe for tourists?
• Is Genoa Italy expensive?
• Are There Beaches in Genoa Italy?
• Map of Genoa Italy
• How to Get to Genoa, Italy
• Does Genoa Italy, have Uber?
• What to see in Genoa Italy in 2 days?
• Best Tours in Genoa Italy
• Where to Stay in Genoa
• What is Genoa Italy known for food?
• Where to Eat in Genoa
• More travel guides!

When I visited Genoa in the summer of 2023, I was absolutely amazed by the city's charm and scale. It's much bigger than I had imagined, with endless things to do in Genoa, Italy. Every restaurant I stopped at served incredible food, and I can't recommend the pesto enough-it's a must-try for about 7 euros!

One of the most surprising aspects of Genoa is its elevation; some parts of the city are so high that you can take a tram to reach the top, offering breathtaking views. Whether you're exploring Genoa attractions like the historical sites or finding hidden gems in Genoa places to visit, this city has so much to offer. Don't miss out on all the beauty and history when considering what to see in Genoa!

Is Genoa Italy worth visiting?

Yes! It's definitely worth visiting Genoa, Italy. Old port city, dope architecture, and superb food. Walk through the biggest medieval town (with cobbled alleys and older buildings) in Europe. Check out Palazzo Ducale, Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and theLighthouse of Genoa. Pesto and focaccia started in Genoa (hint: food is real). Also, you can get to Portofino and Cinque Terre. Authentic Italian Riviera, less crowds than other Italian cities.

Best Things to Do in Genoa, Italy

1. Go See the Aquarium of Genoa

Check out Europe's biggest aquarium. It's packed with cool marine life. Great for kids and adults.

2. Visit Boccadasse

Stroll through this old fishing village. Cute streets and ocean views. Perfect for a chill day.

3. Check Out Galata Museo del Mare

Dive into Genoa's naval history. See a 17th-century ship and maritime artifacts. It's super interesting.

4. Make a Pilgrimage to Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Admire this 12th-century cathedral. It's grand and historic. A top spot in Genoa.

5. Walk the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi

Walk this scenic coastal path. Enjoy stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.

6. Explore Via Giuseppe Garibaldi

Wander this historic street. Full of impressive palaces. Soak in Genoa's rich history.

7. Discover Palazzo Ducale

Step into this grand palace. Hosts events and exhibitions. A glimpse into Genoa's past.

8. Wander the Old Port (Porto Antico)

Explore the old port area. Shops, restaurants, and attractions. Feel the city's maritime heritage.

9. Marvel at the Lanterna di Genova

Visit Genoa's iconic lighthouse. Climb to the top. Enjoy stunning city and sea views.

10. Tour the Palazzo Reale

Explore the Royal Palace. Lavish rooms and beautiful gardens. A peek into 17th-century luxury.

11. Visit the Museo di Palazzo Reale

Discover art and history in the Royal Palace Museum. Learn about Genoa's aristocratic past.

12. Relax in Parchi di Nervi

Chill in these beautiful parks. Botanical gardens and walking paths. A perfect city escape.

13. Discover the Charm of the Caruggi Genoa

Wander narrow, winding streets. Full of character and hidden gems. Genoa's old town at its best.

14. Visit the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola

Explore a national gallery in a historic palace. Features art by Rubens and Van Dyck.

15. Check out St. Andrew Cloister Ruins

The St Andrew Cloister Ruins are an ancient, marvellous and quiet place nearby Porta Soprana, in Genoa: they are the ruins of a medieval Benedictine monastery with ancient arches and polished stone.

16. Go See the Palazzo di San Giorgio

Marvel at this historic palace. Once a political and financial center. Beautiful architecture and frescoes.

17. Make Sure to Go to Chiesa del Gesu e dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea

Admire the Baroque splendor. Intricate frescoes and a stunning interior.

18. Explore the Mercato Orientale

Visit this bustling market. Sample fresh produce, cheeses, and Italian specialties. Feel the local vibe.

19. Discover the Musei di Strada Nuova

Explore museums along Strada Nuova. Incredible art collections and historic artifacts.

20. Tour the Villa del Principe

Step into this Renaissance villa. Beautiful gardens and art collections. Genoa's noble past.

21. Stroll Piazza De Ferrari

Experience Genoa's main square. Surrounded by historic buildings and a grand fountain.

22. Visit the Chiesa di San Matteo

Admire the medieval architecture. Located in a picturesque square. A peaceful, reflective spot.

23. Explore the Museo d'Arte Orientale Edoardo Chiossone

Discover a large collection of Asian art. A fascinating journey through Far East culture.

24. Visit the Museo di Sant'Agostino

Explore a museum in a former convent. Medieval and Renaissance art.

25. Relax in the Piazza San Matteo

Take a break in this charming square. Surrounded by medieval buildings. Soak in the historic vibe.

26. Discover the Torri di Porta Soprana

Visit ancient towers from Genoa's defensive walls. Climb for a unique city view.

27. Check Out the Castello d'Albertis

Explore a 19th-century castle. Home to the Museum of World Cultures. Eclectic architecture and exhibits.

28. Visit the Museo di Storia Naturale

Discover natural history. Fossils, zoological specimens, and more.

29. Walk Through the Villa Croce Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore modern art in a beautiful 19th-century villa. Dynamic collections and exhibits.

30. Tour the Church of Sant'Antonio Abate

Discover this 13th-century church. Intricate frescoes and peaceful atmosphere.

31. Visit the Museo del Risorgimento

Learn about Italy's unification. Key historical events and figures.

32. Explore the Castello MacKenzie

Discover a neo-Gothic castle. Stunning architecture and panoramic city views.

33. Check Out the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato

Admire Baroque architecture. Stunning interior and beautiful frescoes.

34. Discover the Porta Soprana

Visit an ancient city gate. One of Genoa's best-preserved medieval structures.

35. Explore the Museo d'Arte Contemporanea Villa Croce

Dive into contemporary art. A dynamic collection in a historic villa.

36. Walk Through the Public Gardens (Villetta Di Negro)

Enjoy serene public gardens. Beautiful views and a peaceful retreat.

37. Visit the Church of San Donato

Explore this medieval church. Known for Romanesque architecture and historical significance.

38. Discover the Carlo Felice Theatre

Attend a performance or admire the architecture. A historic cultural hub.

39. Explore the Palazzo della Meridiana

Visit this historic palace. Beautiful architecture and art exhibitions.

40. Check Out the Museo Diocesano

Discover religious art and artifacts. Located in a former convent.

41. Walk the Fortified Walls of Genoa

Take a walk along ancient walls. Panoramic views of the city and landscape.

Is Genoa a walkable city?

Genoa is the best walking city I know: the old town is the biggest, most dense in Europe. The maze of laneways (caruggi) are narrow and fun to explore. TheStrade Nuove, the wide boulevards with the lined streets of palaces were built to impress and lead up into the hills, with public elevators and funiculars lifting you up and down for the walks.

Is Genoa safe for tourists?

Genoa does not have a lot of violent crime that directly affects tourists. Be aware of petty crime and pickpockets in busy areas and on public transport. Keep your wits about you, eyes open and your valuables safe.

Keep away from deserted areas at night. Also, areas around the city center, including the more popular coastal areas, are completely safe, and solo female travelers are unlikely to have any problems, taking the usual level of care. With a few basic precautions, Genoa is safe and you will have a wonderful time here!

Is Genoa Italy expensive?

Genoa is relatively inexpensive compared with other large Italian cities. You can plan to spend between $55 and $110 a day overall. Dorm beds in hostels cost $20 to $30 a night, while mid-range hotels run about $89 per night. Expect to spend $9 to $17 on regular restaurant meals. You'll spend about $55 per day on food. Public transport is a bargain at $1.65 per ticket and about $9.34 per day.

Are There Beaches in Genoa Italy?

Yes, there are beaches in Genoa, Italy! Genoa has both pebble and sandy beaches. One of the most famous pebble beaches of the city is Boccadasse Beach. This little place is a cute fishing village, full of colors and with cold and clear waters. Another very famous beach in the city is San Nazaro Beach.

They rent umbrellas and recliners there and it is classified as safe for swimming. For those who love sandy beaches, Lavagna Beach is recommended. This one is just outside the city and it is quite big; therefore it is very convenient for families too, with lots of facilities.

What is near Genoa Italy?

Right outside of Genoa, there is Portofino with its candy-colored harbor and millionaire vibes; Camogli, the little fishing village with pastel houses with chilled-out vibes; Nervi seaside promenade and cool parks; Sestri Levante with its two bays for decompressing; and Cinque Terre with its beautiful coastline and miles of hiking, just around the corner.

Opt for Boccadasse, a cute fishing village, for Cinque Terre ambience without the long journey.

Map of Genoa Italy

How to Get to Genoa, Italy

✈️ By plane
Genoa Airport (GOA) is 7 km from the center. Taxi or Volabus takes about 20-30 minutes.

🚆 By train
The easiest option.

• Milan → Genoa: ~1.5 hours
• Florence → Genoa: ~2.5 hours
  Arrive at Genova Piazza Principe or Brignole.

🚗 By car

• Milan → Genoa: ~1 hour 45 minutes
  Expect traffic and limited parking. Trains are easier.

🚌 By bus
Cheaper but slower than trains. Good for budget travel.

Does Genoa Italy, have Uber?

Genoa has Uber, but only in essence. The reality is that, with the exception of Uber Black, the truth is that you don't really find Uber in any other Italian city aside from Rome and Milan. In Genoa, you find those taxi apps like Free Now and you do find the regular taxis, too. They are reliable and don't have surge pricing, which is quite appealing to locals and tourists alike.

What to see in Genoa Italy in 2 days?

Exploring Genoa in two days is a blast. Start in Piazza de Ferrari, the city's heart. Admire the cool architecture and check out the Palazzi dei Rolli on Via Garibaldi. Hit up museums in Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco. They have epic art by Caravaggio and Van Dyck.

Head over to San Lorenzo Cathedral next. The black and white marble is dope. Inside, see an unexploded WWII bomb. For lunch, munch on Genovese pesto pasta at a local spot.

In the afternoon, take the elevator to Spianata Castelletto. The views of Genoa and the harbor are killer. Walk around Porto Antico, redesigned by Renzo Piano. Visit the Genoa Aquarium, one of Europe's largest. Check out the Bigo lift and the Biosphere.

Day two, visit Boccadasse, a cute fishing village. The vibe is chill with pastel houses and beach views. Walk along Corso Italia back to central Genoa for lunch.

Finish with a trip to Villetta Di Negro park. The waterfall and city views are amazing. Or, explore Cinema Sivori, Italy's oldest cinema. Don't leave without trying Genoese focaccia and gelato from local shops. Genoa is a total win!

Best Tours in Genoa Italy

Here are some of the best tours in Genoa, Italy:

Genoa: Full-Day Tour to Camogli, San Fruttuoso & Portofino

Hit up Camogli, San Fruttuoso, and Portofino on this all-day tour. Leave from Genoa, ride boats, and explore each village.

From Genoa: Boat Tour to Portofino with Free Time to Explore

Take in the Ligurian coast views on a boat ride to Portofino. Once there, snap pics, and enjoy the harbor and sights like Castello Brown.

Genoa: Cetacean Watching Cruise with Marine Biologist Guide

Hop on a whale-watching cruise with a marine biologist. Spot dolphins and whales, and learn about marine life.

Genoa: Hop-on Hop-off Tour Ticket

Tour Genoa at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus ticket. Check out the city's top spots like the historical center and museums.

Genoa: Aquarium of Genoa & City of Children and Youth Ticket

Get a combo ticket for the Aquarium of Genoa and the City of Children and Youth. Perfect for families, with interactive exhibits and marine life.

Guided Tour of Rolli Palaces UNESCO Site

Walk through the fancy Rolli Palaces on this guided tour. Learn about the history and architecture of these grand residences.

Where to Stay in Genoa

The Best Hotels in Genoa Italy

These top hotels in Genoa offer a range of options for any budget:

Budget Hotels

Hotel Nologo
Right in Genoa's heart. Modern rooms with AC and free Wi-Fi. Only a 15-minute walk to Palazzo Ducale and the Aquarium.

Albergo Posta
Historic and central. Close to Palazzo Reale and the harbor. Only 984 feet from the Aquarium.

Hotel Barone
Three-minute walk from Genova Brignole Train Station. Spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs. Convenient and friendly. Great for budget travelers.

Family Hotels

Hotel Bristol Palace
Family favorite. Central location with elegant rooms and a cool elliptical staircase. Near Piazza De Ferrari. Family-friendly amenities make it top for families.

Starhotels President
Near city center. Spacious rooms and family services. Easy access to public transport.

Hotel De Ville
In the historic center. Easy access to major attractions like the Aquarium. Comfortable rooms and a family-friendly vibe. Great for all ages.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Continental Genova
Art Nouveau style. Across from Genova Principe Train Station. Stunning city views and comfy rooms. Stylish and convenient.

Best Western Porto Antico
Near the Aquarium. Modern amenities and a safety program. Walk to main attractions. Mid-range and reliable.

NH Genova Centro
Central location with modern facilities. Easy access to shopping and dining. Perfect mid-range option.

Luxury Hotels

Meliá Genova
Quiet residential area. 5-star design with luxurious rooms. Close to shopping street XX Settembre and city center.

Grand Hotel Savoia
Opposite Piazza Principe Train Station. Elegant rooms and suites. Great dining options and a wellness center.

Hotel Bristol Palace
Historic charm meets modern luxury. Near Piazza De Ferrari. Luxurious interiors and top-notch service.

What is Genoa Italy known for food?

Food in Genoa - Italy - is awesome! Pesto Genovese is a green sauce made from basil, pine nuts and cheese. You can put it on pasta. Focaccia Genovese is a flatbread with olive oil and salt. You can eat it all day. Also, check out Farinata: chickpea pancake; Stoccafisso alla Genovese: a fish stew; Cima alla Genovese: stuffed veal.

Where to Eat in Genoa

The Best Restaurants in Genoa, Italy

These spots cover everything from casual eats to fancy dining in Genoa:

Casual

• Cavour Modo21: Italian cuisine, relaxed atmosphere. Super CHEAP + AMAZING pesto.

• E Prie Rosse: Casual Italian spot, great for a laid-back meal. Really unique and yummy dishes.

• A Toa de Zena: Family-friendly. Homemade pasta and desserts. Multilingual staff.
• Settepolpette: Unique meatballs. Healthy Italian dishes. Relaxed vibe.
• Zimino: Affordable seafood. Fresh dishes. Great experience.

Family

• La Voglia di Genova - A Coae de Zena: Traditional Ligurian. Homemade pasta and seafood. Cozy atmosphere.
• Ostetrattoria: Famous seafood. Shrimp ravioli, lobster spaghetti, pesto pasta.
• Habanero Genova: Mexican and Latin flavors. Vibrant dishes. Lively atmosphere.

Mid-Range

• Cibus13: High standards. Excellent seafood. Quiet street setting.
• Alla Lunga Ristorante: Ligurian seafood. Cozy vibe. Attentive staff.
• POP Dog & Beer: Italian and American pub food. Relaxed spot. Good beer selection.

Fine Dining

• Ristorante Da Cupido: Michelin-starred. Italian and seafood. Elegant setting.
• Ristorante San Giorgio: Tasting menus. Fish dishes. Extensive wine list.
• Voltalacarta: 12-taste menu. Creative seafood. Blend of tradition and innovation.

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