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Rose from Euroflora 2018
Rose from Euroflora 2018 - Photo by marco mameli

Explore Genoa, Italy: An Insider's Guide to Italy's Cultural

About Genoa, Italy

Genoa, Italy is a charming and historic destination that should not be missed. Known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich history, this city is the perfect place for travelers looking to experience the authentic Italian way of life. Whether you're interested in exploring medieval landmarks, indulging in fresh seafood, or simply soaking up the vibrant local culture, Genoa has something for everyone.

Genoa, Italy is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Located on the Ligurian Sea, the city has been an important port for centuries and is home to a wealth of historic sites, museums, and galleries.

One of the most popular attractions in Genoa is the historic old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can wander through winding medieval streets and discover beautiful churches, palaces, and monuments. Other highlights of the old town include the impressive Palazzo dei Rolli and the stunning Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Culture lovers will also appreciate the many museums and galleries in Genoa. The Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Rosso are two of the most popular, both of which house impressive collections of art from the 16th to the 18th centuries. For those interested in contemporary art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo d'Arte Contemporanea di Villa Croce) is a must-visit.

But it's not all about history and culture in Genoa. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the stunning Ligurian Sea. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront promenade or head out on a boat tour to explore the picturesque coastline.

Of course, no trip to Genoa would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including the famous Genovese pesto. Visitors can sample these and other local specialties at one of the many traditional trattorias and restaurants throughout the city.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just soaking up the sun on the Ligurian coast, Genoa is a destination that won't disappoint. So why not add it to your travel bucket list and start planning your next adventure to this beautiful Italian city today?

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Popular Stays in Genoa, Italy

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Genoa, Italy

General view
Business hotels

Nh Genova Centro

In the heart of Genoa, the award-winning NH Genova Centro hotel beckons travelers seeking proximity to the city's cosmopolitan culture and attractions, only steps away from Piazza de Ferrari and Villetta di Negro park. Built in 1850, the hotel, formerly known as the NH Genova Plaza, has an impressive history dating back to the days of Giuseppe Mazzini, the 19th century politician best known for his efforts in the unification of Italy. Nearby De Ferrari metro station and the Brignole and Porta Principe train stations connect the hotel to greater Genoa and destinations throughout Italy. NH Genova Centro artfully combines classic and contemporary style rooms. The 141 rooms offer free Wi-Fi, a minibar and flat screen TV, with some of the rooms overlooking the Piazza Corvetto. Guests can enjoy our healthy, extensive breakfast buffet, lunch or dinner at Villetta di Negro restaurant. The menu features a wide-ranging cocktail and wine list and Italian cuisine with a particular focus on Ligurian regional fare and national dishes. For those who are looking for a relaxing evening the hotel's La Terrazza Bar invites guests for drinks and snacks. The 5 function rooms hold up to 130 people and can be equipped individually upon request.
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Business hotels

Tower Genova Airport Hotel & Conference Center

Tower Genova Airport is located less than 500 m from Cristoforo Colombo Airport. Featuring free Wi-Fi throughout, it offers a free, scheduled transfer service to the airport and the centre of Genoa. The Tower Genova features a fully equipped conference centre with a maximum capacity of 1500. You can enjoy a delicious mix of regional cuisine and Mediteranean flavours at the elegant restaurant. End your day in style with a drink at the bar. With carpeted floors, your room includes a safe, flat-screen TV with Mediaset Premium channels, and minibar. Each room has a marble bathroom complete with a luxury set of toiletries. There is on-site parking available at extra charge from Monday to Thursday, while it is free on Friday, Saturday and Sunday based on availability.
Bar
Business hotelsGreen HotelSport hotels

Novotel Genova City

The modern, 4* Novotel Genova City hotel is strategically located near the city center, 765 yards from the port of Genoa, 1.2 miles from the famous aquarium and 1.9 miles from the exhibition center. 222 soundproofed rooms with A/C and free WIFI. 8 modern meeting rooms make this hotel perfect for business trips. Lounge Bar open 7 days a week, Cantore8 restaurant where guests can savor the flavors of Liguria, panoramic pool (seasonal) and fitness area. Indoor paying parking garage, max. height 69 in.
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Business hotels

Starhotels President

In the heart of the city, opposite the railway station and near the gardens of Piazza Verdi, 500 m. from the Exhibition Centre. This hotel offers comfort, a bar, restaurant, fitness centre, lounges, a garage, data port, train reservations, guided tours and car rental. The rooms are equipped with television, telephone, radio, minibar and hair-drier.Free WiFi internet *small/medium size pets are welcome. Must be mentioned in the booking request. fees will apply.
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Family hotelsBusiness hotelsBeach hotelsSport hotels

Punta San Martino

This property is 1 minute walk from the beach. Offering panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea, Punta San Martino is a converted Second-World-War fort. Featuring 2 swimming pools and a restaurant, the property is a 30-minute drive from Genoa. Free private parking is available on site. Rooms at Hotel Punta San Martino feature beautiful sea views, and are all equipped with air-conditioned and satellite TV. Each room has a private bathroom complete with hairdryer. Some rooms feature a balcony. Breakfast is a buffet served in the restaurant's dining room, with large windows overlooking the Gulf of Genoa. The restaurant includes a poolside terrace, and serves Ligurian food and wine. The partner beach area can be reached in 5 minutes via a staircase down the cliffside. Alternatively, a public funicular can take you to the beach in 3 minutes. Beach facilities include sun lounger and parasol hire. The A10 Motorway is 2 km away, and it is an 80-minute drive to the Italian-French border.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with charmFamily hotelsDesign

Grand Hotel Savoia

Historic 19th century Art Nouveau hotel with a magnificent neo-classical façade completely renovated in 2018. Over the years, the Continental Hotel has witnessed the changes in the political, cultural and social life that took place over the years in the city of Genoa. The transformations of the hotel's structure and services over the course of time have never betrayed its vocation for excellence. The most recent architectural recovery has brought to light the original niches of the windows and the old plaster stuccoes. Located in the heart of the historic city center, opposite the Piazza Principe station, the hotel welcomes those arriving in the city with its timeless elegance design, perfectly integrated into the surrounding architectural complex. Hotel Continental has 44 comfortable rooms of high quality. The interior is featured with warm and welcoming colors that reflect the Italian Liberty style and contemporary design details. Our Trattoria Tralalero will welcome you for lunch or dinner with its authentic recipes from the past, where the eno-gastronomic tradition of an entire region comes to life: trofie al pesto, pansoti in walnut sauce, focaccia di Recco, brandacujun, cappon magro and many other delicacies ... The Salgari Restaurant at the Grand Hotel Savoia Genova boasts a refined historical décor where you can enjoy the best examples of Mediterranean and international cuisine mainly based on fish. Free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The Secret Beach SPA at the Grand Hotel Savoia Genoa, a charming wellness center available to guests with bio-sauna, aromatic showers, and hot tub, offers an unforgettable experience of peace and well-being, for a small fee. For fitness lovers, the modern gym with latest-generation equipment and machinery is open until 11:30 pm. Personalized massages and beauty treatments are available on request. Our little guests can have fun in the pirate garden. Private parking at € 25.00 per day, valet service included.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsBeach hotelsHotels with spa

Mercure Genova San Biagio

This 5 star hotel is located in the suburbs of Verona and was established in 2005. It is a short drive away from the Verona City Centre. The Hotel hosts the Restaurant Amistà, awarded 1 MICHELIN star for 2021. It also has 2 bars, a SPA, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 58 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe and air conditioning.
Lobby
Business hotels

Holiday Inn Genoa City

Family-friendly hotel next to Genoa ferry and cruise terminals, with free WiFi Holiday Inn® Genoa City hotel stands in front of Genoa's ferry and cruise quay terminals. Dinegro Metro Station is a five-minute walk away. The hotel, close to the motorway, is on the main road leading to the city centre, only 1. 5 km away.  Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) is 6 km away. The hotel's four meeting rooms can host events for up to 160 people. The hotel, 10 minutes by car from the Magazzini del Cotone – Porto Antico di Genova conference centre. The city attractions are easily accessible by metro. Admire frescos at the Romanesque Genoa Cathedral, marvel at 16th-century mansions as you stroll along the UNESCO-listed Via Garibaldi and discover an incredible underwater world at the quayside Aquarium of Genoa. At this hotel you can enjoy: - Free Wi-Fi throughout the building - A buffet breakfast - Secure parking for a daily fee Welcoming, soundproofed rooms offer city or sea views and feature pillows menu and coffeemakers. The comfortable family rooms have extra beds and kids stay and eat free. The handy mini gym is the ideal spot for a workout. At the hotel bright, modern Newport Restaurant you can enjoy delicious Italian wines and local cuisine, or pick from a selection of gluten-free and international dishes.

Things to do in Genoa, Italy

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Genoa, Italy

Over The Planet
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Private Full Day Tour from Genova pier: Cinque Terre

Enjoy your day-trip from Genoa Pier: meet your driver alongside your cruise ship. You will be led to Cinque Terre to begin your journey! The villages of the Cinque Terre, perched on rocky cliffs along the coast of Liguria, will leave you speachless. Between two steep cliffs stands Riomaggiore, is a peaceful village where still today the work of fishermen daily continues. Ancient Manarola is significant because of its architectural and cultural landmarks. The tiny Corniglia is a precious village built on the cliff face and surrounded by vineyards. Vernazza is a colourful village sit among watercourses and verdant rocks. This tour is part by vehicle and part by train.
Over The Planet
Digital Voucher120 minutes

Good Morning rider: discovering the town by bike

A tour especially designed for those whom can't stop cycling. After a guided tour of the city center and a taste of our flavors you will be free to discover the town by yourself having the bike to ride until 6.30 pm. Chose your favourite bike or e-bike and unveal the beauty of "La Superba"
The Royal Palace of Genoa - Mirror's Room.
Digital Voucher360 minutes

Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food

Trek through Genoa to discover the best places, hidden spots, best bars, small osterias, secret old shops, secluded squares: taste the real Focaccia and pesto (it was invented here) and the superb trofie at our preferred Restaurant. Be impressed by the phenomenal beauty of the ancient palaces, see the First " Jeans " textile, indeed were invented here... you will see. Drink tasty wine in real 'old style' bars in the old part of the city and wonder in front of the magic of an ancient Templar Hospital. And Welcome :-).
the preferred means of transport of the Genoese is definitely the scooter
Digital Voucher60 minutes

Finance and Nobility: Explore medieval Genoa on a self-guided audio tour

If you like the unexpected then follow the thread of this walking tour through the labyrinth of Genoa’s alleys in the city's historic centre. You'll discover breathtaking works of art behind almost every corner, along with other places where beauty is a carefully guarded secret. You'll see the main highlights in the city including UNESCO heritage sites, through the eyes of Antonella Cama, a local who loves to share not only the popular but also the authentic and believes that a tour must be more than dates and figures: She'll take you by the hand into "her" Genova! Some of the highlights from this self-guided GPS audio tour include: • Stories of the inhabitants of the opulent medieval residences • The interiors of Genoa’s richest church • Hear about the first football club in Italy • A historical confectionery shop • Find out why a 17th-century fountain is inside a department store • Take in the splendour of the fountain in the Piazza Raffaele De Ferrari
Focaccia al formaggio
Digital Voucher210 minutes

Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa

The Do Eat Better Experience food tour is a walking tour around the historical center of the city. The tourist is guided by a "Foodie", a local "buddy" able to explain every detail of the selected restaurants, their preparations, and the relevant history/curiosities. Do Eat Better Experience tours are a mix of high-quality gastronomy as a way for showing Italian culture and lifestyle and a walking experience together with a local friend. This is the reason why we accept small groups only: we want to focus on a genuine exchange and give to each tourist the highest attention possible. Top 5 food stops in Genoa for a memorable and rich dining experience! Please, note that the tour is always run in English and Italian; other languages upon request.
Happy tourists joking
Digital Voucher60 minutes

Rickshaw tour in Genova

You will discover the most hidden places of Genoa, guided by local people who will entertain you with interesting stories and anectdotes about our beautiful city. Tours are available in english, french, spanish, german and italian. The rikshaw can host on board up to a maximum of two adults and two children under the age of 6.
https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractionhttps://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-720x480/0a/96/d1/d9.jpgs-splice-spp-720x480/0a/96/d1/8e.jpg
Digital Voucher180 minutes

3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal

The tour has been customised for cruise passengers who don't want to miss the "must-see", even with a limited amount of time. Anyway, the attractions listed can be changed upon request: we can skip or add one or more, or dedicate more attention to a specific subject (Middle Ages, trade & finance, music, etc)
Genoa's Historical Centre: Outdoor Escape Game
Digital Voucher100 minutes

Genoa's Historical Centre: Outdoor Escape Game

Embark on a quest where you will discover Genoa's Historical Centre. Solve clues and unlock stories on your phone, as you discover the Christopher Columbus' House, the Doge's Palace, Palazzo San Giorgio and many more. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. So, are you up for an exciting city game?. Highlights include: • Walk along Genoa’s famous wonders and admire some of the most appreciated places: Calata Falcone e Borsellino, Piazza Banchi and others. • Enjoy a uniquely crafted story brought to you by our talented writers. • Solve clues to find local stories and hidden gems as you explore. • Find out why Genoa was called 'The Superb One'. • Discover important historical buildings such as St George Palace, one of the first banks in Europe • Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt.

Why People Love Genoa, Italy

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Genoa, Italy

L
Loulou910
5
Jun 2023
Private Full Day Tour from Genova pier: Cinque Terre
Our Guide Diego was great! He was pleasant and informative. We had lunch in a great restaurant with delicious food! It was a great tour and the train wasn’t bad.
DH
Dolores H
2
Jun 2022
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Commentary was not in time with where the bus was so hard to spot the landmarks. Also not very clear. Sadly disappointing.
R
Rob_G
3
Jun 2022
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Genoa is not an easy city to walk around in. The Hop On Hop Off allowed to see everything we wanted to see and then go back to the places we wanted to walk around in. By doing this we saved a lot of money and also maximized our limited time off the cruise ship.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Genoa

What are some must-visit attractions in Genoa?

Genoa is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the must-visit attractions include the Aquarium of Genoa, the Palazzo Reale, the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, and the Piazza de Ferrari. The aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and is home to a wide variety of marine life. The Palazzo Reale is a beautiful palace that was once the home of the Savoy royal family. The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is an impressive church that dates back to the 12th century. And the Piazza de Ferrari is a bustling square with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Genoa?

If you love the outdoors, there are plenty of activities to do in and around Genoa. You can take a hike in the nearby mountains, go on a bike ride along the coast, or spend a day at the beach. There are also plenty of parks and gardens to explore, such as the Villa Durazzo Pallavicini and the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino.

What is the best way to get around Genoa?

The best way to get around Genoa is on foot or by public transportation. The city has an extensive bus and metro system that can take you to all the major attractions. You can also rent a bike or scooter if you prefer. If you're planning to explore the surrounding areas, it's recommended to rent a car.

What are some popular food and drink options in Genoa?

Genoa is known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, pesto, and focaccia. Some of the must-try dishes include the trofie al pesto, which is a type of pasta with pesto sauce, and the farinata, which is a crispy flatbread made with chickpea flour. You should also try the local wines, such as the Rossese di Dolceacqua and the Vermentino.

What are some historical sites to visit in Genoa?

Genoa has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to visit. Some of the must-see attractions include the Genoa Cathedral, the Palazzo San Giorgio, and the Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno. The Genoa Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and dates back to the 14th century. The Palazzo San Giorgio is a medieval palace that was once the headquarters of the Bank of Saint George. And the Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno is a beautiful cemetery that is home to many impressive sculptures and monuments.

What are some family-friendly activities to do in Genoa?

If you're traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to do in Genoa. You can visit the Aquarium of Genoa, which is home to over 500 species of marine life. You can also take a ride on the Bigo, a panoramic elevator that offers stunning views of the city. And if you're looking for some outdoor fun, you can take a hike in the nearby mountains or spend a day at the beach.

What are some romantic things to do in Genoa?

If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Genoa has plenty of options. You can take a stroll along the waterfront or through the historic city center. You can also visit the Palazzo Reale or the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, both of which are stunning examples of Italian architecture. And if you're looking for a romantic dinner, there are plenty of restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine and stunning views of the city.

What are some day trips from Genoa?

There are plenty of great day trips you can take from Genoa. One popular option is to visit the nearby town of Portofino, which is known for its beautiful harbor and colorful buildings. You can also take a trip to the Cinque Terre, a group of five picturesque villages along the coast. Or you can visit the city of Milan, which is only a few hours away by train.

What are some budget-friendly options in Genoa?

If you're traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of options in Genoa. You can visit many of the city's museums and historical sites for free or at a reduced price. You can also explore the city's parks and gardens, such as the Villa Durazzo Pallavicini or the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino. And if you're looking for affordable food options, you can try some of the local street food, such as the focaccia or the farinata.

What are some luxury accommodations in Genoa?

If you're looking for luxury accommodations in Genoa, there are plenty of options. The Grand Hotel Savoia is a beautiful hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the harbor. The Bristol Palace is another popular option, with its elegant rooms and central location. And if you're looking for a more secluded option, you can stay at the Belmond Hotel Splendido in nearby Portofino, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.