The buildings are works of art, the art is part of the city’s fabric, the past is part of the present, and the modern elements have roots in the ancient ones.

When you’re in Genoa, everything feels seamlessly connected; and the result is a city that is utterly enchanting!

This town has been one of Italy’s most prominent ports for years (fittingly, it’s also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus), and it also boasts a fine set of cultural assets, with a church, monument, or gallery always on-hand.

But you may be surprised to find some more adventurous elements woven into the fabric of the town, from fun in the great outdoors to an endless array of excellent meals.

And of course, you’ll get a wonderful experience of the sea, from nearly every angle.

Off to the coast we go, for a taste of the exciting things to do in Genoa!

1 – Take in the wonders of the Genoa Cathedral

Genoa Cathedral

This splendid church took nearly 700 years to build… but judging by its beauty, the time was well spent!

Outside, you’ll see carving after carving depicting centuries of different artistic methods, stretching all the way back to 1118.

Along with the grander design flourishes, you can spot some fun little quirks tucked into the stonework; legend says that if you want to have a successful romantic future, you need to spot the dog carefully carved into the building!

Inside, you’ll find even more splendid and thought-provoking decor, including a rather vivid reminder of the impact of military actions on the city – an unexploded bomb that once landed in the church!

There are a number of other amazing objects keeping the shell company, including sculptures, jewelry, and a cup said to have been used by Jesus at the Last Supper.

It even holds the remains of Saint John The Baptist!

As one of the most popular spots in town, it’s perfect for walking tours or self-guided exploration!

walking tours in Genoa

2 – Spend some quality time amongst the fins and flippers of the Aquarium of Genoa

Aquarium of Genoa

This isn’t your average fish tank – it’s one of the largest aquatic facilities in Europe!

Step into the Aquarium of Genoa, and you’ll instantly be drawn into the world below the waves, with thousands of amazing creatures representing every continent on Earth.

Watch a variety of shark species cutting through the water, admire the playful antics of dolphins, and even journey into the cold, compelling waters of Antarctica.

Enjoy the surreal movements of jellyfish, or get a closer look at bulbous, friendly manatees as they float along.

You can even delve into the deepest realms of the ocean in the virtual reality room, where science and technology come together to show you one of the most diverse, mysterious ecosystems on the planet!

Aquarium of Genoa tickets & tours

3 – Take a ride on the Bigo Panoramic Lift

Bigo Panoramic Lift, Genoa

This is one way to truly see it all!

The beloved Bigo Panoramic Lift is pretty eye-catching in its own right, looking like some sort of charming homemade spaceship.

But of course, it’s the views that are the main attraction here!

As the lift slowly rises, you’ll get to see the city shrink, the coastline expand, and the whole beautiful area unfolding in fine fashion.

At the end point 40 meters (131 feet) up in the air, you can gaze out of the many windows, and admire the breathtaking jewel that’s been laid at your feet.

Bigo Panoramic Lift tickets

4 – Stroll along the scenic streets of Old town

Old town, Genoa

Any city with such a strong set of legacies is bound to have some amazing historic neighborhoods, and as you embark on various old town tours, you’ll get plenty of chances to explore these pieces of the past!

In this the city’s oldest and most beautiful attributes bloom to life, inviting visitors to discover something gorgeous with every footstep.

For a true taste of antiquity, simply wander slowly along Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, one of the city’s most renowned streets.

Lined on nearly every side with historic buildings – including some UNESCO sites! -, it’s a wonderful place to take in the luxurious residences that once belonged to prominent local families.

But of course, anywhere that you go in this area is bound to be interesting, from the bustling center of the various public squares to the Old Port, with its splendid, weathered ships.

old town tours

5 – Get to the heart of the city as you hang out in Piazza De Ferrari

Piazza De Ferrari, Genoa

Right in the midst of the city, bringing together all of its different eras and identities, is the stunning Piazza De Ferrari, where business, culture, and history all come together in one lively space.

Evidence of the area’s years of prominence can be seen even in the oddness of its shape; multiple parts of town were connected to create the square, resulting in a wonderful mishmash of styles.

And for a particularly quirky experience of this area, why not get guided by a local… and transported by them at the same time?

Rickshaw tours in Genoa provide a unique, exciting way to see the city’s best spots, where you can sit back and relax in the cab as your intrepid guide does the work of pedaling the bike on the front.

And as you cruise around the neighborhood, you’ll feel closer than ever to the action!

6 – Enjoy a memorable show at Teatro Carlo Felice

Teatro Carlo Felice, Genoa

When you’re ready for a healthy dose of culture with powerful emotional roots, be sure to stop by Teatro Carlo Felice, home to one of the country’s most vibrant opera scenes.

Since it opened in 1828, this palatial structure has also featured ballet recitals, jazz concerts, and everything in between, bringing wave after wave of remarkable performances to the public.

Perfectly situated in the midst of town, its exterior beauty and endless lineup of programs make it the ideal spot to stop in for a bit of live art!

7 – Check out the countless legacies of the Galata Sea Museum

Galata Sea Museum, Genoa

Genoa has worn many hats over the years, but it got its start as a shipping town; and at the Galata Sea Museum, you can get up close and personal with some of the artifacts of that exciting era!

Stroll past 600 years’ worth of different vessels, from mighty trading ships to early submarines.

Along the way, you’ll also get to know some of the more human stories behind the world of seafaring endeavors, from the sailors that plied their trades on the open waves to the immigrants that braved the sometimes tumultuous waters in search of a new life.

Step inside a recreated galley from the 1600s, and get a feel for the experiences of prisoners and slaves; or see how the area’s active Merchant Marine fleet grew and flourished over time.

It’s one of the best things to do in Genoa if you really want to understand the heart of the city… which is forever tied to the waters around it!

Galata Sea Museum tickets & tours

8 – Go Whale Watching

Whale Watching, Genoa

And speaking of those beautiful waters and their residents…

In the midst of learning about all of these amazing human tales, don’t forget to search for some “tails” out at sea – ones that belong to some pretty spectacular creatures!

The whale watching around here is truly unforgettable, pairing perfectly with the wonders housed at the aquarium (see #2).

Join a passionate local scientist and head out onto the open sea, keeping an eye out for the remarkable creatures that call this area home.

With a wonderfully diverse lineup that includes sperm whales, pilot dolphins, and striped dolphins, this slice of the Mediterranean has long been a paradise for passing marine mammals.

And when you spot some of them in their natural habitat, you’ll feel like you’re in heaven yourself!

whale watching in Genoa

9 – Enjoy the pieces at the Royal Palace Museum

Royal Palace Museum, Genoa

After seeing so many beautiful old structures from the outside, it’s time to take a closer look at what lies within!

This magnificent home was built in the 1600s, and spent the next several centuries serving as a classy pad for some of the city’s most elite families.

The luxurious decor and items that you’ll see at Royal Palace Museum are left over from those early dynasties, and it’s also full of beautiful pieces of furniture dating all the way through the 1800s.

But it’s the art collection that might be the most astounding thing here, a rich inventory helmed by many works from the famed local painting school.

Along with pieces by such acclaimed alumni as Schiaffino and Piola, you can also see pieces by famous figures from elsewhere, such as Strozzi and Van Dyck.

It’s a slice of luxury with some truly impressive pedigrees lining its walls!

10 – Get up close and personal with some vibrant relics at Christopher Columbus’ House and Porta Soprana

Christopher Columbus' House and Porta Soprana, Genoa

While his legacy has been scrutinized more closely in recent years, Christopher Columbus remains one of the most influential figures in the history of exploration; so why not discover where it all began?

There are plenty of Christopher Columbus’ House tours that will provide unique insights into the adventurer’s origins, from his birth into a merchant family to the early years of growth and learning that shaped his own career.

Along with the main narrative, you can see some of the tools and navigational charts used during his later years, and even some of his personal letters!

The building itself also tells the larger story of the city’s triumphs and struggles; it’s believed that the current version was built after the original was ruined during the French attacks of 1684.

You’ll also get the chance to explore Porta Soprana, a towering gate connected to the massive walls that once guarded the citizens from various threats – and which still run through much of the town to this very day!

11 – Take a two-wheeled expedition with some amazing bike tours

bike tours in Genoa

Weave between the ancient streets and the gorgeous shorelines, the breeze warming your face all the while… there’s nothing quite like the peace and excitement of a good bike tour!

Whether you’re trying out the zippy delights of an e-bike or getting a little more rugged on a mountain bike, you’ll find yourself awash in great landscapes and gorgeous back streets, along with some of the best monuments in town.

Explore the boisterous fishing neighborhood, or make your way across the walls and hidden trails tucked into some of the old forts.

Or venture a bit out of town to enjoy the gorgeous environs of Antola Park, where the forests hum with their own electric energy, and the curving trails bring you an endless array of valleys and peaks to admire.

Get a little bit of exercise and a lot of adventure all throughout your journey!

bike tours in Genoa

12 – Settle in and enjoy a candlelight concert

candlelight concerts in Genoa

In this beloved musical series, the focus isn’t just on the pieces being performed – although with incredible professional orchestras and an eclectic lineup of genres, they’re certainly exciting.

It’s also about the atmosphere of the venue itself; the concerts take place in gorgeous spots all over town, and each of these magnificent spaces is illuminated by an endless array of candles, creating an atmosphere at once intimate and expansive.

And you may be amazed at just how many different types of music you can encounter; on any given night, you might be treated to a little bit of Elvis or Coldplay, perhaps some Nirvana, or even the soundtracks of the master film composer, Ennio Morricone.

Treat your ears, eyes, and everything else to this spectacular display!

candlelight concerts in Genoa

13 – Linger in the shadow of the Lighthouse of Genoa

Lighthouse of Genoa

In the soaring walls of the Lighthouse of Genoa, you’ll find an icon of the region in background and appearance, a truly magnificent piece of architecture that’s also intimately tied to successes at sea.

And as an added bonus, it’s pretty lovely to look at!

It’s thought that the original version existed as early as 1128, but it wasn’t until 1543 that the structure fully took on the form that it’s famous for today, including its tremendous height.

At 77 meters (roughly 253 feet) high, it’s the tallest of the many lighthouses slung along the Mediterranean… and the second-tallest on the whole continent!

It’s also served time as a fortress and a prison, perpetually involved in civic life in one form or another; but of course, it’s become most famous for its nautical attributes, its powerful light casts a net of safety out into the open waters.

Admire its soaring height from the ground, or make the brave ascent to the top and take in the beauty!

lighthouse tickets & tours

14 – Channel your sailing side with a few boat tours

boat tours in Genoa

Ok, it’s time to do more than just learn about sailing… so why not try a little bit of it yourself?

New towns, new swimming spots, new ways of enjoying the complex beauty of the sea – there’s nothing you can’t find on the lively local boat tours!

Putter around historic ports, or hop onto a speedy sailboat and venture out to nearby villages like Portofino and Lavagna.

Or enjoy a truly classy experience with a private tour, where you and your loved ones can kick back in style on your own little chartered vessel, bopping around the Gulf of Portofino and admiring all of the traditional villages… and some awesome spots to go for a dip, of course.

And if you really want to get into the lifestyle, you can even book a weeklong cruise, complete with your own skipper!

boat tours in Genoa

Sponsored placement

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

See price and reviews

15 – Spend some quality time in Biosfera and around the Genoa Harbour

Biosfera and Genoa Harbour

Many places claim to be worlds unto themselves, but once you’ve bought your Biosfera tickets, you’ll get to experience that in a literal sense!

Within this distinctive glass dome, which sits right along the main part of the harbor, you’ll find a cross-section of one of the planet’s most valuable and endangered ecosystems: a tropical rainforest/

Pass under the shadows of banana and cinnamon trees, weave in between the fronds of massive ferns, and watch the perpetually shifting rainbows of butterflies and birds as they move through the foliage.

With more than 150 species, this little bit of green certainly packs in a heap of biodiversity – and you’ll get to experience it all without needing to go on an extensive trek into the wilderness!

And of course, you’ll have all of the wonders of the waterfront itself to enjoy afterwards, whether you’re enjoying a nice meal or just strolling along and admiring the endless array of boats passing by.

16 – Enjoy an educational free-for-all at the Rolli Palaces and Strada Nuova Museums

Rolli Palaces, Genoa

Another stunning UNESCO beauty – or rather, a collection of them -, the Rolli Palaces are vivid physical reminders of the city’s “Golden Century,” when luxury and power were at their zenith.

The era spanned through the 1500s and 1600s, and the nobles that lived in the city during that time had to have suitably ornate places to stay.

Of course, no upper-crust society would be complete without a bit of competition; each of these remarkable residences was ranked according to their individual levels of decadence – an important consideration when you’re hosting visiting nobles!

And you can even dive deeper into the city’s intellectual side at the Strada Nuova Museums, which each offer up their own distinctive collections housed within some of these amazing residences.

Art lovers will adore Palazzo Bianco, which features amazing paintings from all over Europe that showcase the evolving movements from the 1100s to the 1600s.

And at Palazzo Doria Tursi, you’ll find an even broader selection, ranging from tapestries and ancient coins to measuring tools and ceramics.

Meanwhile, Palazzo Rosso focuses even more on the domestic side of things, with many of the decorative trappings and furniture pieces from this long ago age.

Put them all together, and you have a terrific complex of masterpieces and ideas to enjoy!

Rolli Palaces tickets & tours

17 – Have an easygoing day out in Portofino

Portofino, Italy

Luckily, Genoa isn’t the only place around here with a healthy dose of charm!

Colorful both in design and personality, Portofino may just be a small fishing village… but it punches way above its weight class in charm!

During a day trip here, you can stroll beside the sea, then sample some of its finest offerings at the excellent restaurants.

Then you can browse around some of the stores for a cool keepsake, or simply enjoy the gentle atmosphere of this lovely little town.

Portofino tours from Genoa

18 – Embark on a hop on and hop off bus tour

bus tours in Genoa

Back in the city, you can embark on a bus tour with an exhilarating twist – you get to choose your own stops!

The Hop-On, Hop-Off model is pretty straightforward: you ride around, enjoying cool scenery and great commentary; then you “hop off” at any spots that catch your eye, explore as much as you want, and “hop on” the next bus that comes by whenever you’re ready.

It’s a wonderful way to make sure that you’re seeing all of the coolest spots, while also getting to set your own agenda… an irresistible combo!

bus tours in Genoa

19 – Discover the many surprises of D’Albertis Castle

D'Albertis Castle, Genoa

Not only is this 19th-century marvel an homage to older styles, but it holds the stories of a score of civilizations inside its walls!

In 1886, this seaside stunner was built as part of a Gothic Revival style, bringing back the detailed designs and wonderful elegance of the original movement from the Middle Ages.

Inside, you’ll find the Museum of World Cultures, a beloved institution that celebrates the distinctive wonders found all over the globe.

Admire the curious assortment of items brought home from numerous voyages by the legendary Captain Enrico Alberto D’Albertis, the original creator of the castle, as well as collections from other adventurers, and several amazing archaeological specimens from all over South America.

And outside, you can enjoy even more truly beautiful designs, plus some commanding views of the sea that the captain so cherished.

20 – Roam around the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno

Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, Genoa

High above town, you can spend some time co-mingling with some of the city’s residents… about 115,000 of them!

And if they seem particularly quiet, fear not; they’re just residents of this extensive graveyard, one of the largest in all of Europe.

The beautiful grounds serve as the final resting place for hordes of politicians, writers, musicians, and other renowned figures, including the former wife of Oscar Wilde.

And while you’re paying tribute to these various spots, you can also enjoy the exceptional sculptures tucked throughout the property, depicting various biblical figures.

Keep an eye out for the transitioning sections while you stroll; they mark the diversity of the city, with different sections for various faiths like Protestants and Jews.

21 – Fill up on some food tours

food tours in Genoa

Take in an eyeful of the delights around here… while you’re taking a mouthful!

Let’s be real: the food tours in Genoa are among the best in the region, running the gamut from casual street bites to decadent multi-course meals.

As you discover new sides to the city, you’ll also satisfy your craving for breads, cheeses, and some of the fresh catches from the nearby ocean, with a cool cup of gelato as a sweet chaser… and plenty of pasta, of course!

You’ll even get the chance to sample some of the quirkier delicacies; if you’ve ever wanted to nibble on a cone full of fried fish while you amble across town, now’s your chance.

After a couple of stops, you’ll soon understand how this area’s food became so famous!

food tours in Genoa

22 – Hop on a flyboard and get a little daring

Flyboard in Genoa

Want to try something kind of sporty, a little bit unusual, and a whole lot of fun?

Just hop on a Flyboard, and get a taste of a futuristic world!

Part skateboard, part jetpack, these lively devices lift you up over the sea using propulsive streams of water, allowing you to glide, hover, swoop, and even flip to your heart’s content.

Test your athletic skills with a few fun moves, or just enjoy the dizzying thrill of bobbing above the waves for a change!

flyboard in Genoa

23 – Peruse the delights of Palazzo Spinola National Gallery

Palazzo Spinola National Gallery, Genoa

Back for more of the mansion life – but this time, there’s lots of extra art thrown in!

Of course, the house itself is utterly gorgeous; built in the 1500s, it was another one of those splendid spots that was passed down from one noble family to the next, starting with the Grimaldis, and ending with the Spinolas themselves, who donated the building to the city in 1958.

But the Palazzo Spinola National Gallery is also impressive due to the exhibits inside, which trace the connections between these different groups, and explore them in the larger context of the town’s history.

Along with the authentic building details, there are plenty of fantastic pieces that add a little extra flair and joy to the space.

In this wonderful home, you can celebrate the enduring power of portraits and palaces alike!

24 – Slip over to Cinque Terre for a little coastal getaway

Cinque Terre, Italy

Another iconic part of visiting this section of Italy is the leisurely act of puttering from one little seaside town or island to the next… and you’ll certainly get your fill as you try all of the things to do in Cinque Terre!

This set of five towns have long been renowned for their beauty and charm, offering a glimpse into authentic life along the Riviera… with a healthy dose of fun!

Life slows down here in the best possible way; you can easily pack a whole itinerary with beach time, little boat trips, leisurely hikes, and, of course, endless little spots to grab a bite and enjoy the views.

While you can certainly pick one or two spots to explore, visiting all of them together is one of the best ways to really soak up the splendor of the region!

Cinque Terre tours from Genoa

25 – Pay a visit to Villa del Principe

Villa del Principe, Genoa

Alongside all of these amazing residences, there’s another spot that showcases one of the city’s most active civic periods… and it even served as something of a political hub!

The building was gradually developed over the course of a century, first by Andrea Doria, then by his descendants.

For years, it served as the Genoese Republic’s official court, home to an active cultural scene; and when you explore the collection that resides there today, you’ll see just how this commitment to artistic genius paid off.

All around the space, you’ll find great examples of the city’s strong artistic heritage; statues based off of Roman gods, elaborate frescoes, and plenty of intricate Renaissance works.

26 – Try some segway tours

segway tours in Genoa

As you zip along past scenic fountains, beautiful houses, and all manner of funky little streets, you’ll experience the city like never before – and the entertaining vehicle certainly helps!

There are plenty of unexpected advantages to segway tours; they’re faster than walking, more maneuverable than bikes, and offer the chance to do some urban exploring at length.

All it takes is a quick briefing on how to navigate these machines, and you’ll be enjoying the local secrets and magnificent public spaces that have helped shape the enduring legacy of the town.

Strap on a helmet and see what’s out there!

segway tours in Genoa

27 – Bring the underwater world to life with a round of snorkeling

snorkeling in Genoa

Color, light, and life surround you, with cool, clear waters forming a welcoming canopy.

There’s something utterly magical about snorkeling… and all you need is a mask and some fins!

These tours show you a side of the sea beyond cruises and wild sailing exploits, a world of vibrant coral systems and fish that beautifully match, where endless fields of plants ripple effortlessly in the currents, and where every vantage point offers a different glimpse into this most gorgeous and complex of environments.

You might even spot a secret cave or two!

snorkeling in Genoa

28 – Unwind with some great sights at Spianata Castelletto

Spianata Castelletto, Genoa

This is another great place to enjoy a panoramic view… and just wait until you see how you get there!

The gorgeous Castelletto overlook brings you a stunning view of the city below – little wonder that it was once the site of a defensive fortress.

Nowadays, a glistening glass balcony looks out over the scene; to get there, you’ll take a gorgeous Art Deco elevator, which looks like it was plucked straight from a painting.

Then you can relax at the top, watching the world go by and enjoying some tasty treats alongside the many locals that congregate here.

29 – Make some memories (and great dishes) with a cooking class

cooking classes in Genoa

If you like to more actively participate in your vacation, then grab an apron and get ready for some truly satisfying dishes with a few cooking classes!

You’ll learn how to craft the perfect traditional cuisine, with help from locals who have been doing this work for generations.

Shop for ingredients, learn all of the fine points of preparation, and then, of course, sample the delicious results!

cooking classes in Genoa

30 – Explore the planet inside and out with a visit to Museo Civico di Storia Naturale Giacomo Doria

Museo Civico di Storia Naturale Giacomo Doria, Genoa

You can find nearly every species imaginable in this 23 room spectacular… even a fossil or two!

As the town’s oldest museum – and certainly one of its most diverse! -, this is the perfect place for nature lovers and casual explorers alike, with millions of specimens from every branch of the animal kingdom… and beyond!

You’ll see birds, mammals, amphibians, and fish, along with ancient creatures from millions of years ago.

And that’s not even counting the endless array of plants and minerals, which showcase a side of the natural world that often goes underappreciated.

It’s one of the best things to do in Genoa for curious minds of all ages!

31 – Get a taste of army life at Forte Begato…

Forte Begato, Genoa

High above town, this fort is more than just a pretty face… it was once a full-fledged military stronghold!

Built in the 1800s, it was packed with storehouses for gunpowder and other materials, and in a pinch, it could shelter over 800 soldiers – a useful trait in wartime!

After many years of solid defensive work, the complex was given some significant touch-ups, and turned into a compelling tourist attraction.

As you gaze at its powerful walls, you’ll get a vivid sense of how the city kept itself safe during tumultuous times!

32 – … And enjoy the high life with some wine tastings

wine tastings in Genoa

It’s another one of those classic Italian offerings: a nice, vibrant glass of vino, preferably enjoyed with some nieces views in the background.

And the wine tastings in Genoa effortlessly combine great flavors and amazing information – not to mention the beauty of the vineyards themselves!

At each stop along the way, you’ll get to enjoy the distinctive attributes of each glass, and find out how the vintners create these remarkable blends.

Sip your way to happiness as you relax!

wine tastings in Genoa

33 – Peruse the Museum of Oriental Art

Museum of Oriental Art, Genoa

After seeing all of the amazing Italian art, it’s time for creative influences from a different part of the world!

Admire thousands of years of pieces from all over Asia at Museum of Oriental Art, including a massive collection of Japanese work that dates all the way back to the 1000s!

You’ll see sculptures, paintings, pottery, and wonderful decorative pieces from theatrical productions… and even some suits of armor!

This was the first museum in the country focused on preserving and promoting Japanese works, and it still celebrates that culture – and several others – in fine form to this very day!

34 – Make each bite a delight at the best restaurants

best restaurants in Genoa

Whether you’re taking a delicious break in the middle of the day, or winding down for the evening after a full schedule of adventures, you’ll find no shortage of great meals to savor here!

Tuck into some perfectly curated seafood at the Michelin-starred Le Rune, or pop over to Vivarelli for exquisite Mediterranean dishes.

Give your taste buds a workout with the stylish Italian fusion dishes at 7 Sensi Cucina Decontaminata, or treat yourself to the wide variety of pastas at Alla Lunga Ristorante.

Or enjoy a leisurely meal at Hostaria Ducale, where each dish blends tradition and innovation, all further highlighted by the beautiful decor and upscale atmosphere.

And you can take things to the next level with some of the curated dinners in Genoa, which combine tourism with scrumptious cuisine to keep your taste buds and your senses mutually engaged.

Enjoy a superb feast with multiple courses, or stop by a local’s home for a more intimate meal… with the chance for some great conversations to further season the experience.

When you settle in for a bite (or several), you won’t just be getting happily full… you’ll be getting closer to the culture than ever before!

dinners in Genoa

How to get to Genoa?

The city features its own airport, and there are several other hubs nearby as well.

No matter where your flight is, you can use airport transfers to get to and from town in ease and comfort – no more haggling with taxis!

Enjoy courteous, fast service with your own private car and driver, and get yourself acquainted with the city in a stress-free fashion!

Where to stay in Genoa?

Close to the city’s main attractions, but still sequestered enough in a quiet neighborhood to feel relaxing, Meliá Genova provides fantastic settings to savor – plus the occasional DJ set at the bar!

And at Hotel De Ville, you’ll have plenty of dining options, a place to shoot some pool, and even some bike paths – perfect for visiting the nearby galleries and palaces.

Hotel Astoria cultivates an atmosphere of total bliss, from its excellent gym to its lovely set of gardens where you can sit and soak up the famously good weather.

And at B&B Hotel Genova, you can enjoy the charming decor and professional service, then step right out the door and mosey over to the aquarium or the train station.

You’ll also get a great location and glamor to match at Hotel Genova Liberty, where you can easily bop between different historic buildings… and then come back to one of your own for the evening!

best hotels in Genoa

Visiting Genoa on a budget?

This is a city full of treasures, and there’s no need to break the bank to enjoy them!

If you really want to experience the best of town with the least amount of money, there are tons of amazing free walking tours in Genoa, which will help you get into the stories behind the stones like never before.

Enjoy all of the highlights of the city, or focus on more specific aspects, like the lesser-known neighborhoods around the area, and the unique perspectives that you can find away from the main tourist hubs.

You’re sure to have plenty of fun – just bring cash to tip your guide!

And if you want to enjoy a proper smorgasbord of attractions at a cheaper rate, you can also buy a Genoa city pass, which lets you mix and match your preferred attractions into one combo… and transit is included!

Where to go next?

It’s no surprise that Italy is a big hit with travelers – and you’ll have no shortage of amazing cities to stop by after your time here!

In Turin, you can hunt for truffles, roam through palaces of jaw-dropping beauty, or savor the breadth and depth of history – including the famous shroud!

And for a dose of fashion combined with amazing art, great views, and a spectacular culinary scene, head to the hip and happening city of Milan.

Bologna is the perfect place for a bit of everything, whether you like watching sports, exploring an active intellectual culture, or just chowing down on all different sorts of amazing food.

And of course, you can’t skip Pisa; far more than just the home of a certain famously tilting tower, it’s filled with great art, beautiful gardens, amazing churches, and even an active bar and nightlife scene.

You can even dive into the world of the Renaissance with a trip to Florence, where you’ll have an endless array of art and culture to explore, marveling at some of the country’s greatest triumphs.

Final thoughts

With centuries of beauty and adventure lining its streets, the things to do in Genoa are always exciting, whether you’re exploring the corners of museums or the bottom of the sea.

You can’t possibly see it all in one go, of course; but that’s what makes the town so rewarding to experience!

So keep your eyes on adventure and follow the lead of countless past adventurers that have fallen in love with this one-of-a-kind port!

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34 Fun Things to Do in Genoa