Nestled along the enchanting Ligurian coastline is a storybook town begging to be explored on foot.

A free walking tour in Genoa is a guaranteed way to see the best of the town's treasures and go home with a pocketbook full of recommendations on things to see, do and eat during your time here.

These tours explore the history and culture of the city, and introduce you to centuries of architecture and the local way of life.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most worthwhile sightseeing tours in Genoa.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Genoa have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

These tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between €10 and €15 per person, but some people tip as much as €50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Genoa?

Choose from a walking tour through Genoa’s historic center or venture towards a colorful fishing community to see a lesser-known part of the city.

The alleys of Genoa

There is no better way to explore the city than to join a Genoese tour guide on a captivating journey into the daily life of Genoese locals. You will start at Palazzo San Giorgio and proceed to Piazza Banchi and look at it from the San Pietro in Banchi.

Venture further to the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo for a treasure hunt to find a hidden dog on the exterior. Next, Palazzo Ducale awaits with its grandeur along with the imposing Grimaldina tower, once a formidable city prison.

You will pass through the historic Porta Soprana gate and see Casa di Cristoforo Colombo, a medieval cloister and the birthplace of the Colombo family. Then, take an antique lift to Spianata di Castelletto, where a panoramic terrace unveils a breathtaking 360-degree view of Genoa.

Stroll through Piazza San Matteo and Palazzi dei Rolli to see even more medieval and renaissance buildings proudly standing out among the cobbled streets. Conclude your architectural voyage at Piazza De Ferrari, Genoa's principal square.

The other Genoa: Boccadasse

Explore the charming Boccadasse neighborhood in Genoa, where history and beauty intertwine seamlessly. Your journey begins at Stazione Brignole, the main railway station, where you'll step into a world that blends tradition with modernity.

As you venture into Via Urania, the cobbled streets will lead you through the lively streets of San Giuliano, where the local atmosphere and colorful facades paint a vivid picture of daily life in Genoa.

Next, you'll discover the enchanting Via Al Capo di Santa Chiara, a bustling thoroughfare that offers a snapshot of Genoa's cultural diversity and vibrant street life.

The heart of Boccadasse awaits as you arrive at the picturesque village, Boccadasse itself. Here, you'll be captivated by the quaint, pastel-colored houses that line the narrow alleys, reminiscent of a bygone era. Stroll along the charming promenade and wrap up your exploration at Vernazzola Beach.

In which languages is it operated?

The most popular free walking tour in Genoa, 'The alleys of Genoa', is operated in English. Other tours are operated in Italian and you will need at least a basic understanding to get the full value from the experience.

Where does it start?

The alleys of Genoa tour starts at Palazzo San Giorgio while the walking tour of the Boccadasse neighborhood starts at Stazione Brignole.

How long does last?

Free walking tours in Genoa last between 2 and 2.5 hours, just enough time for you to get acquainted with the city’s most attractive angels.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Free walking tours in Genoa are not wheelchair friendly and not suitable for people with impaired mobility.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Genoa?

Due to a mediterranean climate, the best time for a free walking tour in Genoa is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November), as the weather is pleasant and not too hot.

If you are trying to avoid large tourist crowds, it is advisable to avoid visiting visit during the weekends or summer months.

Remember to check the availability of the tours. Not all free walking tours operate every day, and some might have specific schedules.

Should you book online?

Booking free walking tours in Genoa online ensures your spot, as they are popular and get booked up very quickly. These tours also have limited spots available to ensure the quality of the tour — with some maximum capacities being limited to as few as 10 people.

Reserving your spot on a tour is completely free and can be done with a few simple clicks through the online booking platform. Arrive in the Genoa with your tour already booked and make the most out of your time.

Free Walking Tours in Genoa