9 Best Things to Do in Genoa

A stroll in Old City Genoa almost feels like you’re reliving Italy’s grand Renaissance era. One of the largest historical districts in Europe, the city is flanked by medieval city gates – the Porta dei Vacca and Porta Soprana. Inside, you can find large piazzas (public squares) with grand palaces, cathedrals, arch ruins, and narrow lanes dating back to medieval times. Giving you plenty of memorable snapshots, many ancient walls and doorways of the buildings within the Old City have intricate reliefs of St George. Accommodation wise, there are many luxurious hotels located near the Old Port.

Acquario di Genoa, located in the Old Port of Genoa, is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Spanning over 3,000 sq m, its massive tanks house over 12,000 animal and plant species from all over the world, including dolphins, penguins, sharks, and the endangered manatees. You can get an Aquarium Village pass which gives you access to all attractions surrounding the aquarium. One standout ride is the 40-metre-tall Bigo lift, which gives you panoramic views of Genoa City. For a hotel in a prime location, choose one close to the aquarium.

Musei di Strada Nuova (Strada Nuova Museums) consists of 3 UNESCO-listed palaces of Genoa, namely Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi. Set along Strada Nuova (New Street), these historical sites display an impressive collection of Italian art, fashion, culture, and history. Tickets cost about €9, which include admission all 3 palaces and exhibitions. Containing decorative art, valuable tapestries, and 16th-century Ligurian pottery, the Palazzo Tursi houses the city council of Genoa and is the venue for many cultural events and festivals. A walk along Strada Nuova gives you plenty of memorable snapshots, thanks to the museums’ grand exteriors and landscaped gardens.

Piazza San Matteo is home to a Gothic church dating back to the 14th century. Located within Genoa Old City, this small square is widely known as the base of operation for the Doria family. Today, it houses many palaces owned by the Italian noble family, all of which feature distinctive black-and-white stone façades and friezes decorated with bas-reliefs. San Matteo Church is the family’s burial chapel that houses many relics, artefacts and tombs. While you’re here, be sure to visit Santi Ambrogio e Andrea Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Genoa. It was built in the 6th century, featuring Baroque marble, sculptures, paintings, and an impressive gilded ceiling fresco.

Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, located in Piazza San Lorenzo, is one of Genoa City’s oldest cathedrals. Built in 1098, its structure is a mix of Gothic, Byzantine, Romanesque, and Renaissance architectural styles. Inside are several 14th-century chapels and altars, including one that houses the ashes of St. John the Baptist. Visit the underground Museo del Tesoro to see silverware, jewellery, and artefacts such as gold crucifixes, the supposed Holy Grail, and the platter of St. John. Admission to the cathedral is free of charge, while museum tickets cost about €6. The accommodation options near the San Lorenzo Cathedral are recommendable.

Mercado Orientale (Eastern Market) is an historical marketplace with hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce and Italian specialities. Founded in 1899, it’s known as one of the oldest shopping venues in Genoa City. Here, you can find plenty of vendors specialising in cheese, fresh and cured meat, pastries, pesto, and handmade pasta. Mercado Orientale is usually buzzing with a lively crowd during the weekends, so visit on a weekday if you prefer a more relaxing atmosphere.

Boccadasse is a traditional fishing hamlet about 3 km east of Genoa City. One of its most distinctive landmarks is the cluster of pastel-coloured homes overlooking the sea. Its promenade is set on the pebble beach, where you can find many seafood restaurants, cafés, bars, and gelateria (ice cream parlours). Thanks to its close proximity to Genoa, many locals visit Boccadasse during the weekend to enjoy a relaxing city break. Visit the beach at dusk to catch spectacular sunset views.

Piazza De Ferrari is the main square of Genoa City, housing 19th-century buildings with Neo-Baroque and Art Nouveau architectural designs. The centre of the square has a Gothic-style fountain that’s popular for beautiful photos, especially at dusk. Looking for accommodation nearby? There are many hotels in the vicinity of Piazza de Ferrari. If you’re a fan of classical music, Teatro Carlo Felice is Genoa’s principal opera house and hosts many orchestral music and ballet performances throughout the year. Art lovers can visit the Accademia Ligustica di Belle Arti, a fine arts academy and museum displaying works by renowned Italian artists such as Fiasella, Borzone, and Nomellini.

Aperitivo is a classic Italian culture that’s all about socialising with friends over drinks and appetisers. Also known as cocktail hour, it takes place after office hours, usually between 7pm and 9pm. Drinks are typically wine, prosecco, vermouth, or cocktails paired with small bites such as focaccia, cheese, cured meat, and quiches. Come sundown, locals often gather at old-fashioned pubs and open-air bars within Genoa Old City, especially in Piazza delle Erbe. Grab a seat outside to enjoy views of 19th-century buildings in this historical city square.