Genoa

Travel Guide

The Bigo Lift
Biosfera which includes a bay or harbor
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
La casa di Cristoforo Colombo
Royal Palace
Experience authentic Italy as you explore the grand palaces and medieval streets of this ancient port town.

Part of Italy’s Riviera, on the country’s northwest coast, Genoa offers visitors a glimpse of authentic Italian life. The city’s narrow streets are crammed with family-run restaurants in which you can sample fresh seafood and the region’s famous speciality: pesto. Follow the story of Genoa’s history as a rich and important trade center, and the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, as you wander through old buildings and world heritage-listed districts.

The region of Liguria has almost no flat terrain and that includes Genoa, its capital. The easiest way to explore the city is from the top down. The main shopping areas and public squares are found higher up on the hills. Make your way down through the city’s medieval old town, with its narrow, pedestrian-only alleys known as caruggi. You’ll reach one of the main thoroughfares, Via Garibaldi, which has three of Genoa’s important art museums housed in magnificent palaces: Palazzo Bianco, Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Tursi.

Visit the Porto Antico (Old Harbor), the city’s former important shipping quarter. This area has been renovated and is now home to cafés, cinemas and museums. Stop by the Galata Sea Museum, where you can learn about the voyages of Christopher Columbus and other famed explorers. The Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, is also located at the Old Harbor. The newer dockside area is crowded with fishing boats alongside ferries and luxury yachts that often cruise in from nearby Portofino.

Luckily, you don’t have to be a mountaineer to enjoy the sights of this hilly city. Use the two cable car services to travel uphill as you enjoy sweeping views of the city and port. The public elevator from the Piazza del Portello will take you up to the charming Castelletto area, where the terminal is a beautiful art nouveau tower. Driving is not recommended in Genoa as parking is difficult to find. Public buses are also a good alternative if you need a break from exploring on foot.

Where to stay in Genoa

Via Garibaldi

Genoa Historical Centre

4.5/5(96 area reviews)

Genoa Historical Centre is popular for its waterfront views, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Cattedrale di San Lorenzo or Palazzo Ducale.

Genoa Historical Centre
Genoa

Centro Est

4/5(12 area reviews)

Centro Est is a destination visitors seek out for is great bars, popular aquarium, and captivating waterfront views. You might also want to check out attractions like Christopher Columbus Monument or Genoa City Hall while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Centro Est
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Nervi

5/5(8 area reviews)

Discover a former fishing village turned seaside resort, boasting four museums, including the Genoa Gallery of Modern Arts and Wolfsoniana. Stroll along the 2 km Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi walkway, explore the Parchi di Nervi, and shop at fashionable outlets.

Nervi
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Levante

5/5(1 area review)

Unique features of Levante include the seaside views and gardens. Make a stop by Port of Nervi or Passeggiata di Anita Garibaldi while you're exploring the area.

Levante
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Centro Ovest

4/5(2 area reviews)

Unique features of Centro Ovest include the waterfront views and historic sites. Make a stop by Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal or La Lanterna while you're exploring the area.

Centro Ovest

Ponente

Ponente is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Terme di Genova and Beigua Regional Nature Park.

Ponente
Bristol Palace Hotel
Bristol Palace Hotel
5 out of 5
Via XX Settembre 35, Genoa, GE
The price is ¥38,148 per night from Aug 1 to Aug 2
¥38,148
¥43,665 total
Aug 1 - Aug 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,004 reviews)
"Great location. Great breakfast. Service was wonderful."

Reviewed on Jun 22, 2025

Bristol Palace Hotel
Starhotels President
Starhotels President
4 out of 5
Corte Dei Lambruschini 4, Genoa, GE
The price is ¥17,481 per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
¥17,481
¥20,590 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (955 reviews)
"Clean property. Very close (5 min walk) to rail station Genova Brignole, which was great! Nice and safe. Many dining options in area, and many available commuter options to get to the Old Port area of town."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Starhotels President
Hotel Astoria
Hotel Astoria
4 out of 5
Piazza Brignole, 4, Genoa, GE
Stay at this 4-star property in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (332 reviews)
"Good location from train station. Easy walk to old historic center of town."

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2025

Hotel Astoria
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Atelier Apartments by Wonderful Italy
Atelier Apartments by Wonderful Italy
Via S. Luca 4, Genoa, GE
Stay at this apartment in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi and air conditioning. Popular attractions Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal and Old Port are located ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (24 reviews)
"The apartment was very clean, great communication with staff, loved the cold ac!"

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2024

Atelier Apartments by Wonderful Italy
Family Apartments San Lorenzo
Family Apartments San Lorenzo
Largo Sanguineti 11, Genoa, GE
Stay at this apartment in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi, bathrobes, and rainfall showerheads. Popular attractions Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal and Old Port are ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (22 reviews)
"La localisation dans la ville et la beauté de l’appartement."

Reviewed on Jul 2, 2025

Family Apartments San Lorenzo
Happy Family Apartments Luna
Happy Family Apartments Luna
Salita San Nicolosio 1, int. 2G, Genoa, GE
Stay at this apartment in Genoa. Enjoy free WiFi, pillowtop beds, and rainfall showerheads. Popular attractions Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal and Old Port ...
"Happy Apartments Luna is comfortable, well-furnished and well-equipped and in a very convenient location in Genoa. It's not far from the main railway station (walking distance, or 3-4 short bus stops if you have luggage). It's close to bus stops for several useful routes, and there are 2 funiculars ..."

Reviewed on Oct 3, 2024

Happy Family Apartments Luna
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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