This Italian port city blends grand palaces with narrow, winding streets. Its ancient monuments and modern waterfront showcase a rich history and Mediterranean charm.
Genoa, the capital of Italy's Liguria region, is steeped in maritime history and filled with Renaissance architecture. In the city's historic center, you'll find yourself walking through narrow alleyways called caruggi, passing by tall buildings and small shops. You can visit Christopher Columbus' birthplace, view artworks by masters like Rubens and Van Dyck in former palaces, and taste local specialties like pesto and focaccia.
Exploring Genoa's Historic Center
Genoa's historic center is one of the largest medieval old towns in Europe. As you walk through the network of narrow alleyways called caruggi, you'll see tall buildings and small shops lining the streets. The area contains many significant landmarks, including the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, a black and white striped cathedral dating back to the 12th century. During your exploration, you'll come across small piazzas and churches with intricate decorations in unexpected corners.
Palaces of the Strade Nuove
The Strade Nuove (New Streets) and the system of Palazzi dei Rolli represent Genoa's power in the 16th and 17th centuries. These Renaissance and Baroque palaces, built by wealthy aristocratic families, are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can visit several of these palaces, including Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Reale, which contain extensive art collections. The interiors feature frescoes, period furnishings, and decorations that reflect Genoa's prosperous era.
Genoa's Revitalized Port
The Porto Antico (Old Port) area is now a modern entertainment district. Here you'll find the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe, with thousands of marine species. The Bigo, a lift designed by architect Renzo Piano, offers views of the city and harbor from multiple angles. You can also visit the Galata Museo del Mare, Italy's largest maritime museum, to learn about Genoa's seafaring history and step aboard a reconstructed 17th-century galley ship.
Ligurian Culinary Delights
Genoa is the birthplace of some of Italy's well-known foods. You should try Genoese pesto, made with locally-grown basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Focaccia is another local specialty - this olive oil-rich flatbread comes in various flavors and makes for a quick lunch. The local fish markets offer fresh catches that you can enjoy in restaurants around the port. To finish your meal, try a glass of Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine from the nearby Cinque Terre region.
Day Trips from Genoa
Genoa serves as a base for exploring the Italian Riviera. You can take a short train ride to the fishing village of Camogli or the resort town of Santa Margherita Ligure. For a more adventurous day trip, head to the Cinque Terre, a string of five coastal villages connected by hiking trails and a scenic railway. Closer to Genoa, the neighborhood of Boccadasse feels like a separate village with its small beach and pastel-colored houses.
