Genoa Overview
Port city ringed by hills with tight alleys (caruggi) and grand palazzi. It’s dense, vertical, and authentic. The old town is close to the cruise area, efficient for a day on foot with short transits.
A Little History
A maritime republic and rival to Venice, Genoa grew on trade and banking. The Rolli palaces show off noble wealth. 19th–20th century industry tied the port to modern Italy. Today it mixes gritty port scenes with a revamped waterfront.
Museums
Palazzi dei Rolli along Via Garibaldi house Palazzo Rosso, Bianco, and Tursi—Renaissance and Baroque art, plus city treasures. Galata Museo del Mare is a strong maritime museum with a submarine visit. Palazzo Ducale hosts rotating exhibitions. The Aquarium of Genoa is one of Europe’s largest—popular with families. Wolfsoniana and Palazzo Reale add decorative arts and royal apartments.
• Tip: Many museums close on Monday; late openings are limited—check current schedule.
Major Parks and Attractions
Historic center alleys hide churches and small squares; stay aware of your bag. Boccadasse is a small fishing cove for photos and gelato. Spianata di Castelletto gives city views; reach by lift. The revamped Porto Antico area ties the Aquarium, Bigo lift, and promenade. For architecture, stroll Via Garibaldi and nearby streets.
Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)
Camogli and San Fruttuoso: train to Camogli, then boat to the abbey; scenic and doable. Portofino: train to Santa Margherita Ligure, then bus/boat; busy in summer. Cinque Terre: train along the coast; ambitious but possible with an early start. Nervi: closer seaside promenades by train; easy half-day.
Shopping
Via XX Settembre and Via Roma for mainstream shops. Old town for artisan goods: pesto, focaccia, candied fruit, paper goods. Mercato Orientale for food stalls and quick bites.
• Note: Winter and summer sales follow regional calendars—check current schedule.
Food and Drink
Liguria means pesto, focaccia (plain and cheese styles), farinata, anchovies, and seafood pasta. Lunch can be the better meal; dinner later but not extreme. Simple bakeries make great quick stops.
Practical eating tips:
• Try focaccia di Recco if you see it.
• “Menù fisso” at lunch is good value.
• Skip tourist menus with photos on Via Garibaldi; explore one block deeper.
• Reserve Portofino-area spots in summer.
Currency, Payments, ATMs
Euro. Cards common; tiny bakeries may prefer cash. Use bank ATMs.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Shops may close midday outside the core. Museums often close Monday. Coastal boats follow seasonal timetables.
Holidays that may affect hours or services:
• Jan 1
• Jan 6
• Easter and Easter Monday
• Apr 25
• May 1
• Jun 2
• Aug 15
• Nov 1
• Dec 8
• Dec 25–26
Practical City Notes
Old town is compact but uneven; wear good shoes. Pickpockets can work busy alleys and waterfront. AMT buses and Metro help; funiculars and lifts connect hills. Taxis at ranks; ride-hail limited.
Quick Plans
• 3–4 hours: Via Garibaldi palazzi → Porto Antico stroll → gelato at Boccadasse if time.
• 6–8 hours: Aquarium morning → old town churches and alleys → Castelletto viewpoint.
• Full day: Rolli museums → lunch at Mercato Orientale → afternoon train to Camogli.
