Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Genoa, Italy

Genoa is a vast and expansive city located in the Gulf of Genoa on the Ligurian Sea in the northwestern part of Italy. With a central population of 588,000 and a metropolitan population of 1.5 million, Genoa ranks as the 6th largest city in the country and serves as a significant economic hub. A defining characteristic of the city is its extensive port and shipyards, which have been operational since the 19th century. Like many areas in Italy, Genoa has been populated by humans for millennia, and its natural harbor was utilized by both the Romans and Etruscans.

Historically, Genoa maintained a close association with the Holy Roman Empire and was recognized for its formidable fleet of sailors and warriors during the Middle Ages. Over time, the city experienced a decline as trade routes shifted and was subsequently absorbed into the Napoleonic Empire. In contemporary times, however, it has regained its status as a vital part of Italy.

Due to its illustrious history, Genoa boasts numerous inviting piazzas, ornate palaces, and remarkable churches; it presents a diverse array of high-quality tourist attractions alongside opportunities for shopping and exquisite dining.

Let us discover the top attractions in Genoa:

1. Piazza De Ferrari

Situated in the heart of the old town in the Molo district, Piazza De Ferrari is one of the focal points of Genoa, showcasing a multitude of significant sights.

The most prominent feature of the Piazza is the grand and elaborately designed fountain; it features a series of water jets that spray into a central basin, creating a beautiful symmetrical shape along with a delightful cascade of water.

Encircling the fountain are several notable buildings, including the Palace of the Doges, the Carlo Felice Theatre, the Genoa Stock Exchange, and the Palace of the Duke of Galleria.

Appreciate the various buildings and 19th-century architecture, toss a coin into the fountain, or take a moment to observe the local life as it unfolds.

Alternatively, there are several quaint restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating available for a leisurely break.

2. Porta Soprana

Genoa is noted for its formerly extensive city wall; over the years, the walls were expanded to encompass much of the city, being the longest city walls in Italy.

Part of this historic area remains visible today through the Porta Soprana gatehouse and its towers.

These two towers are a short walk from Piazza De Ferrari and are easily prominent from various vantage points around the city.

Flanking the arched gateway, the two towers are circular, topped with crenellations, and offer an excellent opportunity for photographs.

3. Piazza Matteotti

While located right next to Piazza De Ferrari, Piazza Matteotti stands out as a remarkable destination that features a range of historical buildings and attractions.

The Doges Palace occupies one end of the square and is an opulent structure framed by a series of stone columns, while at the opposite end stands the splendid San Lorenzo Cathedral.

Markets are frequently held here, offering you the chance to negotiate with local vendors for exciting purchases.

Additionally, the Church of Saint Ambrogio presents a magnificent structure with an ornately decorated interior.

4. San Lorenzo Cathedral

Commonly referred to as Genoa Cathedral, San Lorenzo is a remarkable edifice that is often disregarded.

The architectural style is reminiscent of the Florence Cathedral, showcasing a similarly striped marble and stone façade. The colors are stunning, featuring green, pink, black, and white hues.

Constructed in 1118, this church has withstood the test of time for centuries, and its interior is genuinely awe-inspiring.

Inside, the ceiling is richly adorned with frescoes and beautifully illustrated artwork.

The pink marble columns nicely frame the central altar, enhancing its visual appeal.

Moreover, the church houses magnificent paintings, including the Martyrdom of St. Lawrence by Lazzaro Tavarone.

5. Genoa Aquarium

Adjacent to the Piazza Carciamento in the primary harbor area, the aquarium is an exceptional destination for families.

This facility hosts a variety of marine life, including different species of fish, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and jellyfish.

Two central themes focus on the creatures of the Ligurian Sea, which encompasses the harbor of Genoa, as well as the environment of the North Atlantic Ocean.

All displays and tanks are meticulously maintained and spacious, with environments thoughtfully recreated to ensure the animals have suitable climate and habitat.

6. Genoa Maritime Museum

As Genoa was a prominent naval power during the 16th-19th centuries, it is logical that the city would contain one of the largest maritime museums in Europe.

This museum provides an engaging and informative experience, featuring four floors filled with historical artifacts, reconstructions, and displays.

One room showcases various globes and atlases from different eras, while another contains a reconstructed galley ship.

Additionally, rooms on the second floor exhibit reproductions of shipwrecks and a plethora of naval instruments.

Moreover, an Italian military submarine is located in the adjacent dock, with tours available for this impressive vessel.

7. Forte Begato

This hillside fort is positioned in the northern region of Genoa, commanding a prominent view from atop a substantial mountain.

Constructed in 1818, this relatively modern fortification functioned as a defensive structure for many years until its significance diminished, leading to its disuse.

The complex’s main structure is the sizeable central barracks that once accommodated over 300 soldiers and various artillery platforms.

During World War II, the fort was used as a prison for POWs but is currently inaccessible to the public.

Even though entry is not permitted, it remains an intriguing place to explore, and the hike to the summit of the plateau caters well to outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the panoramic views from the peak are breathtaking, revealing the sprawling city of Genoa below.

8. Via Garibaldi

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Via Garibaldi is one of Genoa’s most significant streets, renowned for its abundance of palaces and exquisite architecture.

Prominent buildings include the Palazzo Bianco, the Palazzo Rosso, the Palazzo Doria Tursi, the Palazzo Lomelino, and the Palazzo Pantaleo.

This narrow avenue offers an astonishing array of beautiful architecture, with the Palazzo Rosso boasting a striking red/orange façade as perhaps its most notable landmark.

Three of these palaces—Rosso, Bianco, and Tursi—are accessible to the public, providing valuable insights into the history of Genoa along with a range of exquisite artifacts and art collections.

9. Genoa Harbour

The extensive harbor of Genoa stretches for 22km along the coastline, accommodating a significant number of docks and ports for commercial, recreational, and leisure activities.

This harbor presents vast tourism potential and includes a variety of bars, restaurants, and museums.

Consider dedicating some time to explore the different harbors to observe the diverse ships, or visit the maritime museum or aquarium.

At the central point of the harbor network, situated to the left of the bay, is the magnificent Lanterna di Genoa, a large 76m tall lighthouse that has stood since the 1100s in one form or another.

10. Museo d’Arte Orientale

Located near Piazza del Portello in the center of Genoa, within Villetta di Negro Park, the Museum of Oriental Art provides a unique experience that contrasts with the typical contemporary art museums found in most cities.

Inside this welcoming building lies one of Europe’s largest collections of Oriental and Asian art.

The exhibitions are organized into various categories, covering different eras and showcasing a variety of works, including Ming sculptures, Buddhist sculptures, and a selection of well-preserved Japanese armaments and armor.

Additionally, a collection of Asian paintings and bronze theatrical artifacts is on display.

This museum truly offers a remarkable insight into Oriental culture and artistry.

11. Castello d’Albertis

Albertis Castle stands a short distance from the main harbor and houses the Museum of World Cultures.

The castle is designed in a Gothic Revival style and was constructed in 1886, built upon the site of a previous 12th-century fort while preserving its original foundations.

The castle offers fantastic views of the Ligurian Sea and the surrounding cityscape.

Within its walls lies the impressive Museum of World Cultures, containing a range of artifacts collected from around the globe by Enrico and Luigi Albertis, such as weaponry from Sudan and China, and relics from the Mayan civilization.

12. Spianata Castelletto

Castelletto is a residential neighborhood in Genoa, and Spianata is an elevated platform and walkway offering breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

The courtyard and walkway are accessible via a series of steps or an ornate lift, which is topped with a large glass-paneled structure.

Once you reach the summit, you can gaze down upon the city.

During daylight, observe the ships in the harbor while listening to the lively ambiance of the locals, and at night witness the city illuminated by an array of lights.

The courtyard itself is a lovely area to unwind, shaded by numerous trees, and equipped with several binoculars for a closer look at the city’s details.

13. Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi

The Passeggiata Garibaldi is a paved walkway that meanders along the coastline of Genoa.

Commencing at Via Giovanni, located approximately 15 minutes east of the city center, the walkway features a pink cobblestone path that perfectly traces the coastline.

This public footpath extends for at least 1km through the district of Nervi.

Along the route, you will find residential buildings, shops, and cafes.

Visit this area to escape the bustling city, inhale the sea air, and appreciate the stunning coastal vistas that Genoa has to offer.

14. Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno

The National Monumental Cemetery is situated on the hillside of the Staglieno district in Genoa.

While visiting a cemetery may seem unconventional, this particular site is genuinely monumental, as its name suggests, and represents more than just a burial ground.

The cemetery was established in the 1800s and showcases an extensive array of monuments, statues, memorials, and sculptures.

Enclosed by arched walkways and porticoes, the cemetery resembles a palace more than a mere resting place.

Consider stopping by to admire the architecture and explore the various styles of tombs and gravestones.

15. Lanterna di Genoa

The Lanterna di Genoa is an ornate ancient lighthouse that has stood since the 12th century, having undergone numerous reconstructions over time.

It serves as the primary lighthouse of the harbor and is an iconic symbol of the city.

Following the Tower of Hercules and the Kopu lighthouse, it is recognized as the third oldest lighthouse globally.

An emblematic representation of Genoa adorns one side, while the top is crowned with an expansive glass light.

Standing at an impressive height of 76m, it dominates the surrounding landscape and can be seen from considerable distances.