Best Travel Guide Genoa | ArrivalGuides.com

GenoaGuide was updated: 2025-07-08

Sandwiched between the sea and the Ligurian hills, Genoa is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Its history is a fascinating tapestry of triumphs and setbacks, as reflected in the city's rich architecture. As the European Capital of Culture in 2004, Genoa boasts an impressive collection of museums and galleries, as well as a renowned theatre and the largest aquarium in Europe. The city has also good shopping, the best nightlife in the region, and excellent restaurants. And for those looking to explore beyond the city limits, day trips along the picturesque Ligurian coast come highly recommended.

Do & See

Being one of the best-kept travel destinations secrets, Genoa for sure offers many beautiful and interesting tourist attractions. There are over a dozen museums and galleries, a prestigious theatre, the largest aquarium in Europe and many renowned landmarks to visit, providing visitors with a range of options to explore. Most of the popular tourist spots are located near Piazza de Ferrari, the city's main square, or by the old Port of Genoa. Other notable sights include Palazzo Ducale, Palazzi dei Rolli, and the Medieval Quarter. To gain a deeper understanding of the town's geography and history, a boat tour is widely recommended, with a variety of boat trips departing from Genoa harbour.

Strada Nuova Museums

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, Via Garibaldi is lined with resplendent Renaissance palaces, constructed by Genoa's wealthiest families during the 16th and 17th centuries. Palazzo Bianco is home to an extensive collection of Italian and Flemish art, featuring works by illustrious artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Caravaggio. Meanwhile, Palazzo Rosso showcases an incredible collection of art that has been amassed over the course of two centuries by the Brignole-Sale family.

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Palazzo Spinola

Situated in an aristocratic 16th-century residence donated to the state by the Spinola family, this National Gallery is home to numerous famous works by the greatest Genoese, Flemish, and European artists, including a significant collection of ceramics. Visitors can admire works by Rubens, Van Dyck, il Grechetto, Valerio Castello, and many others on display here.

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Galata Maritime Museum

Situated near the famous Aquarium, the Galata Museo del Mare is a must-visit attraction for anyone wanting to understand more of Genoa’s sea-faring past. As the biggest museum of its kind in the Mediterranean, it features high-tech displays, genuine replica galley ships, and over 6,000 original artefacts, providing a wealth of things to explore.

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Aquarium of Genoa

The Aquarium of Genoa is the largest aquarium in Italy, providing endless entertainment for the whole family. It boasts the most extensive range of aquatic biodiversity in Europe, with over 70 exhibits and around 12,000 specimens of 600 species. Visitors can marvel at rare species like manatees and famous ones like dolphins, penguins, and sharks. Other attractions include jellyfish, seals, and colourful tropical fish species.

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Bigo Panoramic Lift

The Bigo lift, designed by Genoese architect Renzo Piano, is a massive spider-like structure with a viewing cabin that lifts you 40 metres high for a fabulous view. Are you brave enough to take the ride? If so, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the stunning city of Genoa, complete with views of the hills and sea.

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Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

Situated in the heart of the historic district, San Lorenzo is the primary cathedral of Genoa, renowned for its striking black and white striped marble facade, which dates back to the 12th century. Inside the cathedral, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking interior, replete with high ceilings, towering columns, and exquisite stained glass. The basement of the cathedral is home to the Treasure Museum, which is definitely worth a visit.

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