Genoa

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Genoa

Genoa, "La Superba", is a city that makes a profound impression. Sandwiched between the sea and the Ligurian hills, Genoa spreads upwards from the port, a jumble of a city with a long and chequered history. This European Capital of Culture in 2004 has dozens of museums and galleries, a renowned theatre and the largest aquarium in Europe. The city has good shopping, the best nightlife in Liguria and excellent restaurants. Day excursions along the stunning Ligurian coast are highly recommended.

The City

Genoa: the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and Paganini, Italy’s biggest port and, as Charles Dickens remarked in 1844 "A city of the strangest contrasts." Renaissance palaces, grand 19th-century boulevards and gilded Baroque churches are squeezed alongside, and on top of, a warren of steep medieval streets. Fine restaurants and chic bars are hidden in the narrow alleys. Genoa is made for exploring and getting lost in the medieval quarter – one of Europe’s largest – and is all part of the experience. With one of the biggest universities in Italy, Genoa’s student population guarantees a buzzing nightlife.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Being one of the best-kept travel destinations secret, Genoa for sure offers many beautiful and interesting tourist attractions. With dozens of museums and galleries, a renowned theatre, the largest aquarium in Europe and many famous landmarks, tourist will find themselves busy. Most of the popular tourist sights are either near Genoa's main square, called Piazza de Ferrari or by the old Port of Genoa, so these are the places to head for. Other sights not be missed is Palazzo Ducale, Palazzi dei Rolli and the Medieval Quarter just to name a few. To get a good idea of the town's geography and history, take a boat tour, there are large variety of boat trips that departs from Genoa harbour.

Museums of the ’Strada Nuova’

Made a UNESCO world heritage site in 2006, Via Garibaldi is lined with Renaissance palaces, built by Genova’s wealthiest families in the 16th and 17th centuries. Palazzo Bianco houses a huge collection of Italian and Flemish art including works by Rubens, Van Dyck and Caravaggio. Palazzo Rosso houses an incredible collection put together over two…

Palazzo Spinola

This National Gallery is housed in a 16th-century palace and was donated to the state by the Spinola family. Here you will find many famous works done by the greatest Genoese, Flemish and European artists including important collection of ceramics. Works by Rubens, Van Dyck, il Grechetto, Valerio Castello and others are on display here.

Galata Maritime Museum

Galata Maritime Museum is the biggest museum of its kind in the Mediterranean and a must for anyone wanting to understand more of Genoa’s sea-faring past. With high-tech displays, real-life replica galley ships and over 6000 original artefacts, you will find yourself busy here. The museum is located right in the heart of the city,…

Aquarium of Genoa

This is a fabulous aquarium – the biggest in Europe with over 10,000 square metres – dedicated to conservation and education! It is a beautiful visit and a great way to learn something more about the fascinating sea-life while having fun with the whole family!

Bigo Panoramic Lift

Bigo lift, designed by the Genoese architect Renzo Piano is a huge spider-like contraption, with a viewing cabin that shoots you up 40 metres for a fabulous view. Do you dare? If this is the case, you will enjoy a panoramic breath-taking view of the beautiful city of Genoa, hills and sea included!

San Lorenzo

San Lorenzo, in the heart of the old part of the city, is Genoa’s main cathedral, famous for its fabulous black and white stripy marble facade dating back to the 12th century. Be amazed over the beautiful interior inside the cathedral with high ceilings, tall columns and with gorgeous stain glass. It is also here,…

Medieval Quarter

The Medieval Quarter is one of Europe’s largest, the tiny caruggi (alleys) thread their way up, down and across the centre of the city. The buildings can reach six storeys, the alleys – in places no wider than a couple of metres – hiding great restaurants, bars and shops. Getting lost is inevitable and always…

Piazza San Matteo

Piazza San Matteo is a very small and beautiful piazza and home to the powerful Doria family for 500 years. See the 12th-century Roman Catholic church of San Matteo, with its beautiful 14th-century cloister and breath the history that permeates this place!

Palazzo Reale

Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) is a 17th-century palace built by the Balbi family. It was once a large aristocratic residence for the three most powerful families in the city (Balbis, Durazzo and Savoy) and today it is a museum, housing historical furniture, hundreds of paintings and sculptures. There is also an impressive garden to visit…

Camogli

Camogli is a very pretty fishing village with brightly-painted houses around 20 km east of Genoa. Take a boat from Genoa (www.liguriaviamare.it), or take the train from Stazione Principe. Then, from Camogli take a boat to the beautiful 10th century Fruttuoso monastery.

Anita Garibaldi Walk in Nervi

Some might say that this is one of the most romantic walks in the world. The path used to be used by fishermen, but it's now full of couples or families that, whenever the sun shines, takes a walk here. The mesmerising view, the beautiful colours of the Riviera makes it really worth seeing.

Palazzi dei Rolli

Palazzi dei Rolli, a group of palaces are on the World Heritage List since 2006 and are historic places of where eminent Genoese families used to live. Along the oldest streets across the city, you will find some prestigious places with fascinating architecture, so be ready with your camera.

Basilica of Santa Maria di Castello

Basilica of Santa Maria di Castello is a beautiful Romanesque style church, located on the Castello hill in Genoa. Come here for some serenity and peacefulness on your vacation and, if you feel like it, light a candle according to the tradition of the most religious locals!

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale is located in the heart of the city and has two different entrances, one from Piazza Matteotti and the other from Piazza De Ferrari, two of the most important gathering places of the city. The renaissance building is worth a visit for its own beauty, but it also houses an art museum.

Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno

The Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno is a historic testimony where remains of distinguished citizens like De Andre' and Govi are housed. With its hundreds of statues lined up in elegant galleries and chapels it provides a fascinating open-air museum. The styles used by sculptors go from realism, neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance to Art Nouveau and Symbolism.…

Museo Diocesano

The Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art of Genoa, which opened on December 16, 2000, is based in the Palace of the Canons. This fascinating building was built between 1176 and 1184 on Roman foundations as the residence of the Canons of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Piazza della Vittoria

Victory Square (Piazza della Vittoria) is not only one of the largest in Genoa but also considered as one of the most important squares in the city centre. In the middle of the square, you will find the Arch of Victory also known as the War Memorial of the Fallen, dedicated to the Genoese fallen…

Galleria d'Arte Moderna

The gallery is housed in a beautiful setting, in the sixteenth century Villa Saluzzo in Nervi and preserves more than 2,500 works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings and engravings dating from the early nineteenth century to the present. Here you can admire works done by artist like Rayper, Luxoro, Cabianca, Varni, Barabino, Baroni and many more.

Creattivando Art & Food

Creattivando is a laboratory where customers can learn preparing local products such as Genoese pesto, by attending cooking shows and getting some knowledge about the Ligurian crafts. It is a casual and fun way to learn Italian cooking. They also organise food and wine tours, for more information see the website below.

Dining

Genoa and Liguria are famous for pesto, the delicious pasta sauce made from basil, pine nuts, olive oil and parmesan. If you think you know pesto because you buy it in a jar – think again. There is nothing like a dish of fresh vivid-green pesto served with the local pasta (little twists of troffie) or spaghetti-like trenette. Other specialities include farinata, a bread-like snack made from chickpeas, focaccia, fish dishes (particularly salt cod-baccalà), mushroom dishes and stuffed meat dishes. Plan to eat out in Genoa? Remember that many restaurants are closed on Sunday and Saturday lunchtime.

La Buca Di San Matteo

Located in a picturesque square called Piazza San Matteo, this small and elegant restaurant offers delicious specialties from Liguria served by professional staff. La Buca di San Matteo is the place to head for when wanting to try the local cuisine in a cosy and warm environment.

Ristorante Zeffirino

Ristorante Zeffirino has been family-run for four generations since 1939, with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Roger Moore and Pavarotti among its fans. This restaurant does not disappoint regarding service nor food and if you like, seafood and classical Italian food, you have come to the right place.

Al Veliero

Al Veliero is a small family-run restaurant that serves fresh, local fish dishes, but, of course, they also have amazing pasta dishes too. Plus, the location is just amazing: Al Veliero is just few steps away from the famous Aquarium! Very popular among the locals so it can get quite busy.

Le Cantine Squarciafico

Le Cantine Squarciafico is an atmospheric place in a 16th century building characterised by vaulted ceilings, stone pillars and chequered floors. Ligurian specialities and twists on old favourites are served by the friendly staff. The price is a bit higher than average but the quality of the food makes it worth it.

J'aime les Crepes

J'aime les Crepes is a French restaurant which can be a welcoming break for your taste buds: the crepes here are divine and a great option for either lunch, dinner or even for an afternoon break if you are feeling hungry while touring around the city!

Gran Ristoro

At first sight, it might look like just a whole in the wall, but actually, Gran Ristoro serves some of the best sandwiches in town. Everything is made with fresh raw materials. Choose your filling, your favourite type of bread and enjoy a tasty lunch! This is more of a take-away service; there are however,…

Voltalacarta

Voltalacarta is a small restaurant serving lovely Italian and Mediterranean fare that makes no compromises in terms of the high quality in service and food. Choose among tasteful seafood, grate tapas and cooling sangria! Reservation is recommended due to its popularity.

Osteria della Collina

This family-run restaurant serves amazing seafood in a cosy atmosphere emphasized by the extremely friendly and welcoming owners that will make you feel like home. Choose among pasta dishes, ravioli or seafood like lobster and afterwards pick a tasty dessert to end a perfect evening.

Le Mura di Malapaga

If you are a meat lover then Le Mura di Malapaga is the place for you: here you will be served delicious dish prepared to perfection whose main ingredient, meat, comes from local farmers. Enjoy your meal with one of their high quality bottles of wine!

Indarsena

Oyster is a special aphrodisiac, which you either love or dislike. The quality of the seafood at this hidden gem is superb and the service is impeccable and warm, you will really enjoy your dinner at this restaurant situated right in the centre of city.

La Cava

La Cava serves delicious fresh shellfish, plenty of pasta dishes and good pizza, all for reasonable prices and prepared with top quality ingredients. The chef, who is also the owner, and the staff are very friendly and committed to offering the best dining experience to their customers.

Bella Vida

The Restaurant Bella Vida is an elegant Brazilian restaurant located in the heart of Genoa with a cosy and exclusive ambience. At Bella Vida you can enjoy great masterpieces of Brazilian cuisine, all prepared by great chefs and served by highly qualified staff.

Voglie Di Pizza

Voglie di Pizza is one of the most recommended pizzerias in Genova where a variety of different flavours and fresh ingredients may make the customer choice harder than expected. You have the possibility to enjoy your pizza home or directly here, at Voglie di Pizza.

Il Masetto

In the heart of Genoa, Il Masetto spoils its numerous guests with mouth-watering burgers prepared exclusively with high quality ingredients of the Italian tradition. This spot is unique because of the unbeatable quality-price relationship: a must try.

Cafes

Italians are famous for their delicious food, ice cream and romantic cafés: in Genoa you will find many lovely cafes to rest your feet at after a day’s shopping and touring. Grab a strong espresso, a sweet delicacy of the region such as "pandolce" and enjoy!

Pasticceria Gelateria Mangini

Caffe Mangini is an old-fashioned gathering place that is just perfect for a coffee and something sweet to be enjoyed in a laid-back and familiar atmosphere. Treat yourself with a selection of their homemade small pastries; there are many tempting offers here.

Caffe Degli Specchi

Caffe Degli Specchi, in the city centre, opened in 1917 and has a beautiful tiled interior with mirrors everywhere – ’specchi’. This is a popular haunt of writers and artists, so come here for coffee, "aperitivo" or lunch and enjoy the cultural vibe!

Fratelli Klainguti

Fratelli Klainguti has a long history; it opened in 1828 by the four Swiss Klainguti brothers. This place has gone through different changes in style but still maintaining a particular retro feel. This is a great place for coffee, cakes, lunch and appetizer!

Caffetteria Orefici

This coffee place is well renowned in Genoa for offering the best coffee in the city. The atmosphere here is always cosy, busy and lively. So, grab an Espresso and a brioche and have a chat with the particularly friendly staff of Caffetteria Orefici.

Don Cola Café

This lounge bar/café has a clear concept: Sicily. Here, in fact, the staff will welcome you dressed in a unique Sicilian style, serving the best things that the region has to offer! Don Cola Café has also an excellent wine selection and delicious cocktails, so it is the perfect place to take an appetizer before…

Caffetteria Enoteca Chicchi d'Autore

This cosy and elegant cafeteria ensure prime quality service and products such as cappuccino, coffee and freshly served pastries. Caffetteria Enoteca Chicchi d'Autore is mainly popular among locals rather than tourists and this is an obvious synonym of quality.

Dolci Peccati

This is one of the most popular and appreciated café and bakery in town, even if it is not particularly spacious and it is located in the suburbs of Genoa. This means that everything else here is top-notch: the interior design, for example, is vintage and the pastel colours creates a lovely atmosphere. Come here…

Bars & Nightlife

Genoa has a lively nightlife, thanks to the vast number of students who attend the city’s university. During the week, bars, wine bars and pubs are popular – many of these are pretty small and people tend to hop from one to another as the evening progresses. Many bars opens around 6:00 pm for Italian aperitivo (a pre-meal drink) and stay open until around 1:00 am. On the weekend, closing time is extended to 2:00 am and many will have a DJ set on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Discotheques tend to be found outside of the city centre, alongside the magical Ligurian riviera.

Piazza delle Erbe

Piazza delle Erbe is just below Piazza de Ferrari and is a small square with tables around where several bars serves locals and travellers food, beer and wine. At night, especially on Fridays, the atmosphere gets very lively when many young locals are gathering here with friends.

Mako Discotheque

Mako Discotheque, three-in-one venue with an elegant cocktail bar, restaurant and nightclub, is located east of the city centre, in the famous Corso Italia where locals usually take a walk on evenings or on Sundays. Mako entertains its young locals including numerous guests with "easy house", R&B and revival music! Relax and sip a cocktail…

Britannia Pub

Britannia Pub is a British-styled spot with dark, wooden furniture and a cosy interior design. Here you will find an excellent selection of beer (particularly recommended are the Irish ones, such as the Kilkenny), but also burgers, fries and different kinds of herbal teas and coffees!

Les Rouges Cucina & Cocktails

Enjoy one of their sophisticated cocktails prepared with best quality, fresh ingredients or simply a glass of fine wine. Les Rouges is housed in an old building and it truly has a beautiful surrounding with high painted ceiling and an elegant and exclusive atmosphere. Their cocktails are just perfect, so make sure to try at…

Chupiteria Alla Goccia

Right in the heart of Genova you will find "Chupiteria alla Goccia", the centre of this city's movida. Stop by at this famous spot and mingle with the locals while trying cheap, colourful chupitos (shot) which are served by the friendly bartenders in a warm and welcoming venue!

28 Erbe

28 Erbe is a bar located in Piazza delle Erbe, in the heart of the historic centre and with its cosy atmosphere, they guarantees a very warm welcome. The guests, here, have the chance to taste some typical food with a nice selection of local wines and beers.

Count Basie Jazz Club

At this intimate, charming venue, you can enjoy musicians playing jazz and blues music. Count Basie Jazz Club has become an important meeting point for the locals that prefer spending the night in a calmer environment, listening to relaxing, celestial music.

Estoril Club

With its perfect location on the Ligurian beach, Estoril Club is a great place to have a fun evening out with friends. Besides offering an amazing sea view, the venue offers fresh seafood and typical cuisine-based aperitif; on the menu you will also find a large variety of cocktails and wine labels.

Cezanne

Cezanne is a historic club in Genoa, located just few hundred meters from the Fiera di Genova. It is suggested to a more mature clientele and a spot where you will spend a great night out, dancing to the tunes DJ are playing! Cezanne is only open on Fridays and on the weekends.

Banano Tsunami

This club has one of the best locations you could ever dream about: Banano Tsunami is, in fact, located right on the waters of Genoa's Port, offering the guests a great view. Give it a try during the weekend and dance the night away with a crowd of happy locals or on Wednesday when Erasmus…

Shopping

There is some good shopping in Genoa, from designer goods and shoes, through high-street fashion and cheap fakes. On Via XX Settembre, a long, wide boulevard right in the centre of the city, you will find high-quality chain stores, designer stores – and some good shoe stores. Rinascente, the well-known Italian department store is located in Via Vernazza, which runs parallel to Via XX Settembre. You will also find the Mercato Orientale a great food market, selling all kinds of fruit, vegetable, fish, meat, cheese and bread. Unlike many stores, it is open Monday morning. Nearby is Via Roma, which is also good for designer fashion. Running parallel is the 19th century glass and metal Galleria Mazzini, with small fashion and accessory stores and cafés. For more affordable shopping try heading to Maddalena, a maze of tiny streets. In this part of Genoa’s historic centre, you will find a huge range of small stores, selling clothing, jewellery, shoes and accessories food stores and bakeries. Via San Luca is good for contemporary high-street Italian fashion, but if you looking for a designer outlet and bargains, head to Via Caffa.