Genoa City Guide

Genoa’s soul resides in its labyrinthine medieval center, one of Europe’s largest. Wandering through the narrow caruggi alleys reveals hidden gems, from centuries-old spice shops to the grand Palazzi dei Rolli on Via Garibaldi. These Renaissance and Baroque palaces, once used to host visiting royalty, are a testament to the city's golden age as a maritime powerhouse. For a panoramic perspective, the Spianata Castelletto offers a stunning view over the slate rooftops and the busy port.

The revitalized Porto Antico, redesigned by Renzo Piano, serves as the city’s modern social hub. It is home to the world-renowned Aquarium of Genoa and the Galata Museo del Mare, which chronicles the city's seafaring heritage. Beyond the industrial harbor, a stroll along the Corso Italia leads to Boccadasse, a charming fishing village with pastel-colored houses and a pebbled beach that feels worlds away from the urban bustle.

Genoa is a city of layers, where the most authentic experiences are often tucked away in the vertical labyrinth of its hills. While the Porto Antico draws the crowds, locals find solace in the creuze—ancient, brick-paved pedestrian paths that wind upward through the city. Walking these narrow alleys offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the Genoese, far above the bustle of the center.

For a taste of timeless elegance, visit Pietro Romanengo fu Stefano. This historic confectionery has been crafting candied fruits and chocolates since 1780, maintaining a level of craftsmanship that feels like stepping back into the 18th century. It is a sensory journey through the city’s merchant history.

While the fishing village of Boccadasse is iconic, its neighbor Vernazzola remains a quiet sanctuary. This small beach and harbor retain an unpretentious atmosphere where laundry hangs over the narrow streets and the sound of the sea is the only distraction. It is the perfect spot for a peaceful late-afternoon stroll after taking in the views from Spianata Castelletto.

Navigating Genoa's unique vertical landscape is an adventure in itself. The city’s public transportation network, managed by AMT, is comprehensive and includes buses, a single-line metro, and a fascinating array of historic funiculars and public lifts that scale the steep hillsides. For visitors, the historic center—Europe’s largest medieval quarter—is a labyrinth of narrow alleys called caruggi that are best explored exclusively on foot. While the metro is efficient for traveling between the main railway stations, Principe and Brignole, the iconic Zecca-Righi funicular offers spectacular views of the harbor as it climbs above the rooftops.

Connectivity from Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is straightforward via the Volabus, a dedicated shuttle that reaches the city center in about 30 minutes for a fare of approximately €6. Alternatively, taxis offer a more direct route; a standard trip from the airport to the central Piazza De Ferrari typically costs between €25 and €30. Within the city, a single 110-minute public transport ticket costs around €2, covering all buses, the metro, and lifts.

Taxis are reliable and can be found at designated stands or hailed via phone apps, though ride-sharing services like Uber are generally limited to premium options. For a more scenic perspective, the Navebus water taxi connects the Old Port (Porto Antico) to Pegli for about €5, providing a refreshing view of the city’s industrial and historic coastline. Whether taking a lift to a panoramic viewpoint or wandering the ancient waterfront, Genoa’s transit system is as characterful as the city itself.

Genoa offers a diverse shopping experience that mirrors its architectural contrasts. For high-end fashion, head to Via Roma and the elegant, glass-roofed Galleria Mazzini, where luxury boutiques and designer labels line the polished corridors. This area captures the city’s aristocratic past, providing a sophisticated backdrop for those looking for premium Italian and international brands.

For mainstream shopping and local staples, Via XX Settembre is the city’s bustling artery, filled with recognizable high-street names and department stores. While exploring, keep an eye out for Genoa’s famous exports: delicate silver filigree from the nearby hills, artisanal pesto, and olive oil. The historic center is home to 'botteghe storiche'—centuries-old shops like Pietro Romanengo fu Stefano, which has been crafting exquisite candied fruits and chocolates since 1780.

Budget-conscious shoppers and food lovers should not miss the Mercato Orientale. This vibrant indoor market is a sensory delight, offering everything from fresh local produce and spices to affordable snacks. It is the perfect place to pick up authentic Ligurian ingredients or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of Genoese daily life.

In Genoa, tipping is appreciated but never mandatory, as service is generally factored into the experience. When dining, you may see a small coperto, or cover charge, on your bill. If the service is particularly attentive at a trattoria or restaurant, rounding up the total or leaving a tip of 5% to 10% is a generous way to show gratitude. In the city's many cafes, leaving the small change from your order is the local norm.

Transactions are conducted in Euros (€), which currently exchange at approximately 1.10 USD to 1 EUR. For other services, such as taking a taxi or using a hotel porter, rounding up the fare or offering a couple of euros per bag is a polite gesture. These tips are viewed as a sincere compliment for high-quality service rather than a strict social obligation.

Spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer the most ideal balance for exploring Genoa’s labyrinthine old town. During these shoulder seasons, temperatures are pleasantly mild, making it perfect for walking the hilly streets without the intense humidity of mid-summer. Crowds are significantly thinner than during the peak holiday months, and accommodation prices are generally more competitive, allowing for a more authentic experience of the city’s vibrant street life and historical landmarks.

Summer brings heat and a surge in tourism, particularly as travelers use the city as a gateway to the nearby Riviera. While the atmosphere is energetic, those seeking a quieter, more budget-friendly visit might prefer the winter months. Although the weather can be damp and chilly, the city’s world-class museums and historic trattorias provide a cozy refuge, and visitors will find the lowest rates of the year and virtually no queues at major attractions.