Italy · Region
Genoa
Genoa is a dense, vertical port city where pastel palazzi and one of Europe's largest medieval old towns tumble down to a working harbor still shaped by its history as a maritime republic. Narrow caruggi alleys open onto grand Renaissance streets and a bustling waterfront, giving the birthplace of Christopher Columbus a gritty, lived-in character quite different from Italy's more polished tourist hubs.
Top-rated things to do in Genoa
Live prices from Klook. Booking through these links supports our free guides at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay in Genoa
Compare Genoa hotels and stays at the lowest price — deals, ratings, and real traveler reviews.
Search hotels in Genoa →Booking links are affiliate links — booking through them supports our free guides at no extra cost to you.
Plan your trip to Genoa
Some links above are affiliate links — if you book through them, Wander Atlas earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's how we keep every guide free.
Frequently asked questions about Genoa
How do I get to Genoa?
Most travellers fly into Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), then take the Volabus shuttle service (~25-30 minutes) into the centre, stopping at the Principe and Brignole railway stations; a rail connection via the nearby Sestri Ponente Aeroporto station is also possible for onward train travel. Genoa's two main stations, Principe and Brignole, also make it an easy rail stop for those arriving from other Italian or French cities along the coast.
How many days should I spend in Genoa?
Plan on ~2-3 days to explore the old town, port, and a few key sights, with extra time useful for day trips along the Ligurian coast.
What is Genoa known for?
Genoa is a dense, vertical port city where pastel palazzi and one of Europe's largest medieval old towns tumble down to a working harbor still shaped by its history as a maritime republic. Narrow caruggi alleys open onto grand Renaissance streets and a bustling waterfront, giving the birthplace of Christopher Columbus a gritty, lived-in character quite different from Italy's more polished tourist hubs.