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Things to do in Genoa include exploring its old port city, located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. Genoa was once a powerful maritime republic and played a major role in Mediterranean trade for centuries. Its historic center is one of the largest in Europe and features medieval streets and ancient Romanesque churches. The city is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and has several museums dedicated to its maritime past. Visitors can tour Renaissance-era palaces, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Italy’s largest aquarium near the harbour.
Top 10 Things To Do In Genoa
Here is the following list including the most recommended things to do in Genoa for first-time travellers during their vacation:
1. Stroll Past The Palazzo Ducale
Photo: Didier Descouens / Wikimedia Commons
Palazzo Ducale once served as the residence of the Doge of Genoa and remains a significant symbol of civic life. Built in the 13th century, it has been reconstructed several times and now functions as a cultural center. The palace frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, and concerts. Visitors can admire the large central courtyard and explore the fresco-adorned halls. From the grand staircase to the ornate ceilings, the interiors reflect centuries of craftsmanship. This destination provides insights into Genoa’s political and artistic development over the years.
Major Attractions: Temporary art exhibitions, frescoes, grand staircases
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Location: Piazza Giacomo Matteotti, 9, 16123 Genoa, Italy
2. Discover The Museum Of Illusions
Photo: Tdorante10 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Museum of Illusions presents an engaging experience using scientific ideas to explore how the mind interprets visual input. Each room introduces a different concept, offering hands-on learning through optical setups, balance challenges, and mirrored environments. Suitable for all age groups, it encourages problem-solving in a playful format. The museum offers variety through rotating exhibits that keep experiences fresh for returning visitors. Its central location makes it convenient to visit, particularly when indoor activities are preferable. It’s ideal for both curious minds and casual explorers.
Major Attractions: Illusion rooms, interactive displays, scientific explanations
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM (Daily)
Location: Via XX Settembre, 11, 16121 Genoa, Italy
3. View The Piazza De Ferrari
Photo: ValeDeNe / Teatroge / Wikimedia Commons
Piazza de Ferrari stands out as one of the most photographed public spaces in Genoa and ranks high among things to see in Genoa. Framed by architectural contrasts from different periods, it features a bronze fountain at its center that draws consistent foot traffic. The area links cultural and commercial zones, hosting events ranging from open-air concerts to seasonal fairs. Iconic structures like the stock exchange and Carlo Felice Theatre surround the square. Its broad plaza provides a useful starting point for directing historical and commercial areas.
Major Attractions: Central fountain, historic buildings, nearby cafes
Timings: 24*7
Location: Piazza Raffaele De Ferrari, 16121 Genoa, Italy
4. Tour The House Of Christopher Columbus
Photo: Ettorre (gregorio) mail: ettorre@gmail.com / Wikimedia Commons
Often regarded as one of the best things to do in Genoa, visit this reconstructed building claiming to be the home of Christopher Columbus during his youth. Though not the original structure, the house provides information on the navigator’s early life and the maritime conditions of his time. The site is located near Porta Soprana and offers views of the ancient city walls. Exhibits inside highlight Columbus’s achievements and his connection to Genoa. It is a compact yet informative stop on any heritage trail.
Major Attractions: Columbus exhibits, medieval setting, proximity to Porta Soprana
Timings: 11 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Location: Via di Porta Soprana, 16121 Genoa, Italy
5. Wander Through The Centro Storico (Historic Center)
Photo: Mongolo1984 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Centro Storico invites visitors to walk through Genoa’s living history, with its alleyways forming a dense network of medieval streets. It is filled with historic buildings, artisan workshops, old markets, and small piazzas. Visitors can explore Romanesque churches, discover local street art, and sample handmade products. The blend of aged facades and modern street culture presents a multi-century timeline in one area. It’s easy to spend hours here, observing how daily life interacts with centuries-old structures that remain in continuous use today by residents and merchants.
Major Attractions: Romanesque churches, artisan shops, medieval alleys
Timings: 24*7
Location: Central Genoa, near Piazza de Ferrari
6. Spend Time At The Genoa Aquarium
Photo: Superchilum / Wikimedia Commons
The Genoa Aquarium remains a major attraction due to its extensive marine exhibits. It presents more than 70 distinct environments, each replicating conditions found in ecosystems such as coral reefs, polar zones, and freshwater habitats. Visitors encounter dolphins, sea turtles, jellyfish, and tropical species. Informational signs provide scientific facts about species behavior and conservation challenges. The aquarium supports research and breeding programs, contributing to marine knowledge. Its position in the Porto Antico district makes it easy to combine with nearby maritime attractions and family-friendly experiences.
Major Attractions: Marine exhibits, tropical zones, shark tanks
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM (Daily)
Location: Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genoa, Italy
7. Walk Along Via XX Settembre
Photo: Al*from*Lig / Wikimedia Commons
Via XX Settembre serves as Genoa’s primary shopping street and features an eclectic mix of local and international stores. The avenue also includes historical arcades and decorative buildings with elaborate facades. It connects major points within the city and remains busy with pedestrians during most of the day. Window shopping here offers insight into current trends and local preferences. Seasonal sales and pop-up markets often take place along this stretch. Its central location makes it easy to access on foot or by public transport.
Major Attractions: Shopping stores, arcaded sidewalks, architectural facades
Timings: 24*7
Location: Via XX Settembre, Genoa, Italy
8. Visit The San Lorenzo Cathedral
Photo: Peter K Burian / Wikimedia Commons
San Lorenzo Cathedral holds architectural features from several historical periods, making it an important destination for both religious and cultural exploration. Its striped exterior and rose window stand out immediately. Inside, visitors find chapels, sculptures, and relics significant to Christian history. One display includes an unexploded WWII bomb, which adds a modern layer to its story. The crypt and bell tower are open to the public, offering different perspectives of the structure. It continues to function as a place of worship while welcoming visitors daily.
Major Attractions: Bell tower, crypt, striped façade
Timings: 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM to 6 PM (Daily)
Location: Piazza San Lorenzo, 16123 Genoa, Italy
9. Browse The Maritime Museum
Photo: Katie Chan / Wikimedia Commons
One of the more comprehensive historical experiences, the Galata Museo del Mare traces the city’s maritime legacy through several centuries. Life-size reconstructions, interactive sections, and multimedia features explain navigation, trade, and ship design. An entire section documents the Italian migration story with recreated ship cabins. Outside, visitors can tour a real submarine docked in the harbor. Its educational focus appeals to students and families alike. The museum remains an essential stop for those interested in naval history.
Major Attractions: Submarine tour, emigration exhibit, ship models
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Mondays)
Location: Calata Ansaldo De Mari, 1, 16126 Genoa, Italy
10. Roam Around The Narrow Lanes Or Caruggis
Photo: Arbenganese / Wikimedia Commons
The Caruggi offers an intricate network of tight alleys reflecting Genoa’s medieval past. Exploring these lanes provides access to traditional bakeries, artisan workshops, and quiet chapels. Without formal direction, walking through this maze reveals how closely homes, businesses, and worship spaces were once arranged. Along the way, visitors may find historic stone signs, overhead clotheslines, and graffiti artworks. The experience gives a better understanding of how Genoa’s urban design developed over centuries. It also presents opportunities to discover lesser-known places away from major tourist routes.
Major Attractions: Local shops, hidden chapels, street art
Timings: 24*7
Location: Historic Centre, Genoa, Italy
The list of things to do in Genoa includes a mix of cultural, historical, and interactive experiences for all age groups. Whether you prefer exploring museums, walking through medieval streets, or viewing architectural structures, Genoa offers meaningful stops throughout the city. Each location tells a different story about Genoa’s past and present. Plan your visit with varied interests in mind and make the most of what this coastal Italian city offers. Explore more curated experiences through TripXL for a well-planned Italian holiday.
Cover Photo: Cristian Manieri / Pexels
