things to do in genoa italy
Genoa, Italy, is a historic port city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Here are some top things to do in Genoa:
Explore the Historic Center: Genoa’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with narrow streets, picturesque piazzas, and stunning medieval architecture. Visit the Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of the city, and explore the surrounding streets and alleys.
Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo: This stunning cathedral is one of Genoa’s most iconic landmarks, featuring a unique blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
Walk along the Porto Antico: The Porto Antico is Genoa’s historic harbor, now transformed into a vibrant waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Take a stroll along the harbor, visit the Aquarium of Genoa, and enjoy the street performers and live music.
Visit the Aquarium of Genoa: The Aquarium of Genoa is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe, featuring over 15,000 marine animals from around the world.
Take a funicular ride to the top of the city: Genoa is a hilly city, and one of the best ways to experience its stunning views is to take a funicular ride to the top of the city. There are several funiculars to choose from, each offering breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
Visit the Palazzo Reale: The Palazzo Reale is a stunning royal palace that served as the residence of the Savoy dynasty. Today, it houses several museums, including the National Gallery of Palazzo Reale, which features an impressive collection of Italian art.
Explore the Lanterna: The Lanterna is Genoa’s iconic lighthouse, standing tall at 77 meters (253 feet). Take a guided tour to the top for stunning views of the city and the sea.
Visit the Museo di Palazzo Rosso: The Museo di Palazzo Rosso is a museum housed in a stunning 17th-century palace, featuring an impressive collection of Italian art, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Veronese.
Take a day trip to the Cinque Terre: The Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful towns on the Ligurian coast, just a short train ride from Genoa. Take a day trip to explore these charming towns, hike the famous trails, and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Enjoy the local cuisine: Genoa is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes such as pesto, focaccia, and farinata. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit, and don’t forget to wash it down with a glass of Vermentino wine.
Visit the Chiesa del Gesù: The Chiesa del Gesù is a stunning Jesuit church, featuring an impressive collection of Baroque art and architecture.
Explore the Mercato Orientale: The Mercato Orientale is a bustling marketplace filled with fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some unique gifts.
Take a stroll through the Parco dell’Acquasola: The Parco dell’Acquasola is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city, featuring stunning gardens, fountains, and walking trails.
Visit the Museo Navale di Pegli: The Museo Navale di Pegli is a naval museum located in the Pegli district, featuring an impressive collection of maritime artifacts and exhibits.
- Attend a performance at the Teatro Carlo Felice: The Teatro Carlo Felice is a stunning opera house, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year, including opera, ballet, and concerts.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Genoa, Italy. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural surroundings, Genoa is a city that has something for everyone.