Curator’s statement
The historic city of Genoa, often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, offers a unique blend of medieval charm, coastal allure, and culinary delights. Genoa's narrow cobblestone streets, designed to confuse invaders from the sea, lead visitors from maritime museums, aquariums, and the grand palazzi of aristocratic mariner families to cozy trattorias where local specialties, like pesto, await.
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Where to stay in Genoa
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Things to do in Genoa
Aquarium of Genoa
Immerse your family in an underwater wonderland at one of Europe's largest aquariums. Encounter marine life, a spectacular dolphin show, and the pirate ship outside for a whimsical photo opportunity.
Galata Museo del Mare
Explore this expansive maritime museum with reconstructed ships, a moored submarine, and an incredible exhibition about the Italian Emigrant experience.
Boccadasse
Take a short train ride to this picturesque seaside village with pastel-colored houses and enjoy lunch and a gelato after exploring.
Parco Avventura Genova
Head to Righi via the city's funicular and experience an adventure park with treetop trails and ziplines – perfect for an active family afternoon.
Palazzo Reale
Genoa’s Royal Palace. Explore the grand rooms and gardens and let the kids feel like princes and princesses for the day.
The Christopher Columbus House
Located not far from one of the ancient city gates, this reconstruction of his original childhood home sparks the imagination.
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
No visit to an Italian town or city is complete without visiting at least one church, and this one has a replica of an unexploded WWII bomb inside.
Day Trips:
Portofino - A picturesque fishing village on the Italian Riviera, this is a favorite destination for yachting enthusiasts and the rich and famous. Have a coffee in the Piazzetta, walk up to Castello Brown and Chiesa di San Giorgio for the views, shop, dine and admire the yachts.
Places to eat & drink in Genoa
Antica Osteria di Vico Palla
Enjoy lunch with a view at this charming spot in the city center. The terrace offers stunning vistas, and the pasta choices are sure to please all tastes.
Sa Pesto
Pies and farinata pancakes, typical of this area of Liguria.
Trattoria Ugo
Regional dishes and homemade pesto in a casual trattoria.
Il Genovese
Classic dishes with local ingredients.
Trattoria Rosmarino
Indulge in authentic Genoese flavors, with trofie al pesto being a local favorite. Share a delightful tiramisu for a sweet ending to your meal.
Profumo di Rosa
Treat the family to gelato from this delightful spot. Choose from a variety of flavors, each a new adventure in sweetness.
Gelateria Profumo
More gelato – because KIDS!
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Travel Advisor
Ashley Emala
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy.