The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa is an energetic port city with a long and powerful trade history. Its terracotta-roofed houses and frescoed churches combine with fascinating museums and chic restaurants to create a charming seaside destination.

Things to do

Genoa boasts one of Europe’s largest historic centres, with narrow streets and alleys that open out onto lively piazzas. Don’t miss a visit to the Casa di Cristoforo Colombo in Piazza Dante, where the great explorer is said to have been born. Take a moment to admire the grandiose Doge’s Palace, which boasts neoclassical architecture that dominates Piazza de Ferrari.

Wander down the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Via Garibaldi, famed for its 16th-century residences, museums and Renaissance palaces. It’s a short walk from the Palazzo Spinola National Gallery, an opulent palace once belonging to the House of Grimaldi, which displays period furnishings, artworks and ceramics.

The Porto Antico of Genoa is a vibrant entertainment area with alfresco restaurants lining its waterfront promenade. Stop in at the Aquarium of Genoa, Europe’s largest, and explore the ship-like building next to the bubble-shaped Biosfera conservatory.

A short train ride around the harbour will take you to La Lanterna, Europe’s oldest lighthouse and one of the most prominent landmarks in Genoa. It dates back to 1543 and contains a small museum showcasing the history of the port and artefacts from the lighthouse’s history.

Getting around

The Aeroporto di Genova-Cristoforo Colombo is around 15 minutes’ drive west of the city centre, and there are regular train connections to destinations across Italy and France from the Genova Piazza Principe and Genova Brignole stations. Trains and buses access all corners of the city, while public elevators and cable railways connect the central area to hilltop suburbs.