Top Things To Do In Genoa (Italy) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Genoa

1. 1. Genoa Aquarium Visit

   Immerse yourself in the wonders of the aquatic world at the Genoa Aquarium. As the largest aquarium in Italy and among the largest in Europe, it offers an exciting and educational day out for all ages. With 70 tanks housing over 12,000 animals representing more than 600 species, you can see everything from sharks to dolphins, and tropical fish to penguins. Visitors can journey through a variety of habitats, learn about marine ecosystems, and even enjoy interactive experiences. There's also a focus on conservation and the aquarium's role in protecting marine life. The Genoa Aquarium is not just a display of marine beauty; it is a center of research and education that inspires visitors to appreciate and respect the richness of the sea.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: €27 for adults, €22 for children (4-12 years), free for children under 3

2. 2. Historical Genoa Walking Tour

   Explore Genoa's rich history with a guided walking tour through its ancient streets. You'll discover hidden gems and learn about the city's past from an expert local guide. The walk takes you through the heart of Genoa's UNESCO-listed historic center. Here, you'll find a labyrinth of narrow alleys (caruggi) leading to splendid squares like Piazza de Ferrari and landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. You'll visit La Strada Nuova, now known as Via Garibaldi, lined with magnificent palaces from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Along the way, you will hear stories of Genoa's powerful maritime republic and the famous explorer Christopher Columbus. The tour offers a fantastic insight into the cultural and architectural splendor that has shaped Genoa over the centuries.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Approximately €15 per person

3. 3. Pesto Making Cooking Class

   Participate in a delightful cooking class to learn how to make authentic Ligurian pesto in Genoa, the birthplace of this world-famous sauce. The class includes a trip to the market to select fresh ingredients, including basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino cheeses, and extra-virgin olive oil. Under the expert tuition of a local chef, you'll discover the traditional method of making pesto using a mortar and pestle. Not only will you learn about the history and secrets of this versatile and delicious sauce, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy your freshly made pesto with pasta at the end of your class, celebrating your new culinary skills with a delightful meal.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Approximately €50 per person

4. 4. Porto Antico Boat Tour

   Take a scenic boat tour around Genoa’s Porto Antico (Old Port) and catch spectacular views of the city from the water. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to see the famous Lanterna lighthouse, the symbol of the city, along with a panoramic vista of Genoa’s skyline. Narration from the captain will provide insights into the historic and modern importance of Genoa's port, as well as anecdotes about the landmarks you see along the way. The Old Port, rejuvenated by the famous architect Renzo Piano, is also home to the Aquarium and the Biosphere, and this boat tour offers unique perspectives of these attractions as well as the bustling port activity.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Approximately €10 per person

5. 5. San Lorenzo Cathedral Rooftop Tour

   Embark on a fascinating journey to the rooftops of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Genoa's main church, for breathtaking views of the city. This unique tour allows you to explore the cathedral's intricate architecture from above while learning about its storied history. Visitors ascend the interior stairs, uncovering the Gothic and Romanesque elements of the structure, before emerging onto the rooftop. From this vantage point, the panoramic views of Genoa's skyline, intertwined with the sea and surrounding hills, are unmatched. The cathedral itself is a storied monument, dating back to the 12th century and housing a mix of artistic and architectural styles, testament to the various periods it has withstood.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Approximately €8 per person

6. 6. Rolli Palaces Guided Tour

   Delve into the splendor of the Genoese nobility with a guided tour of the Palazzi dei Rolli. These stunning palaces, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Via Garibaldi, include some of the most impressive examples of Genoese Baroque and Renaissance architecture. During the tour, you will gain access to the meticulously decorated interiors, grand staircases, and lush gardens. Learn about the history and significance of the Rolli system which designated these palaces for hosting prominent guests during the Republic of Genoa. The opulent decor and art, along with fascinating stories of their original inhabitants, make this tour a journey back to the heights of Genoese wealth and power.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Approximately €20 per person

7. 7. Boccadasse Fishing Village Visit

   Join a trip to the enchanting fishing village of Boccadasse, a hidden gem on the outskirts of Genoa. With its picturesque pastel-colored houses and a small pebbled beach, Boccadasse offers a tranquil escape from the city's bustle. You can stroll along the seafront, enjoy a gelato, and observe local fishermen bringing in their catch. The charming atmosphere of this little village, seemingly stuck in time, makes it perfect for a leisurely afternoon. While there, you can capture stunning photos, relax with a sea view at one of the cafés, or delight in the fresh seafood at a local trattoria. Boccadasse's simple beauty and traditional lifestyle provide a compelling juxtaposition to the vibrant urban life of nearby Genoa.

   Duration: Half-day trip · Price: Free to visit; costs vary for food, shopping, and transportation

8. 8. Galata Maritime Museum Adventure

   Explore Genoa's rich naval history at the Galata Maritime Museum, the largest museum of its kind in the Mediterranean. With its interactive exhibits across four floors, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through centuries of seafaring adventures. Visitors can step inside a reconstruction of a 17th-century galley ship, experience a storm simulation on an 18th-century frigate, and learn about the age of exploration and immigration by sea. The museum also features a submarine exhibit (accessible with a combi-ticket) where you can experience life aboard the WWII submarine Nazario Sauro. With a focus on education and innovation, the Galata Maritime Museum is a captivating visit for those eager to dive into Genoa’s maritime legacy.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: €13 for adults, €8 for children (4-12 years), free for children under 3

9. 9. Teatro Carlo Felice Opera Experience

   Spend an elegant evening at the Teatro Carlo Felice, Genoa's premier opera house, and immerse yourself in the city's refined cultural scene. The theater, with its exceptional acoustics and beautiful neoclassical design, offers a variety of performances, from opera to ballet, and classical concerts. Attending a show here is not only a feast for the ears but also for the eyes, as the theater itself is a marvel of architecture, boasting luxurious interiors. Before or after the performance, attendees can also explore the Piazza De Ferrari and the surrounding areas, which light up beautifully at night. The experience of seeing a live performance in such a grand setting is sure to be a highlight of your time in Genoa.

   Duration: Varies with performance · Price: Ticket prices vary with performance and seating, starting from approximately €25

10. 10. Nervi Parks and Promenade

    Discover the scenic beauty of the Nervi Parks, a complex of several beautifully landscaped public gardens along the seaside cliffs in the neighborhood of Nervi. Spanning over 22 hectares, this natural oasis features botanical gardens, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and a collection of roses, all framed by the stunning backdrop of the Ligurian Sea. A highlight is the Anita Garibaldi Promenade – a 2-kilometer walkway along the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs and coves below. These parks are the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or simply relaxing in the embrace of nature. The captivating scenery and tranquil environment provide visitors with a serene respite from the energetic pace of the city.

    Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free to visit