3-Day Genoa, Italy Travel Itinerary

Introduction:

Genoa City, located in northern Italy along the Ligurian coast, is a historic port city known for its rich maritime heritage, narrow alleyways called “caruggi,” and grand Renaissance architecture. Genoa is the capital of the Liguria region and was one of the most powerful maritime republics in Europe. Its old town is one of the largest in Europe and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 3-day itinerary in Genoa is perfect for discovering the charm of its medieval streets, scenic harbor, palaces, and unique cultural identity.

Places to Visit:

1. Piazza De Ferrari: This is Genoa’s main square and features a stunning central fountain and historic buildings, including the Teatro Carlo Felice and the Ligurian Academy of Fine Arts.
2. Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo): This Gothic-Romanesque cathedral is known for its striped façade and historical relics, including the ashes of St. John the Baptist.
3. Palazzi dei Rolli: These are a series of Renaissance and Baroque palaces once owned by noble families, recognized by UNESCO for their architectural and historical value.
4. Via Garibaldi: This elegant street is lined with grand palaces, many of which are now art museums, such as Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi.
5. Aquarium of Genoa (Acquario di Genova): One of the largest aquariums in Europe, this is located in the Porto Antico area and features marine species from around the world.
6. Porto Antico (Old Port): This redeveloped harbor area is home to restaurants, shops, and attractions like the Biosfera (glass dome rainforest) and the panoramic Bigo lift.
7. Boccadasse: A small, colorful fishing village within the city, Boccadasse is perfect for seaside walks and local seafood.
8. Galata Museo del Mare: This maritime museum offers immersive exhibits on Genoa’s naval history, including ship replicas and sailing simulations.
9. Castello d’Albertis: This 19th-century castle houses the Museum of World Cultures and provides panoramic views over Genoa’s harbor.
10. Spianata Castelletto: This terrace offers one of the best views of Genoa’s old town and harbor and is accessible via the historic Castelletto Elevator.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Historical Genoa and the City Center

• 8:00 AM: Begin at Piazza De Ferrari. Explore the central square and take photos (30 minutes).
• 8:30 AM: Walk to Genoa Cathedral (5 minutes) and admire its black-and-white striped exterior. Spend 30–45 minutes.
• 9:15 AM: Head to Via Garibaldi (10-minute walk) and visit Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco (1.5 hours).
• 11:00 AM: Walk down to Spianata Castelletto using the elevator (10 minutes). Enjoy panoramic views for 30 minutes.
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at Trattoria Rosmarino near Piazza De Ferrari.
• 2:00 PM: Visit Palazzi dei Rolli open to the public (1 hour).
• 3:30 PM: Leisure time shopping or coffee at Via XX Settembre, Genoa’s main shopping street.
• 6:00 PM: Dinner at Eataly Genova in Porto Antico, offering Ligurian cuisine with sea views.

Day 2: Porto Antico and Maritime Exploration

• 9:00 AM: Visit the Aquarium of Genoa in Porto Antico. Allocate at least 2 hours.
• 11:30 AM: Walk to the Biosfera and the Bigo Panoramic Elevator (1 hour total).
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Osteria di Vico Palla in the old port area.
• 2:30 PM: Tour the Galata Museo del Mare for an interactive maritime experience (1.5–2 hours).
• 5:00 PM: Enjoy a stroll around the Porto Antico promenade.
• 7:00 PM: Dinner at La Barcaccia near the marina.

Day 3: Cultural Escape and Coastal Charm

• 9:00 AM: Visit Castello d’Albertis (20 minutes by taxi or bus from the city center). Explore the museum and gardens for 1.5 hours.
• 11:00 AM: Travel to Boccadasse (20 minutes by taxi or bus). Stroll the seaside, have coffee or gelato.
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Trattoria Osvaldo in Boccadasse, known for its seafood dishes.
• 2:30 PM: Return to the city center and explore any missed museums or shops.
• 4:30 PM: Relax with a drink at Caffè degli Specchi near Via Roma.
• 7:00 PM: Final dinner at Il Marin, a fine-dining seafood restaurant with harbor views.

See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)

Best Time To Go:

The best time to visit Genoa is from April to June and September to October. These months offer mild Mediterranean weather (average temperatures of 17–25°C), fewer crowds, and sunny days ideal for walking tours and seaside visits. July and August are the hottest and most crowded, while winter months are quieter but cooler and occasionally rainy.

Activities To Do:

• Tour the Aquarium of Genoa: This is a must-see for families and marine life lovers, offering immersive tanks with sharks, dolphins, and Mediterranean species.
• Explore Palazzi dei Rolli: Many of these historic homes are open for public visits, especially during Rolli Days in spring and fall.
• Take a boat tour: Depart from Porto Antico and view Genoa’s coastline from the water. Some tours include dolphin spotting or sunset views.
• Wander through Boccadasse: This charming seaside district feels like a different world with pastel buildings, fishing boats, and small trattorias.
• Climb to Spianata Castelletto: This scenic overlook gives a sweeping view of Genoa’s old rooftops and is a peaceful place to relax.

Accommodations:

• Melia Genova: A 5-star hotel in the Carignano district with elegant rooms and an indoor pool.

• Grand Hotel Savoia: Historic luxury hotel near the train station, offering spa services and a rooftop terrace.

• NH Collection Genova Marina: Located in Porto Antico, close to the Aquarium and waterfront.

• B&B Hotel Genova City Center: Situated in Carignano, which puts you close to destinations and interesting dining options.

• Hotel Bristol Palace: Famous for its spiral staircase and central location near Via XX Settembre.

• Hotel Nologo: A themed budget hotel popular with younger travelers.

• Victoria House Hostel: A comfortable and social budget option near the city center.

Transportation Options:

• Metro: Single-line metro system connecting key city points.
• Buses and Funiculars: AMT buses and historic funiculars run throughout the city and up into the hills.
• Elevators: Genoa has public elevators like the Castelletto lift, useful for accessing hilly areas.
• Taxis: Available citywide and at major stations.
• Walking: Genoa’s old town is mostly pedestrian and best explored on foot.
• Car Rentals: Useful for day trips outside the city, but not recommended for the old center due to limited parking.
• Train: Regional trains connect Genoa to nearby towns and the Cinque Terre.
• Boats/Ferries: Harbor tours and summer ferries to coastal villages.

Tips:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Genoa’s steep hills and cobbled streets require sturdy footwear.
• Check Museum Opening Days: Many museums close on Mondays.
• Use Elevators and Funiculars: These make navigating the hilly city easier.
• Try Local Pesto: Genoa is the birthplace of pesto; try it in pasta dishes at traditional restaurants.
• Stay in the Old Town or Porto Antico: These areas are central and provide the best access to attractions.

Genoa City is a hidden gem in northern Italy that blends maritime heritage, cultural landmarks, and coastal beauty. Over three days, travelers can immerse themselves in its ancient alleyways, explore majestic palaces, and enjoy seaside villages like Boccadasse. With its strategic location, historic charm, and authentic Ligurian cuisine, Genoa offers an enriching and relaxing European getaway that is both cultural and scenic.