Genoa 7 Day Itinerary

7 Days in Genoa: A Detailed Itinerary

This itinerary explores the highlights of Genoa while leaving room for your own discoveries. Feel free to customize it based on your interests!

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Genoa’s Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) or Genoa Piazza Principe train station. Take a shuttle or taxi to your hotel in the city center.

  • Accommodation: For your first stay, consider a charming hotel in the heart of the historic district. Some recommendations include:

    • Hotel Palazzo della Mercanzia: Luxurious and centrally located.
    • Hotel de Ferrari: Elegant boutique hotel with stunning views.
    • Hotel Bristol Palace: Historic luxury hotel with a central location.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Ligurian focaccia at Focacceria S.Stefano, located in the vibrant Boccadasse district, and soak in the charming seaside atmosphere.

    • Explore: Wander through the narrow alleys of the Centro Storico (Historic Center). Visit the iconic Cattedrale di San Lorenzo with its stunning black-and-white striped facade, and the Palazzo Ducale, a beautiful 16th-century palace that often hosts exhibitions.

  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Ristorante Il Genovese overlooking the harbor.

Day 2: Genoa’s History & Culture

  • Morning:

    • Activity: Dive into Genoa’s maritime history at the Galata Museo del Mare. Explore the exhibits on shipbuilding, naval exploration, and marine life.

    • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Antica Focacceria di Luigi, renowned for its authentic focaccia and other Ligurian specialties.

    • Activity: In the afternoon, wander through the historic “caruggi” (narrow alleys) of Genoa’s Old Town. Visit Piazza San Matteo, home to the Museo di Sant’Agostino, which houses impressive works by local artists like Domenico Fiasella.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Ligurian dinner at Ugo’s Trattoria in the Boccadasse neighborhood, known for its delicious seafood and fresh pasta dishes.

Day 3: A Taste of the Past

  • Activity: Explore the Via Garibaldi, a street lined with beautiful Renaissance palaces. Visit the Palazzo Rosso, the Palazzo Bianco, and the Palazzo Doria Tursi – all architectural gems.

  • Activity: Indulge in a traditional Genoese pesto demonstration at a local cooking school or culinary shop like “La Casa del Pesto”. Learn the secrets of this iconic sauce!

  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Porto Antico (Old Port) for a scenic cruise along the Ligurian coast.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a casual meal in Piazza Carignano at Osteria La Sosta, known for its classic Italian dishes with a modern twist.

Day 4: Aquarium Adventures & Genoese Treats

  • Activity: Visit the Genoa Aquarium (Acquario di Genova), one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at Parco del Righi while admiring the breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.
  • Evening: Experience the culinary delights of “Farinata” at Osteria della Piazza for a unique taste of Genoa.

Day 5: Exploring the Past & Present

  • Activity: Hike up to the top of the Lantern (La Lanterna), the oldest lighthouse in the Mediterranean, and explore its history.

  • Lunch: Head to “Trattoria da Bruno” for a classic Ligurian lunch experience.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious meal at “Il Marinaro”, a charming restaurant with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. This is a great opportunity to try some traditional dishes from Genoa.

  • Tip: Explore the historic “caruggi” and enjoy the beauty of Genoa’s historical architecture.

Day 6: Hiking & History

  • Activity: Hike along the scenic coastal trails near Porto Antico, enjoying views of the sea and the city’s stunning coastline.

  • Lunch: Savor the flavors of Liguria with a fresh seafood lunch at “Trattoria del Mare” while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery.

Day 7: Farewell & Future Travels

  • Activity: Enjoy one last delicious meal in Genoa’s “focaccia”-themed Old Town, and savor the flavors of Ligurian cuisine.

Explore the city:

  • Walking: The best way to experience Genoa is on foot.
  • Public Transport: Utilize Genoa’s efficient public transport system, including buses, the metro (one line), and funiculars, for navigating the hills and exploring different neighborhoods.
  • Genoa Pass: Consider purchasing a Genoa Pass for access to various attractions and transportation benefits.

Transportation Tips:

  • Funiculars: Use these for a fun and easy way to climb the hills of Genoa.
  • Public Transport: Genoa has a good public transport system, including buses, trains, and the metro. You can purchase a Genoa Pass for access to all of it.
  • Walking: Explore the charming “caruggi” (narrow alleys) on foot.

Things to note:

  • Walking: Genoa is a hilly city, so be prepared to walk up and down steep inclines. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water!

  • Walking Tours: Guided walking tours are a great way to see the major attractions in a structured and informative way.

  • Public Transport: The Genoa Pass can be used for free public transport within the city.

  • Genoa Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in Europe, it’s a must-visit for any marine enthusiast.

For your meals, enjoy the culinary delights of “Uguale” (traditional Ligurian dishes) or “La Trattoria del Mare” (delicious seafood).