Genoa Tourist Information

Genoa Travel Guide

Genoa was named the 2004 European Capital of Culture for its large and well preserved historical centre. It's a great tourist destination and many people cram as many tourist attractions in as possible by booking a Genoa tour. Its narrow streets and alleys will lead you back to antiquity, when the city was the most important harbour of the Mediterranean Sea. Famed as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, the city was founded by the Romans as a trade route with Gaul and the northern empire.

Genoa is a must visit place for those interested in culture. The Museums of Fine Arts can be found in the Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Rosso, which house many masterpieces of the Renaissance along with other important works. There are two museums of modern art in Genoa, and the largest European collection of Asian art which can be found at the Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art.

Countless medieval works are on display at the Museum of St Augustine and the Cathedral Museum, with superb private collections available for viewing at Luxoro Museum and Raccolte Frugone. The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, the world famous explorer, is located in the Piazza Dante, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a fabulous example of Genovese architecture.

Genoa Tourist Attractions

The city has the largest aquarium in Europe, filled with exotic examples of marine life, and a naval museum dedicated to Genoa's seafaring history. For an excellent view of the city's Romanesque churches and seaport visitors can climb the Spianata Castelletto. Several beautiful palaces and villas that once belonged to the city's wealthy merchants are located around the town.

The Old Harbour (Porto Antico) is the heart of the entertainment district with museums, cinemas, cafés and a lovely promenade along the sea. The food in Genoa has been excellent for centuries, and the city offers numerous places to shop and dine. A drive outside Genoa will reveal the region's romantic countryside, with Florence and Milan only a few hours away.

Transport Around Genoa

Genoa is reachable by air via Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, or by transferring through Milan, Pisa and Rome. The city centre can be enjoyed on foot, or by Genoa's convenient bus system and limited metro line. Taxis are ubiquitous, and hire cars are recommended for those wishing to explore further afield.

Travel insurance is recommended for those visiting Genoa. While it is considered a safe place to visit, medical bills can be expensive when dealing with an accident or serious illness. Enjoy your trip knowing that you and your loved ones are covered in the event of a medical emergency.