Top 5 things to do in Genoa

Genoa, Italy’s coastal city and capital of the Liguria region, is a wonderful city to discover. Its history, gastronomy and maritime influence make it a major European city. Its port is one of the most important on our continent. For more than seven centuries, Genoa was considered one of the most powerful maritime republics. Apart from this aspect, which gives the city its economic importance, Genoa is a typical Italian city of ochre-coloured houses, narrow cobbled streets and incredible viewpoints. And, as in the rest of Italy, the food is excellent, which is all the more reason to visit Genoa for a holiday. Here are five things to do in Genoa to discover the Liguria region.

1- Observe the marine fauna

Category: €€ / Unusual /Sensations

Description: On this excursion lasting around four hours, you’ll take to the open sea to get away from the hustle and bustle of Genoa city centre. Practical information: this activity takes place on Sundays in April, May and October. From June to September, it is available on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Once on board, you’ll sail for a good half-hour to get a good look at the marine biodiversity. Among them, you’ll have the chance to see several types of dolphin, Mediterranean whales and sperm whales. There’s also a magnificent view of the sea. You’ll be accompanied by a biologist guide who will tell you all about the habits and lives of these fascinating wild animals.

2- Discover local specialities

Category: €€€ / Gastronomic

Description: Italian cuisine is renowned in every corner of the globe. It is often described as the best in the world. By using simple foods like wheat, Italians manage to bring us happiness. And Genoa is no exception. Specialities such as cheese focaccia make our taste buds dance. This culinary tour is sure to please. You’ll discover the narrow streets of Genoa city centre accompanied by a local gastronome. You’ll make several stops at traditional places to sample the best of what the Ligurian region has to offer. There are five food stops in all, including savoury dishes, a dessert, a coffee and an alcoholic drink. Let yourself be carried away by the multitude of flavours on this culinary tour!

3- Visit the Liguria region for a day

Category: € / Cultural

Description: For one day, you will discover the sublime region of Liguria and three famous towns in the area. From Genoa, take the ferry to Camogli, a beautiful coastal town with just 5,000 inhabitants. Contemplate the sublime colourful houses that make Camogli such an exceptional village. Once you’ve visited Camogli, hop back on the ferry and head for San Fruttuoso and its abbey, which you won’t want to miss. Next, you’ll travel (again by ferry) to the most famous of the towns mentioned above. You’ll discover the town of Portofino, which has inspired artists such as Dalida with her song “Love in Portofino”. The ferry will take you back to Genoa.

4- Take a walk in a magnificent setting

Category: €€€ /Sporty

Description: If you want to get to know Genoa better, it doesn’t hurt to get a bit of height and do a bit of sport in the process. First, you’ll walk with your guide through Genoa’s historic city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you’ve warmed up, you’ll take Genoa’s 120-year-old historic funicular railway! Follow your guide along the longest system of city walls in Europe. After a short walk, you’ll come across a belvedere offering one of the best views in Genoa. To round off this sporty tour, there’s nothing better than a bite to eat in a typical Osteria. Here you can enjoy focaccia and homemade biscuits.

5- Discover Genoa’s most prestigious palaces

Category: € / Cultural

Description: Genoa is a city of architectural marvels, including the Rolli Palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rolli Palaces are residences built during the 16th century by the greatest aristocratic families of Liguria. This collection of palaces is sublime and extremely well preserved. Contemplate the gilding and mouldings on the ceilings, the works of art – all the details will leave you speechless. During your visit, your guide will tell you all about the history of these centuries-old buildings.