ISSIMO’s Travel Guide to Genoa

June 11, 2025

ISSIMO’s Travel Guide to Genoa

Here’s your little black book to La Superba

Genoa might be one of our favourite cities in Italy. It has everything we love: a centro storico that’s a layered marvel of medieval alleyways, baroque palaces, sun-drenched piazzas, fantastic food and a debonair atmosphere that’s both enchanting and elusive.

And then there’s its history as one of the major maritime powers in the Middle Ages, which only adds to its charm. Back then, the Ligurian port city was a worthy rival of Venice and Pisa, and a crucial getaway to the rest of Europe and the world. That role shaped its identity and soul, turning it into a place where not only goods, but ideas, were traded and exchanged.

It’s no wonder its nickname was – and still is – La Superba (“the haughty”).

Often overlooked for its Riviera neighbors, Genoa rewards the curious traveler with rich culture , bold flavours, and a sense of discovery that’s increasingly hard to find. Here’s how to experience it the ISSIMO way.

see

If you get into town by train, you’ll arrive at Genova Piazza Principe, the city’s central railway station. From here, head straight to the medieval centro storico, a maze of narrow alleys known as "caruggi." Discover hidden churches, artisan shops, and intimate cafés around every corner, ultimately making your way to Genoa’s main square, Piazza de Ferrari, and its bronze fountain.

The Doge's Palace and the Teatro Carlo Felice, two of Genoa’s architectura gems, are a short walk from here, and a must-visit. Afterwards, continue on to one of the many centuries-old churches around you, such as the Gothic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, arguably the city’s most important sacred site.

The grand and oh-so elegant Via Garibaldi is next up and, along it, the beautiful palaces once used to host visiting dignitaries (a system known as the "Rolli"). In 2006, the buildings, as well as other palazzi on the nearby Via Balbi, Via Cairoli, Via Lomellini and Via San Luca were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title "Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli,” for representing a unique and early example of urban development planning, especially concerning the use of public lodgings in private residences. Spend some time studying them: They’re stunning displays of 16th and 17th centuries architecture – think late Renaissance and Baroque periods – as well as a perfect window into Genoa's political, economic, and social heydays.

Today, some of the palazzi house public bodies and museums that are very much worth a visit – Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi feature masterpieces by Caravaggio, Veronese, and Van Dyck, for instance. Go in, and prepare to be impressed once more.

Last but not least, wrap up the day at La Lanterna, Genoa’s historic lighthouse, which has guided sailors since the 12th century. Climb its 172 steps for panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline: At 77 meters, this is the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean, and a true Genoese symbol.

eat

Genoa – and Liguria – is, of course, synonymous with pesto. Try it at Antica Osteria di Vico Palla or at Il Genovese, where it is still prepared in the traditional marble mortar; then sample the city's beloved street foods: focaccia, a fluffy olive oil bread, and farinata, a savoury chickpea pancake. Panificio Mario is a local favourite for both, followed closely by Il Focaccino.

Once you’ve covered your carb fix, continue exploring: Head to Mercato Orientale to wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, cheeses, and Ligurian specialties – a great spot to pick up a jar of pesto to bring back home – treat yourself to the exquisite sweets of Romanengo 1780, Italy’s oldest confectionary shop; and indulge in a Michelin-starred seafood dinner at Il Marin, a sleek restaurant in the old port whose cuisine focuses on regional dishes updated with modern techniques.

do

Have some spare time? Visit the Acquario di Genova,one of Europe's largest, for an immersive experience into marine life – fitting for a city with such a rich maritime heritage. Or consider a day trip to Boccadasse, just a short bus ride from the city centre. It’s a charming fishing village that boasts colourful houses, a pebble beach, and seaside trattorias serving fresh seafood. Camogli, a quick train ride away, is another seaside village worth checking out – a postcard-perfect destination with pastel-coloured houses, a quaint harbour, and a relaxed Riviera vibe. Spend the day wandering its narrow lanes, sampling fresh focaccia, or lounging on the pebble beach. If you're up for a walk, take the scenic hike to San Fruttuoso Abbey — accessible only by boat or foot — where a mediaeval monastery meets turquoise waters.