Genoa Travel Guide: Top Things to See, Eat and Experience

Thinking about a trip to Italy but want to skip the usual hotspots? Genoa, the bustling port city on the Ligurian Sea, offers history, great food, and a vibrant football vibe without the crowds of Rome or Florence. You can wander narrow alleys, bite into fresh pesto pasta, and catch a live match all in one day. Below you’ll find the practical stuff you need to make the most of a Genoa visit.

Must‑Visit Sights in Genoa

Start at Via Garibaldi, the UNESCO‑listed street lined with Renaissance palaces. Each palace houses museums that showcase art, trading history, and the city’s maritime power. A quick walk brings you to the Old Port (Porto Antico), where the modern aquarium sits beside historic warehouses. Grab a coffee at a waterfront café and watch ferries come and go – it’s the perfect spot for people‑watching.

Don’t miss the Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo). Its black‑and‑white striped façade is iconic, and inside you’ll find the holy nails said to be from Christ’s crucifixion. A short climb up to the Spianata Castelletto offers sweeping city views; bring a jacket because the sea breeze can be brisk even in summer.

Food, Fun and Football

Genoa’s food scene is all about fresh, simple flavors. The local specialty is trofie al pesto, a twisted pasta tossed with basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese and olive oil. Look for family‑run trattorias near the historic center – they serve the dish right off the stove. For a quick snack, try a focaccia with olives or onions; you’ll find it at almost every street stall.

If you’re a football fan, a visit to Stadio Luigi Ferraris is a must. Home to Genoa C.F. and Sampdoria, the stadium buzzes with passion on match days. Even if there’s no game, you can tour the museum to see vintage jerseys, trophies, and stories of the city’s rivalry. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals love to chat about their team, so feel free to join the conversation.

Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along Corso Italia, the main promenade that stretches from the port up to the hills. The sea glints, the city lights flicker, and you can reflect on everything you’ve experienced. Whether you’re chasing history, hungry for authentic Italian food, or eager for a football vibe, Genoa packs all that into a compact, unforgettable package.