Genoa travel guide

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Overview
CIAO GENUA
WORTH SEEING
MONUMENTAL
DAY TRIPS
ABOVE GENOA
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
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Ciao Genua

Welcome to Genoa
The breathtaking city of Genoa is a true gem in the
region and offers countless attractions for visitors. It
serves as the capital of the Italian region of Liguria
and is situated on the picturesque Ligurian coast of
the Mediterranean Sea. Due to its long history,
dating back to the ancient world, Genoa remains
an important port city with a significant role in
trade and exploration.
At the same time, modern-day Genoa showcases its
contemporary side: A vibrant cultural scene
characterises this metropolis. Art and architecture
enthusiasts can explore numerous museums and
galleries, while visitors can savour culinary delights
in the many local restaurants and bars. Additionally,
various festivals and events throughout the year
ensure there's always something happening.
Boredom is certainly not an option in Genoa!
A definite highlight is the historic centre of Genoa,
which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site
since 2006. Here, visitors can stroll through narrow
alleys and admire magnificent palaces from the
Middle Ages to the Renaissance period.
Particularly impressive are the numerous churches
with their intricate frescoes and sculptures, as well
as the famous La Lanterna lighthouse, the symbol
of Genoa.
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Maritime republic Genoa
The city of Genoa in Italy was once a significant
maritime republic, existing from 958 to 1797 and
known as the "Gateway to the World." It was
considered one of the most powerful naval forces
in the Mediterranean, with colonies on three
continents.
In the tenth century, Genoa was merely a small
trading town. However, over the next 200 years, it
evolved into the leading maritime trading power of
the Mediterranean. Luxury goods such as spices
and silk, as well as financial services, were offered
here.
Throughout its turbulent history, the Republic of
Genoa participated in many wars, including the
First Crusade and the Hundred Years' War against
France. It also engaged in fierce battles with its
rival cities of Venice and Pisa on multiple occasions.
In the year 1797, French troops conquered the citystate
republic, bringing an end to Genoa's power.
The Republic of Genoa is considered a pioneering
example of a medieval city-state republic. It was
powerful and influential, shaping the history of the
Mediterranean region. The first public hospital in
Europe was established here, and the continent's
first stock exchange was also founded in this port
city.
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Worth seeing

Porto Antico
The Porto Antico in Genoa was once
the industrial port adjacent to the
historic old town. In the year 1992, to
mark the 500th anniversary of the
discovery of America, the Genoese
architect Renzo Piano revitalised and
restructured the port. Since then, the
Porto Antico has exerted an irresistible
attraction on both tourists and the
residents of the city of Genoa. It is not
only a popular destination for travellers
but also plays a crucial role in the city's
development. The proud Porto Antico
now serves as a showcase for how old
industrial structures can be successfully
transformed into modern areas for
leisure and culture. Today, the Porto
Antico is a model for other cities
worldwide.
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Aquarium of Genoa
The "Acquario di Genova" in Genoa is the
second-largest aquarium in Europe. Visitors
can marvel at over 70 different habitats,
showcasing a variety of 12,000 specimens
from 600 different marine species.
A tour of the aquarium takes approximately
two and a half hours. During this time,
visitors can experience realistic recreations
of the habitats of numerous fish and reptiles
across 39 tanks.
The aquarium's halls cover an area of about
9,700 square metres, including three large
seawater tanks where dolphins, sharks,
seals, and sea turtles live alongside a
multitude of smaller fish.
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Biosphere
Opposite the aquarium, you will see an
impressive steel and glass dome with a
diameter of 20 metres. This microcosm of
exotic wildlife hosts a variety of tropical
creatures, including up to 150 different
species of animals and plants.
Upon entering the building, visitors can
stroll beneath the branches of some of the
world's tallest ferns and wander among
plant species that typically only thrive in
tropical regions.
It is an extraordinary botanical garden,
which is also home to many different bird
species.
The computer-controlled biosphere also
houses some land turtles, fish, and insects.
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Galata - Museo del mare
The largest museum of its kind in the
Mediterranean is the maritime museum
"Galata - Museo del Mare." The museum is
located in the Palazzo Galata, named after
the ancient colony of Galata, in Darsena, a
district where galleys were once built. In
addition to an authentic replica of a
Genoese galley, the museum offers a variety
of interactive exhibition rooms that illustrate
life at sea. A significant portion of the
exhibition is dedicated to maritime trade
during the time of the Republic of Genoa.
Particularly noteworthy is the simulation of a
storm at Cape Horn.
In the outdoor area, visitors can find the
submarine Nazario Sauro, which was
decommissioned in the year 2002.
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Panoramic lift Bigo
Bigo is one of the most spectacular
attractions in Porto Antico: a panoramic lift
that ascends 40 metres into the air, offering
visitors an unusual view of the harbour and
the city of Genoa. Designed by the architect
Renzo Piano, it takes its name and shape
from the cranes that were once used to load
goods in the port of Genoa.
During the ascent, the cabin of this crane
performs a 360-degree rotation, allowing
everyone on board to enjoy the beautiful
view of the harbor and city. Information
panels inside the cabin guide you through
the cityscapes, and a multilingual recording
highlights the main buildings and key
attractions.
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Galeone Neptune
The "Galeone Neptune" is a marvellous
replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon,
designed by marine architect David Cannell.
The ship was built in in the year 1985 for
Roman Polanski's film "Pirates," where it
also portrayed a Spanish vessel. With an
authentic reproduction above the waterline,
a hull partially made of steel, wooden
planks, and a modern Schottel drive, the
Neptune currently attracts many tourists and
serves as a main attraction in the port of
Genoa.
In the year 2011, the Neptune galleon made
its last appearance in the TV series
"Neverland" as the ship "Jolly Roger,"
belonging to Captain Hook.
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Palazzo San Giorgio
The Palazzo San Giorgio is a historic
building of great significance and
renown in Genoa. It currently serves
as the headquarters of the Western
Ligurian Sea Port Authority.
Originally named the "Sea Palace," the
building was constructed in the year
1260 by the politician and admiral
Guglielmo Boccanegra. The design
was created by Brother Oliverio, a
Cistercian architect and monk. At that
time, the building served as the seat
of the municipality.
After Boccanegra was forced into
exile in the year 1262, the palace
served as a prison.
One of its most famous inmates is
said to have been Marco Polo, who,
between September 1298 and July
1299, dictated his travel accounts (Il
Milione) to his fellow prisoner
Rustichello da Pisa.
Later, the building was converted into
a customs house, and in the 15th
century, it was transferred to the
Banco di San Giorgio, from which it
got its current name. During the 16th
century, the palace was expanded,
and towards the end of the 19th
century, Alfredo d'Andrade fully
restored it after a period of decline.
Ever since the year 1903, it has
housed the offices of the Genoese
Port Authority.
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Lanterna
The main lighthouse of the port of
Genoa is known as the "Lanterna di
Genova" or simply "Lanterna." The
lighthouse not only serves an
i m p o r t a n t f u n c t i o n f o r n i g h t
navigation in the area but is also a
significant symbol and landmark of
the city of Genoa. The masonry tower
stands 76 metres tall.
Very close to the lighthouse tower of
the "Lanterna" is the Museo della
Lanterna, which can be reached by a
brief walk along the old city walls
down to Via Milano. The museum
focuses on the history of Genoa and
its port, while showcasing numerous
archival materials. Some exhibitions
also cover navigation and navigational
aids in Genoa, displaying various
signalling systems which were used at
sea.
The tower can be visited from Friday
to Sunday as well as on public
holidays between 10:00 AM and 6:00
PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). It remains
closed for visitors from Monday to
Thursday.
As the area around the tower is a
military zone, access outside these
opening hours is not possible. Visits
are also suspended during weather
alerts or thunderstorms.

Monumental

Paganini, the devil's violinist
Niccolò Paganini 1782 - 1840
Link to the birthplace of
Niccolò Paganini
Niccolò Paganini, the famous violinist and
composer, was born in Genoa in the year 1782.
He was much more than just a musician.
Although he was known for his unconventional
performances – such as playing in cemeteries or
performing with a single string – his success was
not solely due to his spectacular shows.
Paganini was also the first in the field of
instrumental music to recognise the importance of
self-promotion and marketing. With his distinctive
appearance – black clothing, long hair, and
intense gaze – he always attracted a large crowd
of fans. However, if that had been all, his fame
would hardly have endured to this day.
In reality, Niccolò Paganini was an outstanding
artist: the greatest violinist of all time, as well as
an excellent conductor and composer of his era! It
is therefore no surprise that many colleagues
admired him. Some of them even dedicated their
own works to him by drawing on his most famous
themes.
Nearly 200 years ago, people would whisper
Niccolò Paganini's name while making the sign of
the cross. At that time, many people firmly
believed that the violinist must be a sorcerer. His
virtuoso skills on the violin were so extraordinary
and magical that it seemed impossible for a
human body to master such an art. But what was
the secret behind his enchanting performances?
His music had an immense impact on his
audience: women fainted, and even seasoned
men were said to have wept with emotion upon
listening to the performance – simply
unimaginable.
This Genoese deserves the highest recognition for
travelling and performing on the entire continent
thanks to his extraordinary talent, and is
considered the first truly European instrumental
star. In the year 1829, the Conservatorio Niccolò
Paganini di Genova was founded. Since the year
1974, it has been a state conservatory.
The renowned institute is located at Via Albaro
No. 38.
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Christopher Columbus
Casa di Cristoforo Colombo
Via di Porta Soprana
16121 Genua
Genoa is home to several famous artists, explorers,
and world travellers. The birthplace of Christopher
Columbus has been reconstructed. The discoverer of
the American continent spent his childhood at this
location. A visit to the house provides an impression of
what life was like during that time.
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Admiral Andrea Doria
Casa natale di Andrea Doria
Via Andrea Doria 8
18100 Imperia
Admiral Andrea Doria was born in Imperia, located
about 120 kilometres southwest of the city of Genoa.
As a brilliant strategist and political leader, he became
one of Genoa's most powerful and influential figures.
Also hailing from the city of explorers is Italy's first
astronaut, Franco Malerba.
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Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
Piazza San Lorenzo
17123 Genua
Genoa is home to numerous impressive sacred
buildings. As a representative example of these places
of worship, the most magnificent church is presented
here. The origins of the cathedral date back to the year
1118. Archaeological finds confirm that the first
cathedral in Genoa was built on this very site as early
as the 5th or 6th century.
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Palazzo Doria Tursi

Palazzo Doria-Spinola

Palazzo Ducale

Castello Mackenzie

Day trips

Trips from Genoa
Genova Piazza Principe Regional * ICs ***
Camogli 0:46
Santa Margherita Ligure 0:52 0:28
Portofino ** + Bus 782: etwa 0:20
Rapallo 0:58 0:33
Genova Piazza Principe Regional * IC ***
Monterossa al Mare (Cinque Terre) 02:00 01:18
* The regional trains run at 30-minute intervals.
** At Santa Margherita Liguria station, transfer to bus line 782.
*** As the IC trains are usually relatively well-booked, it is advisable to reserve your seat in advance.
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Camogli
Although the name of this city has existed for a
long time, to this day there is still no clear
explanation of its origin. According to one legend,
the name derives from the shortened name "Casa
de Moglie." While the sailors were away, they
placed their wives (mogli) in a communal home
(casa), which supposedly led to the city's name.
In the late Middle Ages, Camogli was a significant
seaport with a fleet of hundreds of large sailing
ships and became known as the "City of a
Thousand White Sails." In the year 1798, the city
hosted large parts of Napoleon's fleet contingents,
which were later defeated by Vice-Admiral Horatio
Nelson in the Battle of the Nile.
The renowned naval school "Cristoforo Colombo,"
named after the Genoese sailor Christopher
Columbus, was founded here in 1874. In the year
1880, this former fishing village had about 12,000
inhabitants, of which around 500 were registered
ship captains. The port of Camogli remains one of
the most important fishing ports on the Ligurian
coast, offering fresh seafood directly from boat to
plate. However, Camogli is not only of historical
significance but also of cultural relevance in the
region.
Every year on the second Sunday in May, the "Sagra
del Pesce" takes place - a festival in honour of Saint
Fortunato, the patron saint of fishermen.
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Santa Margherita Ligure
The town is located about 35 kilometres from the
city of Genoa and is surrounded by the foothills of
the Ligurian Apennines. Santa Margherita Ligure
offers Mediterranean vegetation with beautiful
parks and gardens along the Dolphin Coast (Costa
dei Delfini), which separates this municipality from
Portofino.
Part of this municipal territory belongs to the
Portofino Regional Natural Park (Parco naturale
regionale di Portofino). Additionally, Santa
Margherita Ligure, along with Camogli and
Portofino, jointly manage the marine protected area
in this region. The town itself is a popular
destination for tourists seeking a relaxing holiday.
The picturesque alleys and squares invite you to
stroll and offer numerous opportunities for
shopping or stopping in cosy cafés and restaurants.
Particularly noteworthy is the Piazza Martiri della
Libertà with its impressive 17th-century fountain, as
well as the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure.
Besides all these advantages, the town also has
much to offer in terms of culture: the annual
"Festival Internazionale del Folklore" attracts
thousands of visitors every year.
Santa Margherita Ligure thus combines everything
one could wish for in a perfect holiday destination:
Mild, mediterranean climate, stunning landscapes,
culinary delights, and a host of diverse leisure
activities. In short: There will be something for
everyone!
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Portofino
Portofino is located about 40 kilometres from the
city of Genoa. The constant streams of tourists,
who seem to be particularly drawn by the
numerous wealthy and attractive visitors, are the
main source of income for this charming town. The
narrow access roads to Portofino turn the journey
by car into a veritable obstacle course. A much
more pleasant way to reach Portofino is by train via
the station in Santa Margherita Ligure.
Above the town of Portofino rises Castello Brown,
built in the 14th century. Originally known as
"Castello di San Giorgio," this structure now serves
as Portofino's museum. On the way from Castello
Brown to the heart of the town, you will pass the
Romanesque Chiesa di San Giorgio. It was originally
built in the 12th century and rebuilt in the year
1950 after being completely destroyed during
World War II.
Portofino was recreated by Universal Studios in
Orlando, Florida and has served as an impressive
backdrop for numerous films. Currently, luxurious
yachts are anchored in the harbour. In 2023, the
city administration introduced a regulation
imposing hefty fines on individuals taking selfies
and "loitering" at tourist hotspots.
Numerous restaurants and bars invite you to linger,
and due to the large number of affluent visitors,
various luxury items can also be purchased directly
at the harbour.
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Natural harbour of Portofino

Castello Brown

Chiesa di San Giorgio

© Davide Papalini
Rapallo
Rapallo is one of the highly traditional holiday
resorts on the eastern Riviera di Levante. It is
located not far from Portofino and, with its diverse
range of hotels, offers an ideal starting point for
exploring the coast.
Unlike its neighbouring towns, Rapallo is larger,
livelier, and also more affordable. Travellers
appreciate its proximity to the motorway and the
dense local train network. Camogli, Recco, Santa
Margherita, and Portofino are easily accessible by
train or bus. All of these are interesting destinations
in this region that can be reached in a short time.
But there is also much to discover within the town
of Rapallo itself. A short promenade runs along the
water to the harbour basin and to a small medieval
castle (now used as an art and cultural centre). The
historic town centre impresses with a charming
arrangement of old streets in a grid pattern – a
remnant from Roman times.
On a walk going west from the town centre, you
will come across the Ponte di Annibale – a small
bridge over the Corso Cristoforo Colombo (not a
river, but a street). The bridge is obviously very old,
but its connection to Hannibal is still unproven.
Northeast of Rapallo station (about 500 metres
away) is the valley station of the cable car which
takes visitors to the pilgrimage church Santuario
Basilica Nostra Signora di Montallegro. Bus line 892
also runs from the station to the mountain station.
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Above Genoa

Castelletto Promenade
Castelletto rises above the historic city
centre of Genoa. This area features
numerous green spaces. From the viewing
platform, visitors can catch a breathtaking
view of the city. It is a popular spot for
tourists and locals alike.
Today, it is known as Belvedere Montaldo,
also called Spianata Castelletto. The terrace
is accessible via two lifts. The eastern lift
(Levante Station) leads to a colourful glass
loggia in the Art Nouveau style.
The Belvedere offers a panoramic terrace
from which visitors can enjoy views of the
Porto Antico, the magnificent palaces on
Strada Nuova, and the rooftops of the
historic centre.
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Castelletto Garibaldi
Castelletto Ponente
Salita alla Spianata di Castelletto
16124 Genova
The lift connects the Galleria Garibaldi with the
Belvedere Castelletto Garden, which is situated just
over 60 metres higher.
The "Spianata Castelletto" is known as the "Terrace
over the Old Town" and offers a spectacular view over
the city of Genoa.
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Castelletto Garibaldi
Castelletto Ponente
Galleria Giuseppe Garibaldi 30
16124 Genua
In the middle of the Galleria Giuseppe Garibaldi
tunnel, there is an entrance to the lift that leads up
to the viewing platform above.
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Castelletto Levante
Castalletto Levante
Piazza del Portello
Right at the beginning of the tunnel is the Castelletto
Levante entrance. The inscription "Panorama della
Città" above the entrance hints at the impressive view
over Genoa.
To use the lifts and funiculars, all visitors require a valid
ticket unless otherwise indicated.
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Castello d’Albertis
Balbi - Dogali
Ascensore Montegallato
Via Balbi
16126 Genua
From a technical standpoint, this "rail-lift" is quite
remarkable. Initially, the lift travels as a train through a
tunnel. The train then transforms into a lift and
ascends. There are always two cabins in operation
simultaneously, meeting at the lift station. Once you
arrive at the top, it is only a few steps to visit the
impressive D'Albertis Castle.
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Captain Enrico Alberto d'Albertis had the
castle built between the years 1886 and
1892. It was constructed on the remains of
a fortified structure from the 13th century.
The castle majestically rises above the
"Genova Piazza Principe" station. After the
captain's death in the year of 1932, the
castle became the property of the city of
Genoa.
Within the walls of the castle lies the
Museum of World Cultures (Museo delle
culture del mondo).
The Museum of World Cultures houses a
fascinating collection of artefacts from the
exotic countries that Captain Enrico Alberto
d'Albertis visited on his travels.
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From intricately carved masks from Africa to
ancient temple figures from Asia, the variety
of exhibits is truly impressive.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the
distant worlds that the captain once
explored and be enchanted by the treasures
of past cultures.
The historic walls of the castle envelop its
visitors with an aura of the past that lingers
long after the visit has ended.
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Funiculare Zecca - Righi
Via Carlo Tarag 7
16124 Genua
The funicular connects Zecca with Righi, ascending the
Granolo Hill to the 302-metre-high Righi. From here,
visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the city of Genoa.
Midway along the route, the two trains cross paths. Five
stops allow travellers to explore the city from different
vantage points.
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Magenta - Crocco
Corso Magenta 17
16125 Genua
The funicular was operated using water-filled ballast
tanks until the year 1980. Through the pedestrian
tunnel, which is accessible from either Corso Magenta
or from the entrance on Via Acquarone, one reaches a
private lift that leads to the historic pharmacy (Antica
Farmacia Sant'Anna).
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Local transportation

An extensive network of buses, funiculars,
lifts, as well as a ship and metro line, the
Cremagliera cog railway, and the historic
narrow-gauge railway from Genoa to
Casella ensure excellent local transportation
and accessibility in the port city. Tickets are
available via the "AMT GENOVA" app on the
App Store or Google Play. Additionally,
tickets can also be purchased at tourist
information centres.
Affordable day passes for the entire network
are available as well. With these day passes,
visitors can explore the city's many
attractions. This allows tourists to discover
and experience the diversity of Genoa in an
uncomplicated and exciting way.
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Genova Brignole
Genova Piazza Principe
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Christopher Columbus at Genova Piazza Principe.

Imprint

Route overview
OBB Nightjet and
OBB Nightjet Partner

IT12_EN_Genua © 2025
The team
This e-book was made possible through the kind support of the
regional tourist offices and the OBB. German proofreading and
editorial:Martin Andergassen. English version: Katie Lang
References
Text, videos and photos by Rudolf J. Strutz unless otherwise
stated. Timetables and travel information: OBB.
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Copyright
This book was licensed under the Creative Commons License.
Conditions of use: attribution, non-commercial, no editing and
distribution under the same conditions only as a complete
work! The use of individual photos and text is not permitted.
This eBook is available free of charge.
Links
All links provided are current at the time of publication of this
e-book. Links to tickets usually lead directly to the exhibition
location. For tickets and timetables, local public transportation
services are linked. For tours, links are provided to the Smart-
Guide services.
Logos and company names
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SCOTTY mobile shows the
timetables for all public
transport and helps you plan
your travel route as best as
possible. There is also a special
version for the iPad available in
the App Store.
Book your trip online or view
the current timetable online and
directly on your mobile phone –
all this and more is offered on
the OBB booking app, which is
simple and convenient to use.
A project by:
AuVi Photos & eBooks
Rudolf Strutz
Hasengasse 33/25
1100 Wien
ebooks@oebb-ebooks.at
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