Genoa city tour
Genoa is a fascinating city. Like a beautiful woman—mysterious and sometimes reserved—she reveals herself only to those who have the patience to get to know her. Overlooking the sea yet surrounded by hills, she offers her visitors contrasting emotions. Always mysterious and somewhat introspective, Genoa possesses a wealth of hidden treasures that rival those of the world’s most famous cities.
On this tour, we will discover its history by wandering through the maze of narrow alleyways that define its historic center, where the ancient blends seamlessly with the modern and small shops invite visitors to enjoy local gastronomic delights.
Genoa is also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and Niccolò Paganini, and it was awarded the Gold Medal for the Resistance during the Second World War. There are many thematic itineraries to choose from, but even in just one day it is possible to experience the city’s most significant highlights
Genoa half day tour
During this half-day tour, we will explore Genoa’s historic heart, starting from the Old Port, the city’s ancient gateway to the sea. We will visit the Cathedral of St. Lawrence and the Doge’s Palace, symbols of Genoa’s political and religious power, and step inside the impressive Church of the Jesuits.
The walk continues to the city’s main square, Piazza De Ferrari, and past the Opera House, Teatro Carlo Felice. We will then discover Christopher Columbus’ childhood home before reaching Via Garibaldi, the magnificent Renaissance street lined with noble palaces that reflect the wealth and prestige of Genoa’s golden age
A Full day tour
For a deeper and more complete experience of Genoa, we strongly recommend dedicating a full day to the city. Alongside the walking tour, you can enrich your visit with some of Genoa’s most outstanding attractions: the Strada Nuova Museums (with a special focus on Palazzo Rosso), the monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, the enchanting Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, or the elegant parks of Nervi overlooking the sea.
As an alternative, let us guide you through the fascinating history of Genoa’s port, with a visit to the Maritime Museum or a scenic boat tour offering unique perspectives of the city from the water
Genoa for foodie
If you are interested in discovering the history of the city through taste and smell, then a food and wine tour is exactly what you are looking for. Stop by stop, you will sample delicious local specialties such as chickpea farinata, the famous Genoese focaccia, pesto, and traditional sweets—of course accompanied by a good local wine.
We also offer the opportunity to join hands-on cooking classes, where you can learn how to prepare an authentic pesto alla genovese.
Staglieno Monumental Cemetery in Genoa
Genoa's cemetery is called 'monumental' because of its splendid marble works, commissioned by the city's bourgeoisie from the mid-19th century onwards. Visiting this free open-air museum is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an incredible world of art ranging from Realism to Art Nouveau (Liberty style).
Illustrious guests are buried here, as Staglieno Cemetery is multiconfessional: next to the Catholic wing is the Protestant and Evangelical section, where Mary Constance, Oscar Wilde's wife, is buried. The cemetery for Commonwealth soldiers stationed in Genoa is particularly evocative. Equally moving is the Jewish section, dedicated to the Genoese Jews who were deported to the extermination camps
Museums of Genoa
If you are interested in visual arts, you cannot miss booking a guided tour of the Palaces of Genoa. Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, Palazzo Tursi, and the Royal Palace are the most beautiful museums in the city. They house Baroque masterpieces, the ultimate expression of the city's political class which, between the 16th and 17th centuries, became a true international oligarchy with a passion for the figurative arts. Numerous artists worked in Genoa, drawn by the noble families and their wealth. Many came from Flanders, such as Van Dyck and Rubens, while many others were local artists inspired by the great Roman masters. With a real-life tour guide, art becomes engaging and full of stories and anecdotes, even for younger visitors
Special requests
Genoa can and should be an inclusive and sustainable city. If you are looking for a guided tour tailored to your mobility needs, family requirements, or any special wishes, please get in touch with us. Together, we will find the best solution for your personalized tour of Genoa.