GemmaGenoa’s Old Town, or Centro Storico, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and charm that most visitors underestimate. Walking through its narrow alleys and bustling piazzas feels like stepping back in time, yet the city remains vibrantly alive with modern Italian life. From my own personal experience, this part of Genoa is where you can truly feel the soul of the city—the mixture of centuries-old architecture, fragrant food markets, and the ever-present hum of everyday life.
If you’re planning a trip, or just curious about what makes Genoa so special, this guide covers 10 things to do in Genoa Old Town that you truly need to see. Let’s dive in.
1. Explore Via Garibaldi and the Palazzi dei Rolli
Via Garibaldi is Genoa’s most famous street, lined with grand Renaissance and Baroque palaces collectively known as the Palazzi dei Rolli. These palaces were once homes to aristocratic families, and their stunning architecture is a testament to the city’s wealth during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Walking down this street, you’ll find intricately decorated facades, elegant courtyards, and sometimes, private art collections open to the public. From my own personal experience, the attention to detail in the carvings and frescoes inside these palaces is breathtaking—it’s like stepping into a living museum.
Don’t miss Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi, which together form a museum circuit offering a deep dive into Genoese history and art.
2. Get Lost in the Caruggi (Narrow Alleyways)
The labyrinthine alleys of Genoa, called caruggi, are the heartbeat of Old Town. Each twist and turn hides surprises: a quaint cafe, a centuries-old fountain, or a tiny artisan shop. The charm is in the unexpected—you can wander for hours and always discover something new.
Tip: Start from Piazza Matteotti and let your curiosity guide you. Take your time to notice the medieval arches and the colorful laundry hanging overhead. It’s a simple joy that makes Genoa’s Old Town so uniquely alive.
3. Visit the Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)
No trip to Genoa Old Town is complete without seeing the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. This impressive Gothic-Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and is home to fascinating treasures, including a black-and-white striped exterior and a crypt said to contain the ashes of Saint John the Baptist.
Inside, the mix of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque elements will make you appreciate how Genoa has evolved through the centuries. I’ve visited this cathedral several times, and every visit feels different—the light streaming through the stained glass changes, the guides share new stories, and the atmosphere is always awe-inspiring.
4. Taste Authentic Genoese Cuisine
Exploring Genoa is not just about sights—it’s about flavors too. From my overall experience, trying the local cuisine in Old Town is an absolute must. Genoa is the birthplace of pesto alla Genovese, and there’s nothing better than fresh pasta tossed with this fragrant basil sauce.
Other dishes to try include focaccia, which locals eat any time of day, and farinata, a chickpea flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. Pair your meal with a glass of Ligurian white wine or a refreshing Aperol spritz, and you’ll understand why food in Genoa is an experience in itself.
5. Wander Through Piazza De Ferrari
Piazza De Ferrari is the central square of Genoa, a lively meeting place surrounded by elegant buildings and buzzing cafes. The fountain at the center is iconic, and the square often hosts concerts, events, and festivals.
Spending some time here is perfect for people-watching. From my personal experience, mornings are quieter and offer a moment to enjoy the architecture peacefully, while evenings bring the piazza alive with lights, music, and laughter.
6. Step Back in Time at the Genoa Aquarium
The Genoa Aquarium (Acquario di Genova) is one of the largest in Europe, and it’s located near the Old Town in the Porto Antico area. Visiting it is like entering another world. From sharks to colorful tropical fish, the aquarium offers a close-up look at marine life from the Mediterranean and beyond.
It’s a great activity if you’re traveling with kids or if you simply want a break from walking through cobblestone streets. Based on my overall experience, seeing the variety of marine creatures is both educational and mesmerizing—it’s a different perspective on the Ligurian coast that you can’t get anywhere else.
7. Discover the Hidden Gems of the Old Port
The Old Port (Porto Antico) has undergone extensive renovation, turning it into a lively area filled with restaurants, shops, and museums. Yet it still retains the charm of its maritime past. Take a stroll along the waterfront, admire the boats, and perhaps stop for a gelato while watching the sun set over the harbor.
You’ll find the Bigo lift, a panoramic elevator offering sweeping views of the city, and the Galata Museo del Mare, a maritime museum where you can learn about Genoa’s seafaring history. From my personal experience, this area is perfect for mixing sightseeing with relaxation—it’s one of those spots where you can enjoy the city at your own pace.
8. Step Into History at the Doge’s Palace
The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is another highlight of Genoa Old Town. This historic building was once the seat of the city’s rulers and now hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and guided tours.
Walking through its halls, you can almost feel the echoes of political debates and artistic decisions made centuries ago. The combination of architecture, art, and history here is fascinating, and from my overall experience, it’s a place that allows you to understand Genoa’s influence on the broader Italian and Mediterranean world.
9. Experience the Vibrant Markets
Genoa’s Old Town is home to colorful markets where you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, seafood, and handmade goods. The Mercato Orientale is the largest and most famous, offering a sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds.
Shopping here is more than buying souvenirs—it’s about experiencing local life. Chat with vendors, taste small samples, and take home a piece of Genoese culture. From my own personal experience, walking through these markets gives you a sense of the city’s daily rhythm that no guidebook can replicate.
10. Climb Spianata Castelletto for Panoramic Views
Finally, for a breathtaking view of Genoa, head to Spianata Castelletto. You can either walk up the winding streets or take the funicular. Once at the top, you’ll see the entire Old Town sprawling toward the sea, with red rooftops, narrow alleys, and the harbor in the distance.
This spot is perfect for photography, reflection, or simply soaking in the cityscape. From my personal experience, visiting at sunset is magical—the city lights begin to twinkle, the sea glows softly, and the atmosphere is unforgettable.
Final Thoughts on Genoa Old Town
Genoa Old Town is a place where history, culture, and everyday life blend seamlessly. From wandering the narrow alleys to savoring local dishes, exploring palaces, and enjoying panoramic views, there’s always something to see, taste, or experience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to discover hidden corners, these 10 things in Genoa Old Town are the essentials you truly need to see. They capture the city’s charm, character, and vibrancy, making your visit unforgettable.
Genoa isn’t just a city to visit—it’s a city to feel, to taste, and to explore at your own pace. Based on my overall experience, every corner of the Old Town has a story waiting for you, and it’s impossible not to fall in love with it.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.