Imagine strolling through a city where Renaissance grandeur meets humble culinary delights. Genoa, often overlooked in modern itineraries, was once one of Europe’s wealthiest maritime republics.
Its opulent palaces, striking and vibrant alleys are waiting to be explored. Dive into this guide to craft your ultimate weekend escape.
Steps
1. Book Travel: Reserve flights or trains to arrive Friday morning.
2. Pack Light: Bring sturdy shoes, a swimsuit for Boccadasse, and a camera.
3. Buy Tickets: Pre-purchase Aquarium (€26), Palazzi dei Rolli (€20 joint), and funicular (€3) passes online.
4. Map Routes: Note Volabus bus (€6) or taxi (€25) from airport, and AMT bus/metro (€1.50 per ride).
5. Plan Meals: Allocate €5–€12 per street-food snack or pasta dish in local osterias.
Arrival
Touch down at Genoa Airport and catch the Volabus shuttle (€6, 30 minutes) to Piazza Principe. Alternatively, taxis run about €25 for a 15-minute ride. AMT single tickets (€1.50) cover city buses and the metro along the coastline—perfect for hopping between the medieval center and the “new town.”
Day One
Morning starts in Porto Antico, with the Aquarium (€26, opens 9 AM) and the Biosphere (€5). Next, ride the Bigo panoramic lift (€6) for sweeping views. Wander into the UNESCO-listed Old City to explore the Palazzi dei Rolli. A joint ticket (€20) grants access to Palazzo Rosso, Bianco, and Tursi—home to Paganini’s violin and Rubens masterpieces.
Day Two
Begin with a seaside stroll along Corso Italia to Boccadasse (3 miles east). Pause for a cone of fried anchovies (€4) or a pesto focaccia (€3). Return by bus 42 (€1.50) to Piazza De Ferrari. Visit the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo (free entry; museum €3) to see the emerald “Holy Grail.” Nearby, admire San Matteo’s tomb of Andrea Doria and Rubens frescoes in Gesù.
Day Three
Head west to the reborn Polcevera district—view Renzo Piano’s bridge and public art under the San Giorgio viaduct. Then board the Righi funicular (€3) to Parco delle Mura. Trek along 17th-century walls to Castellaccio fortress (free), before descending to choose between Galata Museo del Mare (€18), Villa del Principe (€10), or the Ascensore Montegalletto (€1.50) up to Castello d’Albertis (€8).
Dinner
Each evening, explore the caruggi (historic alleys) for Ligurian classics: trofie al pesto (€12), pansotti with walnut sauce (€10), or tripe stew (€9). Finish with a Camatti amaro (€5) at a Liberty-style.
Conclusion
This weekend roadmap balances iconic sights with local flavors—from the roar of the Aquarium to the hush of medieval alleyways. Which Genoese moment will you chase first: a sea-framed promenade or a fresco-lined palace? Share your pick and start planning!
