Genoa, Italy
Welcome to Genoa, the proud maritime city and birthplace of Christopher Columbus! As a key port of call for major lines like MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises, Genoa offers a captivating blend of grand history and modern energy. The city's main appeal lies in its sprawling medieval old town, one of Europe's largest, and its role as the gateway to the stunning Italian Riviera. Step off your ship directly into a world of magnificent palaces, winding alleyways, and incredible culinary delights.
For more information on Genoa, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Genoa City Guide
Genoa's treasures are conveniently close to the port, making for a fantastic day of exploration. A must-see is the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe's largest and just a short walk from your ship in the Old Port area. Delve into the city's opulent past by strolling down Genoa Via Garibaldi (Via Giuseppe Garibaldi), a UNESCO World Heritage street lined with magnificent Renaissance palaces known as the Palazzi dei Rolli. Don't miss the stunning black-and-white marble facade of the Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo), located in the heart of the medieval quarter. For a taste of local life, a short taxi ride to the charming fishing village of Boccadasse offers a picturesque escape with colorful houses and seaside cafes.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Genoa is the perfect starting point for exploring the breathtaking Italian Riviera. A popular day trip is to the world-famous village of Portofino, a playground for the rich and famous known for its stunning harbor and luxury boutiques, reachable in about an hour by train and ferry or bus. Just next door, the beautiful resort town of Santa Margherita Ligure offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lovely beaches, elegant buildings, and waterfront restaurants. Both destinations provide a glamorous taste of la dolce vita and are easily accessible for a memorable shore excursion.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The Genoa Cruise Port boasts a prime location, docking right at the edge of the city's historic center. Cruise ships berth at dedicated terminals, so no tendering is required. From the pier, it's just a 10-15 minute walk to the Porto Antico (Old Port) and the entrance to the medieval old town. While many of the main attractions are reachable on foot, taxis and public transportation are readily available at the terminal for those wishing to explore further afield. The terminal area itself has some basic amenities, with many more shops and restaurants in the adjacent Old Port.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The official currency in Genoa, as in all of Italy, is the Euro (€). US dollars are not accepted for transactions. Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and tourist sites, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes or markets. ATMs, locally known as 'Bancomat', are plentiful and can be found at the cruise terminal, banks, and throughout the city center for easy withdrawals.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Genoa is generally a safe city for tourists, but visitors should exercise standard precautions. Be mindful of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Piazza de Ferrari, public transport, and the narrow alleyways (caruggi) of the old town. While these historic lanes are fascinating to explore during the day, it's best to stick to well-lit, main streets after dark. Exploring independently is common and safe, but staying aware of your surroundings is key to a trouble-free visit.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Genoa enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a pleasant destination during the main cruise season from spring through autumn. Summers (June to August) are typically warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, perfect for walking, though they see a higher chance of rainfall. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen for summer visits, and add a light jacket or layers and a small umbrella for the shoulder seasons.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Exploring Genoa is easy thanks to a variety of transportation options. The historic city center and Old Port area are largely pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. For destinations further afield, the AMT public transit system offers an efficient network of buses and a metro line. A popular choice for visitors is the hop-on, hop-off tour bus, which provides a convenient circuit of the city's main highlights. Taxis are readily available at the cruise terminal and throughout the city; always ensure the meter is running.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Genoa offers a delightful shopping experience, from high-end boutiques to charming local shops. The city's main shopping thoroughfare is Via XX Settembre, known for its elegant arcades and popular international and Italian brands. For a more unique experience, explore the winding streets of the old town, where you'll find artisan workshops and specialty food stores. The ultimate souvenir is authentic Pesto Genovese; also look for local olive oil and handmade pasta. Most shops have fixed prices, so bargaining is not customary.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Learn to make authentic Italian fresh pasta from scratch with a local chef in Genoa. You will discover time-honored culinary traditions and learn recipes passed down from Italian grandmothers. Finally, taste the fruits of your labor in a friendly and convivial atmosphere.
Enjoy a private, all-inclusive tour that covers all your food and drinks. Benefit from a significant price discount for parties of four or more people. Please enter the number of guests in your party to see the accurate, final cost for your group.
Join a hands-on cooking class with local professionals to learn the best traditional Ligurian and Genovese recipes. You will personally prepare and taste at least four classic dishes, followed by a special tasting of artisanal gelato. This small-group experience also includes limited amounts of water, wine, or beer.
Discover Genoa through its flavors on a journey through the city's charming streets. On this tour, you will taste the dishes locals love, from traditional recipes to the freshest seafood and regional specialties. A passionate local “Foodie” guide leads your small group, sharing insider tips and stories behind every bite for an authentic experience.
Experience the authentic taste of Genoa on a food tour through the city's enchanting historic center. You will sample traditional dishes like pesto, focaccia, and Farinata while learning about the city's storied maritime past. This tour also includes tastings of the finest local wines and can be tailored to accommodate omnivore, vegetarian, or vegan preferences.
Experience the authentic culinary traditions of Genoa by learning about local ingredients firsthand. Participate in a hands-on class where you will prepare fresh pasta and classic pesto from scratch. Afterwards, enjoy the lunch you helped create in a wonderful location inside a historical palace.
Explore Europe's largest medieval historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a fun and easy Segway tour. Your guide will lead you through hidden alleys and noble streets to see magnificent palaces and fascinating views. This exciting adventure offers a mix of culture, art, and tradition, ensuring you experience the city's beauties.
Join a hands-on, small-group cooking class hosted by a member of Italy's oldest network of home cooks. You will learn to prepare two different types of fresh pasta from scratch, as well as the iconic Tiramisu for dessert. The experience begins with a welcoming Italian Aperitivo, offering a great way to truly experience Italian culture.
Explore the oldest part of Genoa's historic center on an unconventional walking itinerary. Your guide will lead you to fascinating spots you would hardly find on your own, revealing the hidden beauty in the city's details. Travel through time as you listen to local stories accompanied by the sound of a small guitar.
Take a walking tour along picturesque old paths called "creuze," which are unique to Liguria and connect the sea with the surrounding hills. On this tour, you will discover the city's best panoramic views from these historic walkways. Learn about Genoa's history in a truly original way through tales and songs accompanied by a guitar.
Explore the breathtaking beauties of Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and the Marine Reserve on this boat tour. You can dive into the Mediterranean for a swim or snorkel among vibrant marine life, with all gear and towels provided. Your comfortable boat includes a toilet, shower, and stocked fridge, and a full-day option is available that adds a typical Ligurian lunch at a sea-front restaurant.
Discover Genoa’s most unusual and beautiful places on a tour that takes you off the beaten path. Your enthusiastic local guides love their city and are eager to share its secrets and treasures with you. This experience is offered only in small groups to guarantee top quality and provide a tour tailored to you.
Plunge into Genoese culture and understand its traditions on this food-focused walking tour. You will explore the historical center and get to know its most charming spots. Discover the history and traditions related to the city's typical dishes and learn how the locations are connected to local food.
Experience Genoa on a unique and quiet tour from the water. You will see the town from its best perspective, as Genoa was developed on the sea. Understanding the city's connection to its main gate will help you truly understand this historic place.
Immerse yourself in a private cooking class at a local's home, part of Italy's oldest network of home cooks. Your host will reveal the trade tricks for three authentic Genoese recipes at your own fully equipped workstation. After the lesson, taste the fruit of your labor accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Journey through the charming towns of the Golfo Paradiso on this scenic tour. You will cross through Recco, famous for its cheese focaccia, and Camogli, known for its annual fish festival. The tour then ascends to Ruta, where you can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire gulf.
Go beyond the typical tourist path with a Local Expert who will share the stories and curiosities of the city. You will visit both the most important and the lesser-known hotspots within the UNESCO-listed Genoa Vicoli area. This tour, which is suitable for all ages, also includes a tasting of some of the city's most typical snacks.
Learn to prepare authentic Genovese pesto using a traditional marble mortar in an artisan shop in the heart of the old town. Afterwards, you will enjoy your handmade pesto served over trofie pasta, paired with a guided tasting of two local Ligurian wines. This small-group experience concludes with a participation certificate and a jar of pesto to take home.
Discover the beauties of the Italian Riviera at your own pace by renting a premium rib boat. You can explore the Portofino Natural Reserve, snorkel near the Christ of the Abysses statue, or visit picturesque villages. While a boat license is not needed for this private experience, some prior boating experience is required.
Stroll through Genoa's charming historic center and learn anecdotes about the glorious past of the ancient Maritime Republic. This walking tour includes stops at authentic local shops to try the city's best specialties. The experience culminates with a visit to an extraordinary cellar, where you will taste three different local wines paired with foods.
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
Many attractions are within walking distance (15-30 minutes) from the cruise terminal. Taxis and public buses are readily available just outside the terminal for further destinations.
Must-sees include the Aquarium of Genoa in Porto Antico, the historic Via Garibaldi with its Palazzi dei Rolli (UNESCO site), and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, all accessible on foot or a short ride.
Try authentic Pesto Genovese, focaccia, and fresh seafood at restaurants in the Porto Antico area or the narrow alleys (Caruggi) of the historic center.
The local currency is Euro (1 USD = 0.86 EUR). ATMs are widely available near the port and throughout the city center, offering the most convenient way to obtain Euros. Banks and exchange offices are also present but may have less favorable rates.
Cruise season (spring to autumn) brings mild to warm Mediterranean weather. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a light jacket for evenings or potential rain.
The picturesque Boccadasse beach is reachable by a short taxi ride or public bus (e.g., #31). For larger beaches, consider a short train ride to towns like Nervi or Camogli.
Both cruise line excursions (often to Portofino or Cinque Terre) and independent exploration of Genoa are popular. Independent travel by train to nearby towns is also a good option.
Via XX Settembre is Genoa's main shopping street for fashion. For local souvenirs, explore the historic center for pesto, olive oil, Ligurian wine, or artisanal crafts.
The charming coastal towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure are easily accessible by ferry or train. The famous Cinque Terre villages are also reachable by train, though it's a longer day trip.
Genoa is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and is home to the Lanterna, one of the oldest active lighthouses in the world, dating back to 1128.
On average cruises that visit Genoa are somewhat expensive compared to other itineraries. The graph below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Genoa. Cruises visiting Genoa during the the peak season of fall are considerably more expensive than the the low season of summer.
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