Genoa is a beautiful coastal town located in northern Italy. It is the capital city of the Province of Genoa and of the region of Liguria. The city has a population of about 610,000. Genoa was the European Union’s “Capital of Culture” in 2004, which was well deserved given the city’s wealth world heritage sites, art, music, architecture, history, and food.

White and black boat on blue body of water in Genoa — Credit: Unsplash

History of Genoa

Christopher Columbus was notably a native of Genoa. He donated one tenth of his income from the discovery of the Americas to the Bank of Saint George in Genoa, which is one of the world’s oldest banks. Over the years, the incredible beauty and vibrancy of Genoa has attracted many artists, including Rubens, Caravaggio, and Van Dyck.

What is Genoa like to visit?

Genoa has a Mediterranean climate with oceanic influences. Winter is mild, with an average temperature of eight degrees Celsius in January, and summer is warm with an average temperature of twenty-four degrees Celsius in August. The driest month is July, while the wettest months are October and November. Snow usually falls just once a year in this Italian coastal town. Visit in the warmer months to make the most of Genoa beach!

Brown building near body of water in Genoa Italy — Credit: Unsplash

Getting Around in Genoa

There is an excellent transportation system in Genoa, making it an excellent option for tourists. The main railways are Genoa Brignole Station and Genoa Principe Station. Both stations have daily departures to France, Turin, Milan, and Rome, making it a wonderful destination to visit as part of a European road trip! There is also a rapid transit system consisting of a light metro, so you won’t be short of ways to travel in and around Genoa.

For those that prefer a little more freedom and independence when it comes to exploring Italy, a popular choice for many is to hire a campervan. This outdoor style of holiday is suited to the Italian climate, and Italy itself is campervan friendly. Lots of purpose built motorhome parking areas exist, according to RVRentaCampervan.com, who advise looking out for “Area di Sosta” signage.

Genoa - aerial view of city buildings near body of water — Credit: Unsplash

Things to Do in Genoa

Conventional tourist routes have long ignored Genoa, but it is a city that offers its visitors incredible attractions, an amazing historic centre, and a stunning artistic heritage. Its medieval old town is the biggest in Europe and is an intricate labyrinth of alleyways and narrow streets, where among the shops, restaurants, and local stores, visitors can discover the sixteenth-century palazzos, baroque edifices, and Romanesque churches looming over little piazzas such as Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Reale. Look out for stunning historical landmarks like the Port Soprana while you’re exploring too!

There is an abundance of things to see and do in Genoa. It would take several trips to truly explore and take in everything on offer. There are many churches, cathedrals, museums, art galleries, buildings, and monuments. Porto Antico is a good place to start with its bustling harbour - you’ll find all kinds of attractions here to get your visit started. Another must-visit location is San Lorenzo Cathedral which was reconstructed in Romanesque style during the 12th century and is well worth a visit.

The Museo del Tesoro is located in the basement of the Cathedral and holds many precious relics, which are the stuff of legend. The Church of Gesu was finished in the 1500s is worth a visit for its works of art: incredible sculptures and works in stucco, and two altarpieces by Rubens, and one by Guido Reni.

The Genoa Aquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe, covering ten thousand square meters and containing seventy-one display tanks, containing over five hundred sea and ocean-dwelling species that live and reproduce in the Aquarium. The Palazzo Bianco Gallery has an impressive collection of European paintings from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.

The cuisine of Genoa is based on traditional Mediterranean cooking and is very rich in ingredients and flavors. There is plenty of shopping and places to stay. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Genoa today.