Stopover in Genoa. Your travel guide to Italy 😍

Welcome aboard this complete guide to “Stopover in Genoa”.

I am Sarah (or Miss Tatane), a cruise enthusiast and cruiser like you. I am here to share with you my experiences and advice, so that you can fully experience each destination.
Don’t forget to add us to your favorites if you are planning to go on a cruise again! Our MTT site (yours) is constantly updated with new articles every week, as well as new destinations as we travel.

Stopover in Genoa

How to get out of Genoa cruise port

Good news: during your stopover in Genoa, you can leave the port on foot in just 7 minutes. No need for a taxi or shuttle, and exiting is completely free!
👉 Result: you save precious time to fully enjoy your day there.

You’ll exit through this large building (sorry for the slightly overexposed photo 😄). Once outside, go through the security gate. At the bottom of the street, turn right, cross the bridge… and just like that, you’re on your way to the city center! It’s impossible to get lost.

We prefer to be honest: at first, the scenery isn’t very appealing… But don’t let that discourage you. Genoa has many treasures to reveal, and it’s absolutely worth it!

What to do in Genoa city center

Cruise port Genoa

Explore the old port – Porto Antico

Start with the Porto Antico, the old port of Genoa. Completely renovated, this neighborhood is now a lively and vibrant area. Here you’ll find:

The Genoa aquarium, the largest in Italy
The Bigo, a panoramic elevator offering a 360° view
Terraces, museums, and a true maritime atmosphere

Discover via Garibaldi

Head to va Garibaldi, also known as Strada Nuova. This street, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is lined with magnificent Renaissance palaces:

Palazzo Rosso
Palazzo Bianco
Palazzo Doria Tursi

All of them house museums and art collections. The façades alone are worth the walk!

The Maddalena district

This typical neighborhood, with its narrow and colorful alleys, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll come across small shops, local grocery stores, and charming cafés. A real taste of authentic Italy.

Piazza de Ferrari

Cruise stopover in Genoa

It’s impossible to visit Genoa without passing through Piazza De Ferrari, the main square and symbol of the modern city. It harmoniously connects the historic center to the new town and serves as a central landmark during your stopover. At the center, you’ll find the monumental fountain, built in 1936, which has become the iconic element that gives the square its architectural balance.

Imposing buildings rise around the square:

The Palazzo della Borsa, in neo-Renaissance style, houses magnificent Art Nouveau interiors designed by Adolfo Coppedè (inaugurated in 1912)
The Palazzo del Credito Italiano (1914)
The Palazzo della Regione, in neo-Mannerist style (1924)

On the north side of the square stands the Teatro Carlo Felice, built in 1828. From the original building, only the neoclassical pronaos and the exterior porticoes remain today.

Right next door, also by Barabino, is the neoclassical building of the Academy of Fine Arts, a testament to Genoa’s artistic boom in the 19th century.

The Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Genoa. Located between the historic center and Piazza De Ferrari, it is easily accessible on foot during your stopover.

Its main façade faces Piazza Matteotti, while its secondary wing opens onto Piazza Ferrari. This historic building impresses with its Mannerist architecture, featuring the majestic halls of the Maggiore Consiglio and Minor Consiglio, as well as the famous Grimaldina Tower from the 14th century. You can even visit the old prisons that are still there!

Today, the Palazzo Ducale is a dynamic cultural center hosting exhibitions, art events, conferences, and festivals throughout the year. It is a lively place that combines heritage, art, and modernity.

💶 Admission fee: €25
⏱️ Plan about 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit

San Lorenzo Cathedral

The San Lorenzo Cathedral (Saint Lawrence), one of the main tourist attractions in Genoa, is a must-see during your visit to the city’s historic center. Located on Piazza San Lorenzo, in the heart of the old town, it is just steps away from the old port and the Genoa Aquarium, as well as the Doge’s Palace.

Built starting in the 9th century, the cathedral has evolved over the centuries with many additions, giving it a unique character with a mix of architectural styles. The impressive façade, featuring Gothic portals and the typical black and white marble stripes of the Genoese Middle Ages, was completed in 1312. Add to that the two majestic lions dating from 1840 guarding the staircase, and you get an architectural masterpiece that is as rich as it is fascinating.

Inside, you can discover the ashes of Genoa’s patron saint, San Giovanni Battista, as well as exceptional artworks, including 17th-century frescoes by Lazzaro Tavarone. Don’t miss the chance to visit the towers for an incredible view of the city, and beneath the cathedral, the Treasury Museum housing historical and sacred artifacts.

💶 Admission fee: €5
⏱️ Plan about 30 to 45 minutes for the visit

The Bigo

Want to gain some altitude? The Bigo, this amazing panoramic elevator located in Genoa’s Porto Antico, takes you up to 40 meters to admire the city like never before. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, this futuristic structure was inspired by port cranes, an elegant nod to the city’s maritime history. From its glass capsule, you’ll enjoy a 360° view over the port, the colorful rooftops of the historic center, and the Genoese hills on the horizon. A unique experience, blending sky, sea, and heritage.

The ascent is accompanied by a multilingual audio system to help you better understand what you are seeing and place Genoa in its historical and cultural context. The Bigo is located right next to the Genoa Aquarium, in the heart of the renovated old port area. You know how much I love taking risks? So no, I didn’t try it! 😄😄

💶 Admission fee: €6

⏱️ How long does the Bigo visit last?

The visit lasts between 10 and 15 minutes

Aquarium

Genoa Cruise Stopover

Dive into the fascinating world of the ocean at the Genoa Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe! Located in the Porto Antico, this magical place allows you to discover an incredible diversity of marine life, from sharks to jellyfish, as well as seahorses and tropical fish.

The aquarium is home to more than 600 different species spread across 27 immersive tanks, each recreating a unique ecosystem. Each tank is a window into another world: from the Atlantic Ocean to tropical seas, not to mention the fascinating Mediterranean biodiversity.

Behind the building’s spectacular façade lies an interactive adventure where both children and adults can learn, observe, and marvel. Educational workshops, temporary exhibitions, and expert meet-and-greets enhance your visit.

An ideal activity for a stopover in Genoa, just a short walk from the port.

Practical Information

Access. Easily reachable by bus or on foot from the cruise port exit (15-minute walk).
Hours. The aquarium is open every day from 9 AM → 8 PM (even on Sundays).

💶 Ticket price: €31 priority entry + 1 free ice cream if you book on our website with Civitatis.
Please note: the ticket price is €31, plus waiting time if you buy on site!

⏱️ Allow about 2 hours for the visit

Tourist bus

Cruise Stopover in Genoa

To be honest, unless you have trouble walking or are the type who likes to take it “nice and slow in the morning and not too fast in the afternoon,” the tourist bus isn’t really necessary! But once you’re in Genoa, you’ll see lots of tourists using it, so we’re still mentioning it… even though we personally never take it!

Tourist Bus – Price → €25

The Biosfera

Cruise Stopover in Genoa

Want an unforgettable stopover in Genoa?
Don’t miss the Biosfera, a unique masterpiece imagined by the great architect Renzo Piano!

This spectacular glass sphere, floating on the water in the Old Port, is much more than a monument: it’s a small tropical jungle at the heart of the city. Here, among butterflies, iguanas, and more than 150 species of exotic plants, you will experience a magical immersion into a preserved ecosystem bathed in natural light.

👉 Why book your ticket now?

You gain access to one of the most iconic places in Genoa.
You enjoy a visit that’s refreshing and relaxing just a few minutes from your cruise terminal.
You explore a fascinating world, perfect alone, as a couple, or with family!

🎟️ Good to know: your ticket includes entry to the Biosfera and guarantees fast, stress-free access.
⏰ Hours adapted to your stopover: open every day from 10 AM!

So, ready to experience a suspended moment between sky, sea, and nature?
👉 Book your ticket for the Biosfera now and treat yourself to a magical stopover in Genoa!

Villetta di Negro park

Cruise Stopover in Genoa

Want a nature break without leaving the city center? Let me show you a little-known spot in Genoa that’s truly worth it! The Villetta Di Negro Park, just a 10-minute walk from Piazza De Ferrari and Galleria Mazzini.

This 19th-century park, perched on a hill covering over two hectares, offers a real moment of peace right in the heart of Genoa. Here, you’ll find:

Winding paths,
Charming little caves and waterfalls,
Lush vegetation, including two centuries-old plane trees and three sequoias planted around 1870,
And most importantly, at the top: the Edoardo Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art, featuring a terrace with breathtaking views of the city.

A cool, green haven, perfect for catching your breath and escaping the city buzz without really going far.

How to get to Villetta di Negro Park from the cruise port?

Good news: even though the park is perched on a hill, it’s still easily walkable from the Genoa cruise terminal. Plan on about 25 to 30 minutes on foot, passing through a lively and interesting part of the city.

Here’s the route to follow from the port:

Exit the terminal via Molo Guardiano, then continue on via ai Bacini di Carenaggio.
Turn left onto via Molo Cagni, then right onto Varco Portuale Giano.
At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Via della Marina and continue straight ahead.
Continue along via della Madre di Dio, then turn left onto Scalinata Santa.
Follow Vico del Pomogranato, Piazza Vannuccio Faralli, then via Gabriele d’Annunzio.
Cross piazza Dante, then continue onto via Ceccardo Roccatagliata Ceccardi and Via XII Ottobre.
Once you reach piazza Corvetto, take the 4th exit onto via Martin Piaggio: Villetta Di Negro Park will be right there on your left.

👉 Little tip: if you’re not up for walking, you can also hop on the tourist bus.

Bocadasse district

Cruise port Genoa

Now, let’s talk about the charming neighborhood of Boccadasse.

Getting there is super easy: from Piazza Verdi, where the Genoa Brignole train station is located, just hop on bus No. 31 heading toward Levante. Or, if you prefer, you can walk — it’s about a 20-minute stroll along Viale Brigate Partigiane to Piazzale Kennedy, where you can pick up the Corso Italia promenade leading straight to Boccadasse: a lovely walk with stunning viewpoints along the way.

And once you arrive? You’ll find a true Mediterranean gem. Boccadasse is a former fishing village frozen in time, with its pastel-colored houses clustered tightly together, its narrow alleyways, little fishing boats pulled up on the pebbles, and its beach where locals still come to read, sunbathe, or enjoy an ice cream with family and friends.

This neighborhood has a soul, a quiet but persistent charm. You’ll find amazing seafood restaurants, artisanal gelato shops, and cozy little cafés with sea views. It’s the kind of place you stroll through, linger in, and often… end up staying a little longer than you planned.

For me, it’s the most endearing neighborhood in Genoa. It’s not spectacular — it’s better than that: it’s authentic. And maybe that’s where Genoa reveals its truest self.

Albertis castle

Cruise Stop in Genoa

Albertis Castle, an iconic Gothic-style building, majestically overlooks the city of Genoa. Built in a neo-Gothic style at the end of the 1800s and early 1900s, the castle impresses with its unique architecture and beautiful gardens.

Today, it houses the World Cultures Museum, offering a real immersion into the cultures and traditions of various continents. The museum displays a collection of objects, artifacts, and stories that showcase the history and diversity of peoples across the globe.

The highlight of the castle is its tower and balcony, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the city and beyond. It’s the perfect spot to combine culture, history, and stunning landscapes. For the record, it wasn’t until my 6th visit to Genoa that I realized there was a castle there (yes, I admit, it took me a while to discover it 😄).

How to get there?

By Bus

From the cruise port → Total time: about 35 minutes.

Take bus 39v heading toward Vesuvio sup.
Ride duration: about 11 minutes (8 stops).
Get off at Dogali 2/BASSI.
Walk: 1 minute (26 meters) to the castle.

By Taxi

Expect to pay around €15 for a ride of about 10 to 12 minutes.

By Tourist Bus

➡️ Combo Ticket: Aquarium + Maritime Museum + Boat ride!

Cruise stop in Genoa

If you’re stopping in Genoa, don’t miss the perfect activity to experience the city’s maritime charm:

→ For just €47, enjoy a three-in-one pass that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike:

✅ The Genoa Aquarium, the largest in Italy, where you can get up close to sharks, jellyfish, seahorses, and tropical fish in a stunning setting.
✅ The Galata Museo del Mare, a fascinating maritime museum, including a tour inside a real submarine!
✅ And the cherry on top: a 1-hour-10-minute boat ride around the port of Genoa, offering amazing views and unforgettable photo opportunities.

👉 It’s the perfect thing to do during a cruise stop, just steps away from the cruise terminal. No need to choose between a cultural visit, a relaxing break, and scenic views: here, you get everything with just one ticket — and you can easily continue exploring the city afterwards!

Activities in Genoa

Free guided tour of Genoa

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 198 reviews

Check availability – Book now 👈

Following in the footsteps of Christopher Columbus

Don’t miss the guided tour of Christopher Columbus’s house! It’s the perfect opportunity to step back in time and discover the youth of one of the most famous explorers in history.

Located right next to the Porta Soprana, this modest house is full of history. It’s here that Christopher Columbus grew up with his father, in the heart of old Genoa.

During a one-hour guided tour, you’ll explore this unique site, now a museum, with its period objects, nautical maps, and even letters from Columbus. You’ll visit the workshop on the ground floor, then the living quarters upstairs, for a complete immersion into the explorer’s life.

→ A tour full of anecdotes and emotions, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike!

Portofino

Cruise port Genoa – The enchanting city

Highlights of the excursion

Picturesque fishing village. Admire the charming colorful houses that line the harbor. Portofino is known for its breathtaking beauty and idyllic atmosphere.
Belvedere and Castello Brown. Enjoy the walk to Castello Brown, a historic fortress with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding coast. From the Belvedere you will have one of the best panoramic views of Portofino.
San Giorgio Church. Visit the San Giorgio Church, perched on a hill overlooking the village, offering magnificent views of the harbor. This historic church houses relics of Saint George.

Useful information

Duration. The excursion lasts approximately 5 hours and is organized so that you return on time so as not to miss your boat. It is advisable to be punctual and take into account the boat’s departure times.

Why visit Portofino?

Natural beauty. Portofino is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The picturesque landscapes, turquoise waters and green hills offer unforgettable views.
History and Culture. Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of this important little village. Visit historical sites and learn more about local history.
Exclusive atmosphere. Experience the exclusive atmosphere of Portofino, known for its elegant boutiques, high-end restaurants and luxury yachts.

Cetacean observation

Cruise port Genoa – Excursion to the Pelagos Sanctuary

Highlights of the excursion

Encounter with cetaceans. Meet whales, dolphins and other cetaceans in their natural habitat. The experience offers a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close.
Accompaniment by a marine biologist. Benefit from the knowledge of a marine biologist guide who will provide you with valuable information on cetaceans, their behavior and their ecosystem.
Spectacular views. Enjoy the breathtaking seascapes of the Gulf of Genoa, a privileged place for whale watching in the Mediterranean.

Useful information

Duration. The excursion lasts approximately 5 hours, providing ample time to maximize your chances of spotting cetaceans.
Departure. Departures are usually from the port of Genoa (not the one where you dock) but it is easily accessible from the city center (5 minutes on foot). It is advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure time.

Why participate in this excursion?

Educational experience. Learn more about cetaceans and the challenges of their conservation through detailed explanations from a marine biologist.
Respect for the environment. The excursion takes place with respect for animals and their habitat, following responsible and sustainable practices.
Unforgettable moments. Experience magical moments watching whales and dolphins in their natural environment, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

Activities and extras

Photography. Capture spectacular photos of cetaceans and seascapes. Ask the guide for tips on how to get the best shots.
Questions and discussions. Take the opportunity to ask the marine biologist all your questions and learn more about marine life.
Relaxation break. Some excursions include breaks to relax on the boat, with light refreshments on board.

How to get around

On foot. Explore Genoa at your own pace by strolling through the typical Italian alleys. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in local life and discover the city’s hidden treasures.
Metro. Use the metro line to easily get to tourist sites. There is only one metro line, you can’t go wrong. Opt for a day ticket for €4.50 to travel freely.
Small tourist train. Ideal for families, Pippo’s little train takes you to discover the different districts of Genoa in 45 minutes. Prices: €8/adult and €4/child (4-12 years).
Panoramic tourist bus. Admire the most beautiful places in Genoa from an open-top bus.