Exploring Genoa: A City of Maritime Majesty and Hidden Treasures
Arriving in Genoa, we were immediately struck by its unique blend of seafaring history, medieval charm, and grand architecture. As one of Italy’s most important port cities, Genoa has a long and fascinating past, once serving as a powerful maritime republic that rivaled Venice and Pisa. Walking through the historic center, one of the largest in Europe, we found ourselves in a maze of narrow alleyways, or caruggi, where every turn revealed something new—colorful facades, hidden churches, and lively piazzas filled with locals.
One of our first stop was the Palazzi dei Rolli, a collection of magnificent palaces once used to host visiting dignitaries. Stepping into Palazzo Rosso, we admired its incredible frescoes and opulent interiors, a glimpse into the wealth and power of Genoa’s noble families. Just a short walk away, we reached Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of the city, where the grand fountain and surrounding buildings created a stunning backdrop.
Of course, no visit to Genoa is complete without exploring its maritime heritage. At the Porto Antico (Old Port), we visited the Galata Maritime Museum, which told the story of Genoa’s dominance in seafaring trade. Nearby, we marveled at the towering Lanterna, the city’s iconic lighthouse that has guided sailors since the Middle Ages.
Standing before the Monument to Christopher Columbus in Genoa, we admired the grand statue honoring the city’s most famous explorer, surrounded by intricate carvings depicting his voyages. Located near the Principe Train Station, the monument stood as a proud reminder of Genoa’s deep maritime heritage, connecting the past to the bustling modern city around it.
Stepping into La Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato in Genoa, we were immediately awestruck by its breathtaking Baroque interior—a dazzling display of gilded stucco, marble columns, and vibrant frescoes. From the outside, its simple façade gave no hint of the overwhelming grandeur within, where every inch seemed to shimmer with artistic mastery. Standing beneath the richly decorated ceiling, we felt a deep sense of wonder, as if we had uncovered one of Genoa’s most stunning hidden treasures.
Walking into the Palazzo Ducale di Genova, we felt the weight of history in its grand halls, once the seat of the Doges who ruled the Republic of Genoa. The vast courtyards and elegant frescoed rooms told the story of Genoa’s powerful past, while modern art exhibitions added a contemporary touch to this centuries-old palace. Standing on the upper floors, we gazed through arched windows at the lively Piazza Matteotti below, imagining the political intrigue that once unfolded within these very walls.
Standing before San Lorenzo Cathedral (Saint Lawrence), we were captivated by its striking black-and-white striped façade, a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Inside, the grand vaulted ceilings, ancient frescoes, and the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, said to house his relics, filled us with awe. As we admired the intricately carved columns and the remnants of a bomb from World War II—miraculously unexploded—we felt the deep layers of history that made this cathedral the spiritual heart of Genoa.
Food was another highlight—Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, so we couldn’t resist trying a plate of trofie al pesto, a regional specialty made with hand-rolled pasta. We also indulged in focaccia di Recco, a delicious cheese-filled flatbread that quickly became one of our favorite Italian treats.
How Much Time Do You Need?
To fully experience Genoa’s history, culture, and food, a two-day visit is ideal. One day allows you to explore the historic center and port, but an extra day gives time for museums and palaces. Genoa may not be as famous as Rome or Venice, but its rich history, stunning architecture, and coastal beauty made it one of the most surprising and rewarding destinations we visited in Italy.