Genoa Car Hire

Things to do in Genoa

Famous for its Renaissance architecture and Gothic atmosphere, there is so much to see and do in the medieval town. There is so much history round every corner in Genoa, and it is one of the most underrated cities in Italy – so there aren’t the normal tourists crowds you might see in Rome or Venice. Visiting Genoa is the ideal place to see Italian history, try great food and experience the culture. But where do you start when visiting this incredible city?

Visit Europe’s Largest Medieval City Centre

The Centro Storico is Europe’s largest medieval city centre. The centre hasn’t changed for years, and is full of Renaissance buildings and other sights not to be missed. The Campetto, which is a small square is now full of quaint shops within these buildings and are a must for anyone looking to do a bit more shopping. As well as this, you will want to see San Matteo, which is the small church built one of Genoa’s most famous families and was refurbished by Michelangelo’s student Montorsoli. There is nothing quite like this city centre anywhere in the world and there is so much to do and see here.

See the sights of Palazzo Reale

It often comes as some surprise for people to learn that Genoa has never had a royal family, but does have a royal palace. Built in the 17th century, the incredible Palazzo Reale is truly a sight to be seen. Within the palace, you cannot miss the sensational art collection, that includes works from Dycks and Tintorettos. Along with this, you’ll be able to exit the palace via a long stretch of balcony that gives you views of the entire city – including the Mediterranean Sea.

Visit the Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno

A cemetery might not be everyone’s idea of sightseeing, but the Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno is something a little different. This 19th century cemetery is home to some incredible artwork and a neoclassical temple surrounded by realistic sculptures. The sculptures surrounding the temple all depict people who have passed and the mourners who come to weep for them. There really isn’t any other cemetery quite like it in the world.

Visit the Acquario di Genova

Genoa is home to the largest aquarium in the whole of Italy. Built in 1992, The Acquario di Genova is part of the Edutainment" centre and would take a long time to explore it in its entirety. The aquarium was built to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the voyage of Christopher Columbus and it aims to teach people of all ages all about marine life from all over the world.

Eating Out in Genoa

Everyone loves Italian food; from pizza, to gelato – they really know how to cook. Genoa is known for its food – street food in particular. The Genoese know what’s what in the kitchen, and have developed food that is unlike any anywhere else in the world. There are endless restaurants, bars and cafes to try when you’re there, but here are some of our favourites:

Enoteca Migone

The famous Doria Family visited the Enoteca Migone hundreds of years ago. Today, the ‘old tavern’ is in part a restaurant and in part a winery. They serve Genoese classics, including cod and potatoes and olives, and every meal is overseen – just to make sure everything is absolutely perfect every time. This restaurant can be found here: Piazza di S. Matteo, 4/6/R, 16100.

Le Rune

Le Rune is modern restaurant that takes traditional Genoese cuisine and puts their own twist on it. They serve dishes that are famous from all over Italy, such as risotto and pasta dishes, and even introduce foods from other countries – such as the French. Their homemade food is delicious and cannot be matched anywhere in Genoa.

Sa’ Pesta

Originally used as an old salt warehouse, this restaurant has given a new name to ‘fast food.’ Sa’ Pesta have kept their 19th century interior design theme, but have tweaked the menu to give it a more modern feel. Here you can try out classic Genoese street food — including farinata and torta di riso – as well as witness how the food is cooked. For a quick eating option, with just as much taste and atmosphere, Sa’ Pesta is definitely the place to go.

Transport in Genoa

When you’re headed to Genoa, you’re going to want to pack your walking shoes. This medieval city centre is typically off limits to public transport – not to mention the fact that taxis are often too wide for the roads. Thankfully, though, the city is extremely walkable – and there are even public lifts when things get a little steep.

When looking to enter to city, the high-speed Paris-Milan route is the perfect option by train, and you could even stop off to see the sights on the way through too – why not see more of Italy on your travels?

Once you are out of the main centre, there are plenty of public transport options, and the main airport is only 15 minutes away by car – so it may be worth renting a car if you plan to explore further afield.