Genoa, Italy
Genoa (Genova) is a port city and the capital of northwest Italy’s Liguria region.
Over the centuries it has played a major role in maritime trade and the famous explorer Christopher Columbus called Genoa home.
For a walking guide to the city, check out our Self-Guided City Walk of Genoa.
As well as the Old Port with its wealth of history and charm, there is so much more to discover in Genoa.
Via Giuseppe Garibaldi is the most famous street in Genoa. It is well known for its ancient palaces. It is one of the Strade Nuove (Italian for “new streets”) built by the Genoese aristocracy during the Renaissance.
Piazza de Ferrari fountain is the main attraction of Genoa’s main square. The piazza is surrounded by some impressive buildings including Palazzo Ducale a 13th-century mansion with an inner square.
Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo) is a medieval church built in the 12th-century known for its black-and-white-striped façade. In 1941 a shell was fired into it from a British warship, it failed to detonate, and the shell is now on display in the church.
The Romanesque cathedral stands in the Old Town is also known for its frescoed interior and unique holy relics.
As you wander, you will also see signs of the city’s most famous son Christopher Columbus.’
To read more about Genoa and other Italian locations check out 20 Must-See Destinations in Italy.