
Genoa is the city you don’t expect, it’s the great Maritime Republic. It is an authentic city with a welcoming and cosmopolitan soul, all to be discovered: from the historic center to the Porto Antico to the alleys celebrated in song by De Andrè while enjoying focaccia and excellent Genoese pesto.
Genoa, often referred to as “La Superba,” is a city full of surprises and is a nice place to visit. Known as one of the great Maritime Republics, this coastal gem is a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. From the bustling historic center to the serene Porto Antico, Genoa offers an authentic and cosmopolitan experience that will captivate any traveler. Let’s explore how you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Genoa over three unforgettable days.
Genoa sites to see in three days
Day 1
- The Old Port
- Aquarium
- Biosphere
Day 2
- Galata Museo del Mare
- Submarine
- Lanterna
- Bigo
Day 3
- Cattedrale San Lorenzo
- Piazza De Ferrari
- Teatro Carlo Felice
- Palazzo Ducale
- Villa del Principe
- Palazzo Reale
Three days in Genoa: things to see and do
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Genoa
Porto Antico: Where History Meets Modernity

Begin your journey in the heart of Genoa at Porto Antico, or the Old Port. This area, spanning 230,000 square meters, is a vibrant mix of history and modern attractions. Once the epicenter of maritime trade, Porto Antico has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly district brimming with cultural landmarks, play areas, and stunning waterfront views. A must-see in this area is the Genoa Aquarium, the largest in Europe, which houses over 600 species of marine life. The nearby Biosphere, a glass and steel structure designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, offers a unique experience with its tropical plants and exotic animals.

The Aquarium of Genoa and the Biosphere: Dive into the Ocean’s Mysteries
The Aquarium of Genoa is not just an aquarium; it’s a living museum that showcases the wonders of the marine world. From playful dolphins to mesmerizing jellyfish, the aquarium is home to around 6,000 marine specimens. Adjacent to the aquarium, the Biosphere provides a different type of adventure. Step inside this glass sphere and find yourself surrounded by tropical plants, butterflies, and iguanas. Together, these attractions offer an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
Day 2: Maritime Heritage and Panoramic Views
Galata Museum of the Sea and the Nazario Sauro Submarine: Sailing through Time
On your second day, dive deeper into Genoa’s rich maritime history with a visit to the Galata Museum of the Sea. Located in the historic Galata Palace, this museum offers an immersive journey through time, showcasing Genoa’s role as a maritime power. From ancient navigation tools to modern ocean liners, the exhibits are both interactive and informative. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Nazario Sauro Submarine, anchored just outside the museum. This floating museum allows you to step into the shoes of a submariner and experience life below the waves.
Lanterna: The Symbol of Genoa
No visit to Genoa is complete without seeing the Lanterna, the city’s iconic lighthouse. It is the tallest lighthouse in Italy and the Mediterranean and the fifth tallest in the world and the second tallest in Europe after the Île Vierge Lighthouse in the French department of Finistère. Standing tall at 77 meters, the Lanterna is the tallest lighthouse in Italy and the Mediterranean. It has guided sailors safely to shore since the 12th century and remains a symbol of the city’s maritime legacy. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Ligurian Sea.
It is possible to visit the monument complex with guided tours, and the monument remains closed in case of severe storms or ORANGE weather alert.

The Bigo: A Bird’s Eye View of Genoa
For a unique perspective of the city, take a ride on the Bigo, a panoramic elevator designed by Renzo Piano. This rotating structure offers a 360-degree view of Genoa from 40 meters above the ground. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning sights of the city’s historic buildings, rooftops, and the shimmering sea.
This modern metal monument, anchored in water, was designed by Renzo Piano for the 1992 Genoa Expo and is reminiscent of the ancient cranes that handled goods in the harbor. The elevator car features illustrative photo panels and a voice guide with background music, giving directions to the bell towers, towers, characteristic slate roofs, and ancient and modern buildings that emerge from the labyrinth of Genoa’s “caruggi”.
The Bigo is open every day of the year with departure every ten minutes:
- on Mondays from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm
- from Tuesday to Sunday
- on public holidays from 10.00 am to noon and from 5.00 pm to 10.00 pm

Day 3: Historic Landmarks and Cultural Treasures
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo: A Journey through Time
Start your third day with a visit to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Genoa’s most important church. Dating back to the 12th century, this cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of art, including frescoes, sculptures, and the ashes of San Giovanni Battista, the city’s patron saint. The cathedral’s facade, with its intricate bas-reliefs and majestic lions, is a sight to behold.
Intriguing stories and fascinating legends have been associated with Genoa’s Basilica and the depictions on its facade since the medieval period when the church forecourt increasingly became the hub of the city’s political and civic life. On the cathedral’s facade, you can admire its Gothic portals topped with bas-reliefs and high-reliefs and, laterally, two lions dating from the mid-19th century, while the interior hosts a diverse range of artistic styles.
The frescoes in the barrel vaults and the architectural works amaze even the most distracted visitor, immersed in a unique and stunning atmosphere. An interesting fact: inside the cathedral, in the right aisle, there is an exact replica of an unexploded piece of ordnance. The shell was fired in 1941 by the British fleet during one of the worst attacks launched against Genoa during World War II; it crashed though the roof, but never exploded (and here the legends abound). A beautiful church to visit in the heart of Genoa, a real artistic jewel that has survived the times and the people.
The Duomo is open from Monday to Friday, from 8.00 am to noon; it is closed on weekends.
To visit the cathedral, you should book a tour so as not to miss the Treasury Museum, which is accessed from inside the cathedral, as well as the nearby Diocesan Museum.

Piazza De Ferrari and Teatro Carlo Felice: The Cultural Hub of Genoa
Next, head to Piazza De Ferrari, the bustling heart of Genoa. This square is famous for its monumental bronze fountain and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Teatro Carlo Felice, the city’s opera house. This historic opera house has been the center of Genoa’s cultural life since the 19th century. Whether you’re attending a performance or simply admiring the architecture, the theater is a must-see.
The theater was inaugurated on April 7, 1828, in the presence of the Royals of the Kingdom of Sardinia, Carlo Felice and Queen Maria Cristina. Legend has it that in Turin, the Genoan musician Paganini had refused to give an encore performance to King Carlo Felice, so years later the theater was dedicated to the king himself in the hope of calming his anger towards the city. Getting to know Genoa’s theater, not only in terms of the performances staged there but also its history, structure, and architecture, is certainly an interesting experience. The theater also holds open days so that visitors can freely explore all the spaces and take behind the scenes tours.
The theater box office is open from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm, Tuesday through Friday; on Saturdays, it is open from 11.00 am to 4.00 pm

Doge’s Palace: A Glimpse into Genoa’s Aristocratic Past
Just a short walk from Piazza De Ferrari is the Doge’s Palace, one of Genoa’s most iconic landmarks. This 13th-century palace was once the residence of the Doge, the city’s ruler. Today, it serves as a cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, conferences, and festivals. Be sure to explore the Doge’s room, the chapel, and the Grimaldina tower, which offer a fascinating insight into Genoa’s aristocratic history.
The Doge’s Palace is open daily from 7.00 a.m. 11.00 p.m..

Villa del Principe – Palazzo di Andrea Doria: A Royal Retreat
End your day with a visit to Villa del Principe, the lavish residence of Andrea Doria, one of Genoa’s most powerful figures. Located near Principe Station, this palace is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find opulent frescoes, tapestries, and furniture, while the gardens offer a peaceful retreat with their beautifully designed fountains and statues.
It is easily reachable on foot from the city center, through the Old Town, or by metro. The Palazzo di Andrea Doria is the richest noble residence in Genoa, the Villa of the only Prince that Genoa has ever recognized.
It’s construction commenced in 1528, in one of the most beautiful areas of sixteenth-century Genoa. In fact, it was the only “palace” of a republican city, a museum filled with treasures and works of art, including frescoes, tapestries, and wooden furnishings. The villa has splendid monumental gardens, veritable works of architectural mastery, with Taddeo Carlone’s magnificent Neptune fountain symbolizing Admiral Doria. The gardens underwent changes with the construction of the railroad and the expansion of the port in the late 19th century, as well as the construction of the Miramare Hotel and Maritime Station in the early 20th century. It was also severely damaged by a bombing in 1944, and only in 2001, after a long restoration, it returned to its original splendor.
The opening hours of Villa del Principe are from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, only on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Royal Palace: A Regal Finale
Conclude your three-day tour with a visit to the Royal Palace, a grand residence that showcases the opulence of Genoa’s noble families. The palace is a treasure trove of art and history, with rooms adorned with frescoes, paintings, and lavish furnishings. The highlight is the Gallery of Mirrors, a stunning room that rivals the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles. As you wander through the palace, you’ll be transported back to a time of grandeur and elegance.

The tour starts from the monumental atrium with 18th-century stuccoes to the courtyard of honor, from the roof garden to the noble apartment on the second floor. The tour ends with the Throne Room, the Ballroom and the Gallery of Mirrors. Admiring these staterooms among the frescoes, paintings, and furnishings is an experience that takes you back in time to the ancient splendor of the nobility of a bygone era. The works on display are by the best Genoese artists of the 17th century along with masterpieces by Bassano, Tintoretto, Luca Giordano, Anton Van Dyck, Ferdinand Voet, and Guercino.
How to get to Genoa by train

A tour of Genoa in three days is quite feasible, even on foot. Don’t miss the chance for a long weekend in the Ligurian capital, which can be reached by train with 2 daily services
- from Milan to Genoa,
- from Rome to Genoa,
- from Naples to Genoa,
- from Florence to Genoa,
- from Venice to Genoa.
These cities are also an incredible day trip from Genoa if you only have a few days in Italy.
Visit the destination and schedule page for Genoa and buy your modifiable Low Cost ticket and save money. Remember the Italo Senior and Italo Famiglia super deals. Ready for departure? La Superba is waiting for you.