If you only have one day in Genoa, you’re in for a real treat. It might not shout as loudly as Rome, Florence, or Venice, but that’s exactly why you’ll love it. This is a city you feel your way through by wandering down narrow alleyways, past faded frescoes, and into bakeries where the scent of fresh focaccia stops you in your tracks.
I’ve visited Genoa a few times now with my boyfriend Manu, who’s from a small Italian town called Vallecrosia, about an hour away by train. He studied in Genoa, so exploring the city has always come with lots of local knowledge, the kind you won’t find in a guidebook.
We’ve put together a one-day itinerary in Genoa that follows the exact route we naturally take when we visit.
About Genoa
Genoa has a completely different feel from the Italian cities most people picture. Instead of wide piazzas and polished landmarks, you’ll find a maze of narrow alleyways, faded buildings, and hidden corners that hint at its past. We, along with many others, think it’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe, and it truly deserves its nickname, ‘La Superba’.
It was once one of the most powerful maritime republics in the Mediterranean, with its wealth built on trade flowing through the port. That prosperity can still be seen today in the grand palaces that line streets like Via Garibaldi, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can still feel that history as you explore, it’s just a little less polished, and a lot more lived-in.
It’s also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, but what really makes Genoa stand out is its slower, more authentic pace of life, something you notice as you wander, eat, and take your time here.
How to Get to Genoa
Genoa is located in Italy’s Liguria region, along the northwest coast, and is well connected by train, road, and air.
The closest airport is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, just a 15–20 minute drive from the city centre. However, you’ll often find more flight options (and cheaper fares) into Milan. From there, it’s an easy train journey to Genoa, usually taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you’re travelling within Italy, the train is by far the easiest option. Genoa sits on a major rail line, with regular connections from cities like Milan, Pisa, and Turin.
How to Get Around Genoa
If you’re staying in Genoa, you’ll be able to get around most of the city on foot or by using public transport. A single metro or bus ticket costs €2, but you can get an unlimited ticket for €10 that covers 24 hours of travel. Alternatively, a half-day ticket is €5. Public transport and walking make Genoa an ideal option for budget travellers.
You can purchase your ticket from a bus station kiosk or via the AMT App. Some bus stops have machines that let you buy tickets with your contactless card, but you won’t be able to purchase tickets on board the buses themselves.
It’s a common misconception that travel in Genoa is free, but this is only for registered residents. You’ll need to purchase and validate your ticket before you get on the bus or metro.
One Day in Genoa Itinerary: A Local’s Recommendation
Morning:
Start your day by getting lost in Caruggi
If you only have one day in Genoa, then start your day at Caruggi, the real heart of Genoa, and its maze of medieval alleyways makes for a great start to your one-day itinerary. They’re dark, narrow, and filled with artisan shops, cafes, and hidden squares, reflecting the city’s rich maritime history.
This is also where you need to try the local delicacy: focaccia Genovese. A soft, salty bread drenched in olive oil and topped with rosemary. Don’t overthink where to go, as the best places are often busy. Just grab a coffee, some focaccia, and watch as Genoa wakes up.
Then, take a visit to Genoa Cathedral
Once you’ve finished breakfast, make your way to the striking Gothic masterpiece that is Genoa Cathedral, known locally as the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
Its black-and-white striped façade is instantly recognisable, but what makes it even more impressive is the contrast with the surrounding streets. One moment you’re wandering through dim, narrow alleyways, and the next you step out into an open square faced with something this grand. Despite its beauty, it’s a landmark many visitors overlook, so it’s often quieter than you might expect.
It’s definitely worth stepping inside, too. Entry to the cathedral itself is free, while access to areas like the museum or treasury usually costs a small fee (around €5). Even if you only have a quick look, the interior is just as striking as the exterior.
Stop number three takes you to The Church of the Gesù and Saints Ambrose and Andrew
After exploring the Cathedral, you’ll want to take a short walk to Chiesa del Gesù, or The Church of Gesù. This Baroque church looks fairly understated from the outside, but the interior tells a completely different story. Marble, gold detailing, dramatic artwork, it’s honestly one of the most beautiful interiors in the city and one a lot of people miss.
The last stop of the morning takes you to Piazza De Ferrai
This is Genoa’s main square and is known for its iconic fountain and historical buildings, including the Palazzo della Borsa and Teatro Carlo Felice. This bustling hub is the perfect place to watch the world go by and take a small pause before carrying on your one-day Genoa itinerary.
Late Morning and Lunch
After a small pause, head to Via Garibaldi & The Rolli Palaces
Once you’ve enjoyed a small respite with a coffee in hand, you’ll want to head towards Via Garibaldi, one of the most beautiful streets in the city.
This is where you’ll find the famous Rolli Palaces, a collection of grand Renaissance buildings that once hosted visiting royalty. Today, some are museums you can step inside.
Even if you don’t go in, just walking down the street is enough to make you realise how powerful Genoa once was.
Lunch time at Pestobene, for a taste of the best pesto in the world
This is the lunch stop you have to make. We first came here years before it went viral online. Back then, you were able to walk in and get a table straight away, now though, you’ll probably have to queue. Although we would suggest coming here a little later in the day, around 1.30 or 2 pm, to avoid the lunchtime rush.
Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, and trying it here, with fresh trofie pasta, is something you just shouldn’t skip.
Afternoon:
Spending the afternoon at a slightly slower pace, exploring Spianata Castelletto
For the best view in Genoa, head up to Spianata Castelletto. The best way to get here? Is via the Art Nouveau lift tucked away near Piazza Portello. It’s one of those slightly hidden experiences that makes the city feel special and gives you a sense of adventure.
Once you are at the top, you’ll get sweeping views over terracotta rooftops, the port, and the sea beyond. It’s one of the best places to properly slow down and take in the beauty of Genoa before wrapping up your day in Boccadasse.
Evening:
Finish off your one-day Genoa itinerary at Boccadasse
Boccadasse is a charming fishing village within Genoa that feels completely separate from the city and makes for the best way to finish your day. From here, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of pastel houses and tiny beaches. There’s a laid-back coastal atmosphere here and plenty of places to dine in as you watch the sunset.
For more things to do in Genoa, check out my complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Genoa worth visiting for a day?
Yes, Genoa is absolutely worth visiting for a day. In fact, it’s the perfect amount of time to get a real feel for the city. While it’s not as polished as places like Rome or Florence, that’s exactly what makes it special. In one day, you can explore the historic centre, try authentic pesto where it originated, take in the views from above, and still have time to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
How much time do I need in Genoa?
While one day is enough to get a feel for Genoa, staying for 2 to 3 days is often recommended so you’re not packing so much into your day. If you’re able to extend your stay, you’ll be able to spend more time exploring some of Genoa’s top attractions and really immerse yourself in the city’s culture and atmosphere.
What to do for one day in Genoa?
If you only have one day in Genoa, you can spend the day seeing some of Genoa’s top attractions. We would suggest starting your day in Caruggi, where you can eat breakfast in a quaint artisan eatery, before visiting Genoa Cathedral or Chiesa del Gesù e dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea. After, you can head to Piazza De Ferrari to get a real feel for Genoa’s historic centre. Wander along Via Garibaldi to see the grand palaces, stop for lunch at Pestobene, then take the lift up to Spianata Castelletto for panoramic views. Finish your day with an aperitivo in Boccadasse by the sea.
Can you walk into Genoa from a cruise port?
Yes, you can walk into Genoa from the cruise port. The main terminals are located very close to the city centre, and it usually takes around 10–20 minutes on foot to reach the historic centre, depending on where you dock. It’s one of the easiest cruise ports to explore independently.
What not to miss in Genoa?
If you’re short on time, here are some local recommendations of what not to miss in Genoa:
- The narrow streets of Caruggi
- Genoa Cathedral
- Via Garibaldi with its UNESCO-listed palaces.
- Try authentic pesto at Pestobene, or participate in a pesto-making class to learn the craft
- Spianata Castelletto
- Boccadasse
- Visit Porta Soprana and Christopher Columbus House to gain insight into the explorer’s early life
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5-day Dolomites Itinerary – If you have time, turn your trip into a real adventure by discovering the stunning Dolomites. We’ve done this ourselves and highly recommend it. The views, the scenery, the experience, nothing is quite like it.
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