The historic centre of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe, is a fascinating maze of narrow streets called “caruggi“, where echoes of the past blend perfectly with the liveliness of the present. Here, among noble palaces, ancient churches, and lively squares, you can breathe in the authentic Genoese atmosphere.

Dive into the maze of the caruggi of Genoa, a labyrinth of narrow alleys that represent the most authentic and mysterious soul of the city. These hidden places, nestled between ancient tower houses, have witnessed the stories, trades, and daily life of the Maritime Republic.

The true beating heart of the city, its alleys are full of life, colour, and flavour. They host historic shops, welcoming cafés, and small restaurants where you can taste the real Genoese cuisine. This urban maze is also the ideal place to discover a traditional Sciamadda and the old artisan workshops – witnesses of a savoir-faire that has stood the test of time. Visiting the historic centre of Genoa and getting lost in its alleys isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a true immersion into Genoese culture, where every step reveals stories of sailors, artists, and ordinary people who made this city great.

An exciting adventure into the depths of the sea awaits you at the Genoa Aquarium, one of the city’s top attractions and the largest aquarium in Italy. Not only that – it’s also among the most renowned in Europe, offering an unforgettable journey through marine abysses, without getting wet.

Located in the heart of the Old Port, this spectacular aquarium offers an incredible voyage through the world’s oceans, showcasing an extraordinary variety of marine habitats and aquatic species.

From colourful tropical fish to the mysterious deep sea, from playful penguins to majestic creatures like sharks and dolphins, the Genoa Aquarium delivers unforgettable emotions for visitors of all ages. Immersed in this magical atmosphere, you’ll discover the secrets of the underwater world, understand the importance of preserving marine ecosystems, and simply marvel at the beauty of aquatic life.

The Aquarium is not just a must-see for those visiting Genoa – it’s also an important centre for environmental education and scientific research, where both young and old can learn about the importance of marine biodiversity and the challenges it faces. The visit thus becomes a unique experience combining wonder, learning, and awareness of environmental issues.

For anyone deciding what to see in Genoa, the Aquarium is truly an unmissable stop: an emotional journey into the ocean depths that leaves every visitor with memories of a vibrant underwater world full of life and colour. Get ready to experience unforgettable moments through underwater tunnels, large panoramic tanks, and up-close encounters with sea creatures. The Genoa Aquarium is a breathtaking window into the mysterious marine universe, ready to fill your heart with lasting emotions.

The City of Children and Youth in Genoa is a one-of-a-kind interactive museum dedicated to children aged 2 to 12. Opened in 2008 and renovated in 2022, the museum offers an exhibition space of over 2,000 m² divided into themed areas, all focused on exploring the five senses. The new location is right beneath the Aquarium.

Each thematic area is dedicated to one of the senses: sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell. Children can immerse themselves in engaging and interactive sensory experiences, learning about the world around them in a fun and stimulating way.

The City of Children is especially loved because here kids can:

• Shout like crazy in a soundproof booth
• Touch everything they want
• Play with a giant nose ;)
• Experiment with optical illusions
• Create music
• Build a house on a real construction site
• And much more!

The City of Children and Youth is not only a place for fun, but also an opportunity to learn and socialize. Kids can interact with peers, develop new skills, and acquire knowledge in a natural and spontaneous way. Among the places to visit in Genoa, this unique museum will definitely be one of the favourites — we’re sure of it!

As we continue our journey through the 10 things to see in Genoa, we can’t overlook the famous Palazzi dei Rolli, an architectural treasure that earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. These extraordinary buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, a time when Genoa thrived as a Maritime Republic. Walking through the historic centre, you’ll come across these magnificent residences that once hosted nobles and important visitors to the city. Each palace tells a unique story of power, wealth, and artistic grandeur, with imposing façades, hidden courtyards, and breathtaking interior decorations.

Their beauty isn’t only external: inside, you’ll admire frescoes, sculptures, and period furnishings that will transport you back in time. Visiting the Palazzi dei Rolli offers an immersion into Genoa’s history, revealing the elegance and prestige that made the city a cultural hub in Europe. A tip? Don’t miss the Rolli Days Genoa, when many of these palaces open to the public for a limited time.

If you want to dive deeper into the incredible story of the Rolli and find out why they’re called that, we talked about it here.

For art lovers, a must-see is Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its splendid Palazzi dei Rolli, home to museums and art galleries.

Just a few steps from Piazza De Ferrari – the financial and cultural heart of the city – you’ll find in Via Garibaldi Genoa the Musei di Strada Nuova complex, where art and history blend together inside the magnificent Palazzi Rosso, Bianco, and Tursi. Here you can admire masterpieces of Genoese and European art in a unique architectural setting. But since we’re exploring the city with kids, know that around Via Garibaldi you’ll also find two of the best ice cream shops in Genoa and a super chic and amazing pastry shop!

A must-stop every time I walk along Via Garibaldi with my son, after a good gelato, is the children’s bookshop located in Piazza Fontane Marose, right next to Via Garibaldi, on the slope that leads down to Via Luccoli (one of the most beautiful alleys in Genoa’s historic centre).

A trip to Genoa wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its Lighthouse, a historic beacon overlooking the Genoese skyline and the undisputed symbol of the city. Climbing the Lighthouse offers a unique experience, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the port, the city, and the surrounding mountains. This centuries-old structure is not only a reference point for sailors but has also become a witness to the history and evolution of Genoa. At 77 meters tall, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the Mediterranean and gives adventurous visitors the chance to admire an unparalleled visual spectacle.

As you climb the steps to the top, you’ll be guided through a historical journey that tells the story of the lighthouse and Genoa’s maritime life. Among the many things to do in Genoa, visiting the Lighthouse remains a must for those who want to truly understand the city – blending culture, history, and natural beauty into one unforgettable experience.

We’re joking, of course – but the nautical style, those iconic stripes, are a true Genovese classic. And the Genoa Cathedral, with its black and white stripes, is a perfect example of the city’s signature aesthetic ;)

But why should a cathedral be interesting for kids and be one of the places to visit in Genoa with children? Because there are 6 amazing curiosities that make the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa truly one of a kind. We wrote about them here – check them out!

Among the 10 things to see in Genoa, you can’t miss one of the most iconic: the view of the city from Spianata Castelletto. Wondering how to get to Spianata Castelletto? Naturally, there’s the Castelletto Lift, which is not just a means of transport, but a gateway to one of the most breathtaking panoramas the Superba has to offer.

Riding the Castelletto Lift is like taking a journey through time and space. Inaugurated in the early 20th century, it still preserves its vintage charm with a structure of iron and glass that transports you straight into the elegant Liberty style of the past.

But it’s at the end of this short yet evocative ride that the real magic awaits: a panoramic view that embraces the entire city, from the Old Port to the surrounding hills, offering an unforgettable spectacle at any hour of the day.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this unique experience. The Castelletto Lift is not just a convenience for locals but a true tourist attraction that captures the authentic soul of Genoa.

Among the must-see attractions in Genoa is certainly a visit to its hilltop viewpoints via lifts, funiculars, and rack railways. If you’re curious, we talked about it here

When the sun is out – whether it’s summer or winter – a visit to Boccadasse, the picturesque fishing village of Genoa, is a must. With its colorful houses, narrow alleys, and crystal-clear sea, this little village offers a magical atmosphere. Even though it’s still part of the city, it feels peaceful, relaxed, and welcoming – the perfect place to disconnect from routine and enjoy a moment of calm. Climb one of the typical crêuze and you’ll discover Capo Santa Chiara Boccadasse: one of Genoa’s true gems!

Just a few bus stops away from the centre and you’ll find yourself on the beach or in the main square – the beating heart of Boccadasse Genoa – where you can sit at one of the many outdoor tables and enjoy a coffee or aperitivo surrounded by beauty. Another beloved ritual for locals? A quick lunch break with a paper cone of fried fish, some classic focaccia, or a huge gelato – the perfect way to enjoy a seaside moment in any season before heading back to the office.

Located in the Nervi district of Genoa, just a few kilometres from the city centre, the Parks of Nervi are a lush green oasis overlooking the sea, full of charm and beauty. With their flourishing gardens, historic villas, and the scenic Anita Garibaldi Promenade running along the edge, these parks offer a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

The Parks of Nervi host a rich collection of plants from all over the world, making them a true botanical paradise. If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to bring a blanket, packed lunch, football or bicycle – the parks are the perfect place to spend a relaxing, healthy day outdoors. And for the little ones, there’s a very large play area including equipment specifically for toddlers.

The climate in Nervi is always incredibly mild, so on sunny Sunday afternoons, the parks are a popular destination. But don’t worry – they’re easy to reach by train or bus, and there’s plenty of space for everyone: the parks cover an area of about 92,000 square metres!

Curious why they’re called the “Parks” of Nervi and not just “Park”?

Because they were created by joining four separate gardens that once belonged to private villas: Villa Gropallo, Villa Saluzzo Serra, Villa Grimaldi Fassio, and Villa Luxoro, which now belong to the Municipality of Genoa and house important museums. These parks are among the must-see places in Genoa for anyone interested in history and art.

While you’re here, here’s what else to see in Genoa Nervi besides the parks:

• The Nervi Promenade, officially the Anita Garibaldi Promenade – a scenic trail stretching along the coast for about 2 kilometres with breathtaking sea views;
• One of Nervi’s exceptional museums: the Wolfsoniana, GAM – Gallery of Modern Art, Giannettino Luxoro Museum, and Raccolte Frugone Museum.
• The Nervi beach for a swim among the rocks;
• The little port for a dinner or aperitif with a view.