Genoa Historic Highlights Private Tour: A Walk Through Time
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Genoa Historic Highlights Private Tour: A Walk Through Time

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(3 reviews)
7h
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About this experience

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on the “Genoa Historic Highlights: A Walk Through Time” tour, a comprehensive exploration of this storied city. From the UNESCO-listed palaces along Via Garibaldi to the ancient gates that once protected this maritime republic, each stop on this tour immerses you in centuries of history. Discover the architectural splendor of the Doge’s Palace, the sacred artifacts within the Treasury Museum, and the humble beginnings of Christopher Columbus. This walking tour offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical insights, ideal for those eager to delve deep into the heart of Genoa.

Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Available options

Genoa Historic Highlights Private Tour: A Walk Through Time

What's included

Professional local tour guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Stroll down Via Garibaldi, known for its magnificent palaces and museums. This street is part of Genoa’s UNESCO-listed heritage and showcases splendid examples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

2

Visit the Palace of San Giorgio, originally built as a house for the Bank of Saint George, one of the oldest in the world. It’s now an iconic symbol of Genoa's rich maritime history.

3

Explore the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, notable for its striking black-and-white striped facade and a richly decorated interior. This cathedral is a cornerstone of Genoese spiritual and cultural life.

4
Stop 4

Discover the Treasury Museum, located within the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, where sacred relics and art, including the famed Sacro Catino, are housed.

5

Visit the Doge's Palace, a stunning example of Genoese architecture, which has played a central role in the city's administrative life for centuries. It now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.

6

See the house where Christopher Columbus, one of Genoa’s most famous sons, is said to have been born. Although small, it offers a glimpse into the early life of the explorer.

7

Walk through the Porta Soprana, the ancient city gate of Genoa. It stands as a part of the city's medieval defensive walls and offers a picturesque historical landmark.

8

Conclude your tour in the heart of Genoa, at the Central Square, surrounded by vibrant city life and framed by historic buildings, including elegant shops and cafés.

What's not included

Train ticket daily card- 18.50€/person.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
3 reviews
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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The main entrance of Genova Piazza Principe.

About Genoa

Genoa, the capital of the Liguria region, is a historic port city known for its rich maritime heritage, medieval architecture, and delicious cuisine. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Genoa offers a unique blend of authenticity, culture, and coastal beauty.

Top Attractions

Aquarium of Genoa

One of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours €27 for adults, €18 for children

Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)

A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is a must-visit for its historical and artistic significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Treasure Museum: €6)

Palazzi dei Rolli

A UNESCO World Heritage site, these Renaissance and Baroque palaces were once the homes of Genoa's noble families.

Historical 2-3 hours €10 for a combined ticket to multiple palaces

Galata Museo del Mare

A maritime museum that explores Genoa's rich seafaring history through interactive exhibits and historic ships.

Museum 2 hours €10 for adults, €8 for children

Boccadasse

A charming fishing village within Genoa, known for its colorful houses, pebble beach, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Beach Half-day Free (restaurants and activities vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pesto Genovese

A traditional basil sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and Pecorino cheese.

Sauce Contains dairy and nuts.

Focaccia

A flat, oven-baked bread topped with olive oil and sea salt, often flavored with rosemary or onions.

Bread Vegetarian.

Trofie al Pesto

A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto sauce.

Pasta Contains dairy and nuts.

Farinata

A savory chickpea flour pancake, similar to a thin, crispy crepe.

Snack Vegetarian and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Ligurian Alps Scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sunbathing at Boccadasse Beach Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours along the coast Kayaking in the Mediterranean

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, vibrant festivals, and lively beaches. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Italian
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Genoa is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Be cautious at night, especially in the city center.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air
  • Cristoforo Colombo Airport • 7 km from city center
By train

Genoa Piazza Principe, Genoa Brignole

By bus

Genoa Piazza della Vittoria, Genoa Brignole Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean and efficient, with only one line currently in operation.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico (Old Town) Albaro Foce Sestri Ponente

Day trips

Portofino
30 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day

A picturesque fishing village known for its colorful houses, luxury yachts, and stunning coastal views.

Camogli
25 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day

A charming fishing village with a beautiful pebble beach, colorful houses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Cinque Terre
100 km from Genoa • Full-day or overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of five colorful coastal villages with stunning views and hiking trails.

Festivals

Genoa International Boat Show • October Euroflora • Spring (every 5 years) Genoa International Film Festival • September

Pro tips

  • Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and narrow alleys
  • Try the local specialties, such as pesto, focaccia, and seafood
  • Visit the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe
  • Take a day trip to the nearby coastal villages of Portofino and Camogli
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Foce and Centro Storico neighborhoods
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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