Genoa: Private Royal Palace, Rolli Palaces & walking guided tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the wonderful Genoese residences of the Golden Century and join this guided tour of Palazzi dei Roll and Palazzo Reale.
See some of the most sumptuous residences built by the aristocratic Genoese families on guided tour of the Palazzi dei Roll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the Golden Century, the grounds include splendid open staircases, courtyards, and loggias overlooking gardens.
Available options
Genova Tour
What's included
Ticket Entrance
Professional guide
Private Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the Palazzo Reale, built in the 17th century by the Balbi family, based on the designs of Pier Francesco Cantone. One of the largest architectural complexes in Genoa, its reception halls are decorated with frescoes, stuccos, paintings, sculptures, furniture, and fittings belonging to the noble and royal families who lived there.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
The Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli in Genoa’s historic center date from the late 16th and early 17th centuries when the Republic of Genoa was at the height of its financial and seafaring power. Discover the palaces positioned on different levels that were part of a network of public hospitality houses for state visits, as decreed by the Senate of the Republic of Genoa in 1576.
3
See some of the most sumptuous residences built by the aristocratic Genoese families on guided tour of the Palazzi dei Roll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the Golden Century, the grounds include splendid open staircases, courtyards, and loggias overlooking gardens.
Some of the most important names in Baroque and Rococo decorative art frescoed the vaulted ceiling of the living rooms and galleries. Among the more than 100 paintings on display are works by the greatest 17th-century Genoese artists. Other works on display are masterpieces by Anton Van Dyck, Tintoretto, Guercino, Luca Giordano, Ferdinand Voet, and Bassano.
What's not included
Extras
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Right in front of the entrance of Palazzo Reale
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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