Genoa Audio Guide Tour: History, Secrets & Panoramic Views

Cathedral of San Lorenzo

The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the city’s main religious landmark. Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, it captivates visitors with its striking black-and-white marble façade and its Gothic interior. Inside, it also houses the Treasury Museum, where you can admire the Sacro Catino — believed by tradition to be the Holy Grail — along with other precious liturgical artifacts.

Old Port (Porto Antico)

Completely revitalized by architect Renzo Piano, Genoa’s Old Port is now one of the city’s most popular and lively areas. Here you’ll find the Genoa Aquarium, the Bigo (a panoramic lift), the Biosphere, the Galata Maritime Museum, and plenty of pedestrian-friendly spaces—perfect for a relaxing walk among cafés, restaurants, and historic boats.
It’s the ideal place to experience the sea right in the heart of the city.

Via Garibaldi

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Via Garibaldi is considered one of the most beautiful streets in Europe. Also known as “Strada Nuova,” it is home to the magnificent Palazzi dei Rolli, former noble residences open to visitors and now housing museums such as Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi. Here you can admire masterpieces by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Caravaggio.

San Matteo Church and Cloister

Built in 1125, the Church of San Matteo is a masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. It was also the burial place of the admiral Andrea Doria. The cloister, hidden and peaceful, has preserved its mystical atmosphere with elegant columns and beautifully carved capitals.

Spianata Castelletto & Panoramic Lift

For a breathtaking view over the city and the port, simply take the historic Liberty-style lift from Piazza Portello up to Spianata Castelletto. From here, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable panorama of rooftops, towers, domes, and the sea — the perfect spot for stunning photos and to truly feel the soul of Genoa from above.

Christopher Columbus’ House & Porta Soprana

Just a short walk from Piazza Dante, you’ll find Christopher Columbus’ House, where—according to tradition—the famous Genoese navigator lived during his youth. Right next to it stands Porta Soprana, one of the city’s ancient medieval gates, remarkably well preserved and once marking the entrance to walled Genoa. Together, they create a truly atmospheric and fascinating historic corner.

Piazza De Ferrari

This is Genoa’s main square and the beating heart of modern-day Genoa. The large fountain at its center is surrounded by historic landmarks such as the Teatro Carlo Felice, the Stock Exchange Palace (Palazzo della Borsa), and the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale). It’s a place where art, culture, events, and shopping all come together.

Church of the Santissima Annunziata del Vastato

Just a short walk from Via Balbi, along one of the city’s oldest routes, stands one of Genoa’s most breathtaking churches: Santissima Annunziata del Vastato. Its plain exterior gives no hint of the stunning interior, one of the finest examples of Genoese Baroque. The richly frescoed naves are an explosion of gold, stucco decorations, and paintings that will leave you speechless. Among its masterpieces are works by artists such as Giovanni Andrea Ansaldo and Domenico Piola. It’s a true hidden gem for visitors, often described as “the most beautiful church in Genoa.”