2 Days in Genoa: Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Wondering how to spend 2 days in Genoa? This itinerary covers the city’s top attractions, hidden gems, local food, and the best things to do during a weekend in Liguria’s capital.
For centuries, Genoa was one of the most powerful maritime republics in the Mediterranean. Its influence can still be seen today in the grand palaces, historic streets, and impressive architecture scattered throughout the city.
Genoa is also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, singer-songwriter Fabrizio De André, and architect Renzo Piano. Add world-famous pesto, freshly baked focaccia, and local Ligurian wines, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable city break.
I previously lived in Genoa and still spend a lot of time here, which has allowed me to discover both the famous landmarks and the lesser-known corners of the city.
In this guide, I will share exactly how I would spend 2 days in Genoa, including must-see attractions, local restaurants, viewpoints, and a few hidden gems along the way.
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Day 1 in Genoa
Start your first day in Genoa with a sweet breakfast at Caffè Mangini, one of the oldest and best-known cafés in the city. Dating back to 1876, it is the perfect place to experience a piece of Genoese history before you begin exploring.
From there, walk through Galleria Mazzini and admire its elegant architecture, historic boutiques, and Teatro Carlo Felice. Continue to Piazza De Ferrari, the main square of Genoa and one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
One of the best ways to discover Genoa is through its magnificent palaces. If you start your day early and have enough time, visit Palazzo Ducale in Piazza De Ferrari and explore its exhibitions and historic halls.
No Genoa itinerary would be complete without a stop related to Christopher Columbus. Walk along Via Dante to visit Columbus House and don’t forget to take a photo of Porta Soprana, one of the city’s most iconic medieval gates.
By now, it should be time for lunch. If you are looking for a traditional sit-down meal, head to Antica Osteria Ravecca and try local specialties such as seafood and pesto.
Prefer something more casual? Stop by Sa Pesta, one of Genoa’s most beloved street food spots. Order a selection of focaccia, savory pies, and other Ligurian specialties for an authentic taste of the city.
You can also immerse yourself deeper into the culinary culture of the city on these tours:
—> Do Eat Better Experience – Food Tour in Genoa
—> Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class with a Local Chef
—> Genoa Gourmet Half-Day Food Tour
In the afternoon, continue exploring Molo, the oldest part of Genoa’s historic center. Here you will find Santa Maria di Castello, one of the oldest churches in Liguria.
As soon as you step outside, you will spot the Embriaci Tower standing tall above the surrounding buildings. From there, head to one of my favorite hidden gems in Genoa: Campo Pisano.
Remember when I said that Genoa once ruled the Mediterranean Sea? Campo Pisano is where the Republic of Genoa celebrated its victory over Pisa. Today, it is a peaceful square surrounded by colorful houses and decorated with a beautiful risseu, a traditional Ligurian pebble mosaic.
Next, make your way to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, one of the most beautiful places in Genoa. Dating back to 1118, the cathedral is instantly recognizable thanks to its black-and-white striped façade, a classic example of Ligurian Gothic architecture.
Don’t forget your camera because this is one of the best photo spots in Genoa. Inside, you can see an unexploded British naval shell from World War II, which many locals still consider a miracle.
No visit to Genoa would be complete without aperitivo. Walk towards Piazza delle Vigne and continue to Piazza Lavagna, one of the locals’ favorite meeting spots. Order a glass of Vermentino or try Asinello, a lesser-known Ligurian wine worth discovering.
Afterward, head to Piazza Banchi, where the world’s first public bank was founded. While you are there, admire the beautiful façade of Palazzo San Giorgio and stroll towards the Aquarium of Genoa, the largest aquarium in Italy and one of the biggest in Europe.
Finish your day with dinner. For seafood, book a table at Vico Palla. If you are craving pesto, Cavour 21 is one of my favorite options near the old port.
Day 2 in Genoa
Start your second day in Genoa with breakfast at Caffehin. Order their specialty coffee and a pistachio brioche before heading out to explore the city.
After breakfast, walk along Via Balbi and stop by the Trogoli di Santa Brigida for a photo. Continue to the Royal Palace, one of Genoa’s most impressive landmarks. Don’t miss the Mirror Gallery and the beautiful risseu mosaic in the gardens.
Many visitors overlook Santissima Annunziata del Vastato, but it is one of the most beautiful churches in Genoa. Step inside and you will quickly understand why Montesquieu described it as “the most beautiful church in Genoa.”
Just a short walk away lies Carmine, one of the most authentic neighborhoods in the city. This is where you can experience a slower side of Genoa, far from the main tourist attractions.
Imagine locals chatting from their balconies, children playing in the streets, and laundry hanging between colorful buildings. Piazza della Giuggiola is one of the most photogenic corners of Genoa, so don’t forget your camera. While you are here, visit the nearby Church of San Bartolomeo dell’Olivella.
Once you are done exploring, treat yourself to some focaccia or farinata from Le Bontà del Grano before continuing towards Via Cairoli. Along the way, stop by the Church of San Siro, which originally served as Genoa’s cathedral.
Next, head to Via Garibaldi, one of the most famous streets in Genoa. The street is lined with magnificent palaces, with Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi being the highlights.
By now, it should be time for lunch. Da Maria is one of the best places in Genoa to try traditional pesto. The atmosphere feels like stepping into an Italian grandmother’s dining room, which only adds to the experience.
Another great option is Il Mugugno. The name comes from a Genoese dialect word that describes one of the locals’ favorite activities: complaining. Fortunately, the food here is excellent, so you won’t have much to complain about. If you have already tried pesto, order the fish ravioli instead.
After lunch, head to one of the most beloved viewpoints in Genoa: Belvedere Castelletto. On your way there, make a stop at Pasticceria Profumo, one of the city’s historic bakeries.
Since 1827, this family-run pastry shop has been producing traditional Ligurian sweets using fresh seasonal ingredients. If you are looking for edible souvenirs, this is one of the best places in Genoa to find them.
From Piazza Portello, take the historic Liberty-style lift up to Belvedere Castelletto and enjoy some of the best views in the city. Before you leave, stop by Don Paolo for a refreshing granita while taking in the panorama.
Next, make your way to the Nervi Promenade, one of the most scenic walks in Genoa. The views of the rocky coastline, colorful buildings, and Mediterranean Sea are spectacular, especially around sunset.
Finish your 2 days in Genoa in the charming fishing village of Boccadasse. Whether you come for aperitivo, dinner, or simply a stroll by the sea, this is one of the most picturesque corners of the city.
For a special final meal, book a table at Ristorante Capo Santa Chiara. If you prefer a view over Boccadasse itself, head to Vittorio al Mare and order the fritto misto or Pata Negra.
If you have limited time, choose between Nervi Promenade and Boccadasse. While I love both, I would recommend Boccadasse, so you can enjoy dinner in the area. And just like that, your 2 days in Genoa come to an end.
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Hello! We just came back from a visit to Chiavari meeting friends and had time for a bit more than lunch in Genova so followed some of your itinerary. Grazie! It was all perfect! We went to Caffè Mangini and loved it, then walked around to sights with your guidance…had a nice lunch at Antica Osteria Ravecca and went to your hidden gem of Campo Pisano.
We live in Aix-en-Provence, France, so hopefully we’ll get a chance to visit Genova more sometime soon! Thanks again!
Oh wow! Thank you so much! And glad you had a nice time in Genoa… hopefully you can come back and see more 😊
Make pesto not war
😀😀
Genoa looks spectacular! You have done such an amazing job capturing all the details. I would love to see Santissima Annunziata dal Vastato. I’m an Art History minor, and still love baroque art.
Glad you like it! Snd thank you so much! You should see all the palaces of Genoa😍
I love the picture of the car with the suitcase. You always take the best pictures with your cute little dresseys 😍 Does the car still run?
Thank you so much! Yes, last time I saw the owner come back with groceries haha. He participates is parades as well 😍
I can’t wait to go back to Italy to visit Genoa! I loved your hotel recommendations as well!
Thank you so much, Caroline 😍
OMG Your photos are always so stunning! Love that red dress on you, such a power color 🙂 I was in Cinque Terre back in April and you’re very first picture reminds me of it. Adding genoa to my list for my next Italy trip and saving this to my Pinterest.
Yes, it’s Boccadasse and it’s like little version of Cinque Terre. Just less crowded haha. After all, it’s only couple of hours away. Thank you so much, Ashley ❤️
I just loved Genoa. I think it is an underrated city in Italy. There is so much to see. Thanks for sharing!
That’s so true! And these 2 days are just an introduction!
Obsessed with your photos! This sounds like a great guide and I’ll have to add Genoa to my list of places to visit in Italy next!
Yaay! That makes me very happy… thank you, Sarah ❤️
Wow this is stunning and such thorough tips, thanks so much for the info!
Glad you liked it! ❤️
Genoa is absolutely stunning! Your pictures are wonderful. Definitely saving this for the next time I’m in Italy – we didnt’ have time to stop but now I wish we made time!
Yay! So happy to read this ❤️ And hopefully you can visit Genoa at some point!
Your 2 day Genoa itinerary looks amazing! I can’t wait to visit Italy and your suggestions for Genoa look like a fantastic addition to my trip. Thanks for sharing your tips and beautiful photos. They are so inspiring!
You are so kind, can’t thank you enough ❤️ I hope you can visit Genoa, sounds like you would like!
Loved this article. I have never been to Genova, but my parents did a few years ago. I only heard good things about this city and with your itinerary, you really made me wish to plan a visit.
Thanks for your great content, like always!!!
Thank you, Valentina! I’m waiting for you in Genoa haha. I’m sure you would love it ❤️
That’s quite an exhaustive guide. Genoa seems like a beautiful place – thanks for this post. Added to my list, hopefully I can visit soon 🙂
Thanks for your feedback, so happy to read this ❤️
I have been to Italy many times and have missed Genoa! I had no idea it was so beautiful! Next time it’s on my list!
But I’m glad you found something new here! Hopefully one day ❤️
We were in Genoa as a ‘surprise’ port when seas were too rough for our original destination. Boy, do I wish I had your guide before that trip, as we missed so many of Genoa’s highlights! Next time we’ll be better prepared!
I’ve been to Italy a few times and each time missed seeing Genoa. Wow do I feel robbed for missing such a beautiful city 💀 I’m definitely going to be making a stop here when I go next!
Haha! Glad to hear that you want to visit Genoa, I’m sure you wouldn’t be disappointed ❤️
Oh my! I bet it was scary! But sounds like you should give another chance to Genoa 😍
What a charming looking city. So beautiful and so many cute colorful buildings and narrow streets. My favorite thing to explore when traveling. Thanks for a local’s guide, you’re lucky to live in such a stunning place
Thank you, Emma! I’m glad you found something new and inspiring in this guide. Hopefully you can visit!
Your posts are always such a joy to read 🙂 From the photography to your fashion sense, everything looks great. Thanks for the great tips!
Ohh! Thank you so much, Palo! ❤️
I love this epic 2-day Genoa itinerary! So many cool things to do!
Thank you so much, Karen!!
I would love to wander the old streets of Genoa and admire the architecture. I find the interior of churches in Italy to be some of the best decorated and most elaborate in the world.
Totally! And all these churches are free to visit, so you always have to visit… you might find something unforgettable 😍
Geneo looks and sounds gorgeous. I don’t often see posts about this beautiful place….and the FOOD. It sounds like that’s all I’d be doing if I went was eating.
You are right, Genoa is so underrated!! And yes, food is probably my favorite in entire Italy 😍
So helpful to have such a thorough post from a knowledgable local! Thank you for all of the tips. Your photos are incredible and very inspiring for trip planning to Genoa.
Thank you so much, Erica! I love to hear that kind of feedback – so kind of you ❤️
I love that you covered food/restaurant suggestions as well as where to get your souvenirs. These are the things I personally get overwhelmed trying to decide about!
I’m a foodie, so I always include some tips about restaurants haha. Thank you ❤️
It’s so great to get advice from a local! Genoa looks amazing. Interesting that I could do a two day trip and then see more of Italy. That’s good to know. It’s so beautiful that it would be hard to leave, I’m sure.
Glad you liked it! And I hope you can visit this area of Italy at some point ❤️
Genoa looks like the perfect place to spend a couple days or more! Would love to explore the sites as well as the eateries!
Genoa is waiting for you ❤️
Genoa looks beautiful! We just traveled through here the last time we were in Italy, but I would love to spend some more time here next time. Thanks for sharing!
Sounds like you need to come back and see more. Hope very soon 😍
Genoa is so colorful, and the food sounds divine! This 2 day itinerary seems to sum up the best of things to see and do in this gorgeous Italian city.
I know, food is my favorite in entire Italy and competition is real haha. Thank you so much!
We spent some time in Genoa on our last trip to Italy and I loved this city! Thank you so much for taking me back!
Hope you made some great memories here ❤️
Hi Lasma, such a detailed post to visit Genoa! And I’m saying this as I lived very close to that city till my 20s. I’ve visited many times and I can tell you this is probably the best 2 days itinerary I’ve read! Love from French Guiana, Anita
That is so kind of you! I had a local who helped with the best insights 😊 I know that there is more to see in Genoa but I bet this is good for a quick visit!
Genoa looks gorgeous, and it’s not somewhere I have thought of visiting before. But is has everything I look for in a city, so another one for the Italian bucket list.
Sooo happy to read your feedback! Hopefully you can visit soon!
Another amazing post from you Lasma! I love seeing your stunning photos each time. I love to explore Italy and since reading your post on the Linguria region, I am slowly building up a solid bucket list, which will now include Genoa!
Yay! That means so much!! I really love this area, so hope more and more people can fall in love with Liguria as well ❤️ Can’t thank you enough
Your outfits are amazing! Thanks for this awesome post
Thank you so much!!
Wow!! I’m just stunned by your photography skills! You have a way with capturing images that just make me want to hop on a plane RIGHT.THIS.MINUTE and head there! This is a terrific guide to Genoa – I’ve never heard of it before. Thanks for sharing!
That means a lot! I love photography and hope it inspires people to visit as well 😊 And I’m glad to hear you found something new!
Wow!!! I don’t know why I haven’t been here yet? Definitely on my list to visit. I love Genoese pesto and the anchovies in the Ligurian region. The Baroque architecture is just beautiful Would love to see the galleries and palaces too.
I have the same question, I can tell you would love Genoa and the rest of Liguria 😍
umm WOW! This place looks breathtaking and these photos really capture everything so nicely. I would love to visit here someday and definitely feeling inspired by all of your gorgeous dresses!
Thank you, Melissa! I’m glad I convinced you to visit Genoa and I hope you can do that soon. Photo guide for Genoa coming soon!!
You can tell how much you love Genoa from the way you write! Your boyfriend did a great job with helping with the details to make this truly the Ultimate Genoa Guide! I haven’t been there yet. But will definitely be referencing your article when I do!
I’m glad it shows ❤️ and he is the real Genoa expert, nor me haha. Hope you can visit it soon!
We have done so much travelling in Italy yet have missed this part of Italy. Really love all the great things to see and do in Genoa. Good to know we could stay for a week and keep busy. We would definitely take the funicular and get the great panoramic views.
Sounds like a perfect plan! And sounds like you really need to visit Liguria asap… you won’t be disappointed 😍
We loved our time in Genoa it is such a beautiful place! This is a great itinerary I will be saving for our next visit as it looks like we missed out on a few places!
Yay! Hopefully you can come back and see more 😊 glad you liked it!
I had not heard much about Genoa before, so this was really helpful! It seems like there is a lot of beautiful architecture, especially with the churches.
That’s right! I’m going to write another article about churches as well, so stay updated ❤️
Genoa always sounds like such a beautiful place! I’d love to go to Molo and see the Santa Maria di Castello! What a gorgeous place!
I’m glad you like it… sounds like you would enjoy Genoa, so hopefully you can visit one day.
This is a great Genoa itinerary! I would love to spend two days in Genoa!
So happy to read that! ❤️
This looks like a wonderful guide for Genoa! I had no idea it was so close and easy to travel to from Milan. Thank you so much for sharing.
It’s my pleasure! And I hope you can visit one day ❤️
My husband and I are in the process of planning our 25th anniversary trip and are looking at all of the options in Italy. Genoa looks like a place we could definitely enjoy.
Oh that sounds fantastic! And you have a lot of romantic places in the rest of the Liguria as well. Hope it works out ❤️
I was thinking that I should do that one as well! Thank you for precious help here ❤️
I haven’t been to Genoa in like 25 years! Looks so beautiful. Amazing history- and of course the food!
I would love to see Genoa 25 years ago… but sounds like you need to come back and see how it changed haha!
Ciao lasma,
a great itinerary to discover a surprising city!! I’m happy you loved Genoa.
Thanks for your love for Italy
cristina
Grazie mille, Cristina! My love for this country is endless ❤️