Genoa

Genoa is the capital of the Italian region of Liguria and the most famous seaport in Italy. On Ferryhopper, you can take a look at available ferry routes from/to the port of Genoa, our travel tips for your vacation and book your tickets with just a few clicks!

Read our suggestions for your dreamy holidays in Genoa and find useful information about its port:

• Genoa ferry port
• Vacation in Genoa

Magnificent buildings in the historic center of Genoa

Genoa ferry port

The port of Genoa is the largest industrial and commercial port in Italy. It's one of the most crowded in Italy, a stop for visitors who come from all over the world. Ferries depart daily to several destinations on the Italian peninsula. Also, ferry routes connect the port of Genoa to Corsica, Spain and North Africa.

Ferries from Genoa port: schedules and tickets

Genoa is connected daily with the Italian peninsula, Spain, France (Corsica), and North Africa.

The port of Genoa is the starting point for ferries to:

• Olbia, Porto Torres and Golfo Aranci (Sardinia)
• Palermo (Sicily)
• Barcelona (Spain)
• Bastia and Ajaccio (Corsica)
• Tangier (Morocco)
• Tunis (Tunisia)

The ferry routes are operated by 4 ferry companies: Moby Lines, Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, and Corsica Ferries.

Tip: most ferries travel overnight and as some of the crossings are quite long, we recommend you book a cabin for a comfortable journey.

Here is some more information about the ferry routes from Genoa:

• Genoa - Olbia ferry: the ferry route from Genoa to Olbia is seasonal and includes 1-2 daily connections lasting between 10 and 12.5 hours.
• Genoa - Porto Torres ferry: the ferry crossing from Genoa to Porto Torres usually includes up to 3 daily connections with a duration of 10 to 14.5 hours, depending on the ferry operator.
• Genoa - Golfo Aranci ferry: the ferry route to Golfo Aranci from Genoa is active during the summer. There are up to 4 departures per week and the crossing can take between 10 hours and 11 hours 15 minutes.
• Genoa - Palermo ferry: the Genoa - Palermo ferry route operates year-round with 1 daily crossing, lasting approximately 20.5 to 22 hours. In summer, it is also possible to take the ferry to Termini Imerese from Genoa, which has 3 departures per week.
• Genoa - Barcelona ferry: there are 1-3 weekly ferry crossings from Genoa to Barcelona. The ferry trip takes between 20 and 20.5 hours.
• Genoa - Bastia ferry: the route from Genoa to the port of Bastia is usually seasonal and operates 1-2 times per day. The ferry route takes from 5 to 9 hours 45 minutes depending on the type of vessel.
• Genoa - Ajaccio ferry: the ferry route from Genoa to Ajaccio operates from June to September. There are usually 1-2 crossings per week and sailings last about 9 hours.
• Genoa - Tangier ferry: the Genoa - Tangier ferry route operates year-round with up to 3 weekly crossings lasting around 50-60 hours.
• Genoa - Tunis ferry: the ferry route from Genoa to Tunis includes up to 6 weekly connections with crossings ranging between 17.5 and 27 hours.

Take a look at our Map of ferries with all the connections available from the port of Genoa and start planning your holidays right away!

Where is the ferry port in Genoa

The port of Genoa is located near the city center (Piazza Raffaele de Ferrari) and is easily accessible by public transport. Also, it is just 5 km from Christopher Columbus airport and only 8 minutes by car from the Genoa central railway station.

How to get to Genoa port

You can get to the port of Genoa by car, metro or bus. A bus leaves from the train station of Genoa (Piazza Principe), heading towards the port's piers.

In the port area, you can find the Terminal Traghetti Shopping Center offering various shops, bars and restaurants. Also, there are ticket offices near the port and a shuttle bus service for internal port transfer.

Tip: the port of Genoa can be busy and finding a parking place can be challenging. Therefore, we recommend the option of paid parking lots that you can find very close to the port. 

 A beautiful sunset at the port of Genoa

Vacation in Genoa

Visited by several tourists every year, Genoa captivates with its astonishing beauty. One encounters enchanting displays of art and culture at every turn, embodied in regal palaces and captivating squares. Also known as "La Superba", Genoa captures attention with its imposing grandeur.

It is certainly worth spending a few days here and fully exploring the city's beauties. Wander amidst ancient buildings adorned with stunning architecture, enjoy an espresso in the wonderful squares or explore the neighboring villages of the Ligurian Riviera.

Genoa offers an immersive sensory journey! There are so many corners to explore and many finger-licking dishes to indulge in, that a weekend isn't probably enough. Plus, thanks to its mild climate, it is an ideal destination all year round, although the summer months are particularly inviting.

How to get to Genoa

Genoa is well-connected to the rest of Italy and is easily accessible by car, bus, train, plane, and ferry. 

The city's main train stations are Piazza Principe, with daily arrivals from Milan, Bologna and France (Nice and Marseille), and Genova Brignole, where trains from Rome and Turin arrive.

Alternatively, you can reach Genoa by plane. The international airport of Christopher Columbus is connected to various destinations in Italy and Europe.

Also, Genoa's port is one of the main connection points between Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Spain, and North Africa, with several ferry crossings. While crossings aren’t short, traveling by ferry has its advantages! In fact, you will have the opportunity to board your vehicle, take your pet with you and enjoy wonderful views from the deck of the ferry.

Anchored boats at the old port of Genoa

What to do in Genoa

Genoa boasts breathtaking panoramas and houses some of Italy's most imposing monuments. Its historic center, the second largest in Europe, features charming streets and picturesque alleys known as the caruggi.

During your stay in Genoa, there are several things to do. Lose yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo or walk towards the magnificent Piazza della Vittoria, located near the Genova Brignole train station.

There, you can find the imposing triumphal arch and the caravel of Christopher Colombus made with floral decorations. Then, turn on your right and head towards Via XX Settembre. The city's main shopping street leads you to several prestigious shops and bars.

It is also the best place for window shopping. While strolling around, have a quick stop for a slice of panarellina, one of the most famous cakes in Genoa. 

If shopping isn't your cup of tea and you want to escape the crowds, you can walk along the seafront starting from the Fiera. This beautiful promenade ends up in the charming fishing village of Boccadasse, offering a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy delicious focaccia!

In addition, there are several heavenly beaches for sun-soaked relaxation, conveniently located just minutes away from the city center along Corso Italia.

Tip: from the city of Genoa, you can easily explore other beautiful cities dotting the Riviera di Ponente and Levante, such as Portofino, Sanremo and Camogli.

Beaches in Genoa

In addition to admiring the architectural beauties of Genoa, you can also relax on the paradisiacal beaches near the city of Genoa.

Here are the 10 best beaches in Genoa and its province:

1. Pegli: you can reach Pegli beach by car from the center of Genoa in just 30 minutes. The coast is 2 km long with dark sand and gray pebbles. The waters are crystalline and shallow, ideal for families with children. At a close distance from the coast, you can see the Pallavicino Park with the Ligurian Archeology Museum.
2. Voltri: it's a very long beach made up of pebbles. It has crystal-clear waters and is a perfect backdrop for snorkelers. The beach is almost entirely free, so you should bring your umbrella, towels and some snacks. However, you can find showers.
3. Vesima: although not very large, this beach is quite popular during the summer. You can reach it by bus from Genoa in just 10 minutes. Its coastline is made of dark pebbles and has deep blue waters. You can find both free beach areas as well as umbrellas, sunbeds and a beach bar.
4. Arenzano: it's a very popular beach located in the village of Arenzano. It has turquoise waters as well as showers, umbrellas and sun loungers. On the seafront, you can find several clubs, bars and ice cream parlors.
5. Cogoleto: the seaside resort of Cogoleto boasts one of the longest coasts on the entire Ligurian coast. It includes bathing establishments and stretches of free beach. If you are looking for a quiet corner to relax and enjoy the sea, continue towards Varazze. There, you can find a more secluded area that is also perfect for snorkelers.
6. Boccadasse: it's located near the village of Boccadasse. It is also known as the "Lover's Beach" and is one of the most popular coasts in Genoa. Boccadasse is a small pebbly beach with a clear, crystalline sea. Set among colorful houses, it offers visitors breathtaking surroundings.
7. Bai: it's a small beach consisting of pebbles and transparent, blue waters. It's quite crowded on weekends and August, so it is better to arrive very early. Only a few steps from the beach, you can find a small bar famous for its aperitifs and stunning views.
8. Sori: the seaside town and resort of Sori are loved by locals. The beach is made up of sand and gravel. You can relax on the sunbeds under the umbrella or swim in its deep blue waters. After diving, you can try local fish delicacies at the restaurants close to the beach. 
9. Baia dei Frati: this pebbly beach is located in an inlet. It has crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery surrounding the coast. You can find the most delicious focaccia in the popular canteen known as "Baracchetta di Biagio", close to the beach.
10. San Fruttuoso di Camogli: you can only reach it on foot through the Portofino Natural Park or by boat. The Abbey of San Fruttuoso stands on the seafront, transforming the setting of the beach into a breathtaking landscape. The coast has transparent waters and it's surrounded by the lush green of the Portofino Regional Natural Park.

Useful info: Liguria is one of the most dog-friendly regions in Italy! For those who love to travel with their dog, there are many accessible paw-friendly beaches.

The wonderful beach and the imposing abbey of San Fruttuoso  

Sightseeing in Genoa

Genoa has the second largest historical center in Europe, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Genoa is a captivating city, where picturesque alleys and cobblestone streets wind their way among ancient churches and imposing palaces that overlook its stunning squares.

Among the most beautiful attractions to discover in Genoa, we recommend:

• The Lighthouse of Genoa, the historic tower serving as a symbol and a landmark of Genoa
• The Palazzo Spinola, a magnificent building from the 16th century hosting a National Gallery
• The Aquarium of Genoa, the largest in Italy with over 15,000 animals of 400 different species!
• The Old Port, one of the most popular tourist hubs
• Piazza De Ferrari, the main square in Genoa in the heart of the city
• The sumptuous street of Via Garibaldi, home to 42 palaces listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Rosso, Bianco and Doria Tursi Palace, historic buildings located in the magnificent Renaissance and Baroque "Strada Nuova", designed in the 16th century
• The Galata Maritime Museum, the largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean
• The Cathedral of San Lorenzo, located in the city center with a beautiful gothic facade in Genoese style
• The Palazzi dei Rolli, revealing fascinating architecture, splendid frescoes and important paintings from 16th and 17th century
• The Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, one of the most beautiful and important in Europe where Giuseppe Mazzini, Ferruccio Parri, Fabrizio De André rest
• The Historical Aqueduct of Genoa, an architectural structure located in the wonderful Bisagno valley
• The Forts of Genoa, a set of military fortifications dating back to different eras
• The Doge's Palace, the main cultural center of Genoa offering exhibitions, conferences and festivals

The magnificent Aquarium of Genoa 

Nightlife in Genoa

Genoa has a lively nightlife for every taste. The best place to enjoy a drink is the old town and the magnificent squares of Genoa. The historic center is full of clubs where you can enjoy excellent local wine and craft beers.

The areas of the Old Port, Boccadasse and Nervi are very popular among students. There are also various lounge bars.

Food in Genoa

Genoese cuisine is simple and very rich in vegetables and aromatic herbs. Some of its main ingredients are flour and olive oil adding genuine, strong flavors to the traditional dishes.

Here are some of the most delicious local delicacies to try during your stay in Genoa:

• trofie al pesto (short, twisted pasta with basil, pine nuts, cheese, and garlic)
• focaccia (flat leavened oven-baked bread)
• torta Pasqualina (Easter pie with spinach, eggs and puffed flour)
• cima alla genovese (meatloaf stuffed with bacon, celery, cheese, and breadcrumbs)
• panissa (fried bread made with chickpea flour, water and salt)
• farinata (oven-cooked bread made with chickpea flour and olive oil)
• stockfish with potatoes, onions and carrots
• cappon magro (seafood and vegetable salad)
• pandolce natalizio (sweet cake with raisins, pine nuts and fennel seeds)

Tip: the brewing of beer is a real tradition throughout Liguria! Among the craft beers to try in Genoa are Artana and the Maltus Faber.

A delicious Genovese trofie with pesto and potatoes

Villages near Genoa

In less than 2 hours from the city of Genoa, you can reach the stunning Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful natural Mediterranean areas in Liguria.

This coastal area stretches about 10 km consisting of 5 ancient villages overlooking the sea: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to reach the area is by train. It is really convenient as you can make stops and explore the villages.

There are also some boats departing from Genoa, La Spezia and Lerici for approaching Cinque Terre by the sea.

Can't wait to enjoy the landscapes of the colorful terraces hanging on the steep cliff and explore the area?

For breathtaking views overlooking the Ligurian Sea, it's better to stay for at least 3 days to explore the beautiful villages of the area.

Tip: if you're visiting Cinque Terre, don't miss out on a visit to the Nativity Scene in Manarola. It's the largest nativity scene in the world with over 300 life-size figures. It's on display every year from early December until early February. 

Tips for Genoa

Here are some tips that we hope will be useful to you during your stay in Genoa:

• If you have at least 2 days to visit Genoa, we recommend that you get the Genoa Museum Card. This card includes admission to 25 museums. Plus, there is the option of public transport included with an extra fee allowing you to move around the city easily.
• Moving with your car to the city or finding a parking space can be challenging in Genoa. Therefore, we recommend that you use public transport. Furthermore, the historic center is located in a limited traffic area reserved only for residents.
• To visit the Aquarium, it is advisable to leave early in the morning as the queues at the entrance are generally very long.

Useful information about Genoa

Genoa offers its visitors various things to do and see. Most restaurants and shops are located in the historic center of the city and the Old Port. The hub of Genoa develops around Via XX Settembre with cafes, bars, museums, and many attractions at close distance.

In regards to your accommodation in Genoa, you can find various options for all budgets from hotels, pensions, hostels, and Bed & Breakfasts. If you intend to reach Genoa to explore the city on foot, then we recommend the area of the Old Port.

As for health care, there are several hospitals both in the city and in the province of Genoa. There is also an animal rescue service that covers the entire area of Liguria.

Important phone numbers for your stay in Genoa

Here are some useful contacts to keep within reach during your trip to Genoa:

• Emergency Medical Service: +39800893580
• Municipality of Genoa: +39010557111
• Genoa Police Station: +39010562237
• Tourist Information Center: +393755981245
• Genoa Port Authority: +390102411
• Taxi service: +390105966
• European emergency number: 112

Transportation in Genoa

Due to traffic and the narrow streets of the old town, the car is not the most suitable choice for getting around the city. You can explore the historic center of Genoa on foot or by bicycle! Also, the public transport network is quite efficient so you can move around the city by metro, funicular or tram. 

You can reach the ferry terminal from the historic center on foot. Also, there is a subway with 8 stations that connects the Brin area to that of Brignole.

Alternatively, you can use the funicular and the public elevators to reach the upper city. You can find the elevators in various areas around the city connecting the lower part of Genoa to the upper one with access from 06:00 in the morning until late in the evening.

Moreover, thanks to the Navebus, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city from the sea. The service connects the area of ​​Pegli with the Old Port in about 35 minutes and the ticket cost is €5.

The Castelletto lift and its beautiful panoramic terrace

Book Genoa ferry tickets online

On Ferryhopper, you can find all connections from Genoa to beautiful destinations in Italy, Spain, Corsica, and North Africa. Genoa and the Ligurian Riviera are calling you to an adventure! Compare prices, departure times and book your ferry tickets online with no hidden fees.