Walking Tour of Genova

Walking Tour of Genova

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Walking Tour of Genova Italy

Genoa is a pleasant 2 3/4hour drive from Lake Garda. It is almost impossible to do the historic port city justice in just one day as there are so many fabulous buildings, artworks and history packed into this lovely town. To make sure you see some of the best highlights of the city, follow our walking tour of the central area which will no doubt whet your appetite for a longer visit.


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Start your visit at the Piazza de Ferrara which is the site of the neo-classical Banco di Roma building, the Accademia and the restored Teatro Carlo Felice. The newest part of the Piazza is the bronze fountain in the centre, which was constructed in 1936.

Head south towards the Via Porta Soprana and you will pass along the side of the grand Palazzo Ducale. This splendid building was once the seat of the Doges and is now a major arts and cultural centre. Note the courtyard and the 16th century arcades. Turn away from the Piazza Matteotti and admire the Church of Gesu, built in 1589 and also known as the Church of Santi Ambrogio e Andea.

Continue to walk a short distance along the Via Porta Soprana to the castle-like structure which was once the historic eastern gateway of the city. It has two round towers and if you take a detour around the back you will be rewarded with the 12th century cloisters of a former convent, set around a small garden.

Walk past more fine buildings on the Via Ravecca until you reach the Sant’Agostino Church. This 13th century church and convent were bombed during WW2 but the bell tower remains, along with some magnificent sculptures worth exploring in the cloisters.

Explore further along the Vico Tre Re Magi and turn right into the Salita Pollaiuoli. The San Donato on the right hand side is easy to spot with its 12th century octagonal bell tower. Walk further along the street and when you reach the Palazzo Ducale again, this time admire the magnificent front façade, then turn left into Via San Lorenzo. It was named after the Duomo San Lorenzo with its black and white Gothic façade, built in the early 13th century. If you want to explore inside, the chapel of St John the Baptist is one of the most sumptuous of all and has a sarcophagus which once held the relics of the saint. (Continuing along the Via San Lorenzo will lead you to the elegant Palazzo Reale and the busy port with its restored lighthouse).

Our walk continues right after the Duomo into Via di Scurreria and right again into Piazza San Matteo. The church and houses on this square were all built by the Doria family in 1278. Look for the Palazzo Quartara which has a bas relief of St George over the doorway. Continuing along the Salita San Matteo will bring you back to your starting point in the Piazza de Ferrari again.

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