Genoa Old Town: Private Walking Tour & Hidden Gems
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Overview
Genoa Old Town Discovery Private Walking Tour invites everyone to step back in time and explore the heart of Genoa. This walking tour guides visitors through the city's historic center, revealing its medieval heritage and powerful maritime past. See impressive buildings from the Middle Ages and wander through the narrow alleyways, called *carrugi*, that show off the city's old design. This private tour ensures a personal experience as you discover Genoa's hidden gems.
What can visitors expect? The tour visits important places like the Port of Genoa, a key part of the city's history, and the Palace of St. George, which has stood for centuries. People will walk the *carrugi*, visit Columbus House, and enjoy great views from Spianata Castelletto. The Doge's Palace and Genoa Cathedral (Cathedral of San Lorenzo) also are stops, showcasing the city's rich culture and beautiful buildings. The tour also stops at Ripa Maris.
This experience includes an authorized local guide and public transportation. It does not include other expenses. This tour gives a close-up look at Genoa's history and beauty, perfect for those wanting to learn about this amazing city. Explore Genoa's old-world charm and discover why it is a must-see destination.




Highlights
Explore Genoa's Historic Center: Walk through the heart of Genoa with an expert guide and discover its rich past.
See Medieval Marvels: Visit Europe's largest medieval center and wander through its narrow, winding streets.
Discover Historic Squares: Stop at Piazza San Lorenzo and other important squares with fascinating histories.
Enjoy Stunning Views: Capture the best views of Genoa and its large port, one of Italy's biggest.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally loved the personal attention and the guide's knowledge, making it a highly recommended experience. However, some found the walking challenging.

Customers say their guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about Genoa's history.
Visitors enjoyed the personalized attention and the ability to ask questions.
Many reviewers highlighted the beauty of the old town and the interesting stories shared.
Customers appreciated the pace of the tour and the chance to see hidden gems.
Some found it challenging to keep up in larger groups through narrow alleyways.
A few mentioned that the tour could be tiring for those with mobility issues due to the amount of walking.
The Journey
Port of Genoa
Step into the heart of Genoa's maritime legacy at its historic port, a bustling hub since the Middle Ages. Once the lifeblood of the powerful Maritime Republic, the port now blends ancient infrastructure with modern facilities. Explore centuries-old piers, imagine the shipyards teeming with activity, and witness firsthand the enduring spirit of Genoa's seafaring tradition. Visit the Aquarium of Genoa and various other attractions that now reside in this historical location.
Palace of St. George
Discover the Palace of St. George, a remarkable edifice dating back to 1260, near the old port. This landmark served as the headquarters for the Bank of Saint George, one of the world's oldest banks. Admire the architectural grandeur while contemplating the palace's pivotal role in Genoa's financial and political history. Experience a tangible connection to the city's rich past.
Caruggi (Genoa's Alleyways)
Lose yourself in the enchanting labyrinth of the 'caruggi,' Genoa's narrow medieval alleyways. These atmospheric streets, some just wide enough for two people, are filled with centuries of history, artisan workshops, traditional trattorias, and hidden churches. Wander through the caruggi to experience the authentic heart of Genoa and uncover its hidden treasures. Be prepared to explore, get a little lost, and discover the true character of the city.
Columbus House
Visit the Columbus House (Casa di Cristoforo Colombo), a reconstructed dwelling believed to be the birthplace of the famous explorer. Located near the ancient city walls, this historic site offers a glimpse into daily life in Genoa during the late Middle Ages. Although the authenticity is debated, the site serves as a monument to Genoa's connection to global exploration and a window into the past.
Spianata Castelletto
Ascend to Spianata Castelletto, a panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Genoa. From this vantage point high above the city, admire the intricate tapestry of rooftops, historic towers, and church domes set against the backdrop of the sea. Capture the timeless charm of Genoa from above, perfect for unforgettable photographs and moments of quiet reflection.
Doge's Palace
Explore the Doge’s Palace, a magnificent building that once served as the residence and seat of power for the Doges of Genoa. Originally built in the 13th century and expanded over time, the palace showcases a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. Delve into the history of Genoa's rulers and admire the opulent interiors that reflect the city's former glory.
Genoa Cathedral (Cathedral of San Lorenzo)
Marvel at the Genoa Cathedral (Cathedral of San Lorenzo), renowned for its striking black-and-white striped façade and a harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Dating back to the 12th century, this sacred site houses important religious relics, including the Sacred Ashes of St. John the Baptist. Immerse yourself in the spiritual and artistic significance of this central landmark in Genoa’s medieval heritage.
Ripa Maris
Stroll along Ripa Maris, the historic waterfront area of Genoa’s old port. Once teeming with merchants, sailors, and shipbuilders, this vibrant area played a crucial role in Genoa's maritime trade during the Middle Ages. Explore the ancient warehouses, narrow streets, and lively markets that evoke the city's seafaring past. Experience the enduring vitality of Genoa’s cultural and commercial heart.
Know Before You Go
This private walking tour includes an authorized local guide to show the best of Genoa. Public transportation during the tour is also included. However, personal expenses, food, and drinks are not included. Please note that this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; the meeting point will be provided upon booking.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest wearing comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. It's also a good idea to bring a water bottle, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout the tour.