I lived in Genoa for almost two years, so trust me on this one — I know the city and the Liguria region pretty well! Even now, I come back every year, usually at the end of August or the beginning of September, bringing my family along to show them my favourite places and spend time on the beautiful Ligurian coast.

Every time I visit, I discover something new and find myself amazed all over again by the beauty of this region.

Liguria is one of my favourite places in Italy, and I genuinely recommend visiting it. Here’s why!

Genoa — A City Full of History

Genoa is an ancient port city that was once a powerful maritime republic. It is also traditionally considered the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. The city is full of narrow alleyways, historic buildings and beautiful squares that are best explored on foot.

One of its most interesting historical landmarks is Palazzo San Giorgio. In 1407, the Banco di San Giorgio was established here, becoming one of the oldest public banking institutions in history.

Another popular attraction is Acquario di Genova, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. I’m not really an aquarium person myself, but if you’re travelling with children or enjoy marine life, it could be well worth a visit.

And of course, you shouldn’t miss Piazza De Ferrari, Genoa’s main square, famous for its impressive architecture and beautiful fountain. Right next to it, you’ll find a shopping area with plenty of shops to suit different tastes. After all, we’re in Italy — and shopping is always a good idea!

Corso Italia & Boccadasse

If you want to enjoy a walk by the sea, I recommend Corso Italia, a beautiful seaside promenade with lovely coastal views.

Follow it towards Boccadasse, a charming former fishing neighbourhood with colourful houses, traditional boats and a small beach. It’s one of those places where you can slow down, sit by the sea, enjoy a coffee and simply soak up the atmosphere.

You can even go for a swim here on a warm day!

Personally, I love coming to Boccadasse for an aperitivo or dinner at one of its cosy Italian restaurants. There’s something special about enjoying good food with the sea just a few steps away.

Beaches in Genoa

There are plenty of places to enjoy the sea in and around Genoa. Take a look at the Quarto and Quinto areas, where you’ll find spots to swim and enjoy the coastline. Along Corso Italia, there are also beach clubs with swimming pools, children’s areas and restaurants.

You can also visit the beaches in Voltri and Pegli. The best choice depends on the kind of beach day you’re looking for.

If you’re interested specifically in Genoa’s beaches, I’ve written a separate article about the best spots in and around the city — you can find it right here.

But here’s my personal tip: if you’re looking for beautiful beaches and clearer water, I recommend exploring beyond Genoa itself. You don’t have to travel far! Vesima, near Voltri, is a lovely option, with beautiful mountain views, the sea and the charming coastline towards Arenzano.

Sometimes, just going a little further makes all the difference.

What to Eat in Liguria

Liguria is famous not only for its coastline but also for its delicious local cuisine. There are a few specialities you absolutely must try!

• Pesto Genovese — the region’s famous basil pesto, traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese and olive oil.
• Focaccia — a soft, delicious Italian flatbread that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack or pretty much any time of day.
• Focaccia di Recco — a thin, crispy flatbread filled with soft, melted cheese. If you love cheese, don’t miss it!

If you enjoy discovering local food while travelling, these dishes should definitely be on your list.

And here’s another little tip: bring a jar of authentic Ligurian pesto home as a souvenir for your loved ones! It’s so delicious, and it makes a wonderful reminder of your trip.

You can read more about the local food scene in Genoa and Liguria in my separate article — find it here.

An Interesting Fact: Ricchi e Poveri

I’m sure you’ve heard the song Sarà perché ti amo! The famous Italian group Ricchi e Poveri was formed in Genoa in 1967, and their music has become popular far beyond Italy.

Here’s a fun personal detail: I even have some friends in common with one of the band’s lead singers!

It’s always nice to discover these little connections when you get to know a place beyond its tourist attractions.

Ligurian Towns Worth Visiting

If you have more time, I highly recommend exploring beyond Genoa. Liguria is full of beautiful seaside towns, each with its own character, charm and atmosphere.

Some of my favourites and the places worth adding to your itinerary include:

• Portofino — elegant, colourful and famous for its picturesque harbour.
• Recco — the place to go if you want to try the original focaccia di Recco.
• Arenzano — a lovely coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere.
• Varazze — great for seaside walks and beach days.
• Camogli — a picturesque fishing village with colourful waterfront buildings.
• Santa Margherita Ligure — a charming seaside town and a great base for exploring the coast.
• Sestri Levante — famous for its beautiful bays and lovely seaside setting.

You can stroll along the waterfronts, discover little beaches, stop at local cafés and enjoy the relaxed Italian coastal lifestyle.

I also highly recommend visiting Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque villages with colourful houses perched above the sea. The scenery is incredible, and each village has its own unique charm.

I’ve written a separate article about this little paradise on the Ligurian coast — Cinque Terre: A Little Paradise on the Ligurian Coast.

Portofino

Portofino is one of those places that feels almost too beautiful to be real. Once a quiet fishing village, it has become one of the most glamorous destinations on the Italian Riviera, with its pastel-coloured houses, charming little harbour and luxury yachts filling the bay. Today, it’s a favourite escape for the international jet set and a romantic setting for unforgettable moments, from sunset dinners to marriage proposals. But beyond the glamour, there is something truly special about Portofino — its narrow streets, breathtaking coastal views and timeless Italian charm make it a place worth experiencing at least once.

San Fruttuoso — A Hidden Gem by the Sea

San Fruttuoso is one of those special places that feels like a hidden gem. Tucked away between Camogli and Portofino, this small bay is surrounded by lush green hills and can only be reached by boat or on foot via hiking trails.

Here, you’ll find a small beach, turquoise water, a few restaurants and a beautiful old abbey right by the sea.

My friends and I once rented a private boat in the Sestri Ponente area and reached San Fruttuoso in about 40 minutes. We stopped along the way for a swim and enjoyed the coastline from the water.

You can also get there by ferry, which is a convenient option if you don’t want to rent a boat.

Personally, I think arriving by sea is a wonderful way to experience this part of Liguria. You get to admire the coastline from a completely different perspective, and the journey itself becomes part of the adventure.

Liguria Has Mountains Too!

One of the things I love most about Liguria is the combination of sea and mountains. You can spend the morning at the beach and then head inland along winding mountain roads, enjoying breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.

If you enjoy road trips by car or motorbike, I highly recommend exploring the roads away from the coast. You’ll discover beautiful landscapes, little villages and viewpoints that you might otherwise miss.

Parco del Beigua is also worth visiting if you enjoy nature, hiking and scenic views.

For me, this is one of the region’s greatest advantages: Liguria offers so much more than beaches. You can easily combine seaside relaxation, mountain adventures and visits to charming historic towns in one trip.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Genoa & Liguria?

I recommend spending at least a few days in Genoa to explore the city at a relaxed pace, discover its historic centre and enjoy its food and seaside neighbourhoods.

If you want to explore more of the coastline, visit several seaside towns, discover hidden beaches and spend time in the mountains, I’d suggest planning a few extra days — or even a week.

Personally, I often spend around two weeks in Liguria when I come here for a holiday. There’s simply so much to see and do that I never feel like I’ve run out of places to explore.

Liguria offers everything I love about Italy: the sea, beautiful towns, mountains, history, delicious food and that special atmosphere that makes you want to come back again and again.

I return every year and always find something new. That’s why I genuinely recommend discovering this wonderful part of Italy!

Where to Stay in Genoa & Liguria

There are plenty of hotels and Airbnb apartments to choose from, but the best place to stay really depends on your preferences and the kind of holiday you’re planning.

Would you rather explore Genoa’s historic centre, wake up by the sea, spend your days at the beach or use your accommodation as a base for discovering the Ligurian coastline? Each option offers a different experience.

Here are my top 4 favourite hotels in Genoa and Liguria: