1. Palazzi dei Rolli

This UNESCO World Heritage collection of Renaissance and Baroque palaces once housed visiting dignitaries and royalty.

Insider Tip: While many palaces charge admission, Palazzo Lomellino on Via Garibaldi offers free access to its stunning courtyard and garden; visit on the first Sunday of each month when many Rolli palaces open their doors for free guided tours.

2. Porto Antico (Old Port)

Redesigned by architect Renzo Piano, this revitalized harbor area features the Acquario, Bigo elevator, and maritime museum.

Insider Tip: Skip the expensive Bigo lift and head to Castello d’Albertis for the same panoramic views at a fraction of the cost; time your visit to the port for sunset when local fishermen return with their catch and you can buy fresh seafood directly from their boats near Ponte Embriaco.

3. Via Garibaldi (Strada Nuova)

Genoa’s most elegant street lined with 16th-century palaces and museums.

Insider Tip: Purchase the combined Musei di Strada Nuova ticket which grants access to three palace museums for the price of almost one; the often-overlooked Palazzo Rosso has a rooftop terrace with spectacular city views that few tourists discover.

4. Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

This striking black and white striped cathedral dates to the 12th century and houses religious artifacts including the controversial Holy Grail.

Insider Tip: Visit during weekday mornings to see sunlight streaming through the rose window, creating dramatic light effects; ask the guard about the unexploded WWII bomb in the right nave that miraculously never detonated.

5. Lanterna (Lighthouse)

The symbol of Genoa since 1128, this 76-meter lighthouse is one of the world’s oldest still in operation.

Insider Tip: Rather than taking a taxi, follow the dedicated 800-meter pedestrian path (“Lanterna Walk”) from the Genova Sampierdarena station for dramatic approaching views; climb the 172 steps just before sunset for the perfect golden hour photography of the city and port.

6. Boccadasse

A picturesque fishing village with colorful houses now absorbed into Genoa’s eastern coastal area.

Insider Tip: Skip the crowded waterfront gelaterias and try Antica Gelateria Boccadasse on Vico Boccadasse instead; visit early morning (before 8am) to observe local fishermen mending nets and preparing their boats while enjoying the village without any crowds.

7. Caruggi (Historic Center)

Europe’s largest medieval center with a labyrinth of narrow alleyways filled with shops, restaurants, and hidden squares.

Insider Tip: Download the “Genova Medieval” app which uses augmented reality to reveal historical details invisible to the naked eye; explore the area around Via di Ravecca early on weekday mornings when locals hang laundry from windows and shopkeepers set up their stalls.

8. Acquario di Genova

The largest aquarium in Italy and one of Europe’s most impressive marine life centers.

Insider Tip: Book tickets online for the first entry slot (usually 9am) to enjoy the exhibits before bus tour groups arrive; alternatively, visit after 3pm on weekdays when Italian school groups have departed and you can linger at popular tanks without crowds.

9. Museo di Palazzo Reale

This opulent royal palace features original furnishings, artwork, and the Hall of Mirrors inspired by Versailles.

Insider Tip: Request access to the normally restricted Noble Apartment section when purchasing your ticket; most visitors miss the stunning rooftop garden accessible via an unmarked door in the main gallery – just ask an attendant to point the way.

10. Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno

One of Europe’s most impressive monumental cemeteries with remarkable sculptures and tombs.

Insider Tip: Take bus #34 from Piazza della Nunziata rather than more crowded tourist routes; focus your visit on the Boschetto section where you’ll find the famous statue of Caterina Campodonico (the peanut seller) and fewer visitors than the main galleries, despite equally impressive artworks.