A Laid-Back Day in Genoa, Genoa, Italy

Cruising into Genoa on the MSC World Europa, we didn’t quite know what to expect. The city isn’t as instantly recognisable as Rome, Florence or Venice, but it turned out to be the most surprisingly enjoyable stop. With colourful buildings climbing up the hills, an easy port location, and the option to explore at your own pace, Genoa gave us exactly what we needed that day: history, beauty, and no pressure to rush, even in the rain.

In this post, we’re sharing how we spent our day in Genoa - plus five ideas for your own visit, whether you’re exploring solo or seeking a relaxed couples’ experience like ours.

Getting off the ship was seamless. Genoa’s port is close to the historic centre, and while you could walk in, we decided to make the most of the day with a circuit on the hop-on, hop-off bus; this proved to be a great idea, as it also helped us escape the rain. It provided us with an overview of the city’s layout, helped us avoid backtracking on our planned walk, and allowed us to enjoy the stunning coastal route with ease.

One of the first things that struck us was the variety. Genoa is a city of contrasts: elegant palaces sit beside narrow laneways, gritty stone streets lead to peaceful piazzas, and glimpses of the sea are around almost every corner. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).