The most practical way to explore Genoa is through its well-organized city tours. I like the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus for its convenience and recorded commentary in multiple languages – it’s perfect for first-time visitors and those with limited mobility.
For a more personal touch, I love the Private Walking Tour of the historic center. The guide’s local knowledge brings Genoa’s medieval alleyways and hidden squares to life in just two hours.
Each tour offers something special: the bus covers major landmarks efficiently, while walking tours let you experience the authentic atmosphere of Europe’s largest medieval quarter.
The private city tours are worth the extra cost, allowing flexibility with your schedule and interests.
These are our favorite tours for discovering Genoa’s rich maritime heritage and architectural treasures.
Key Points
- The City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Genoa’s top attractions with recorded commentary and free Wi-Fi.
- The Genoa: City Sightseeing Private Walking Tour offers a personalized 2-hour experience that highlights the Aquarium, Christopher Columbus House, and Lighthouse of Genoa.
- The Genoa: Private City Walking Tour With Guide is a 3-hour comprehensive tour that covers the Genoa Cathedral, Doge’s Palace, and the historic center.
- The Genoa: Private City Tour With a Local Guide provides a flexible and inclusive experience, ranging from 2 to 8 hours, with hotel pickup and assistance with attraction bookings.
- The tours offer a range of options, from hop-on hop-off buses to private walking tours, catering to different budgets and preferences to explore the best of Genoa.
City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
For those seeking an efficient way to explore Genoa’s top sights, the City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour provides a convenient and flexible option.
With a 3.3-star rating from 210 reviews, this tour offers a rundown of the city. The tour includes recorded commentary, free Wi-Fi, and a mobile app to enhance the experience.
The tour operates on two routes – the Historical Line (Red Line) and Line B (Blue Line) – covering a total of 21 stops and 28 points of interest. Buses run every 20-30 minutes, allowing passengers to hop on and off as they please. The Red Line takes around an hour, while the Blue Line lasts for approximately the same duration.
Key attractions along the routes include the iconic lighthouse, the large port, the UNESCO-listed historic center, the former palaces of Via Garibaldi, the fantastic aquarium, and the panoramic lift “Bigo.”
The tour also provides access to the nearby waterfront and local confectioneries.
Despite some mixed reviews, the City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour remains a popular and convenient way to explore the city’s highlights.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Review
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Genoa: City Sightseeing Private Walking Tour
A private walking tour of Genoa’s city center offers visitors an immersive and personalized experience to discover the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks.
Led by a local guide, these 2-hour tours provide an in-depth look at the Old Town and Historic Center, bringing the city’s past to life. Guests can expect to visit iconic sites like the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, and the Christopher Columbus House, the birthplace of the famous explorer.
The tour also highlights the Lighthouse of Genoa, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the harbor. With small group sizes, personalized attention, and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary, these private walking tours are an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic and enriching way to explore Genoa.
Priced at $47.13 per person, the tours include pickup and can be customized to suit individual interests and schedules.
Read our full review: Genoa: City Sightseeing Private Walking Tour Review
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Genoa: Private City Walking Tour With Guide
Set out on a captivating 3-hour private walking tour that immerses you in the rich history and charm of Genoa. Priced at $136.16 per person, this tour offers a personalized experience with a live guide available in Spanish, English, and Italian.
The tour’s highlight is exploring the city’s thousand-year-old seaside, visiting significant sites like the Genoa Cathedral and Doge’s Palace, and discovering the charm of Genoa’s historic center, the most densely built in Europe.
Navigate through the caruggi (narrow streets) and small squares with your certified tour guide, who’ll provide valuable insights into the city’s past. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. The meeting point is at the Mercanzia Street 2, Palazzo San Giorgio entrance, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking tour.
Enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or opt for the reserve now & pay later option.
Read our full review: Genoa: Private City Walking Tour With Guide Review
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Genoa: Private City Tour With a Local Guide
Priced from $47.13 per person, the Genoa: Private City Tour with a Local Guide offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural charms.
Spanning 2-8 hours, the tour can be tailored to your interests, whether you wish to see the main tourist sights or uncover hidden gems. A knowledgeable local guide will accompany you, providing insights into the city’s past and present.
The tour includes hotel pickup within city limits and assistance with booking tickets for desired attractions. Wheelchair accessibility ensures inclusivity.
With a flexible cancellation policy and no upfront payment required, planning your Genoa adventure has never been easier. Past travelers have praised the tour’s value, transportation, and the guide’s expertise, with one reviewer describing Genoa as an “open museum” brought to life.
Whether you’re seeking a 2-hour introduction or an 8-hour deep dive, this private tour promises an enriching and personalized experience in the historic city of Genoa.
Read our full review: Genoa: Private City Tour With a Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Genoa offers several excellent city tour options to explore its historic sights. The hop-on hop-off bus tour and private walking tours provide convenient and informative ways to see the city’s highlights. Whether you choose a group tour or a private guide, you’ll be able to discover Genoa’s rich cultural heritage and charming neighborhoods. These tours are a great way to make the most of your time in this vibrant Italian city.