Old Port Tours and Activities

Old Port


Venture into this thriving and culturally rich area of Genoa to discover splendid museums, a bustling harbor and a leisurely atmosphere.

Spend a few hours exploring the Old Port of Genoa, which was once the beating heart not just of maritime activities in Italy but across all of Europe. While the port’s traditional activities are still important, today it’s also known as a modern center filled with highly regarded museums. The area’s beautiful sea views make this a popular place for an evening stroll, too.

Since the 1992 Christopher Columbus celebrations, which celebrated the 500th anniversary of the explorer’s discovery, the Old Port of Genoa has undergone major changes. When the city was named European City of Culture in 2004, this further contributed to its regeneration, and today it is a must-see tourist hub. Start your explorations in the delightful waterfront plaza designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano. Around the great plaza are numerous top cultural and recreational attractions.

Take the family to the famous Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe and home to 15,000 marine creatures. Or choose to take an exhilarating ride in the Bigo Panoramic Lift for fabulous 360-degree views. Pay a visit to the Città dei Bambini e dei Ragazzi, an educational museum designed for children, the Emanuele Luzzati Museum or the Biosfera, a miniature rainforest housed in a glass bubble.

The fantastic Galata Maritime Museum is a must-see in the Old Port. It brings to life the history and heritage of the city’s seafaring culture. It is the largest museum of its kind in the Mediterranean and includes, among many other impressive displays, a submarine and a naval galleon.

Museums aside, however, the Old Port is a delightful place to just while away a couple of hours. Enjoy magnificent views, watch boats of all sizes chugging in and out of the harbor, or enjoy a leisurely coffee.

The Old Port is at the heart of the city and is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation. The cruise ship terminal is close by, too. Hop on a boat for an hour-long tour of the bustling harbor, see yachts, fishing boats and great tankers and get a close-up view of La Lanterna, the 384-foot (117-meter) high medieval lighthouse.

Popular places to visit


Top Old Port Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Bristol Palace Hotel
Bristol Palace Hotel
5 out of 5
Via XX Settembre 35, Genoa, GE
Bristol Palace Hotel
Hotel Continental Genova
Hotel Continental Genova
4 out of 5
Via Arsenale di Terra 1, Genoa, GE
Hotel Continental Genova
B&B HOTEL Genova Principe
B&B HOTEL Genova Principe
3 out of 5
Piazza Acquaverde, 1, Genoa, Genoa
B&B HOTEL Genova Principe
NH Collection Genova Marina
NH Collection Genova Marina
4 out of 5
Molo Ponte Calvi, 5, Genoa, GE
NH Collection Genova Marina
Best Western Hotel Porto Antico
Best Western Hotel Porto Antico
3 out of 5
Via al Ponte Calvi, 5, Genoa, GE
Best Western Hotel Porto Antico
Hotel De Ville
Hotel De Ville
4 out of 5
Via di Sottoripa 5, Genoa, Genoa
Hotel De Ville
Grand Hotel Savoia
Grand Hotel Savoia
5 out of 5
Via Arsenale Di Terra, 5, Genoa, GE
Grand Hotel Savoia
HNN Luxury Suites
HNN Luxury Suites
3 out of 5
Via Balbi 29, Genoa, Città Metropolitana di Genova
HNN Luxury Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.