ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS TO SEE FOR FREE IN GENOA

Piazza De Ferrari

  • Overview: Piazza De Ferrari is the main square of Genoa and is surrounded by some of the city’s most impressive buildings. The square features the iconic Palazzo Ducale, the elegant Teatro Carlo Felice, and the grand Palazzo della Borsa. The centerpiece is the stunning fountain, which adds to the square’s charm.
  • Address: Piazza De Ferrari, 16121 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). The square is right outside the metro station.
  • Experience: Stroll around the square to appreciate the architectural styles and historical significance of these buildings. The area is also perfect for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere.

Via Garibaldi

  • Overview: Known as the “Street of the Palaces,” Via Garibaldi is lined with magnificent Renaissance and Baroque palaces. Many of these palaces, such as Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi, are open to the public for free on certain days or offer free exterior views. The street itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Address: Via Garibaldi, 16124 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). From the metro, it’s a short walk to Via Garibaldi.
  • Experience: Walk along this historic street to admire the façades of the palaces, each showcasing different architectural styles and intricate details.

Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)

  • Overview: The Genoa Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The cathedral is famous for its striped marble façade and its richly decorated interior.
  • Address: Piazza San Lorenzo, 16123 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). From the metro, it’s a short walk to Piazza San Lorenzo.
  • Experience: Visit the cathedral to admire its impressive façade and explore the surrounding Piazza San Lorenzo. The interior of the cathedral can also be visited for free.

Porta Soprana

  • Overview: Porta Soprana is one of the original gates of the ancient city walls of Genoa. It is a significant historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval fortifications. The gate is flanked by the iconic medieval towers, Torre di Sant’Andrea and Torre dei Piloti.
  • Address: Via Porta Soprana, 16123 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). From the metro, it’s a short walk to Porta Soprana.
  • Experience: Walk through the gate and explore the nearby historical towers to get a sense of Genoa’s medieval past.

Church of San Matteo

  • Overview: The Church of San Matteo is a stunning example of Genoese Gothic architecture. It is known for its black-and-white striped façade and its ornate baroque interior. The church is also the burial place of several prominent Genoese families.
  • Address: Piazza San Matteo, 16123 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). From the metro, it’s a short walk to Piazza San Matteo.
  • Experience: Admire the church’s façade and take in the historical ambiance of the surrounding square.

Palazzi dei Rolli

  • Overview: The Palazzi dei Rolli are a collection of historic palaces listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While the interiors may require a fee, the exteriors of these palaces can be admired for free. They showcase a range of architectural styles from the Renaissance to the Baroque period.
  • Address: Via Garibaldi, 16124 Genoa GE.
  • How to Get There: Nearest metro station is “De Ferrari” (Lines 1 and 3). From the metro, it’s a short walk to Via Garibaldi.
  • Experience: Wander along Via Garibaldi to view the grand façades of these historic palaces and appreciate their architectural significance.