Genoa
Genoa, Italy, is a historic and vibrant port city on the Ligurian Sea. As one of the most important maritime republics in history, Genoa has a rich past as a major trading hub. Today, it is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with a charming Old Town, a unique culinary scene, and a world-class aquarium. For a cruiser, Genoa is an excellent destination for those who want to explore a city that is authentic, lively, and steeped in history.
⛵ Port Introduction
Your cruise ship will dock at the Stazione Marittima di Genova (Genoa Cruise Terminal), which is a modern, spacious, and well-equipped facility. The port is located right on the edge of the city center. You can walk right off the ship and into the terminal building, and from there you are a short walk from the city's main attractions.
⚓ Terminal Information
The Stazione Marittima di Genova is a permanent, multi-level building. It is clean, comfortable, and well-equipped for your needs. The walk from the ship to the terminal is short and easy.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
The terminal has restrooms, a tourist information desk with friendly staff who can provide maps and directions, and a few small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. Tour pickups and a taxi stand are located just outside the terminal. Public Wi-Fi is available in the terminal building, but it may be slow on a busy day.
🗣️ Language
The local language is Italian. While English is spoken in the main tourist areas, it is not as universally spoken as in some other European ports. It is a good idea to have a few basic Italian phrases on hand.
A few useful phrases:
Ciao (chow) - Hello/Goodbye
Grazie (GRAH-tsee-eh) - Thank you
Per favore (pehr fah-VOH-reh) - Please
Dov'è...? (doh-VEH) - Where is...?
Quanto costa? (KWAHN-toh KOH-stah) - How much does it cost?
💰 Money
The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payments are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases from street vendors or for bus tickets. ATMs are easy to find at the port and throughout the city. Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals.
🚗 Transportation
Genoa is a very walkable city, and its main attractions are clustered in the city center.
Walking: The best way to explore Genoa is on foot. The Old Town, with its narrow, winding streets and historic buildings, is all within easy walking distance of the cruise terminal.
Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The rates are regulated, but it is still a good idea to get an estimate of the cost before you begin your journey.
Public Bus: Genoa has an excellent public bus system that is a great way to get around the city. The bus stops are located near the port, and you can buy a ticket from a kiosk or a machine at the stop.
♿ Accessibility
Genoa has an accessibility rating of 5 out of 10. The cruise terminal is modern and accessible, and the city's main streets are generally flat. However, the historic Old Town has narrow, winding streets with uneven surfaces and many stairs, which can be challenging to navigate.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get to the city center from the cruise port is to simply walk. The port is located very close to the city center, and you can easily walk to all the main attractions.
🚽 Toilet
Public toilets are available in Genoa, but they are not very common. Your best bet is to use the restrooms in the cruise terminals, or in cafes and restaurants. Be aware that some places may charge a small fee.
💊 Drugstore
Farmacia della Stazione Marittima: Calata Molo Vecchio, Genoa, Italy. This is located in the cruise terminal.
Farmacia Sestri Ponente: Via Sestri, 13, Genoa, Italy.
✨ Authentic Experience
Walk the Caruggi and Explore the Old Town: The caruggi are Genoa's famous narrow, winding alleyways. For a taste of the city's unique charm, get lost in the maze of streets in the Old Town. You can find hidden courtyards, historic churches, and a variety of small, independent shops and cafes.
Dine on Local Pesto and Focaccia: Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, and it is a must-try. Seek out a local restaurant and order a dish of pasta with fresh pesto. You can also try some local focaccia, a flatbread that is a staple of Ligurian cuisine.
Visit the Genoa Aquarium: The Genoa Aquarium is one of the largest and most famous aquariums in Europe. It is a great place to spend a few hours and see a variety of marine life, from dolphins and sharks to penguins and sea turtles.
