Genova Cruise Port
Genova Stazione Marittima
Genova, Italy Port
UN/LOCODE ITGOA Port of call Homeport
Genova Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Italy |
| UN/LOCODE | ITGOA |
| Contact | |
| Address | Ponte dei Mille, 16126 Genova GE, Italy |
| Port phone | +39 010 2411 |
| Website | www.stazionimarittimegenova.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 44.40560, 8.91550 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The main cruise terminals at Ponte dei Mille and Ponte Andrea Doria sit directly adjacent to the historic center, making Genova one of the few Mediterranean ports where you can be inside the UNESCO-listed district within a 10-minute walk from the gangway. Located in Liguria, northwest Italy, this city is a vertical labyrinth that rewards the curious but punishes the unprepared with confusing alleyways and steep inclines. It is worth knowing that many travelers waste their day at the Porto Antico—a reclaimed tourist zone—while the genuine 'La Superba' waits just 300 meters inland. Genova is best explored on foot and by public elevator, not by tour bus, according to consistent visitor feedback over the past decade. From here, you are only 35 km (22 miles) from the luxury of Portofino and a 1.5-hour fast-train ride from the fashion houses of Milan. As a primary ocean cruise port on the Ligurian Sea, Genova serves as both a major embarkation hub and a rich port of call. This destination rewards those who climb for the view and punishes those who expect a flat, easy-to-navigate grid. If you aren't prepared for cobblestones and narrow stairs, Genova will feel like a struggle; if you embrace the verticality, it is one of Europe's most authentic coastal treasures.
Genova — Port Overview
History
Genova was founded in the 6th century BC by Ligurian tribes, but its true rise began in the 11th century as a powerhouse of the Mediterranean. By the 12th century, it was one of the four great Maritime Republics of Italy, rivaling Venice for control of trade routes. The city's wealth was built on the Ligurian Sea, but its legacy was cemented by its bankers. In 1407, the Banco di San Giorgio was founded, becoming one of the oldest chartered banks in the world and financing kings and explorers—including a local weaver's son named Christopher Columbus. You can still see the 12th-century walls, the 'Mura Nuove', which were once the longest in Europe after the Great Wall of China. The 16th century marked the 'Golden Century' of Genova, when the city’s nobility built the Palazzi dei Rolli—extravagant palaces designed to host visiting royalty and dignitaries. These were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2006. In 1992, for the 500th anniversary of Columbus's voyage, architect Renzo Piano redesigned the Porto Antico, transforming a derelict industrial harbor into the cultural center you see today. When you walk down Via Garibaldi, you are walking the exact route of 16th-century ambassadors; the grit and the gold of that era are still visible in every salt-stained facade.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Genova tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore. Whether you seek the Baroque gold of the Rolli or the simple salt of Boccadasse, Genova is waiting.
Things to Do & See in Genova
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via Garibaldi & Palazzi dei Rolli | Historical Site | Via Garibaldi, 16124 Genova GE | +39 010 275 9185 | Palaces typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; street is open 24/7 | visitgenoa.it | Free |
| Cattedrale di San Lorenzo | Cultural Site | Piazza San Lorenzo, 16123 Genova GE | +39 010 246 8069 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily | chiesadigenova.it | Free |
| Spianata Castelletto | Landmark | Belvedere Luigi Montaldo, 16124 Genova GE | Open 24 hours; Elevator runs 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Not available | Free | |
| Boccadasse | Tourist Attraction | Piazza Nettuno, 16146 Genova GE | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Acquario di Genova | Museum | Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova GE | +39 010 23451 | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily | acquariodigenova.it | EUR €25.00 |
Via Garibaldi & Palazzi dei Rolli · Historical Site
FreeVia Garibaldi, formerly known as Strada Nuova, is the architectural soul of Genova. This 250-meter stretch of cobblestone is lined with some of the most spectacular Renaissance palaces in Europe, built by the city’s elite to house visiting royalty. You will notice that most visitors simply walk the street and admire the facades, but the real magic is inside. At Palazzo Rosso, you can take a modern glass elevator to the roof for a 360-degree view that places you directly among the terracotta chimney pots of the old town. Be aware that the detail in the stucco work and the hidden interior hanging gardens are what truly distinguish Genova from other Italian cities. Look for the frescoes by Gregorio De Ferrari; they represent the pinnacle of Genoese Baroque. Arrive early, stand in the center of the street, and look up—the way the facades lean into the narrow strip of blue sky is a quintessential Genoese moment. This experience delivers a profound sense of the 'Golden Century' when Genova was the banker to the world.
Via Garibaldi, 16124 Genova GE ·+39 010 275 9185 ·Palaces typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; street is open 24/7 ·www.visitgenoa.it
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo · Cultural Site
FreeThe Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a masterclass in Ligurian Gothic architecture, recognizable by its iconic alternating stripes of black and white marble—a symbol of high status in medieval Genova. As you approach the three grand portals, note the stone lions guarding the steps; they have been worn smooth by centuries of Genoese children climbing them. Inside, the atmosphere shifts from the bustle of the piazza to a cool, incense-heavy silence. You will find that most people spend only 10 minutes here, missing the incredible frescoes and the bomb that serves as a grim reminder of the city's resilience. The Treasury museum downstairs is a high-security vault containing the 'Sacro Catino', long rumored to be the Holy Grail brought back from the Crusades. Whether you believe the legend or not, the craftsmanship of the reliquaries is world-class. This is not just a church; it is a repository of the city's triumphs and scars. Closing your eyes for a moment in the side chapel of St. John the Baptist, you can feel the weight of a thousand years of maritime history. It is a mandatory stop for anyone seeking the heart of the Republic.
Piazza San Lorenzo, 16123 Genova GE ·+39 010 246 8069 ·8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily ·www.chiesadigenova.it
Spianata Castelletto · Landmark
FreeSpianata Castelletto is widely considered the most beautiful 'urban balcony' in Italy. From this wide, paved terrace, the city of Genova unfolds below you like a detailed map. To your left, the ancient harbor and the Renzo Piano-designed Porto Antico; directly below, the dense jumble of terracotta roofs that make up the medieval quarter; and to the right, the Lanterna lighthouse that has guided ships since 1128. Visitors who start their day here often have a much better sense of direction in the caruggi later on. The ascent is half the fun: you enter a tunnel in Piazza Portello and board an Art Nouveau elevator that feels like a steampunk time machine. Once at the top, the air feels cooler and the noise of the city fades. Locals come here to read the paper, eat gelato from the nearby Guarino pastry shop, and watch the cruise ships navigate the breakwaters of the Ligurian Sea. It is a place of profound peace and spectacular perspective. This experience delivers the 'big picture' of Genova that is impossible to find from the street level. It is, quite simply, the one thing you must do if you only have one hour in the city.
Belvedere Luigi Montaldo, 16124 Genova GE ·Open 24 hours; Elevator runs 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM ·Not available
Boccadasse · Tourist Attraction
FreeBoccadasse is the dream of the Italian Riviera realized within the city limits. This ancient fishing village has been swallowed by the city's expansion but has lost none of its character. The houses are painted in classic Ligurian shades of ochre, terracotta, and rose, huddled together around a small pebble beach where wooden gozzo boats are still pulled up by hand. Visitors often express delight when taking a reprieve from the city's intensity here. There are no 'sights' here other than the village itself and the rhythm of the waves. You come here to sit on the rocks with a cone of fried seafood (friggitoria) or a scoop of gelato from Antica Gelateria Amedeo. The atmosphere is timeless. It is well established that Boccadasse remains an active residential area, not a museum, which gives it an authentic soul missing from many Riviera hotspots. Walking around the headland to the monument of the fallen, you can look back and see the village framed by the blue of the Ligurian Sea. This experience delivers the perfect, peaceful contrast to the gritty energy of the Genova port.
Piazza Nettuno, 16146 Genova GE ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Acquario di Genova · Museum
EUR €25.00The Aquarium of Genova is the largest in Italy and one of the most significant in Europe. Designed by Renzo Piano for the Expo '92, it is built to look like a ship ready to sail into the Ligurian Sea. With over 70 tanks and 12,000 specimens, it is a massive undertaking. It is worth noting that a thorough visit takes a minimum of 2.5 hours—more if you have children. The highlights are the Cetacean Pavilion, where dolphins can be viewed from both above and below the water, and the shark tank which houses several impressive species. Unless one is a marine biology enthusiast or traveling with grandchildren, time in Genova might be better spent in the historic center. The aquarium is world-class, but it is an experience you can find in other major global cities, whereas the caruggi are unique to this spot. If you do go, the 'blue' route is the most efficient. This experience delivers a high-quality, polished museum day that is a safe bet for rainy weather. Just be prepared for the crowds, as it is the city's most visited attraction.
Ponte Spinola, 16128 Genova GE ·+39 010 23451 ·9:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily ·www.acquariodigenova.it
Eating & Drinking in Genova
The culinary identity of Genova is defined by 'Pesto alla Genovese' and 'Focaccia'. True Genoese pesto must use young, small-leaf basil from the Prà district, Vessalico garlic, and Ligurian extra virgin olive oil—anything else is just a sauce. You will notice locals eating focaccia at every hour, even dipping it into their morning cappuccino. For the genuine version, look for 'Focaccia col formaggio di Recco', which is two paper-thin layers of dough filled with melted stracchino cheese. To drink, the region produces excellent white wines like Pigato and Vermentino, which cut through the richness of the olive oil perfectly. Avoid 'Italian' stereotypes here; you won't find much heavy red sauce. Instead, look for 'Stoccafisso' (stockfish) or 'Fritto Misto' (fried seafood) in paper cones. Locals eat at 'sciamadde'—traditional fried-food shops. If a restaurant has a picture of the food on a sign outside, keep walking; the best spots are often tucked into the caruggi with only a small, handwritten menu by the door.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sa Pesta | Via dei Giustiniani, 16r, 16123 Genova GE | +39 010 246 8336 | 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed Sunday | sapesta.it | €15–€20 (~$17–$23 USD) |
| Trattoria Rosmarino | Salita del Fondaco, 30, 16123 Genova GE | +39 010 251 0475 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM; Closed Sunday | trattoriarosmarino.it | €30–€45 (~$35–$52 USD) |
| Les Rouges Cucina & Cocktails | Piazza Campetto, 8a, 16123 Genova GE | +39 347 411 7604 | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Check for early opening on cruise days) | lesrouges.it | €10–€15 (~$11.50–$17 USD) |
Sa Pesta
€15–€20 (~$17–$23 USD)This is a temple to Genoese street food. You eat on simple wooden tables in a room that smells of chickpeas and wood smoke. Order the Farinata—a thin, savory pancake made of chickpea flour—straight from the copper tin. It should be crispy on the edges and creamy in the middle. Be honest with yourself: it is a no-frills experience. No fancy linens, just the best traditional pies (torte) in Liguria. It is the most authentic lunch you can have within a 15-minute walk of the ship.
Via dei Giustiniani, 16r, 16123 Genova GE ·+39 010 246 8336 ·12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed Sunday
Trattoria Rosmarino
€30–€45 (~$35–$52 USD)If you want one 'proper' sit-down meal, this is it. The pesto here is the benchmark—bright green, fragrant with DOP basil from Prà, and never heated (which ruins the flavor). The space is modern but cozy. Note that you must book at least 48 hours in advance for lunch on cruise days. The service is professional and they understand the 'back to ship' time constraints of cruise passengers.
Salita del Fondaco, 30, 16123 Genova GE ·+39 010 251 0475 ·12:30 PM – 2:30 PM, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM; Closed Sunday
Les Rouges Cucina & Cocktails
€10–€15 (~$11.50–$17 USD)Located on the 'piano nobile' of a historic palace, this is the most atmospheric place for a drink in Italy. You sip cocktails under 16th-century frescoes. The three brothers who run it are masters of mixology. It is the perfect 'secret' spot to escape the noise of the caruggi and feel like Genoese nobility for an hour. Most tourists walk right past the nondescript door at street level.
Piazza Campetto, 8a, 16123 Genova GE ·+39 347 411 7604 ·6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Check for early opening on cruise days)
Getting There & Around
Genova is a city where your own two feet and the municipal elevator system (AMT) are your best assets. The historic center is almost entirely pedestrianized. For longer distances, use the single-line Metro connecting the port (Principe) to the city center (De Ferrari). A 24-hour pass costs €5.00 (~$5.75 USD) and covers all buses, the metro, and the essential public elevators—buy this at any 'Tabacchi' shop or the AMT machines. Uber does not operate here in the traditional sense; use the 'FreeNow' app to summon local taxis. Biking is not recommended for visitors; the streets are too narrow, the hills are too steep, and the traffic on main arteries is aggressive. Local partners emphasize that the public elevators (ascensori) and funiculars are considered part of the transit system. Do not walk up the hills; take the Zecca-Righi funicular for a panoramic view of the harbor fortifications that most tourists never see.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Genova
Via Garibaldi (Palazzi dei Rolli)
9:00 AM (90 min)
Walk this street to see the concentration of 16th-century wealth. Visit Palazzo Rosso for its incredible rooftop view. Most visitors miss the secret garden tucked behind Palazzo Bianco.
- 12-minute walk from Ponte dei Mille terminal via Via Balbi and Piazza della Meridiana. (Free)
- Entry: €9.00 ($10.50)
- Purchase the 'Musei di Strada Nuova' ticket which covers three palaces for one price. Arrive exactly at opening to see the frescoes without school groups.
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
10:45 AM (45 min)
A stunning black-and-white striped Gothic cathedral. Inside, look for the unexploded British bomb from WWII that failed to detonate in 1941—it sits in the right aisle.
- 8-minute walk through the caruggi via Via degli Orefici. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The 'Treasury Museum' beneath the cathedral contains what is claimed to be the Holy Grail (Sacro Catino). It costs an extra €6 but is worth it for history buffs.
Lunch Recommendation
Trattoria Rosmarino
This is where the city's professionals eat. It avoids the tourist-trap prices of the waterfront and serves the most authentic, vibrant green pesto in the city center.
Order: Trofie al Pesto Genovese, Stoccafisso all'accomacoda
Salita del Fondaco, 30, 16123 Genova GE
Cost: €30–€40 (~$35–$46 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Genova
Spianata Castelletto
9:00 AM (60 min)
The ultimate view of Genova. You can see the entire port layout, the Lanterna lighthouse, and the rooftops of the caruggi. It is the best place to orient yourself.
- 15-minute walk to Piazza Portello, then the public elevator. (€1.00 (~$1.15 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look at the elevator itself; it is an Art Nouveau masterpiece with original wood paneling.
Via Garibaldi & Musei di Strada Nuova
10:30 AM (120 min)
Deep dive into the Rolli palaces. Focus on Palazzo Rosso for its art collection including Van Dyck and Veronese.
- Take the elevator back down to Piazza Portello; 2-min walk. (€1.00 (~$1.15 USD))
- Entry: €9.00 ($10.50)
- Ask for the 'Miradore' access at Palazzo Rosso to reach the highest balcony on the street.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from Piazza De Ferrari to guarantee return to Ponte dei Mille is 45 minutes before your all-aboard time. A taxi will take roughly 10–15 minutes and cost €15 (~$17.00 USD). If you prefer the Metro, take it from 'De Ferrari' station directly to 'Principe' station; the journey is 8 minutes and trains run every 6–10 minutes. You will find that the walk from the Principe Metro station to the ship gangway is approximately 5 minutes. If you are running late, the port emergency contact is +39 010 241 2425. Be aware that the ship will not hold for independent passengers; Genova is a major hub and departure windows are strict. Those who miss the ship usually face a 3-hour train ride to the next port (likely Livorno or Marseille) at their own significant expense.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Genova
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: Year-round, with peak season from April to October.
Summer (June–Aug): 24°C–30°C (75°F–86°F), high humidity. Spring/Autumn: 15°C–22°C (59°F–72°F). Winter: 8°C–13°C (46°F–55°F).
What to wear: Sturdy walking shoes with rubber soles are mandatory for the cobblestones and inclines. In summer, lightweight linens are best, but you must have a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders for the Cathedral. In autumn, a breathable waterproof shell is essential for sudden Ligurian Sea squalls. Avoid heels of any height—they will be ruined by the caruggi in under an hour.
Weather risks: Sudden heavy rain (La Macaia) can cause visibility issues for harbor navigation and make marble stairs dangerously slippery.
Spring offers the clearest air for photography from the Castelletto viewpoint.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn (September–November) | Mild temperatures but the highest rainfall of the year, often arriving in short, intense bursts. | The polished limestone 'caruggi' and slate steps in the Maddalena district become dangerously slick when wet. Flash flooding can occasionally occur in the lower city streets near the port. | Sottoripa, Via Garibaldi, and all narrow walking alleys. | Wear shoes with deep rubber lug soles. Leather-soled shoes are a liability here in the rain. Carry a compact umbrella rather than a poncho, as the narrow streets make ponchos cumbersome. |
| Summer (June–August) | Hot, humid, and very bright. Temperatures average 28°C (82°F) but feel higher due to the humidity of the Ligurian Sea. | Heat exhaustion on the climb to Spianata Castelletto or when walking the unshaded Corso Italia. The narrow caruggi offer shade but trap humidity, making them feel like a sauna. | Porto Antico, Boccadasse beach, and the waterfront promenades. | Hydrate at the public 'Nasone' fountains. Use the elevators (ascensori) to gain elevation rather than climbing the stairs (creuze) between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Genova, the greeting is a formal 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' (after 2 PM). A slight nod is sufficient for shopkeepers. Unlike southern Italy, the Genoese are known for 'maniman'—a local word expressing cautiousness; they may seem reserved or even gruff at first, but it is not rudeness, just a lack of superficiality. When dining, the 'riposo' is sacred; many smaller shops and trattorias close from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Do not expect a quick sandwich at 2:30 PM. In the Cathedral, silence is strictly enforced, and photography with a flash is a major offense. Queueing is generally respected in shops, but in the caruggi, people move with purpose—stay to the right and don't block the narrow flow for photos. Tipping is not required but 'arrotondare' (rounding up) the bill by a few Euros is appreciated for good service. A common mistake cruise passengers make is trying to tip with USD; locals cannot use it, and it is seen as a burden. Always use Euros or a contactless card.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the entire day at the Porto Antico waterfront. |
Relying on the Hop-on Hop-off bus for navigation. |
Waiting until 2:00 PM to find a lunch spot. |
Attempting to walk from the port to Boccadasse. |
Practical tips
Cards are accepted in 95% of establishments, but you will need small Euro coins for the public elevators and public restrooms. Tipping is not mandatory; a €2–€5 (~$2.30–$5.75 USD) tip for a taxi driver or a 10% tip for a meal is considered generous. Learn these five phrases: 'Buongiorno' (Good morning), 'Per favore' (Please), 'Grazie' (Thank you), 'Dov'è l'ascensore?' (Where is the elevator?), and 'Un pezzo di focaccia, per favore' (One piece of focaccia, please). Regarding safety, the Maddalena district has a pickpocket pattern where one person 'accidentally' bumps into you while another reaches for your bag; keep your belongings in front of you in the narrow alleys. Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered for all churches, especially San Lorenzo. Best crowd-avoidance strategy: arrive at the Spianata Castelletto elevator at 9:00 AM, then work your way downhill. Most ship tours start at the bottom and work up, so you will be moving against the flow.
Cruise Lines Visiting Genova
Port of Call
Embarkation / Disembarkation
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FAQ — Genova
Where can I store my bags if I'm staying after my cruise?
The most reliable luggage storage is at the Genova Piazza Principe train station, a 5-minute walk from the cruise terminal. It is operated by KiPoint and costs €6.00 (~$7.00 USD) per item for the first 5 hours. It is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Alternatively, some local cafes in the Porto Antico offer storage via apps like Radical Storage for roughly €5.00 per day. For a guaranteed seamless transfer including luggage handling and a private tour before your flight, you can book a post-cruise excursion.
Is the Genova Aquarium really worth the high entry price?
For families with children, it is the best attraction in the city and ranks among the top three aquariums in Europe. For adults on a 6-hour port call, skipping this location is often recommended. The €25.00 (~$29.00 USD) entry fee and 2.5-hour minimum visit time will prevent you from seeing the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli and the authentic caruggi. If you have seen major aquariums in Monterey or Lisbon, Genova offers a similar experience. Spend your time in the historic center instead for a more uniquely Italian day. If you do go, buy tickets online in advance to skip the 30-minute queue.
What is the fastest way to get to Portofino from the Genova port?
The fastest independent way is a taxi, which takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately €100–€120 (~$115–$138 USD) each way. The most cost-effective way is the regional train from Genova Piazza Principe to Santa Margherita Ligure (€3.90, 45 mins), followed by the 82 bus or a ferry to Portofino. Total transit time one-way is about 75 minutes. A minimum 7-hour port call is advised to make this route realistic. For a guaranteed return-to-ship experience without the stress of train delays, check the private boat transfers available.
Are the back alleys of the Maddalena district safe for tourists?
Genova's old town is generally safe during the day, but its narrowness and 'grit' can be intimidating. Stick to the main thoroughfares like Via San Lorenzo and Via Luccoli. It is a good idea to stay out of the very narrowest vicoli north of Via del Campo after dark. Pickpocketing is the only significant risk; keep your phone and wallet in a secure, zipped internal pocket. It is worth knowing that most 'incidents' involve distracted tourists in the Sottoripa porticoes near the port entrance. Walk with purpose and you will be fine.
Do I need to cover my head or shoulders in the Genova Cathedral?
Yes. Italian churches are strict. Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered. If you are wearing a tank top or short shorts, you will be stopped at the door of San Lorenzo. It is best to carry a lightweight scarf in your day bag that you can wrap around your shoulders. This rule also applies to the Treasury museum located beneath the cathedral. Some larger churches provide disposable paper capes for a small fee, but San Lorenzo does not always have them available.
Which public elevator gives the best view of the ship?
The Ascensore Castelletto (from Piazza Portello) is the most famous, but for a direct 'top-down' view of the cruise terminal and your ship, take the Montegalletto lift near the Galata Sea Museum. It is a unique 'horizontal-vertical' lift that travels 70 meters horizontally before rising 70 meters vertically. The view from the top at Castello d'Albertis looks directly onto the Ponte dei Mille pier. The cost is €1.00 (~$1.15 USD) or included in your AMT 24-hour pass.
Where can I find the best authentic Pesto to buy and take home?
Avoid the souvenir shops in the airport or port. The most respected source in the city center is 'Pestobene' on Via San Pietro della Porta. They make it fresh daily and can vacuum-seal jars for travel. A 200g jar is roughly €9.00 (~$10.50 USD). Note that pesto is considered a liquid/gel; if you are flying home after your cruise, it must be in your checked luggage, not your carry-on. Many Waterways Cruise clients also recommend the food hall in 'Eataly' at the Porto Antico for high-quality, travel-ready Ligurian oils and sauces.
Is it true that most museums in Genova are closed on Mondays?
Yes, this is a common trap for cruise passengers. The municipal museums (Musei di Strada Nuova), including Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco, are almost always closed on Mondays. The Aquarium, however, remains open 7 days a week. If you arrive on a Monday, focus your itinerary on the Cathedral, the Spianata Castelletto viewpoint, and a walk through the caruggi to Boccadasse, all of which are accessible every day. Always check the official Musei di Genova website for seasonal holiday closures.
How much should I expect to pay for a taxi to Boccadasse?
A taxi from the Stazione Marittima cruise terminal to Boccadasse typically costs between €18.00 and €22.00 (~$21.00–$25.50 USD) depending on traffic. The journey takes 15–20 minutes. Ensure the driver turns on the meter ('il tassametro') or agree on the price beforehand. On your return, there is a taxi stand at the top of the village near the church. If no taxis are waiting, you can use the 'FreeNow' app or ask a local cafe to call one for you.
Are there any public drinking water fountains in the old town?
Yes, Genova has several 'Nasone' (big nose) fountains that provide free, ice-cold, potable water. The most convenient one is located in Piazza San Lorenzo, directly in front of the cathedral. Another is in Piazza De Ferrari near the fountain. It is best to bring a reusable water bottle and fill it here; it is the same high-quality water the locals drink and will save you €2.00–€3.00 per bottle at tourist kiosks. The water is safe, tested regularly, and flows continuously to prevent bacterial growth.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.