Where to stay in Genoa: best areas and neighborhoods

Genoa is a city rich in history and charm, whose origins are intertwined with the world of seafaring, the Mediterranean and the great trade routes. Known for the huge Aquarium of Genoa, which at the time of its inauguration was the second largest in the world, the city is a place full of surprises, also thanks to the many things to see and do.

If you are planning to spend a weekend discovering the city, here is a guide on where to sstay in Genoa, the best areas and the areas that should be avoided.

Is Genoa safe? Genoa is generally considered safe for tourists, featuring low crime rates and a well-managed public safety system. As with any major city, it's wise for visitors to stay vigilant, especially in tourist-heavy areas and when using public transportation. Staying central can help tourists make the most of their visit and easily access Genoa’s rich cultural sites.

In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation

Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Genoa

Foto di wheresleep.

Not recommended areas: Contrary to popular belief, Genoa is a fairly quiet city, however we do not recommend wandering alone in the area surrounding the Genova Principe station and via Prè, especially in the evening; the streets are narrow and often poorly lit.

As the main attractions of the city are all concentrated in the areas of the ancient centre and the port, we advise you to stay as close as possible to this area (especially in the districts of Molo and Maddalena) which, after all, can offer a wide range of entertainment and excellent value for money accommodation.

On the other hand, if you are traveling by car, remember that it is not possible to access it as it is a Limited Traffic Zone. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the residential areas further away from the centre, but more authentic: in this regard, make a note of the neighbourhoods of Foce and Marassi.

If you are driving, make sure your hotel has parking! Traffic in Genoa is a serious problem, and it is very difficult to find parking spaces, so it is better to park in a safe place and walk or use public transport.

If you want to enjoy the sea, as well as the city, we advise you to stay on the wonderful eastern coast, where there are villages such as Boccadasse, Sturla and Nervi.

Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Genoa. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking

Molo, Best for First-Timers

• Pros: Close to main sights, fun vibes, family-friendly
• Cons: Parking is tough and pricey
• Main attractions: Aquarium, Bigo, Biosphere
• Average prices: From €80,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Certainly the most popular in the whole city, Molo is the district directly overlooking the ancient port of Genoa. Over time, it has become the main area dedicated to entertainment and leisure for young and old. It is a neighbourhood suitable for families, but also for young people looking for fun and many activities to choose from.

In this area characterized by the scent of the sea, are some of the main tourist attractions, including the Genoa Aquarium (which it shares with the Maddalena district), the Bigo, the Biosphere and the Children’s House, a playful museum designed for children between the ages of 2 and 14. For adults, there is the Arena del Mare and the Piazza delle Feste, which hosts shows, festivals and concerts.

Here, you can easily move on foot, and the metro stop of reference is San Giorgio (red line MM). If you are driving, make sure your accommodation has parking! Finding free parking in the area is practically impossible, and paid parking is quite expensive...

Recommended Accommodation

Maddalena, For Art Lovers

Foto di Ettorre - gregorio (ettorre(at)gmail(dot)com).

• Pros: Rich in history, art hotspots, walkable
• Cons: Parking is tough and pricey
• Main attractions: Via Garibaldi, Palazzo Spinola, Oriental Art Museum
• Average prices: From €60,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

In addition to Molo, another great neighbourhood in the centre is Maddalena, overlooking the ancient port and the aquarium. In the alleys here, among noble palaces, you can see traces of the medieval, Renaissance and Belle Époque periods in a fusion of architectural styles.

It is an ideal neighbourhood for families, as it is full of services, close to the main attractions and partially off-limits to traffic. Garibaldi street, the famous street in the centre, is here, as well as other attractions such as the Edoardo Chiossone Museum of Oriental Art and the National Galleries of Palazzo Spinola. There is also a large carpark at the aquarium.

Considered one of the largest historical centres in all of Europe, it is a very accessible area and can be visited entirely on foot. In this regard, it is not uncommon to come across free walking tours along the main streets. The metro stops of reference are San Giorgio and De Ferrari (red line MM).

If you are driving, make sure your accommodation has parking! Finding free parking in the area is practically impossible, and paid parking is quite expensive...

Recommended Accommodation

Castelletto, For Families

Foto di Alessandro Vecchi.

• Pros: Quiet, amazing views, family-friendly
• Cons: A bit uphill, fewer dining options
• Main attractions: Spianata Castelletto, Albertis Castle, Righi Observatory
• Average prices: From €60,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Castelletto is the name given to the hill behind the centre of Genoa. It is a much-loved neighbourhood amongst locals, who appreciate the numerous parks and the splendid view of ancient Genoa and the port that can be admired from the Spianata Castelletto. It is a neighbourhood recommended for families.

In this quiet residential area, there is no shortage of culturally significant buildings, among which we point out the Albertis Castle with its beautiful adjacent park. Here you will also find the Righi Astronomical Observatory and the Righi Adventure Park, ideal to visit with children for a fun afternoon out.

The best way to get to Castelletto is by using the lift of the same name, which represents one of the most picturesque historical installations in the whole city.

Recommended Accommodation

Marassi, For Sport Addicts

Foto di Gabriel Rinaldi.

• Pros: Affordable, sporty vibes, good transport links
• Cons: A bit far from the centre
• Main attractions: Luigi Ferraris Stadium, Quezzi Tower, Santa Margherita Church
• Average prices: From €55,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Bordering the centre and San Fruttuoso outside the ancient walls, the Marassi district is one of the most populous in the city, thanks to the considerable expansion that took place between the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. The flagship of the area is undoubtedly the well-known Luigi Ferraris Stadium, although the entire residential district is worth a visit: the Church of Santa Margherita and the Quezzi Tower are unmissable.

It is an ideal area for those on a budget as there is a wide choice of accommodation at more accessible prices than those in the centre! You will find yourself further away from the centre, but you can easily reach it by train, thanks to the Genova / Piazza Manin station right outside the stadium. Alternatively, you can take bus line 34 from Genova / Piazza Manin to the Portello stop (6 min), a few steps from Garibaldi street.

Recommended Accommodation

Foce, To Stay on a Budget

Foto di Ettorre.

• Pros: Flat area, great shopping, close to centre
• Cons: Can get busy, fewer green spaces
• Main attractions: Piazza della Vittoria, Corso Italia, Borghese Steps
• Average prices: From €62,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Foce is the only large flat area in Genoa. Located between Carignano and Albaro, this district built in the late fifties houses numerous buildings of the municipality, as well as fairgrounds and elegant residential buildings. Here you can also admire the wonderful Vittoria Square and the Borghese Steps.

It is the best area for those who love shopping and long walks: the beginning of the promenade, Corso Italia, which leads towards the waterfront, is here. In addition, the centre is just a two-minute walk away. The metro stop of reference is Brignole (red line MM), and there is a train station of the same name.

It is an ideal neighbourhood for families as it is equipped with all services, such as numerous restaurants, clubs and shops. Also ideal for young people, as the centre and nightclubs are only a short walk away.

Recommended Accommodation

Boccadasse, For Foodies and Sea Lovers

• Pros: Peaceful vibes, stunning sea views, great seafood
• Cons: Not much nightlife
• Main attractions: Beaches, scenic sunsets, seafood spots
• Average prices: From €70,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Boccadasse, an old fishing village, is definitely a neighbourhood to stay in if you are looking for an experience and atmosphere different from the rest of Genoa. Here the main attraction is the sea: the "neighbourhood" is full of beaches, ideal for relaxing on the hottest days.

It is an area recommended for those who prefer a bit of tranquillity, compared to the chaos of the big city. It is therefore ideal for families with children or couples looking for romantic views. It is not recommended for those looking for nightlife and entertainment: the busiest time here is sunset, when many people find themselves having an aperitif by the sea, but then return to the city.

If you decide to stay here, getting around is simple. You can get here from the cycle path that goes to the centre, or you can travel by direct bus (line 45, 30 min) or by direct regional train (25 min).

Recommended Accommodation

East Coast, Elegant and Quiet

Foto di Gianni Scopinaro.

• Pros: Scenic views, peaceful, great for families
• Cons: Not for nightlife lovers
• Main attractions: Vernazzola beach, Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, Nervi parks
• Average prices: From €75,00 per night - compare the best accommodation on Booking

If your intention is to visit the city as well as relax and swim in the sea, then we advise you to take into consideration the entire eastern coast, with wonderful villages that offer unique views. It is an ideal area for families and for those who want to relax. If you’re looking for nightlife, though, stay closer to the Port of Genoa.

Starting from Boccadasse, the first village you come across is Sturla, a small seaside resort with quiet beaches, such as Vernazzola beach and Bagni Sturla. Followed by Quarto dei Mille and Quinto al Mare, two residential areas, characterized by exclusive villas overlooking the sea and accommodations just a few steps from the beach. Finally, we get to Nervi, a wonderful neighbourhood surrounded by greenery. The most famous attraction of the whole coast is the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, with wonderful views of the waterfront.

The whole promenade is connected to the centre of Genoa by numerous buses or by the railway network, the best and fastest solution. Each district has its own station for easy travel.

Recommended Accommodation

Places to stay near Genoa

Foto di wheresleep. Sleeping in Genoa is undoubtedly the best choice for those who want to fully enjoy the city and all its nuances. Here you will find different solutions suitable for every type of budget and, staying in the centre means everything is within walking distance!

However, if Genoa is just one of many stages of a wider jorney around Liguria, we suggest you stay in one of the enchanting villages on the Gulf of Tigullio, located near the city and ideal to use as a base to easily reach other areas.

• Camogli (33 km / 37 minutes): typical Ligurian seaside village, known for its colourful buildings and picturesque harbour. It is ideal for those who want to relax on the beautiful beach overlooking the Golfo Paradiso, as well as those who love trekking given the large amount of hiking trails. Connected by direct regional train (35 min) - compare accommodation on Booking.com
• Portofino (39 km / 52 minutes):a little gem that fascinates everyone, including Italian and foreign VIPs, although it is by no means suitable for those on a budget. Furthermore, if you intend to go to Cinque Terre, it can be an excellent solution given its proximity and frequent connections. To reach Genoa, take bus + train (bus line 82 to S. Margherita F.S, then direct regional train, 1 h) - compare accommodation on Booking.com

If you are in Genoa for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on Booking.com

Genoa accommodation price map

Booking.com

Travel tips

1. Transports: exploring Genoa is best done on foot, especially within the historic center where many of the streets are narrow and pedestrianized. For longer distances, the city’s public bus system and the underground metro offer reliable services. Using a car in the city can be challenging due to limited parking and narrow lanes. The Genoa Piazza Principe and Genoa Brignole train stations connect you conveniently with other Italian cities.
2. Wifi: Free wifi hotspots are available throughout the city, especially in public spaces, cafes, and hotels. Look for networks named "Genoa Public Wifi" to stay connected without the need for a data plan.
3. Best areas/clubs for nightlife: Genoa’s nightlife is diverse, with options ranging from vibrant bars and clubs in the historic center to more laid-back pubs and live music venues along the waterfront. The Boccadasse area offers a picturesque setting for an evening stroll and seaside dining.
4. Cuisine: Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, so trying authentic "pasta al pesto" in a local trattoria is a must. The city also offers excellent seafood, with Focaccia and Farinata being popular street food options.
5. Day trips: take a day trip to the nearby Cinque Terre or Portofino, both offering stunning coastal views and hiking trails. The historic district also offers numerous walking tours that highlight the city's medieval architecture.