Written By: Missy Johnston

Genoa Harbor Italy njcharters.com

Genoa Harbor, Italy

If you’re taking a private luxury yacht cruise through the Italian Riviera, there is no better place to start your journey than in beautiful Genoa, Italy, with an international airport very close to the yacht marinas where your charter yacht awaits.. Load up on rich Italian food and immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of the city before beginning your luxury yacht charter. 

Food and Drink

Genoa Harbor Front Italy njcharters.com

Genoa Old Town

Sample the fresh seafood and pesto Genoa is known for at the Ristorante Creuza de Ma in Boccadasse. Additionally, Eataly Genova and the Pizzeria 23 Febbraio are great lunch options, while the Blue Lounge Bar and Restaurant inside the Melia Genova hotel offers amazing cocktails and dinner fare. 

History and Architecture

San Lorenzo Cathedral Genoa Italy njcharters.com

San Lorenzo Cathedral

There is no shortage of gorgeous, historical buildings in Genoa. One example is the San Lorenzo Cathedral, a lovely Roman and Gothic style cathedral built between the 12th and 14th centuries. 

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Genoa Old Port

To see more medieval-era buildings, take a walking tour through the Old City. You’ll be able to see mansions, churches, and palazzos, built by Genoa’s wealthiest residents, in between stops at the boutiques and restaurants hidden in the winding, maze-like streets. Genoa is Europe’s largest medieval town, so plan to spend a few hours exploring all of the narrow alleyways and open squares. Your captain can arrange a private museum quality guide for a walking tour.

Scenery and Attractions

View of Genoa from Spianata di Castelletto

The best view in Genoa may be the one from the Spianata di Castelletto. Climb the cobblestone staircase all the way to the top, or take the elevator from Piazza Portello, and enjoy looking at Genoa’s old town and port laid out below.. 

If maritime history and tradition are your cup of tea, perhaps visit the Galata Museo del Mare, which is the largest of its kind in the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting is Genoa’s Aquarium. 

Genoa is such a perfect place to begin your yacht trip of northern Italy that you will undoubtedly want to spend more time here. Several Italian yacht cruise itineraries include Genoa as a starting point or ending port for either the Ligurian Coast or a charter that includes Portofino and the Cinqueterre.