Genoa: Self-Guided Audio Tour Through the Proud Maritime City

This self-guided audio walking tour explores Genoa’s grand seafaring history, sacred art, and waterfront charm. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want a vivid introduction to the city, from medieval lanes to elegant palaces and the busy old port. The route begins at the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, where Genoa’s striped stone and layered history make a striking first impression. From there, you continue to the Church of the Gesù, Piazza De Ferrari, the house linked to Christopher Columbus, and the nearby Terrazza Martini Tower area. The walk then leads to the hilltop church of Santa Maria di Castello, on through the noble cityscape around Palazzo Doria, and onward to the Royal Palace Museum. The final part of the tour follows Genoa’s deep bond with the sea, with stops at the Galata Maritime Museum, the Aquarium, and Porto Antico. It also points beyond the center toward glamorous Portofino before ending in Boccadasse, the former fishing village on the water’s edge. Along the way, the most memorable experiences include stepping inside richly decorated churches, tracing the city tied to Christopher Columbus, admiring aristocratic residences, and finishing with harbor views, colorful facades, and the salty atmosphere of the Ligurian coast.