Genoa’s historic charm isn’t confined to the pages of history books. This lively port city is layered with narrow alleyways, grand palaces, and stories of explorers like Christopher Columbus. What makes Genoa stand out for historical tours is not just its architecture but how accessible and engaging these stories are through various tour options. We especially like the private rickshaw tour for its fun, relaxed pace through the old town’s winding streets, and the guided walking tour that takes you deep into the city’s artistic heart — both offer authentic insights without the crowds.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to see Genoa’s treasures, our list has a little something for all: from quick highlights to full-day explorations, including local food tastings and visits to Columbus’ house. Each of these tours offers a different slice of Genoa’s history, so whether you prefer a speedy overview or a leisurely deep dive, you’ll find something that fits your style and schedule.
1. 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa
At number 1, this 2 Hours Private Historical Tour offers a lively and personalized way to see Genoa’s core in a short time. Hop onto a private rickshaw and glide through the caruggi — the city’s famous alleyways — without the hassle of walking or navigating busy streets. This tour is perfect for families or travelers craving an active but relaxed experience. Your driver-guide will take you past Sarzano Square, the medieval church of Santi Cosma e Damiano, and along Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO-listed street lined with palaces and gardens.
What sets this tour apart is the ability to cover more ground than on foot, with the added fun of a rickshaw ride. Many visitors describe it as “relaxing” and “a fun way to see the city,” with one reviewer praising the guide’s passion and local knowledge. The tour’s compact size also means personalized attention and plenty of time for questions. For those with little time but a desire for authentic sights, this private tour offers excellent value at $110.47 per group. It’s especially suited for families with small children or anyone looking for a fun, hassle-free introduction to Genoa’s historic neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: A lively, personalized way to see Genoa’s hidden corners with ease — perfect for families or those short on time who still want a rich experience.
2. Genoa: 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center
At number 2, the Genoa Guided Walking Tour offers a more traditional approach, ideal for travelers who want to step into the city’s past on foot. For just $16 per person, you’ll explore narrow alleys, squares, and landmark buildings with a knowledgeable guide. The tour highlights include the impressive Palazzi dei Rolli, the gothic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and the art-filled Strada Nuova Museums.
This tour shines because of its emphasis on art and architecture, giving you a sense of Genoa’s grandeur during its heyday. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s ability to explain complex history in an engaging way. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy learning on the go and want a rundown on a manageable schedule. The tour runs approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect morning or afternoon activity.
Bottom Line: An affordable, informative walk that dives into Genoa’s architectural and artistic gems, ideal if you prefer a traditional guided experience.
3. Genoa Day Tour: 4 hours of History with Focaccia, Prosecco & Joy
Number 3 on our list is the 4-hour Genoa Day Tour with Food and Wine. This tour blends history, local flavors, and social fun for a well-rounded experience. The highlight is exploring iconic sights like Via Giuseppe Garibaldi’s palaces, the Bank of Saint George, and Denim’s birthplace — all while sampling handmade focaccia topped with olives, pesto, or cheese, and sipping local wines and Prosecco in a cozy wine shop.
What makes this tour unique is its culinary focus, giving you the chance to taste Genoa’s famous foods as you learn about its past. Many reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and the chance to see the city from a local’s perspective. The 4-hour length is ideal for those who want a relaxed pace with plenty of breaks to enjoy food and drink.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a taste of Genoa’s history and gastronomy in a lively, social setting. A fantastic value at $113.49 per person.
4. Historic Guided Tour of Christopher Columbus’ House
Number 4, the Tour of Columbus’ House, provides a quick 20-minute visit to the birthplace of the famous explorer. The tour includes entry to Columbus’ historic house and the Cloister of Sant’Andrea, providing a snapshot of his early life. The house itself was once a workshop, and the tour combines this with a walk through the surrounding medieval district.
This experience is ideal for travelers with limited time who want a focused glimpse of Genoa’s connection to Columbus. The guide offers insights into Columbus’ family background and the significance of the house, making it more than just a photo stop. Many visitors mention the extra time spent in the cloister and nearby areas, which enriches the visit. The tour costs just $12 per person, making it a small investment for a piece of history.
Bottom Line: A concise, well-run visit that connects Genoa’s past with the story of Columbus, ideal for history buffs or those passing through.
5. Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner
Number 5, the Historic Center and Wine Tasting Tour with Dinner, offers a full evening experience. Starting at Piazza San Matteo, you walk through streets lined with noble palaces, then visit local shops to sample regional specialties. The highlight is an authentic wine cellar where you taste three local wines paired with delicious foods.
This tour stands out because it combines cultural sights with gastronomy, giving a real taste of Genoa’s culinary heritage. Many reviews mention the friendly guide and the variety of experiences, including wine, food, and storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy both history and local flavors in a relaxed, social setting. It runs about 3 hours, making it suitable for those who want an evening activity.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive cultural and culinary experience, especially in the evening.
6. Historic Shops in Genoa: Tour Through Tradition and Flavours
Number 6 is the Historic Shops Tour, focusing on Genoa’s traditional food shops. In 2 hours, you’ll learn about local flavors and artisanal products while making quick stops at important monuments and historic shops. The tour includes a product delivery from one of these shops, giving you a taste of Genoa to take home.
This experience is ideal if you’re interested in local food traditions and want to support small businesses. The guide shares stories about Genoa’s culinary heritage, and the shop visits add a tangible, tasty element. It’s perfect if you prefer a short, focused tour that emphasizes flavor and history equally. At $16 per person, it offers great value.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies who want to explore Genoa’s culinary shops and learn about local flavors firsthand.
7. Genoa Historic Highlights: A Walk Through Time
Finally, the Genoa Historic Highlights is our most comprehensive option. Spanning around 7 hours, it begins with train transit from La Spezia, then takes you through Palaces, churches, and hidden corners of Genoa. Highlights include Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Palace of San Giorgio, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
This tour is best suited for serious history enthusiasts eager to spend a full day exploring with a guide who personalizes the experience. It’s packed with insider insights and offers a broad perspective that covers both the well-known sights and lesser-known treasures. The price reflects its depth — at $276.93 per person — but it’s a memorable way to truly understand Genoa’s maritime and artistic legacy.
Bottom Line: A full-day, in-depth experience for those who want to truly absorb Genoa’s cultural richness with the convenience of a guided tour from La Spezia.
How to Choose Your Genoa Historical Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on what you value most. If you’re tight on time and want a fun, personalized experience, the private rickshaw tour is hard to beat. For those who prefer a traditional walk with art and architecture, the guided city tour offers deep insights at a low price. Food lovers should consider the 4-hour food and wine tour for a relaxed, flavorful day, while history enthusiasts might opt for the full-day exploration from La Spezia.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Columbus house tour, a quick 20-minute peek, while those who want to immerse themselves fully should consider the extended Highlights tour. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, and always check the availability for your preferred dates.
Genoa’s historic streets and stories are waiting to be explored, whether on a quick ride, a leisurely walk, or a full-day adventure. For a tailored experience, think about your time, interests, and what parts of the city excite you most — then book early and enjoy every moment of this vibrant port city’s rich past.