Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food - Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Best Tours In Genoa? Our Top 14 Picks

Discover the best tours in Genoa, from rickshaw rides to private explorations, street food adventures, and scenic excursions along the Ligurian coast.

Genoa is a city that rewards curious travelers with its narrow alleyways, stunning palaces, lively markets, and scenic coastal views. Unlike many larger Italian cities, Genoa’s charm lies in its mix of hidden corners and accessible highlights—perfect for exploring on foot or via unique tours. We especially like the Rickshaw tour in Genoa, which offers a breezy way to see the city’s highlights without tiring yourself out. Imagine zipping past the San Lorenzo Cathedral or Ferrari Plaza with a private guide, all while avoiding the crush of crowds. It’s an excellent choice if you want a fast-paced, personalized experience of Genoa’s core.

For those wanting a more in-depth look, a Genoa walking tour with local insights will introduce you to the city’s best-kept secrets, delicious street eats, and historic streets. Or, if your time is limited but your interest in coastal scenery is high, the Portofino and Santa Margherita private tour offers a full day of postcard-perfect villages—all in a private vehicle.

Quick Overview

Genoa’s tours span a variety of interests: short, electric rickshaw rides to cover the highlights, full-day private excursions exploring coastal villages, guided walking adventures through historic neighborhoods, and food and wine tastings that reveal local flavors. Whether you’re into culture, cuisine, panoramic views, or local stories, this list has a bit of everything. Now, let’s dig into each experience.

1. Rickshaw tour in Genoa

Rickshaw tour in Genova

At number 1, the Rickshaw tour in Genoa offers a lively, efficient way to see the city’s most important sights without the fatigue of walking. In just about an hour, you’ll zip through the narrow alleys, passing landmarks like the San Lorenzo Cathedral, Ferrari Plaza, and the Strade Nuove palaces. The electric rickshaw, driven by a private guide, allows for clear commentary and a relaxed pace—perfect for those short on time or anyone with mobility considerations. Reviews highlight Bruno, the guide, as “helpful and professional,” and visitors appreciate the personal touch of a private tour. It’s a bumpy ride at times, but the intimacy and speed make it a great choice for a quick immersion.

Bottom line: If you want a personalized, fun way to get an overview of Genoa’s highlights, this private rickshaw is hard to beat for its convenience and charm.

2. Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food

Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food

Next up is the Genoa Walking Tour, which takes about six hours and digs deeper into the city’s soul. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the top sites along with tucked-away squares and alleys. The tour includes tastings of local specialties like pesto, focaccia, and Prosecco, making it a flavorful journey. You’ll visit impressive palaces on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi and get a lookout at Spianata Castelletto for breathtaking views. The guide’s enthusiasm and insights turn history into stories, making it engaging even for non-foodies. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a thorough, immersive experience with all entrance fees included, plus transportation within Genoa.

Bottom line: For a full day of sightseeing, street food, and stories, this tour offers depth and deliciousness in equal measure.

3. Genoa Private Walking Tour with a Local

Genoa Private Walking Tour with a Local

If you prefer a highly personalized experience, the Genoa Private Walking Tour is a perfect fit. Led by a passionate local, this tour adapts to your interests, with no fixed route. It’s suitable for any length from 2 to 6 hours, giving you flexibility to focus on art, hidden streets, or specific landmarks. Many reviews praise the guide for making Genoa come alive with personal stories and tips. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to discover local secrets and learn about the city’s best spots in a comfortable setting.

Bottom line: This private tour is ideal if you want a flexible, intimate introduction to Genoa, tailored specifically to your curiosity.

4. Panoramic Tour across the “creuze” with a storyteller

Panoramic Tour across the "creuze" with a storyteller

Number 4 is the Panoramic Tour across the “creuze” with a storyteller. This walk takes you through Liguria’s signature narrow paths, called “creuze,” connecting the sea to the hills. The highlight is the stunning vistas from Spianata Castelletto, where a storyteller serenades you with songs and tales about Genoa’s history. The walk includes visits to Nostra Signora del Carmine and Sant’Agnese, ending at the Madonnetta Sanctuary. The tour combines scenic views, local stories, and traditional music, making it a unique, lively experience. Reviewers note Alessandro’s engaging storytelling, and the walk suits active travelers with a love for views and local lore.

Bottom line: For a scenic, story-filled walk that mixes history, music, and panoramic views, this tour is a memorable choice.

5. Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa

Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa

Number 5’s Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings dives into Ligurian cuisine. Over two hours, you’ll enjoy six tastings—ranging from fresh fish and focaccia to regional flatbread—and sample two local wines. The tour covers key sites like Porta Soprana, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and the area around Christopher Columbus’s house. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll learn about Genoa’s culinary traditions while tasting authentic products. Reviewers mention the tour as “well done” and “delicious,” praising the guide’s enthusiasm. It’s an excellent choice for food lovers who want a taste of Genoa’s flavors along with cultural insights.

Bottom line: For a delicious, educational experience packed with tastings and local stories, this tour hits the spot.

6. Portofino and Santa Margherita Private Tour from Genoa port/hotel

Portofino and St. Margherita Private Tour from Genoa port/hotel

Number 6 is the Portofino and Santa Margherita Private Tour. This full-day private excursion offers a hassle-free way to see three iconic Riviera villages in about eight hours. Your guide will take you into Portofino’s colorful harbor, then to Santa Margherita—known as “The Pearl of Tigullio”—and finally to Rapallo. The tour includes guided walks, free time for shopping or lunch, and plenty of photo ops. With high praise for the guide’s professionalism and the scenic drive along the coast, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a tailor-made experience with easy transportation.

Bottom line: This private day trip suits those wanting a comprehensive, stylish visit to the coast’s most famous towns.

7. Genoa: Guided Panoramic City Tour with Funicular

Genoa: Guided Panoramic City Tour with Funicular

Number 7 is the Guided Panoramic City Tour with Funicular. It promises spectacular city views from the top of Genoa, reached via a traditional funicular. The guide, Alessandro, entertains with original songs and stories while you explore the ancient pathways and admire sights like Piazza de Ferrari. The highlight is the storytelling combined with the panoramic vistas, making the 3-hour tour both fun and visually stunning. Reviewers praise Alessandro’s enthusiasm and the delicious focaccia served during the ride. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and local culture.

Bottom line: This tour offers a memorable blend of storytelling and sweeping views, ideal for history and scenery buffs alike.

8. Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner

Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner

Number 8 is a relaxing historic center tour with wine tasting and dinner. It takes you through Piazza San Matteo, the ancient trade hub of Banchi, and other landmark squares. In a special cellar in the historic heart, you’ll taste three local wines paired with regional foods. The tour combines sightseeing with culinary indulgence, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of Genoa’s past and present. Reviewers highlight the guide’s storytelling and the quality of the wine and food. It’s a bit more relaxed than full-day adventures, fitting well into an evening plan.

Bottom line: For an intimate, wine-filled evening steeped in history, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to unwind.

9. Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local

Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local

Number 9’s Street Food Tour is perfect for those craving authentic flavors. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll sample Genoa’s best street eats, visiting secret stops and local markets with a friendly guide. Expect to try regional snacks, discover hidden corners, and enjoy a sociable atmosphere. Reviews note the delicious food and the guide’s local knowledge, making it an engaging way to explore the city’s culinary scene firsthand.

Bottom line: If you love trying local bites and exploring on foot, this tour is a tasty, social adventure.

10. City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Number 10 is the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, a quick and easy way to cover Genoa’s top sights from an open-air double-decker. With a 24- or 48-hour ticket, you can hop off at key stops like the Aquarium, Piazza De Ferrari, and the Bigo crane. The audio commentary adds context, while the flexible schedule suits travelers with limited time. Reviewers mention how helpful and organized the service is, even during a heat wave.

Bottom line: For a simple, flexible overview, this tour gives you access to Genoa’s highlights without much effort.

11. Things to do in Genoa: Private Photoshoot & Walking Tour

Things to do in Genoa: Private Photoshoot & Walking Tour

Number 11 offers a private photoshoot and walking tour. Combine sightseeing with professional photography, exploring photogenic spots while capturing memories. The guide customizes the route to your interests, delivering high-quality, edited images within 72 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want to remember Genoa with beautiful photos and enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city’s most picturesque corners.

Bottom line: For a personalized, photo-focused experience, this tour makes your visit both memorable and visually stunning.

12. Tour from Genoa to Portofino, Santa Margherita, and Camogli

Tour from Genoa to Portofino,Santa Margherita and Camogli

Number 12 is the full-day coastal tour, taking you to three famous towns along the Ligurian coast. It includes boat rides to Portofino, guided explorations of Santa Margherita, and a visit to Camogli—a charming fishing village. The tour combines scenic drives, walking, and leisure time, making it a comprehensive way to see the Riviera without stress. Reviewers praise the scenery and the guide’s flexibility, though some mention the drive can be warm.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a scenic, well-organized coastal day with varied towns and easy transportation.

13. Guided Walking Tour in Genoa

Guided Walking Tour in Genoa

Number 13’s Guided Walking Tour offers a 2-hour group stroll through Genoa’s historic streets. Covering Piazza de Ferrari, Palazzo Ducale, and other landmarks, this tour is a quick way to orient yourself and get a basic understanding of the city’s layout and stories. It’s suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide who shares engaging anecdotes.

Bottom line: A good introduction for first-timers needing a snapshot of Genoa’s main sights.

14. Genoa: guided tour to discover the hidden side of the city

Genoa: guided tour to discover the hidden side of the city

Finally, the Hidden Side of Genoa is a five-hour exploration perfect for those craving a deeper look. Visiting Villa Durazzo Pallavicini and Nervi Parks, it combines art, architecture, and nature—offering a well-rounded, immersive experience. Reviewers note the tour’s focus on lesser-known sites and the chance to enjoy Genoa beyond the usual tourist spots.

Bottom line: Best suited for art lovers and those wanting a more leisurely, scenic day in Genoa’s quieter corners.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. For a quick, fun overview, the Rickshaw tour offers a lively introduction. If food is your priority, the Genoa street food or wine tasting experiences provide delicious insights into local flavors. For a deeper cultural dive, the full-day coastal towns tour or private explorations are excellent.

Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, so you can secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.

Genoa offers a rich tapestry of experiences, whether you’re after panoramic vistas, hidden alleys, or mouthwatering cuisine. Whether your trip is a quick stop or a leisurely stay, choosing the right tour can turn a good visit into an unforgettable one. For a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local stories, and tasty bites, start with the Rickshaw tour or the full-day coastal experience. Remember, early booking helps you secure the best times—so plan ahead and enjoy all that Genoa has to offer.