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Genoa's Old Port is a place where history and modernity meet, recounting the city's indissoluble bond with the sea. Once the beating heart of the Maritime Republic's commerce, today it is a living and dynamic space, amid ancient buildings, legends of sea voyages and attractions such as the Galata Museo del Mare and the Acquario di Genova. Walking in this area means immersing oneself in an itinerary that retraces centuries of traditions and discoveries, offering a unique experience in the heart of Liguria.
The History of the Old Port: a centre of trade and power
Genoa's Old Port has deep roots dating back to medieval times, when the city was one of the nerve centres of the Mediterranean.
From its medieval origins to the time of the Maritime Republic of Genoa
During the period of the Maritime Republic of Genoa, the port was the economic and strategic heart of the city, the starting point for merchant ships and galleys bound for the eastern Mediterranean, North Africa and beyond. Thanks to its favourable geographic position and Genoese naval power, the port became a key gateway for exchanges of spices, textiles, precious metals and other goods that fuelled the prestige of the Republic.
The role of the warehouses and Palazzo San Giorgio
A key element of the Old Port were the warehouses, built along the quays to store valuable goods waiting to be sold or transported elsewhere.
Of these, Palazzo San Giorgio stands out for its historical role. Built in the 13th century, this building was not only a warehouse, but also the seat of the port administration and later the world's first public bank, which helped to make Genoa a major financial centre. The decorations and stories linked to this palace evoke the city's power and influence in the Golden Age.
Modern redevelopment by Renzo Piano
With the decline of the great maritime trades and the evolution of technology, the Old Port was gradually abandoned. By the end of the 20th century, the area was degraded, far from its former glory.
However, on the occasion of the 1992 Expo, the city decided to start a profound redevelopment by entrusting it to the Genoese architect Renzo Piano. The project transformed the Old Port into a multifunctional space, capable of combining tourism, culture and city life. The intervention preserved the historical elements, integrating them with modern structures such as the Bigo, the Aquarium and the Biosphere, giving new life to a place that today represents a perfect synthesis of past and present.
Today, the Porto Antico continues to be one of the most representative symbols of Genoa, an example of how a city can enhance its historical heritage by adapting it to contemporary needs.
Mysteries and legends
Genoa's Old Port, with its past rich in trade and travel, is also the custodian of mysteries and legends that feed the fascination of this place. Sailors, protagonists of countless crossings, brought with them tales of distant lands, sea creatures and dangers faced on the open sea. These stories, handed down from generation to generation, often found their way to the docks, where a kind of shared folklore was created, linked to the routes and trade of the Mediterranean.
A curious aspect are the symbols engraved on the docks, left by sailors before setting sail. These marks, often hardly visible today due to the wear and tear of time, had a ritual value. They were ciphered messages, talismans to wish good luck, or simple indications as to who would return. Some of these symbols bore the name of the ship or the port of destination, others were depictions of animals or religious symbols to protect the sailors during the voyage.
The port warehouses, built to store goods from all over the world, are also linked to fascinating stories. It is said that some cargoes were never claimed and that there were secret rooms where goods of immense value were kept. One particularly suggestive legend concerns the presence of sealed chests, containing exotic treasures such as rare spices or precious metals, that are said to have remained unopened for centuries. Other tales speak of illicit trafficking, counterfeit goods or secret deals made in the meanders of the harbour.
Itinerary in the Porto Antico: a Walk through History and Modernity
Strolling around Genoa's Porto Antico is like taking a trip that combines history, culture and modernity. It is an opportunity to discover the landmarks of one of the city's most representative areas, passing from traces of the past to the most recent attractions.
Departure from the Galata Maritime Museum
Start your visit at the Galata Maritime Museum, the largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean. Here you can explore the evolution of navigation, discover reconstructions of ancient ships and even board a historic submarine, the Nazario Sauro. The museum tells the story of the link between Genoa and the sea, from the Maritime Republics to the Italian migrations to the Americas. An immersive experience to understand the importance of the port in the city's history.
Stop at the Aquarium of Genoa and the Biosphere
Continuing towards the dock, the Aquarium of Genoa is without a doubt an unmissable stop. With over 70 ecosystems and thousands of marine species, it is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. The visit is a journey through the oceans, with tanks dedicated to sharks, dolphins and tropical fish.
Next door, the Biosphere, a glass structure designed by Renzo Piano, houses a small tropical forest with exotic plants and animals. An interesting visit that contrasts somewhat with the surrounding maritime environment.
The Bigo and the panoramic view of the harbour
The Bigo, an iconic structure inspired by the old harbour cranes, is now a panoramic lift offering a 360-degree view of the harbour and the city. As you ascend the platform, you can admire Genoa from above, observing the contrast between the alleys of the historic centre and the open sea. An experience that offers a unique perspective on the Old Port.
Eataly and its panoramic lifts
After visiting the main attractions, a gastronomic break is a must. Inside the Porto Antico is Eataly, where you can enjoy local specialities and high-quality Italian products. The terrace offers an excellent view of the harbour, making lunch or an aperitif even more enjoyable.Â
Access to Eataly is by means of two panoramic glass lifts, allowing you to view the area from a different angle.
The Magazzini del Cotone
Conclude your walk in the Porto Antico by heading towards the Magazzini del Cotone, a complex of historic buildings that once housed the goods arriving in the port. Today, these spaces have been transformed into a conference centre and exhibition areas, with a multiplex cinema, clubs and restaurants, while retaining their original atmosphere. Walking to the end of the quay you will also have an interesting view of the commercial port and the Lantern, the symbol of Genoa.
How to get to the Porto Antico
Are you planning your stay in Genoa? Discover our promotions to visit the city! Starting from the Hotel Astoria, located near Genova Brignole station, getting to the Porto Antico is quick and easy, thanks to its central location.
On foot: From the hotel, you can walk for approximately 20-25 minutes following Via XX Settembre, one of Genoa's main shopping streets, to Piazza De Ferrari. From there, continue through the historical centre, along Via San Lorenzo, and reach the Porto Antico through the characteristic alleys.
By taxi: A taxi ride from the hotel takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and is perhaps the most convenient option, especially with luggage or limited time available.
By public transport: If you prefer the bus, take line 13 or 18 towards Piazza Caricamento/Porto Antico. Alternatively, you can opt for the metro: get on at the Brignole stop and get off at the San Giorgio station, which leaves you a short walk from the heart of the Porto Antico.
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