Nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the hills that cradle it, Genova (or Genoa in English) is a city of contrasts and surprises. In summer, these contrasts come to life: the bustling portside promenades, the quiet cobbled caruggi (narrow alleys), the deep blue of the sea against pastel-colored buildings that seem to rise out of cliffs.
Every corner has a story, and in summer, the city invites you to slow down and listen.
Beach Days & Coastal Escapes
Though often overshadowed by neighboring Cinque Terre or Portofino, Genova holds its own coastal magic. From the iconic Boccadasse, a charming fishing village turned photogenic cove, to Nervi’s seaside promenade lined with palm trees and gelato shops, summer here is about basking in simple pleasures.
If you crave more adventure, hop on a ferry or local train to reach picturesque beach towns like Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, or San Fruttuoso — all within a short distance and radiating their own Ligurian charm.
Savoring Genovese Flavors
Summer in Genova is also a feast for the senses — especially taste. The scent of fresh basil fills the air, ready to be turned into pesto in kitchens across the city. Try it traditionally, tossed with trofie pasta and potatoes, or as a spread on warm focaccia.
Cool off with a scoop of creamy gelato, sip a crisp local white wine like Vermentino, or try a street snack of farinata, a savory chickpea pancake, hot from the oven.
Cultural Cooldowns
When the sun blazes overhead, duck into Genova’s many palazzi and museums along Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi showcase Renaissance and Baroque art in stunning settings.
Or take refuge in the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe’s largest, nestled in the revitalized Porto Antico — a favorite for families, couples, and anyone needing a break from the heat.
Summer Evenings: Light, Music, and Views
As the day cools, Genova takes on a golden glow. Locals head to the Spianata Castelletto for sweeping views of the city and sea, often accompanied by street music or a glass of Aperol Spritz.
Evenings bring open-air concerts, film festivals, and spontaneous gatherings in piazzas. The nightlife is subtle but soulful, rooted in wine bars, late-night conversations, and the rhythm of the waves.
Summer in Genova is not flashy, it’s authentic, relaxing, and full of character. It’s the sound of church bells and seagulls, the taste of salt and lemon, the sight of sun-drenched rooftops and deep blue horizons. It’s a place that doesn’t try too hard to impress, and somehow, that makes it unforgettable.
If you’re seeking a slower, deeper kind of summer, Genova is waiting.
