Make sure that you have a Genoa things to do list if you are in this Italian port city. Genoa is  one of the most admired cities in Italy due to its scenic view of the port and its interesting architecture. This to-do list will help you enjoy your tour around Genoa.

Visit the Renaissance Palaces

Genoa boasts intricately built Renaissance palaces that can rival those of Rome, Florence and Venice. Most of these palaces are located in the heart of downtown Genoa. You can view the Palazzo Spinola, which is open to the public for its great collection of Renaissance art made by Van Dyck, Rubens and Caravaggio. You can also walk to Palazzo Ducale and Villa Doria-Pamphil to see the fountains and gardens. The view of these palaces is enough to keep your eyes occupied all day long.

Visit the Old Port

Your travel to Genoa will not be complete if you do not visit Porta Soprana, which is the oldest port in Genoa. You will marvel at the architecture of the port. While you are there, make sure to visit the site of Columbus’ house. The old port also offers many waterfront walks where you can catch a harbor cruise to view the city of Genoa from the sea.

Visit the Aquarium

Genoa is home to the largest aquarium in all of Europe. The aquarium features many marine and freshwater fishes found all over the world, and has a huge tank filled with over 500 different species of fishes and marine mammals.

Shopping at Mercato Orientale

Go to Mercato Orientale early in the morning to see the most colorful seafood and local produce on display. If you brought with you a few dollars, then you can sample some of this produce. The market is popular for its cheap and quality products.

An Afternoon in the Park

There are a lot of parks in Genoa, and one of them is the Parco Durazzo Pallavicini, which is a great landscaped park featuring beautiful trees, temples, pagodas, and man-made waterfalls and lakes. You can open your picnic blanket on this spot and enjoy eating ice cream as you observe the locals and take note of their way of life. A day in the park is also a great way to mingle with the locals and possibly meet new friends.