The Best Views of Genoa

Suspended high above the historical centre, this expansive, tree-lined balcony provides the most iconic and beloved panoramic view of the city. Accessing the terrace via a beautifully ornate, historic public elevator is an experience in itself, transporting you instantly from the dark, narrow alleys to brilliant, open skies. From the edge, you can look down upon a chaotic sea of slate rooftops, punctuated by church domes and bell towers, leading the eye straight out to the bustling docks and the vast Mediterranean. It is a deeply romantic spot, especially as the setting sun casts a warm golden glow over the ancient stonework. Locals frequently gather here to enjoy artisanal gelato while soaking in the majestic cityscape.

Designed by the celebrated architect Renzo Piano, this striking, multi-armed white structure dominating the Old Port was inspired by the heavy cranes historically used on cargo ships. A circular, glass-enclosed cabin slowly hoists visitors 40 metres into the air directly above the water. As the cabin ascends, it slowly rotates, offering a completely unobstructed, 360-degree view that brilliantly juxtaposes the modern waterfront with the ancient, amphitheatre-like city rising behind it. The audio guide provides context as you gaze out over the luxury yachts, the massive Aquarium, and the maze of medieval alleyways. It is a highly engaging, modern way to grasp the layout of the harbour.

Climbing the internal stairs of the city's most famous and enduring symbol rewards you with a highly unique perspective over the working heart of the maritime hub. The Lanterna is the second tallest traditional lighthouse in the world, and standing on its first viewing gallery puts you right in the middle of the heavy industrial port action. From this incredibly robust stone tower, the view sweeps across massive cargo ships, towering cranes, and the endless horizon of the Ligurian Sea. It is an intensely atmospheric, slightly gritty viewpoint that connects you viscerally to the sheer scale of the city's maritime trade. The sense of history standing upon a structure that has guided ships since 1128 is profound.

Taking the historic, slanted cable railway from the busy city streets all the way up to the Righi terminus offers a spectacular transition from dense urban life to open mountain air. Stepping out of the upper station reveals an astonishing, eagle-eye perspective that captures the true scale of the city's dramatic geography. You can clearly see how the city is violently squeezed into the narrow coastal strip, heavily fortified by the mountains rising sharply behind it. The viewing platforms here provide sweeping vistas of the entire gulf, the industrial port, and the protective ring of seventeenth-century forts along the ridges. It is a highly rewarding, effortless escape into the heights.

For those willing to venture just outside the immediate city centre, the summit of this towering, 834-metre mountain offers the absolute most expansive and breathtaking views of the entire region. Reached via a winding, highly scenic mountain road, the barren, windswept peak provides an incredible vantage point over the coastline. On a clear day, the visibility is staggering; you can see the entire arc of the Ligurian coast, and sometimes even the distant silhouette of the island of Corsica. The contrast between the rugged, wild nature at the summit and the dense, sprawling metropolis stretching out far below is incredibly dramatic. It is the ultimate spot for sweeping, monumental landscape photography.

Perched dramatically atop Mount Figogna at an elevation of 804 metres, this highly venerated Marian sanctuary dominates the inland valleys and offers phenomenal vistas. Reaching the complex involves a steep drive through the lush Polcevera Valley, breaking out above the treeline to an incredibly peaceful, commanding position. The expansive, paved square in front of the basilica serves as a colossal balcony. Looking back towards the sea, you are treated to a plunging, majestic view of the river valleys carving their way down through the urban sprawl to meet the Mediterranean. The spiritual tranquillity of the site combined with the sheer altitude creates a deeply moving experience.