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The ÖBB connect Europe

ÖBB connects numerous European cities with modern day and night services.

During the day, ÖBB Railjets offer fast and comfortable long-distance travel in Economy, First, and Business classes.

At night, the ÖBB Nightjet provides a relaxing and environmentally friendly journey across Europe. Whether

you prefer a seat, new Mini Cabins, or couchette and sleeper cars – every travel preference is catered for.

Within Austria, ÖBB Cityjets guarantee punctual and comfortable local and long-distance transport.

Further information and booking options can be found via the info button, which leads directly to the ÖBB booking page.

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CIAO GENOA

WORTH SEEING MONUMENTAL DAY TRIPS ABOVE GENOA

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION IMPRINT

Ciao Genoa

To Genoa by train

The direct ÖBB Nightjet connection between Vienna and Genoa and La Spezia will no longer be offered from the 2026 timetable onwards. An ideal alternative is to travel from Vienna Central Station via Villach to Venezia Mestre. From there, you can continue your journey on the Frecciarossa train towards Genova Piazza Principe. The highspeed train covers the distance from Mestre to Genoa in approximately four hours.

Another option is to ﬁrst travel to Venezia Mestre on the ÖBB Nightjet and then continue to Genoa in the morning on the Frecciarossa. From Genoa, the Trenitalia high-speed train will take you to La Spezia Centrale, the gateway to the Cinque Terre. The journey time between Genoa and La Spezia is approximately one hour.

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Welcome to Genoa

The breathtaking city of Genoa is a true gem in the region and offers countless attractions for visitors. It serves as the capital of the Italian region of Liguria and is situated on the picturesque Ligurian coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Due to its long history, dating back to the ancient world, Genoa remains an important port city with a signiﬁcant role in trade and exploration.

At the same time, modern-day Genoa showcases its contemporary side: A vibrant cultural scene characterises this metropolis. Art and architecture enthusiasts can explore numerous museums and galleries, while visitors can savour culinary delights

in the many local restaurants and bars. Additionally, various festivals and events throughout the year ensure there's always something happening. Boredom is certainly not an option in Genoa!

A deﬁnite highlight is the historic centre of Genoa, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. Here, visitors can stroll through narrow alleys and admire magniﬁcent palaces from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance period.

Particularly impressive are the numerous churches with their intricate frescoes and sculptures, as well as the famous La Lanterna lighthouse, the symbol of Genoa.

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Maritime republic Genoa

In the tenth century, Genoa was merely a small trading town. However, over the next 200 years, it evolved into the leading maritime trading power of the Mediterranean. Luxury goods such as spices and silk, as well as ﬁnancial services, were offered here.

Throughout its turbulent history, the Republic of Genoa participated in many wars, including the

The Republic of Genoa is considered a pioneering example of a medieval city-state republic. It was powerful and influential, shaping the history of the Mediterranean region. The first public hospital in Europe was established here, and the continent's first stock exchange was also founded in this port city.

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Worth seeing

Porto Antico

The Porto Antico in Genoa was once the industrial port adjacent to the historic old town. In the year 1992, to mark the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America, the Genoese architect Renzo Piano revitalised and restructured the port. Since then, the Porto Antico has exerted an irresistible attraction on both tourists and the residents of the city of Genoa. It is not only a popular destination for travellers but also plays a crucial role in the city's development. The proud Porto Antico now serves as a showcase for how old industrial structures can be successfully transformed into modern areas for leisure and culture. Today, the Porto Antico is a model for other cities worldwide.

Aquarium of Genoa

The "Acquario di Genova" in Genoa is the second-largest aquarium in Europe. Visitors can marvel at over 70 different habitats, showcasing a variety of 12,000 specimens from 600 different marine species.

A tour of the aquarium takes approximately two and a half hours. During this time, visitors can experience realistic recreations

of the habitats of numerous ﬁsh and reptiles across 39 tanks.

The aquarium's halls cover an area of about 9,700 square metres, including three large seawater tanks where dolphins, sharks, seals, and sea turtles live alongside a multitude of smaller ﬁsh.

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Biosphere

Opposite the aquarium, you will see an impressive steel and glass dome with a diameter of 20 metres. This microcosm of exotic wildlife hosts a variety of tropical creatures, including up to 150 different species of animals and plants. Upon entering the building, visitors can stroll beneath the branches of some of the world's tallest ferns and wander among

plant species that typically only thrive in tropical regions.

It is an extraordinary botanical garden, which is also home to many different bird species.

The computer-controlled biosphere also houses some land turtles, ﬁsh, and insects.

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Galata - Museo del mare

The largest museum of its kind in the Mediterranean is the maritime museum "Galata - Museo del Mare." The museum is located in the Palazzo Galata, named after the ancient colony of Galata, in Darsena, a district where galleys were once built. In addition to an authentic replica of a Genoese galley, the museum offers a variety of interactive exhibition rooms that illustrate

life at sea. A signiﬁcant portion of the exhibition is dedicated to maritime trade during the time of the Republic of Genoa. Particularly noteworthy is the simulation of a storm at Cape Horn.

In the outdoor area, visitors can ﬁnd the submarine Nazario Sauro, which was decommissioned in the year 2002.

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Panoramic lift Bigo

Bigo is one of the most spectacular attractions in Porto Antico: a panoramic lift that ascends 40 metres into the air, offering visitors an unusual view of the harbour and the city of Genoa. Designed by the architect Renzo Piano, it takes its name and shape from the cranes that were once used to load goods in the port of Genoa.

During the ascent, the cabin of this crane performs a 360-degree rotation, allowing everyone on board to enjoy the beautiful view of the harbor and city. Information panels inside the cabin guide you through the cityscapes, and a multilingual recording highlights the main buildings and key attractions.

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Galeone Neptune

The "Galeone Neptune" is a marvellous replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon, designed by marine architect David Cannell. The ship was built in in the year 1985 for Roman Polanski's ﬁlm "Pirates," where it also portrayed a Spanish vessel. With an authentic reproduction above the waterline, a hull partially made of steel, wooden planks, and a modern Schottel drive, the

Neptune currently attracts many tourists and serves as a main attraction in the port of Genoa.

In the year 2011, the Neptune galleon made its last appearance in the TV series "Neverland" as the ship "Jolly Roger," belonging to Captain Hook.

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Palazzo San Giorgio

The Palazzo San Giorgio is a historic building of great signiﬁcance and renown in Genoa. It currently serves as the headquarters of the Western Ligurian Sea Port Authority.

Originally named the "Sea Palace," the building was constructed in the year 1260 by the politician and admiral Guglielmo Boccanegra. The design was created by Brother Oliverio, a Cistercian architect and monk. At that time, the building served as the seat of the municipality.

After Boccanegra was forced into exile in the year 1262, the palace served as a prison.

One of its most famous inmates is said to have been Marco Polo, who, between September 1298 and July 1299, dictated his travel accounts (Il Milione) to his fellow prisoner Rustichello da Pisa.

Later, the building was converted into a customs house, and in the 15th century, it was transferred to the Banco di San Giorgio, from which it got its current name. During the 16th century, the palace was expanded, and towards the end of the 19th century, Alfredo d'Andrade fully restored it after a period of decline. Ever since the year 1903, it has housed the ofﬁces of the Genoese Port Authority.

Lanterna

The main lighthouse of the port of Genoa is known as the "Lanterna di Genova" or simply "Lanterna." The lighthouse not only serves an important function for night navigation in the area but is also a signiﬁcant symbol and landmark of the city of Genoa. The masonry tower stands 76 metres tall.

Very close to the lighthouse tower of the "Lanterna" is the Museo della Lanterna, which can be reached by a brief walk along the old city walls down to Via Milano. The museum focuses on the history of Genoa and its port, while showcasing numerous archival materials. Some exhibitions also cover navigation and navigational aids in Genoa, displaying various signalling systems which were used at sea.

The tower can be visited from Friday to Sunday as well as on public holidays between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). It remains closed for visitors from Monday to Thursday.

As the area around the tower is a military zone, access outside these opening hours is not possible. Visits are also suspended during weather alerts or thunderstorms.

Monumental

Paganini, the devil's violinist

Niccolò Paganini, the famous violinist and composer, was born in Genoa in the year 1782. He was much more than just a musician. Although he was known for his unconventional performances – such as playing in cemeteries or performing with a single string – his success was not solely due to his spectacular shows.

Paganini was also the ﬁrst in the ﬁeld of instrumental music to recognise the importance of self-promotion and marketing. With his distinctive appearance – black clothing, long hair, and intense gaze – he always attracted a large crowd of fans. However, if that had been all, his fame would hardly have endured to this day.

In reality, Niccolò Paganini was an outstanding artist: the greatest violinist of all time, as well as an excellent conductor and composer of his era! It is therefore no surprise that many colleagues admired him. Some of them even dedicated their own works to him by drawing on his most famous themes.

Nearly 200 years ago, people would whisper Niccolò Paganini's name while making the sign of the cross. At that time, many people ﬁrmly believed that the violinist must be a sorcerer. His virtuoso skills on the violin were so extraordinary and magical that it seemed impossible for a human body to master such an art. But what was the secret behind his enchanting performances?

His music had an immense impact on his audience: women fainted, and even seasoned men were said to have wept with emotion upon listening to the performance – simply unimaginable.

This Genoese deserves the highest recognition for travelling and performing on the entire continent thanks to his extraordinary talent, and is considered the ﬁrst truly European instrumental star. In the year 1829, the Conservatorio Niccolò Paganini di Genova was founded. Since the year 1974, it has been a state conservatory.

The renowned institute is located at Via Albaro No. 38.

Niccolò Paganini 1782 - 1840

Link to the birthplace of Niccolò Paganini

Genoa is home to several famous artists, explorers, and world travellers. The birthplace of Christopher Columbus has been reconstructed. The discoverer of the American continent spent his childhood at this location. A visit to the house provides an impression of what life was like during that time.

Christopher Columbus

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Admiral Andrea Doria was born in Imperia, located about 120 kilometres southwest of the city of Genoa. As a brilliant strategist and political leader, he became one of Genoa's most powerful and influential figures. Also hailing from the city of explorers is Italy's first astronaut, Franco Malerba.

Admiral Andrea Doria

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Genoa is home to numerous impressive sacred buildings. As a representative example of these places of worship, the most magnificent church is presented here. The origins of the cathedral date back to the year 1118. Archaeological finds confirm that the first cathedral in Genoa was built on this very site as early as the 5th or 6th century.

Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

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Palazzo Doria Tursi

Palazzo Doria-Spinola

Palazzo Ducale

Castello Mackenzie

Day trips

Trips from Genoa

Genova Piazza Principe Regional * ICs ***

Piazza

* The regional trains run at 30-minute intervals.

** At Santa Margherita Liguria station, transfer to bus line 782.

*** As the IC trains are usually relatively well-booked, it is advisable to reserve your seat in advance.

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Camogli

Although the name of this city has existed for a long time, to this day there is still no clear explanation of its origin. According to one legend, the name derives from the shortened name "Casa de Moglie." While the sailors were away, they placed their wives (mogli) in a communal home (casa), which supposedly led to the city's name.

In the late Middle Ages, Camogli was a significant seaport with a fleet of hundreds of large sailing ships and became known as the "City of a Thousand White Sails." In the year 1798, the city hosted large parts of Napoleon's fleet contingents, which were later defeated by Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson in the Battle of the Nile.

The renowned naval school "Cristoforo Colombo," named after the Genoese sailor Christopher Columbus, was founded here in 1874. In the year 1880, this former fishing village had about 12,000 inhabitants, of which around 500 were registered ship captains. The port of Camogli remains one of the most important fishing ports on the Ligurian coast, offering fresh seafood directly from boat to plate. However, Camogli is not only of historical significance but also of cultural relevance in the region.

Every year on the second Sunday in May, the "Sagra del Pesce" takes place - a festival in honour of Saint Fortunato, the patron saint of ﬁshermen.

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Santa Margherita Ligure

The town is located about 35 kilometres from the city of Genoa and is surrounded by the foothills of the Ligurian Apennines. Santa Margherita Ligure offers Mediterranean vegetation with beautiful parks and gardens along the Dolphin Coast (Costa dei Delﬁni), which separates this municipality from Portoﬁno.

Part of this municipal territory belongs to the Portofino Regional Natural Park (Parco naturale regionale di Porto fi no). Additionally, Santa Margherita Ligure, along with Camogli and Portofino, jointly manage the marine protected area in this region. The town itself is a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing holiday. The picturesque alleys and squares invite you to

stroll and offer numerous opportunities for shopping or stopping in cosy cafés and restaurants. Particularly noteworthy is the Piazza Martiri della Libertà with its impressive 17th-century fountain, as well as the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure. Besides all these advantages, the town also has much to offer in terms of culture: the annual "Festival Internazionale del Folklore" attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Santa Margherita Ligure thus combines everything one could wish for in a perfect holiday destination: Mild, mediterranean climate, stunning landscapes, culinary delights, and a host of diverse leisure activities. In short: There will be something for everyone!

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Portofino is located about 40 kilometres from the city of Genoa. The constant streams of tourists, who seem to be particularly drawn by the numerous wealthy and attractive visitors, are the main source of income for this charming town. The narrow access roads to Portofino turn the journey by car into a veritable obstacle course. A much more pleasant way to reach Portofino is by train via the station in Santa Margherita Ligure.

Above the town of Portoﬁno rises Castello Brown, built in the 14th century. Originally known as "Castello di San Giorgio," this structure now serves as Portoﬁno's museum. On the way from Castello Brown to the heart of the town, you will pass the Romanesque Chiesa di San Giorgio. It was originally

built in the 12th century and rebuilt in the year 1950 after being completely destroyed during World War II.

Portofino was recreated by Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida and has served as an impressive backdrop for numerous films. Currently, luxurious yachts are anchored in the harbour. In 2023, the city administration introduced a regulation imposing hefty fines on individuals taking selfies and "loitering" at tourist hotspots.

Numerous restaurants and bars invite you to linger, and due to the large number of afﬂuent visitors, various luxury items can also be purchased directly at the harbour.

Portoﬁno

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Natural harbour of Portofino

Castello Brown

Chiesa di San Giorgio

in this region that can be reached in a short time. But there is also much to discover within the town of Rapallo itself. A short promenade runs along the

away) is the valley station of the cable car which takes visitors to the pilgrimage church Santuario Basilica Nostra Signora di Montallegro. Bus line 892 also runs from the station to the mountain station.

Rapallo

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© Davide Papalini

Above Genoa

Castelletto Promenade

Castelletto rises above the historic city centre of Genoa. This area features numerous green spaces. From the viewing platform, visitors can catch a breathtaking view of the city. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Today, it is known as Belvedere Montaldo, also called Spianata Castelletto. The terrace is accessible via two lifts. The eastern lift

(Levante Station) leads to a colourful glass loggia in the Art Nouveau style.

The Belvedere offers a panoramic terrace from which visitors can enjoy views of the Porto Antico, the magniﬁcent palaces on Strada Nuova, and the rooftops of the historic centre.

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The lift connects the Galleria Garibaldi with the Belvedere Castelletto Garden, which is situated just over 60 metres higher.

The "Spianata Castelletto" is known as the "Terrace over the Old Town" and offers a spectacular view over the city of Genoa.

Castelletto Garibaldi

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In the middle of the Galleria Giuseppe Garibaldi tunnel, there is an entrance to the lift that leads up to the viewing platform above.

Castelletto Garibaldi

Right at the beginning of the tunnel is the Castelletto Levante entrance. The inscription "Panorama della Città" above the entrance hints at the impressive view over Genoa.

To use the lifts and funiculars, all visitors require a valid ticket unless otherwise indicated.

Castelletto Levante

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Castello d’Albertis

From a technical standpoint, this "rail-lift" is quite remarkable. Initially, the lift travels as a train through a tunnel. The train then transforms into a lift and ascends. There are always two cabins in operation simultaneously, meeting at the lift station. Once you arrive at the top, it is only a few steps to visit the impressive D'Albertis Castle.

Balbi - Dogali

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Captain Enrico Alberto d'Albertis had the castle built between the years 1886 and 1892. It was constructed on the remains of a fortiﬁed structure from the 13th century. The castle majestically rises above the "Genova Piazza Principe" station. After the captain's death in the year of 1932, the castle became the property of the city of Genoa.

Within the walls of the castle lies the Museum of World Cultures (Museo delle culture del mondo).

The Museum of World Cultures houses a fascinating collection of artefacts from the exotic countries that Captain Enrico Alberto d'Albertis visited on his travels.

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From intricately carved masks from Africa to ancient temple ﬁgures from Asia, the variety of exhibits is truly impressive. Visitors can immerse themselves in the distant worlds that the captain once

explored and be enchanted by the treasures

The historic walls of the castle envelop its visitors with an aura of the past that lingers long after the visit has ended.

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The funicular connects Zecca with Righi, ascending the Granolo Hill to the 302-metre-high Righi. From here, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the city of Genoa. Midway along the route, the two trains cross paths. Five stops allow travellers to explore the city from different vantage points.

Funiculare Zecca - Righi

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The funicular was operated using water-ﬁlled ballast tanks until the year 1980. Through the pedestrian tunnel, which is accessible from either Corso Magenta or from the entrance on Via Acquarone, one reaches a private lift that leads to the historic pharmacy (Antica Farmacia Sant'Anna).

Magenta - Crocco

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Local transportation

An extensive network of buses, funiculars, lifts, as well as a ship and metro line, the Cremagliera cog railway, and the historic narrow-gauge railway from Genoa to Casella ensure excellent local transportation and accessibility in the port city. Tickets are available via the "AMT GENOVA" app on the App Store or Google Play. Additionally,

tickets can also be purchased at tourist information centres.

Affordable day passes for the entire network are available as well. With these day passes, visitors can explore the city's many attractions. This allows tourists to discover and experience the diversity of Genoa in an uncomplicated and exciting way.

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Genova Brignole

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Genova Piazza Principe

Imprint

OBB Nightjet and OBB Nightjet Partner

The team

This e-book was made possible through the kind support of the regional tourist ofﬁces and the OBB. German proofreading and editorial: Martin Andergassen.

References

Text, videos and photos by Rudolf J. Strutz unless otherwise stated. Timetables and travel information: OBB

Assistance from AI

Artiﬁcial intelligence applications are occasionally employed for image editing, including the elimination of undesirable components. Additionally, AI tools can enhance the clarity of images and diminish background noise.

OBB railnet

The travel guides are also available free of charge on the OBB online entertainment and internet portal railnet, which is installed on all railjets, nightjets (NG) and cityjets

Experience the OBB trains in 360°.

This book was licensed under the Creative Commons License. Conditions of use: attribution, non-commercial, no editing and distribution under the same conditions only as a complete work! The use of individual photos and text is not permitted. This eBook is available free of charge.

Links

All links provided are current at the time of publication of this ebook. Links to tickets usually lead directly to the exhibition location. For tickets and timetables, local public transportation services are linked.