Car Rental in Genoa

Why rent a car in Genoa?

Genoa is a great city to visit. Architecturally unique and full of historic landmarks, it is also close to a number of beautiful beaches and quaint coastal villages. With a rental car, you can see the rest of the region of Liguria, drive to nearby Piedmont and Tuscany, or even travel all the way north to the Alps. 

Top ways to enter Genoa

• Genoa Airport: Also known as Christopher Columbus Airport after the famous Genoese explorer, it served more than 1.4 million travelers in 2018. The airport is served by 20 different airlines, with most of the traffic provided by Volotea, easyJet, and Alitalia. The airport is 10km (6 miles) northwest of Genoa’s city center and can be reached in 15-20 minutes.
• Cuneo Airport: Known as Cuneo Levaldigi Airport and sometimes as Cuneo-Turin, this small international airport only provides flights to Bari in Southern Italy, Cagliari in Sardinia, and Marrakesh in Morocco as well as seasonal flights to Tirana in Albania and Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Located 145km (90 miles) northwest of Genoa, the airport can be reached in about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
• Milan Malpensa Airport: The second-busiest airport in Italy and the 25th busiest in all of Europe, Milan Malpensa handled nearly 25 million travelers in 2018. The airport is a hub for a number of airlines and offers flights to destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Malpensa Airport is 187km (116 miles) from Genoa and can be reached in two hours.
• Linate Airport: The smallest of the international airports serving the Milan region, Linate Airport nonetheless handled nearly 10 million travelers in 2018. The airport is a large hub for the national carrier Alitalia and is also served by 11 other airlines. Located 155km (96 miles) northeast of Genoa, the airport can be reached in about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
• Turin Airport: Serving Italy’s fourth-largest city and the capital of the Piedmont region, Turin-Caselle handled just over 4 million travelers in 2018. The airport is served by more than 20 different airlines, including low-cost carriers Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air. Located 200km (125 miles) northwest of Genoa, the airport can be reached in about two hours.

City facts

• Located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea (which is part of the Mediterranean Sea), Genoa has a humid subtropical climate. The average high temperature is 24°C  (76°F) in August, the hottest month, and 9°C  (47°F) in January. Genoa has some of the highest amounts of precipitation among large Italian cities, with especially large amounts of rain from September to January. July is the driest month. Genoa experiences at least a couple of snowy days nearly every winter.
• As mentioned before, Genoa was the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, the explorer who led some of the first European naval expeditions to and initiated the colonization of the Americas. But Genoa has been the birthplace or home of many other world-famous people like the Flemish painter Rubens, politician Giuseppe Mazzini, violinist Niccolò Paganini, and architect Renzo Piano.
• Genoa is the capital of Liguria, one of the regions of Italy. The city had around 580,000 inhabitants in 2018, making it the sixth-largest city in the country. Genoa’s population reached its peak in the 1970s when more than 800,000 people lived there. The inhabitants of Genoa, both male and female, are known as genovese. 
• Genoa is often referred to as the birthplace of pesto, and the city hosts an annual Pesto World Championship where contestants compete to create the best pesto sauce.
• Genoa is known for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The center contains numerous medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the Gothic-style Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Palazzo Ducale, a former residence of the Doges of Genoa. The city is also home to the largest aquarium in Italy, the Genoa Aquarium, which houses over 15,000 animals from 400 different species.
• Genoa is an important transportation hub, with a major port that is one of the busiest in the Mediterranean. The city also has an extensive public transportation system, including a metro, buses, and funiculars that connect different parts of the city. Additionally, Genoa has a long history of maritime trade and is home to a number of shipyards and maritime-related industries.

Top sights and activities

• The Old Harbour. For centuries, Genoa was an international center of seafaring, maritime trading, and exploration. Many world-famous naval navigators started their global journeys from here. The Port of Genoa remains an important Mediterranean hub to this day, but a part of it, known as the Old Harbour or Porto Antico, has been turned into a residential area. One of the nicest parts of town, it has a long beautiful marina, the impressive Porta Siberia building, and many restaurants and museums.
• The Lighthouse of Genoa. Also known as the Faro di Genova or simply the Lanterna, the lighthouse has for centuries been one of the symbols of the city. First built in 1128 and remade as it remains today in 1528, it is the third-oldest lighthouse in the world. Until 1902, it was also the tallest. After visiting the lighthouse itself, go to the Lanterna Museum where you can learn about the city’s long and fascinating past. 
• Castelletto. Another beautiful part of town, Castelletto is famous for the nice city views from its belvedere as well as an ancient bridge-aqueduct and large gardens. Lovers of Gothic architecture will appreciate many impressive examples of the style, like the Mackenzie Castle and the Albertis Castle (the latter nowadays houses the Museum of World Cultures).
• The Galata Museum of the Sea. Opened in 2004, the Galata is both one of the most modern museums in Italy and the largest maritime museum on the Mediterranean. The museum has a collection of classical Italian galleys, including a few life-size models, as well as fascinating exhibitions on transatlantic liners and submarines.
• Basilica di Santa Maria di Castello. This stunning basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Genoa. Built in the 13th century, it has a mixture of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic. It is home to many art masterpieces, including frescoes and paintings by famous Italian artists such as Luca Cambiaso and Bernardo Strozzi.
• Palazzo Reale. This grand palace was built in the 17th century for the Balbi family, one of the wealthiest families in Genoa at the time. It was later used as a residence for the Savoy kings and is now open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the ornate rooms, which are filled with beautiful artwork, furniture, and decorations.
• Pesto tasting. Pesto is one of the most famous Italian sauces, and Genoa is where it originated. Made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, it is traditionally served with pasta. Many restaurants and shops in Genoa offer pesto tastings, where you can sample different variations of the sauce and even learn how to make it yourself.
• Boccadasse. This charming fishing village is just a short distance from the city center but feels like a world away. With colorful houses, a small beach, and a picturesque harbor, Boccadasse is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. It's also a great spot to try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Traffic and parking

• The speed limit in cities is 50km/h, although in certain areas the speed limit may be reduced to 30km/h. 
• Main highways are limited to 130km/h, non-major highways to 110km/h, and local roads to 90km/h. During the rain, the limits are respectively lowered to 110km/h, 100km/h, and 80km/h. The general speed limit is lowered to 50km/h during heavy fog or other cases of bad visibility.
• Most of Genoa’s attractions are located in the city center, a rather small area that is definitely walkable. Finding a parking spot can be complicated, so it can be a good idea to use one of the city’s large parking lots, some of which you can find near the city center. 
• A large city, Genoa experiences many traffic jams, especially during the evenings and mornings, in the most central parts of the city. If possible, try to drive around midday or later in the evening when traffic might be at its lowest. It’s also a good idea to use a real-time traffic app like Waze. 
• According to some studies, Genoa has the highest number of scooters per capita in Italy. Scooters make up a significant amount of traffic in the city, and some might drive rather recklessly. It’s important to keep track of them at all times.
• Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
• When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
• The legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for experienced drivers and 0.00% for novice drivers. Being over the allowed limit can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment. 
• The emergency number, like elsewhere in the EU, is 112.

Toll roads

There are numerous toll roads in Italy, many of them in Liguria. The exact toll depends on your choice of route and type of vehicle. See the official Italian toll road website for more information. Use the website’s toll road calculator to find out exactly how much you’ll have to pay for using the toll roads along your planned route.

Ideas for day trips

• Cinque Terre. The five coastal villages, or ‘lands,’ that make up the Cinque Terre region, are simply stunning to visit. Made up of rough cliffs, steep paths, and cute little houses, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding hills are part of the Cinque Terre National Park which can also be explored. Located southeast of Genoa, Cinque Terre cannot be directly accessed by car; however, you can drive most of the way and take a boat or a train at the end.
• Capanne di Marcarolo Natural Regional Park. A vast protected area, Capanne di Marcarolo is made up of blue mountain lakes, winding paths, and old empty gold mines. It is a great place to go on a long hike or to simply have an enjoyable picnic outdoors. The park is home to wildlife species like the Italian cave salamander, short-toed snake eagle, and common buzzard. Located about 50km (31 miles) northwest of Genoa, Capanne di Marcarolo can be reached in about one hour.
• The Italian Riviera. While Italian Riviera lacks some of the opulence and glamour of its French counterpart, it more than makes up for it with the stunning Maritime Alps, unique architecture, and more relaxed atmosphere. San Remo, perhaps its most famous coastal town, is about 145km (90 miles) west of Genoa and can be reached in 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• Camogli. This charming fishing village is located just 28km (17 miles) southeast of Genoa and is easily accessible by train or car. With its colorful houses, picturesque harbor, and seafood restaurants, Camogli is a great place to spend a relaxing day by the sea. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby San Fruttuoso Abbey and beach, or hike along the stunning coastal trail that leads to Portofino.
• Acqui Terme. This small town, located about 100km (62 miles) southeast of Genoa, is famous for its thermal baths and picturesque medieval streets. The town's hot springs have been known since Roman times and today you can still enjoy a relaxing spa treatment at one of the many wellness centers in the area. Acqui Terme is also home to a number of historic churches, including the 11th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
• Portofino. This exclusive seaside resort town, located about 34km (21 miles) southeast of Genoa, is a popular destination for the rich and famous. The town is famous for its colorful harbor, pastel-colored houses, and luxury boutiques. You can hike along the trails of the nearby Portofino Regional Park, or take a boat trip to see the picturesque coves and beaches of the area.
• La Spezia. Significantly smaller and less busy than Genoa, the second city of Liguria is a popular holiday destination – and being just a 90-minute drive south, it can be visited as a day trip. The city is known for the beautiful beaches in its urban area, as well as the surrounding region, and also for the beautiful and large public gardens and the mountain scenery to the east.

Most popular cars

The most popular rental car in Genoa is the Fiat Panda, although many travelers also go for the Renault Clio and the Peugeot 308. The most popular rental car types are economy, standard, and compact.

Further destinations

• Turin. With its sophisticated architecture, wide boulevards, and high-class art galleries, Italy’s fourth-largest city has impressed many world-famous artists. Some of the city’s highlights are the Moncalieri Castle, La Venaria Reale palace complex, and Villa della Regina Palace and Gardens, but it can be just as enjoyable to simply roam through the city’s streets and many parks. Located 170km (105 miles) northwest of Genoa, Turin can be reached in about two hours.
• Milan. The capital of fashion, finance, and food, Milan is certainly the busiest place in Northern Italy. It is not as picturesque as some other Italian cities, so for many visitors, it may not be a love from the first sight, but those who give the city their time will be richly rewarded with art, culture, and atmosphere. After seeing Milan, you can easily visit picturesque places like Como and Lake Garda or even pop over the border to see Switzerland. Located 144km (89 miles) from Genoa, Milan takes 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach.
• Florence. The capital of art, science, and the Renaissance, Florence has been influential for centuries. Uffizi Gallery, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, and Palazzo Pitti are just some of the city’s landmarks - there are so many, in fact, that the condition of being overwhelmed by aesthetic beauty has been named the Florence Syndrome. Should you manage to see the city and avoid it, get in your rental car and explore the surrounding Tuscan countryside which is just as enjoyable. Florence is 230km (143 miles) southeast of Genoa and can be reached in about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Aosta. Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Aosta is a charming town filled with Roman ruins, medieval castles, and beautiful mountain views. The town is also a gateway to the Gran Paradiso National Park, home to the highest peak entirely in Italy. Take a stroll through the old town, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and enjoy a traditional dish like fontina cheese fondue. Aosta is about 190km (118 miles) north of Genoa and can be reached in about two and a half hours.
• Pisa. Home to much more than just its world-famous leaning tower, Pisa is one of the most sophisticated cities in Central Italy. Historically important, it is known for its architecture, cultural institutions, and cuisine. Like Genoa, Pisa is on the Ligurian Sea and can be reached by car in just over two hours, with most of the drive along A12 taking you by the coast.
• Como. Located on the shores of the picturesque Lake Como, this charming city is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and luxurious villas. Take a stroll along the lakefront promenade, visit the stunning Como Cathedral, and explore the charming medieval streets of the city. From Como, you can also take a boat tour to explore the surrounding lake and visit the nearby towns of Bellagio and Varenna. Como is about 140km (87 miles) southeast of Genoa and can be reached in about two hours.
• Bologna. Often overshadowed by other Italian cities like Florence and Venice, Bologna is a hidden gem with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. Explore the charming old town, visit the famous Two Towers, and indulge in a traditional dish like tagliatelle al ragù or tortellini in brodo. Bologna is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. Located about 220km (137 miles) east of Genoa, Bologna can be reached in about two and a half hours.
• Nice. Located just on the other side of the border, the port city of Nice is synonymous with luxury, class, and relaxation. Whether you visit Nice for the scenic Promenade des Anglais and many other landmarks or for the surrounding Mediterranean beaches, you’re bound to have a good time. The drive from Genoa takes only about 2 hours and 40 minutes. Most rental car suppliers permit crossing the border with France, but it’s still a good idea to let yours know in advance.

Car rental prices in Genoa

• Premium cars - from €87 per day
• Small cars - from €19 per day
• Medium cars - from €23 per day
• SUVs - from €26 per day
• Large cars - from €29 per day
• Station wagons - from €39 per day
• Vans - from €55 per day
• Convertibles - from €70 per day

Money-saving and other tips

Follow these tips and land a great rental car in Liguria:

• Compare the rates of different rental car providers
• Book your rental car well in advance
• Plan your route before you go
• Know your fuel and mileage requirements
• Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Genoa is the cheapest in March when renting a car is about 80% cheaper than the yearly average and an unbelievable 91% cheaper than renting a car in June.