Spianata Castelletto
For the single best panorama over Genoa's red-tiled rooftops, the harbour cranes, and the Ligurian Sea shimmering beyond, ride the Liberty-era funicular up to Spianata Castelletto. Locals come here at dusk with a bottle of wine — and you should too.
Getting Up There
The Ascensore Castelletto Levante is a public lift (ascensore) that climbs from Piazza Portello in the caruggi to the Spianata terrace in under a minute. It costs the same as a bus ticket — around €1.50 — and is used daily by residents heading home with their shopping.
Alternatively, the Funicolare Zecca-Righi departs from Largo della Zecca and climbs through the hillside to reach a higher ridge, passing the Spianata on the way. Both options are covered by standard Genova AMT transport tickets.
The View Itself
From the Spianata's broad stone terrace you look straight down over the medieval roofscape to the Porto Antico, the blue curve of the Ligurian coast, and on clear days the distant outline of Corsica. The foreground is a jumble of bell towers, satellite dishes, and laundry — gloriously real.
A small café-kiosk operates on the terrace in warmer months, serving Aperol Spritz and local craft beer. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset and watch the light turn the city gold and then amber. It is, without question, Genoa's finest free show.
More of Genoa
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Genoa →
