Via Giuseppe Garibaldi
About
Venue of history, the Via Giuseppe Garibaldi stretches 250‑metre through the heart of Genoa’s Renaissance district, lined with elegant palaces that once housed the city’s aristocracy. The street, also known as Strada Nuova, was laid out between 1558 and 1583 as part of the city’s grand urban expansion, and in 2006 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the "Strade Nuove and the Palazzi dei Rolli". Today the avenue remains a living museum, offering visitors both a walk through architectural grandeur and a glimpse of Genoa’s private history. Museums housed within the palaces include the striking Palazzo Rosso, the proud former home of the Grimaldi family, and the renowned Palazzo Carrara, once the residence of the Doria family and now a famous ceramics gallery. A short stroll from the street will also bring you to the nearby Palazzo Bianco, a former Astalli palace that now hosts four centuries of national artwork. These historic buildings showcase a range of styles from Renaissance to Baroque, making the avenue one of the most photographed urban streets in Italy. Beyond its architectural allure, the Via Giuseppe Garibaldi offers a sensory experience of Genoa’s heritage. Residents and visitors alike mingle amid arcades, flower‑planted balconies, and frescoed ceilings. The street’s location in the city centre means it is easily reachable by foot from many of Genoa’s major attractions, including the harbor, the cathedral, and the Civic Museum. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a stroll through one of Europe’s most celebrated streets, Via Giuseppe Garibaldi provides an intimate taste of Genoese culture, baroque splendor and iconic palatial grandeur.
Highlights
- Palazzo Rosso
- Palazzo Carrara
- Palazzo Bianco
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making the visit enjoyable and less crowded
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours