Palatial experiences in Genoa

Genoa, one of Italy’s most captivating cities, is also one of the country’s most historic ports. Tucked between the Apennines and the Ligurian Sea, the wealth it built up as a major maritime power transformed the city – already home to one of the largest medieval centres in Europe – between the 16th and 18th centuries.

Within Genoa’s historic centre sit the palaces of Rolli, a striking collection of aristocratic residences built to display the wealth of the city’s merchant and noble families and to provide accommodation for visiting dignitaries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006, the 20th anniversary of their inscription makes 2026 the perfect time to discover their beauty.

While these sumptuous buildings may have originally been the preserve of the nobility, visitors today can experience the palaces for themselves. Some are accessible year-round through organised tours or are open to the public; others are private residences or government buildings that are normally off-limits to visitors. However, twice a year (in May and October), Rolli Days sees dozens of public and private palazzi across the city fling open their doors to visitors for a long weekend.

During this period, expert guides lead travellers through gems such as the Palazzo Ambrogio di Negro and the Palazzo Giacomo Lomellini, whose interiors are rarely seen by the public. In addition, shows, concerts and other cultural events are held amid the glorious Neoclassical architecture and in public spaces, including the Via Roma and Piazza de Ferrari. You might even find yourself listening to the works of Brahms, Massenet or Perosi at the Palazzo Doria Carcassi.

Of course, what everyone wants to know is just how magnificent these palaces are on the inside. No expense was spared in their construction, as the wealthy families behind these buildings were keen to showcase their prestige and power.

Located along Genoa’s Le Strade Nuove (‘The New Streets’), the palaces of Rolli were a remarkable early European example of urban planning. These Renaissance and Baroque structures typically spanned three or four storeys, with spectacular open staircases, courtyards and loggia overlooking lush gardens. Inside, their walls and ceilings are awash with elaborate stucco designs and frescoes.

Residences of the 1500s guided tour, which will allow you access to some of the best. Among other things, you’ll see the incredible Palazzo Rosso, known for its striking red facade; Palazzo Tobia Pallavicino, with its breathtaking rococostyle ‘Golden Room’; Palazzo Imperiale, known for its innovative stairways and lavish interiors; and Palazzo Bianco, now a major art gallery housing exceptional Flemish, Spanish and Italian works.

Imagine if you could experience the lifestyle of a 16th-century Genoese nobleman or woman, even if it was just for a day or two. These palaces were originally designed for hosting, and now you, too, can spend the night as an aristocrat.

The Rolli Experience includes a two-night stay within selected buildings, themed guided tours of the city and its historic centre, musical entertainment, aperitifs, tastings and themed dinners among the opulent interiors and frescoed ceilings of some of Genoa’s most spectacular noble residences. Mixing beauty, art, history and delicious food, it’s an incredible way to immerse yourself in the city’s Golden Age, as you sleep, eat and live – for just a short while – in absolute splendour.

Of course, as impressive as the Palazzi dei Rolli are, there is much more to discover in Genoa. Italy’s secret gem also boasts an atmospheric Old Town, museums and a wealth of outdoor escapes in its parks and dazzling coast.

Take your time here, and start in the medieval Old Town, which is composed of an intricate maze of alleyways, known as caruggi, that open out onto small squares where enticing scents, flavours and cultures mingle. Browse the botteghe storiche, the ancient stores where time seems to stand still, then pop into Romanengo, Italy’s oldest artisan confectionery (opened in 1780) for candied fruit, orange-flavoured marron glacés and drops of rosolio liqueur. Later, head to Drogheria Torielli, which opened in 1930 and is still supplying local people with everything from chocolate to coffee and spices.

Take the Art Nouveau elevator up to Spianata Castelletto, an esplanade offering a panorama of Genoa’s rooftops, or go for a stroll in one of the city’s green lungs, such as the pretty Parchi di Nervi. Or if you fancy a coastal walk, head to Boccadasse, an old fishing village lined with pastel-coloured houses. You couldn’t find a setting further removed from the grand, indulgent palazzi of Genoa.