La Lanterna

Genoa


The port may have changed radically since its '90s rebirth, but its emblematic sentinel hasn't moved an inch since 1543. Genoa's lighthouse is one of the world's oldest and tallest – and it still works, beaming its light over 50km to warn ships and tankers. Visitors can climb 172 steps and ponder exhibits in an adjacent museum of lamps, lenses and related history.

La Lanterna is accessed via a special 800m walking trail that starts at the ferry terminal. It's surrounded by a pleasant park. Dinegro metro station is about a 10-minute walk from the entry path to La Lanterna.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Genoa attractions

1. Biosfera

1.1 MILES

A giant glass ball housing a humid mini-ecosystem with tropical plants, butterflies and birds, the Biosphere is an innovative addition to the port,…

2. Acquario

1.1 MILES

Genoa's much-vaunted aquarium is one of the largest in Europe, with more than 600 species of sea creatures, including sharks. Moored at the end of a…

3. Galata Museo del Mare

1.15 MILES

Genoa was rivalled only by Barcelona and Venice as a medieval and Renaissance maritime power, so its 'museum of the sea' is, not surprisingly, one of its…

4. Porto Antico

1.18 MILES

The port that once controlled a small empire is now one of the most popular places to enjoy a passeggiata (evening stroll). Superyacht lovers are…

5. Santa Maria di Castello

1.21 MILES

Built on the site of the original settlement, and sheltering under the 11th-century Embriaci Tower, this Romanesque church and convent, itself built…

6. Palazzo San Giorgio

1.23 MILES

One of the most famous monuments on Genoa's waterfront is this mural-covered building constructed in 1260. St George is one of Genoa's patron saints, and…

7. Porta dei Vacca

1.26 MILES

This monumental gate was one of three built from 1155 as part of a defensive wall system. It's characteristic circular towers are shared by the other…

8. Palazzo Reale

1.29 MILES

If you only get the chance to visit one of the Palazzi dei Rolli (group of palaces belonging to the city's most eminent families), make it this one. A…