Rooftop Bar in Genoa: 12 Places to Drink with a View

Genoa, Italy really is a hidden gem. When people are flocking to more popular Italian destinations you should come to check out this port city with 1000-year-old cathedrals, unique architecture, and bustling piazzas. Finding a rooftop bar in Genoa is not so difficult when you wander through the caruggi alleyways in search of out-of-the-way places to explore.

Piazza de Ferrari, one of the main squares in Genoa, lies in the heart of the city and is full of cafes and restaurants including rooftop bars. The middle of the piazza is dominated by a breathtaking fountain and the perimeter is lined with wonderful historic buildings. The Palace of the Doges the Teatro Carlo Felice is located on the edge of the Piazza de Ferrari.

Rooftop bars in Genoa are fabulous places to drop by to see the city in a whole new way. Boccadasse, one of the seaside neighborhoods in Genoa, is especially amazing to see from a rooftop vantage point. The pink and yellow buildings of Boccadasse are fun and vibrant.

As you do a little bar hopping you will want to check out some of the best shopping in Genoa along the way. With quaint shops, busy shopping centers, and adorable street markets, you will find everything you need. Find luggage storage in Genoa for your purchases and large bags before you take a break and spend time relaxing in a few rooftop bars.

Palazzo Rosso Rooftop

What’s it like:

The Palazzo Rodolfo and Gio Francesco Brignole Sale, or simply the Palazzo Rosso, is in the heart of Genoa’s historic center and is home to a fabulous rooftop bar. The building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is part of the Strada Nuova Museum.

The museum houses artwork by the Brignole-Sale and the rooms are still set up with their original furnishings which accentuate the wonderful art pieces that are on display. You do not have to purchase admission to the museum to visit the rooftop bar but it is a good way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Our recommendation:

The rooftop bar also has a varied menu filled with tasty treats and filling meals. Order a cocktail or craft beer while you wait for your food to arrive. It does get crowded in the evenings so make sure you get there early to enjoy the amazing views of the historic city center.

Location:

Via Garibaldi 18, Genova, IT

La Goletta Seaside Pub

What’s it like:

This is a seaside bar with wonderful views of the water and the Genoa skyline. Comfortable seating makes it easy to spend extra time sipping cocktails and visiting with friends. La Goletta is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has a menu that changes each day.

This is more of an American-style bar complete with live music or a DJ playing party music. Bartenders create exotic cocktails and put on a show with their mixology skills. Sit at the bar and watch the entertainment there or find a table and dine with friends.

Our recommendation:

With the menu changing daily there will always be something fresh and interesting offered. Try one of the light entrees, delicious pasta dishes, crispy pizzas, and beef hamburgers. La Goletta is one of the best bars to sample aperitifs including fino, pastis, raki, vermouth, gin, and champagne.

Location:

Via Magazzini del Cotone 3, Genova, IT

Old Port Bar

What’s it like:

With phenomenal views of Genoa and looking out over the sea, the Old Port Bar is one of the best rooftop bars in Genoa. Sip champagne while watching the boats and sailing yachts glide across the water. Lunch and dinner menus have seafood and pasta dishes that are filling and satisfying.

Our recommendation:

After your meal, or maybe just as a treat, you have to order the Tiramisu which is an iconic Italian dessert made with eggs, cheese, and chocolate. Be sure to ask for a seat near the window if you are dining indoors so you have unobstructed views.

Location:

Marina Porto Antico – Ponte Morosini Nord 47-48, Genova, IT

Grand Hotel Savoia Rooftop Bar

What’s it like:

There is an incredible rooftop bar on top of the Grand Hotel Savoia Genoa which is one of the best in the city. This high-end bar is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city. This five-star hotel does things right by offering delicious dishes on its diverse menu and luscious drinks including select Italian wines.

Our recommendation:

Plan to stay at the Grand Hotel Savoia so you can enjoy all the amenities such as the rooftop hot tub. You do not have to be a guest to visit the rooftop bar but you cannot use any of the hotel’s other facilities or amenities.

Location:

Via Arsenale Di Terra 5, Genova, IT

Eataly Genova

What’s it like:

Locals and tourists flock to Eataly Genova which is best known for its impressive wine list and unique cocktails. Listen to jazz music playing in the background while you dine on amazing Italian dishes looking out over the beautiful city.

Cuddle with your significant other and watch the sunset over the harbor while enjoying an aperitif or relaxing with friends over delicious food and a strong drink. Eataly does get crowded around sunset so get there early to get a seat or you may have to stay on the ground floor terrace.

Our recommendation:

Upstairs is the informal café that has amazing views but this area does get crowded so if you are looking for space, stay on the ground floor terrace. The Panzanella dish is wonderful when you are hungry and don’t want to wait a long time to eat.

Location:

Calata Cattaneo 15, Porto Antico, Genova, IT

Pata Negra, Bocadasse

What’s it like:

Head to Bocadasse where you will swear you just stepped onto the set of an old movie and visit the Pata Negra. This is a must-see when you are in Genoa. Just outside of the city center, you can enjoy beautiful views, tasty tapas, and kickin’ cocktails.

Our recommendation:

The tapas include Torreon Pata Negra ham that has been seasoned for 36 months and smoked duck breast and chorizo. The Blonde Aquitaine fillet is delicious as is the slow-leavened pizza or Angus steak. You can find something scrumptious to try on the expansive menu.

Location:

Piazza Enrico Bassano 2, Genova, IT

Monu Café

What’s it like:

Yachties love this bar as it is near the water and has a very large outdoor terrace with fabulous views of the sea. Monu Café is located near Garibaldi’s “Expedition of the Thousand” monument. You can even still see where Garibaldi and his troops planted the flag in 1860.

Our recommendation:

The specialty at Monu Café is Ligurian Italian food including pretty much anything with pesto sauce. They also serve international dishes such as poke bowls and burgers. Order one of their specialty cocktails such as Malfy gin or Hendrick’s tonic or enjoy a Monu beer.

Location:

Piazzale Francesco Crispi 2, Genova, IT

Banano Tsunami

What’s it like:

Another favorite with yachties, Banano Tsunami is located in the center of Porto Antico and is only a short walk from Marina Molo Vecchio. Look out over the water and watch the boats as they come into the marina. Eataly Genova is nearby if you just want to stop in Banano Tsunami for a drink and then dine at Eataly.

Our recommendation:

Offering classic Italian dishes and an excellent selection of the freshest seafood in the area. Kick back with an Aperol Spritz or a Negroni while you debate what to order. Many people come for breakfast or brunch and relax in the sunshine as they visit with friends or family while enjoying fantastic views.

Location:

Ponte Embriaco 1, Porto Antico, Genova, IT

Blunt Beach Club

What’s it like:

Blunt Beach Club is a bathhouse and restaurant that offers 360-degree views of the city. Many locals head to The Blunt as it is affectionately called on Saturday night for their summer beach parties. There are two bars, one inside the restaurant and the other out on the beach. Both offer a good wine list including local Italian wines, Franciacorta, and champagne.

The bartenders are more than happy to whip up a cocktail or pour you a glass of bubbly. The restaurant offers great food and a wide range of dishes and is open year-round. The bar on the beach is open during warm weather and has a great atmosphere.

Our recommendation:

Come for the freshest seafood dishes and breathe in the fresh air on the huge terrace while listening to a DJ spin sets on the weekends. The party vibe at The Blunt goes on through the entire summer. Order a glass of Ribolla Gialla or Vermentino, Italian wine from local vineyards.

Location:

Via del Tritone 11/N, zona Sturla, Genova, IT

Bisu

What’s it like:

Stroll along the Corso Italia, the main sea boardwalk in Genoa, and pay a visit to Bisu, one of the trendiest bars in the area. It is a romantic and intimate destination to bring your significant other or turns into a hip party spot on the weekends.

Pull up a seat on the turquoise and white terrace that looks out over the harbor. The traditional Ligurian slate floor is something you must see when you visit Genoa, it is vibrant, airy, and simply wonderful. Relax on the terrace and enjoy the remarkable views.

Our recommendation:

You will want to make reservations if you are planning on visiting Bisu in the evening for an aperitif. Bring your friends for an evening of fun or plan a romantic evening of fine dining complete with a stroll down the Corso Italia.

Location:

Corso Italia 11f R, Provincia di Genova, IT

Il Bistrotto

What’s it like:

This wine bar offers a good selection of tapas in Bogliasco which is just outside of the city limits of Genoa. Il Bistrotto opened its doors in 2017 and is a trendy bar with a large drink menu and an expert bartender who crafts exotic cocktails.

Our recommendation:

Come for delicious appetizers and homemade desserts while sipping a craft beer such as Maltfus Faber or Piccolo Birrificio Clandestino. Order one of their fresh fish dishes, they are highly recommended. Brunch is always a lively affair at Il Bistrotto or you can plan to host your next get-together here including live music or a DJ.

Location:

Via Giuseppe Mazzini 183, Bogliasco, IT

Era Ora Summer Bar

What’s it like:

Located 30 minutes from Genoa, Era Ora Summer Bar sits right on the bay of Mulinetti and is a casual bar where you can sip a drink while watching the sunset. You may even rub shoulders with some of the players of the water polo team Pro Recco as this is a popular hangout.

Our recommendation:

Order a craft beer or try one of their specialty cocktails. They also have a nice size wine list including Italian wines. Tapas are available or you can take a short stroll and pop into one of the restaurants in Recco where you can order the succulent cheese focaccia.

Location:

Via Giacomo Soliman, 58, Genoa, IT

Incredible views from the best rooftop bars

If you've just arrived at the airport or at Genova Piazza Principe via the train, you are no doubt ready to start your holiday. You'll have no trouble finding a great place with a relaxed atmosphere and a nice view in this beautiful city. Genoa does have a large selection of rooftop bars or bars and restaurants with good food and amazing views. Even hotels have access to some of these fantastic places that are top-notch.

No matter which cocktail bar, rooftop bar, or restaurant you choose to relax in, you are sure to find the perfect location and a terrific drinks list. Sip a beer or even a fragrant cup of coffee to relax and visit with old friends or make new friends.