Piazza De Ferrari in Genoa, Italy Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of Genoa, Piazza De Ferrari stands as the city’s magnificent main square and serves as a bridge between the historic district and the modern center. The expansive piazza with its iconic central fountain built in 1936 creates the perfect gathering spot for both locals and tourists exploring this captivating Italian city. The fountain’s dancing waters against the backdrop of elegant surrounding buildings creates a scene straight from a postcard.

When visiting Genoa, Ferrari Square offers you a perfect starting point to explore both worlds of the city. To one side, you’ll find the medieval alleyways and ancient city gates of Porta Soprana and Porta dei Vacca. To the other, the modern shopping districts and business centers of this bustling port city unfold before you.

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The square’s strategic location makes it an ideal landmark for orienting yourself in Genoa. From here, you can easily access Via Garibaldi with its historic palaces, or stroll down Via Cairoli to discover hidden treasures of this underrated Italian gem. The piazza comes alive in the evenings when the fountain lights up and the surrounding cafés fill with people enjoying the Mediterranean ambiance.

History Of Piazza De Ferrari

Piazza De Ferrari emerged as Genoa’s main square at the end of the 19th century, when the city stood alongside Milan as one of Italy’s top financial centers. This elegant square quickly became the heart of Genoa’s economic power.

The square underwent significant transformations over the years. Its most famous feature, the magnificent bronze fountain, was added in 1936. Designed by architect Cesare Crosa of Vergagni, this impressive fountain gave the square its definitive layout and character.

With an area of 120,000 square feet, the piazza became home to several important institutions. The Genoese stock exchange established its headquarters here, cementing the square’s reputation as a financial hub.

Credito Italiano, one of Italy’s major banking institutions, also chose Piazza De Ferrari for its operations. You can still see impressive financial buildings surrounding the square today.

The piazza served as more than just a financial center. It represented the meeting point between Genoa’s old medieval center and the newer, more modern areas of the city that developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

When you visit today, you’ll notice how the square seamlessly connects different architectural styles and time periods, telling the story of Genoa’s evolution from maritime republic to modern city.

What To See In Piazza De Ferrari

Piazza De Ferrari is the beating heart of Genoa, offering visitors several magnificent sights in one central location. The most eye-catching feature is the bronze fountain at the center of the square. This stunning fountain becomes even more spectacular in the evening when it’s illuminated with colorful lights that transform the entire piazza.

The impressive Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) stands proudly on the square. This historic building once housed Genoa’s rulers and now serves as a cultural center hosting various exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Teatro Carlo Felice, Genoa’s principal opera house, adds architectural splendor to the piazza. Its neoclassical design makes it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts visiting the Italian Riviera.

You’ll also find the Chiesa del Gesù e dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea nearby. This Baroque church contains priceless artworks that will amaze you with their detail and historical significance.

The Museo Diocesano Di Genova offers a glimpse into the religious history of the region through its collection of sacred art and artifacts.

The art nouveau Palazzo della Borsa, once Italy’s stock exchange, showcases yet another architectural style around the square, highlighting Genoa’s economic importance throughout history.

As you explore, notice how the piazza seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern city life, making it a perfect starting point for your Genoa adventure.

How To Get To Piazza De Ferrari

Reaching Piazza De Ferrari in Genoa is simple thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system. This iconic square serves as a central hub in the city, making it accessible via multiple routes.

By Bus
Several bus lines stop near the piazza. The closest bus stops are:

De Ferrari/Metrò
XX Settembre 1/De Ferrari (just a 2-minute walk)
San Donato

Line 36 bus runs from XX Settembre 1/Merc. Orientale to De Ferrari/Metro’ every 5 minutes, with tickets costing €5 for a quick 2-minute ride.

From Genoa Port
If you’re arriving via cruise ship, take the Line 20 bus from the port. This option costs €5 and takes approximately 12 minutes to reach the piazza.

By Metro
The subway is another convenient option, with a station directly at Piazza De Ferrari. Just look for signs to “De Ferrari/Metrò” when navigating the metro system.

Walking
Many of Genoa’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. You can easily explore the historic center on foot, with Piazza De Ferrari serving as an excellent starting point for your adventures.

Once you arrive, you’ll immediately recognize the square by its magnificent fountain—a perfect spot to begin your exploration of this fascinating Italian city.

Piazza De Ferrari Visitor Information

Piazza De Ferrari is open 24 hours a day, making it accessible whenever you visit Genoa. This beautiful main square costs nothing to enjoy, perfect for travelers on any budget.

The best time to visit is during spring (April-June) or fall (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller. Summer brings more tourists, while winter offers a more local experience with festive decorations.

Getting to the square is easy. The Genova Brignole and Genova Piazza Principe train stations are both within a 15-minute walk. City buses stop nearby, and the De Ferrari metro station is right at the square.

Nearby Attractions:

Palazzo Ducale (2-minute walk)
Teatro Carlo Felice (adjacent to square)
Chiesa del Gesù (3-minute walk)
Via Garibaldi and Palazzi dei Rolli (5-minute walk)

Practical Tips:

Bring a camera for the beautiful fountain photos
Visit both day and night for different atmospheres
Cafés around the square offer good resting spots
Water bottle refills available at the public fountain

Many guided walking tours of Genoa include the square. For a comprehensive experience, try the Genoa City Center Walking Tour which covers the main historical sites.

For accommodation, Hotel Bristol Palace offers elegant rooms just steps from the square.

Where To Stay Near Piazza De Ferrari

Finding the perfect accommodation near Piazza De Ferrari puts you at the heart of Genoa’s vibrant city center. This central location offers easy access to the city’s main attractions and bustling atmosphere.

Hotel Bristol Palace stands out as one of the top choices near the piazza. This elegant hotel combines historical charm with modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

Best Western Hotel Metropoli is another excellent option within walking distance. Its convenient location makes exploring the surrounding area simple and enjoyable.

For travelers seeking luxury accommodations, Meliá Genova offers upscale rooms and amenities. Their attentive service ensures a memorable stay in the city.

NH Collection Genova Marina and NH Genova Centro provide reliable comfort with their signature quality standards. Both hotels put you close to the action while offering peaceful retreats.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate B&B Hotel Genova City and Hotel Nologo. These affordable options don’t compromise on location or basic comforts.

For a unique experience, consider boutique options like Hotel Palazzo Grillo or the charming Bigo Guest House. These smaller accommodations often provide personalized service and distinctive character.

The Italian Riviera is also accessible from Genoa, making the city a good base for exploring coastal towns if you’re planning day trips.

Things To Do Near Piazza De Ferrari

Piazza De Ferrari serves as the heart of Genoa, with many attractions nearby. The impressive Palazzo Ducale stands right on the square, offering art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

Just steps away, you’ll find the Chiesa del Gesù e dei Santi Ambrogio e Andrea, a beautiful church with stunning artwork and architecture that’s worth exploring.

The Teatro Carlo Felice, Genoa’s main opera house, is located on the piazza. Check their schedule for performances during your visit.

For art lovers, the Museo Diocesano Di Genova displays religious artifacts and paintings. It’s a quiet retreat from the busy square.

Take a walk along Via XX Settembre, one of Genoa’s main streets that stretches from Piazza De Ferrari to Piazza della Vittoria. You’ll find excellent shopping and dining options here.

Via Garibaldi is within easy walking distance. This UNESCO World Heritage street features magnificent Renaissance palaces, many of which now house museums.

Near the piazza, you can explore the medieval heart of Genoa, bounded by the ancient city gates Porta dei Vacca and Porta Soprana.

Various tours leave from the area: