The Lanterna of Genova Tour: An Insight into the Second Oldest Functioning Lighthouse
4.1
20 Ratings
Genoa
Discover the Lanterna of Genova, the second oldest functioning lighthouse in the world. Explore the ancient fortifications and enjoy breathtaking views from the panoramic terrace. Don't miss the museum showcasing the history and workings of this iconic symbol of the city.
Duration: 1 hour
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • LANTERNA di Genova - Open Air Museum + Museum + Lanterna (first panoramic terrace)
    The Open Air Museum, museum and Lighthouse (first terrace of the lighthouse)
What's Included
  • Museum in the Lanterna fortifications
  • Open Air Museum and park
  • Panoramic terrace access after a 172-step climb
  • Complimentary WI-FI availability
What's Not Included
  • Access not allowed to the top of the lighthouse (MILITARY AREA).
Additional Information

Explore the historic fortifications, the 19th-century Genova da Ponente gate, and the enduring symbol of the city, the Lanterna, which has been standing since 1128. Experience an unparalleled view of the city from the sweeping terrace of the lighthouse that ranks as the world’s second oldest working lighthouse, following the tower of Hercules in La Coruna. Standing at an impressive 77 meters, it is the tallest lighthouse in the Mediterranean and the second tallest in Europe.

Historical records suggest that the monument has been in existence since at least 1128, making it the second oldest operational lighthouse globally with nearly nine centuries of history. Despite its reconstruction in 1543, only the topmost section of the tower was altered. Originally situated on the city’s western walls, it now houses an informative museum within its fortifications, offering insight into the history of the Lantern and the workings of a lighthouse. A pedestrian path was built in 2001, connecting the Ferry Terminal to the lighthouse and extending along Via Milano, to enhance accessibility to the Lantern.

  • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems
Location
LANTERNA di Genova
Rampa della Lanterna
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.1
(20 Ratings)
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1 star
Ghirardelli-1976
Sep 5, 2023
It's worth it - It is not the first time we visit Genoa, but we missed visiting the symbol of the city. Interesting and informative, it gave us a new point of view on the life and history of the city. Please note the competence, kindness and young age of the staff.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Z6229fupaoloc
Aug 12, 2023
A different day - Historic place, well maintained and evocative, recommended for spending a different day in Liguria and then from there you can continue to visit the city
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Isa_s
May 7, 2022
Genova IS “La Superba”! - The Lanterna is the symbol and beating heart of Genova, a vibrant and astoundingly beautiful city. The view from the Lanterna is breathtaking.
Review provided by Viator
Degustibus67
May 20, 2024
The symbol of the city - About half an hour's walk from the Galata Museum stands the Lanterna, a recognized and undisputedly famous symbol of Genoa which, with its height of 77 meters, is the highest in the Mediterranean. Its foundation dates back to 1128, but it reached its definitive appearance in 1543 even if a tower of similar structure had existed since the 12th century, born as a watchtower. In the fifteenth century the tower was used as a prison and guarded, among others, the king of Cyprus, while at the beginning of the sixteenth century the Briglia fortress was built, commissioned by Louis XII for the troops that garrisoned the city. In 1626 the first stone of what would become a mighty city wall approximately 20km long was laid at the Lanterna and, upon completion of the works (1639), it became the longest city wall in Europe, second in length only to the Great Wall of China! Today, inside these seventeenth-century fortifications, there are the four "rifle" rooms, a "gallery" and the three "cannon" rooms, where a museum dedicated to the history of the Lantern, the lighthouse museum and lights (think that the Lanterna also works as a beacon for the nearby Cristoforo Colombo Airport!) and it is then possible to go up to the panoramic terrace. Outside, the Open Air Museum with the Rocca della Lanterna, the Porta Nuova and the commemorative plaque of the A.N.P.I. (2004) in memory of the 15 heroic British sailors who fell in 1945. In 2001, the promenade that connects it to the city was built, about a kilometer that unites the panorama of the port, taking up the ancient access road from the west through the Porta Nuova della Lanterna. Enjoy your visit! P.S.: The museum is open from 10am to 6pm and the entrance ticket costs €8/adult.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eleonoraf661
Mar 30, 2024
We like it ok - many steps even if it is not possible to reach the top. Obviously there isn't much to see, perhaps with a guide it would gain value.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lognseth
Aug 23, 2022
Unnecessary strict order of where to go and how, and getting there takes you through the worst part of town. - Going to the lighthouse we expected an experience where we would be able to enjoy the view of the city without any stress. Getting to the lighthouse on foot from the city center entailed a walk through the industrialized harbor area with little shade and poor directions that make you wonder if you made a wrong turn. When we got the pathway to the lighthouse itself, our bags were searched and we paid 8€ per person for entry. Arriving at the foot of the lighthouse itself we were told that we had to go through the open air museum before we were allowed to enter the lighthouse itself, upon completion of this (admittedly pointless „museum“) we got into the lighthouse and the museum dedicated to its history. This was interesting and educational until we had to figure out how to get to the unmarked stairs for the ascent. Once we finally got to the top of the lighthouse, the views were good but not spectacular as we could only access the first panorama plateau, the second one was closed,
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marc_and_kim_z
Jun 24, 2021
Closed except weekend??? - That was disappointing. Walked all that way along the port and the gate was locked. It can’t be that hard to keep the attraction open 7 days a week. It’s a lighthouse for goodness sake. Oh well we did get close, see the photos. And, did get to see the Porto.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 10 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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