Porto Antico Marina
A Historic Harbour in the Heart of Genoa on the Italian Riviera
Porto Antico is the historic harbour of Genoa, one of the most important maritime cities in the Mediterranean. Located in the center of the city on the Ligurian coast, the marina combines centuries of seafaring tradition with modern waterfront development, cultural attractions, and contemporary marina facilities.
Surrounded by historic buildings, museums, restaurants, and promenades, Porto Antico offers a unique blend of nautical heritage and urban lifestyle. Its central location in one of Italy’s most famous port cities makes it an appealing stop for yachts cruising the Italian Riviera and the western Mediterranean.
Overview of the Marina
Porto Antico is part of Genoa’s historic harbour complex, which has been transformed into a lively waterfront district with modern marina facilities, cultural venues, and leisure attractions.
The marina offers:
Berths for sailing yachts and motor yachts
Access to technical and maintenance services
Fuel facilities in the harbour area
Professional marina management
Direct connection to the city center
The harbour area includes a mix of recreational berths, historic quays, and modern marina infrastructure. It serves both visiting yachts and local boat owners, creating an active and authentic maritime environment.
Location and Setting
Porto Antico is located in the historic center of Genoa, the capital of the Liguria region in northern Italy. The harbour sits directly at the edge of the old town, placing yachts within walking distance of some of the city’s most important cultural and architectural landmarks.
The setting is defined by:
Historic port buildings and quays
A lively urban waterfront
Museums and cultural attractions
Views of Genoa’s hillside neighbourhoods
The marina lies along the Italian Riviera, one of the most scenic and famous coastlines in the Mediterranean. From Genoa, yachts can easily access destinations along the Ligurian coast.
The Marina Concept and Atmosphere
Porto Antico is an urban marina with a strong historical identity. Rather than a resort-style environment, it offers a lively city-centre harbour experience, closely connected to Genoa’s cultural life.
The atmosphere is:
Historic and authentic
Urban and dynamic
Popular with visiting yachts
Active throughout the year
The waterfront district around Porto Antico has been redeveloped into a cultural and leisure area, featuring museums, restaurants, and public spaces. This gives the marina a vibrant atmosphere both during the day and in the evening.
It is particularly attractive to:
Cruising yachts on the Italian Riviera
Visitors interested in historic cities
Charter guests exploring northern Italy
Boat owners seeking a central urban berth
Cruising Area and Nearby Destinations
Porto Antico is ideally positioned along the Italian Riviera, offering access to some of the most famous cruising destinations in the Mediterranean.
Eastern Ligurian Coast
Heading east from Genoa, yachts can reach several iconic destinations.
Notable stops include:
Portofino – a world-famous harbour village
Santa Margherita Ligure – an elegant coastal town
Rapallo – a popular marina destination
Cinque Terre – a series of picturesque coastal villages
This stretch of coastline is known for its dramatic scenery, colourful towns, and sheltered anchorages.
Western Ligurian Coast
Sailing west from Genoa opens up another scenic section of the Riviera.
Popular destinations include:
Savona – a historic port city
Alassio – a coastal resort with sandy beaches
Sanremo – a well-known marina and cultural center
Ventimiglia – near the French border
This area offers a mix of marinas, beaches, and historic towns.
French Riviera
From Genoa, yachts can also cruise west toward the French Riviera.
Key destinations include:
Monaco
Nice
Antibes
Cannes
Saint-Tropez
These internationally famous locations are within reach for longer cruising itineraries.
Lifestyle, Dining, and Leisure
The Porto Antico waterfront is one of Genoa’s main cultural and leisure areas. The marina is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, museums, and public spaces, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Within the harbour area, visitors will find:
Waterfront restaurants and trattorias
Casual cafés and bars
Cultural venues and exhibition spaces
Shopping and leisure facilities
One of the most famous attractions near the marina is the Genoa Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe. The area also features museums, historic ships, and event spaces.
A short walk from the harbour leads into Genoa’s old town, which offers:
Narrow medieval streets
Historic palaces
Churches and cathedrals
Traditional Italian restaurants
The city is known for its rich maritime history, architecture, and regional cuisine.
Accessibility and Travel Connections
Porto Antico is easily accessible thanks to its central location in a major Italian city.
Nearest airport:
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: approx. 15–20 minutes by car
The airport offers:
Domestic and European connections
Seasonal international routes
From the airport, the marina can be reached by:
Taxi or private transfer
Rental car
Public transport connections
Genoa is also well connected by rail and highway to other major Italian cities, including Milan, Turin, and the French Riviera.
Why Choose Porto Antico
Porto Antico offers a unique combination of historic surroundings, urban convenience, and access to one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic cruising regions.
Key advantages:
Historic harbour in the center of Genoa
Walking distance to the old town and cultural attractions
Lively waterfront with restaurants and museums
Excellent base for cruising the Italian Riviera
Good accessibility by air, road, and rail
Year-round activity in a major port city
For yacht owners and visitors seeking a marina with strong historical character and direct access to an authentic Italian city, Porto Antico is a distinctive and rewarding destination.
Discover the Full Maremedium Marina Yachting Guide
This overview introduces the location, atmosphere, and cruising advantages of Porto Antico. For detailed information about berths, marina services, navigation, cruising routes, and local facilities, explore the complete marina guide.
