Santa Maria di Castello Tours

Santa Maria di Castello
Santa Maria di Castello showing art, a church or cathedral and heritage elements
Santa Maria di Castello
Santa Maria di Castello
Santa Maria di Castello


Inside this beautiful religious construction in Genoa are exquisite artworks commissioned by some of the most significant noble families of the city.

Santa Maria di Castello church is part of an impressive complex that also includes a convent and a museum. Discover a site with great historic, artistic and architectural importance and marvel at one of the oldest structures in Genoa.

The church is a Romanesque-style construction built on the site of the city's first urban settlement. It was entrusted to the Dominican Catholic religious order in 1442 and became a meeting point for humanists and writers. Take some photos of the site and make sure you wander inside to see some of its valuable artworks.

The complex has spectacular art pieces commissioned by important noble families of Genoa. The cloister houses The Annunciation, a famous masterpiece painted by the German artist Giusto di Alemagna in 1451. See other creations by artists such as the Baroque Italian painters Francesco Boccaccino and Alessandro Gherardini, the Italian sculptor Francesco Maria Schiaffino and Pier-Francesco Sacchi, an Italian painter of the Renaissance period.

The five chapels on the left aisle of the church date back to the 15th century, while the five chapels on the right date back to the 16th century. Inside the chapels you’ll find exquisite artwork, such as the sculpture by the Italian artist Anton Maria Maragliano. Find the high altar and see the marble sculptures by Domenico Parodi, an Italian painter, sculptor and architect of the late-Baroque period. If you are lucky you may be able to take a free tour with the group Friends of the Church. They can guide you through places that are usually closed to the public, such as the sacristy, cloisters and the museum.

Find the Santa Maria di Castello complex near the subway stop Sant'Agostino. The church can be a bit difficult to locate, so practice your Italian and ask the locals for directions. Make sure you wander around the area to discover the remains of a bishop's fortified castle dating from the Middle Ages, and the tall and picturesque Embriaci Tower flanking the church.

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Best Lodging Options Near Santa Maria di Castello

Bristol Palace Hotel

Bristol Palace Hotel

5 out of 5
Via XX Settembre 35, Genoa, GE
Bristol Palace Hotel
Hotel Astoria

Hotel Astoria

4 out of 5
Piazza Brignole, 4, Genoa, GE
Hotel Astoria
Hotel Continental Genova

Hotel Continental Genova

4 out of 5
Via Arsenale di Terra 1, Genoa, GE
Hotel Continental Genova
B&B HOTEL Genova Principe

B&B HOTEL Genova Principe

3 out of 5
Piazza Acquaverde, 1, Genoa, GE
B&B HOTEL Genova Principe
Melia Genova

Melia Genova

5 out of 5
Via Corsica, 4, Genoa, GE
Melia Genova
Hotel De Ville

Hotel De Ville

4 out of 5
Via di Sottoripa 5, Genoa, GE
Hotel De Ville
NH Collection Genova Marina

NH Collection Genova Marina

4 out of 5
Molo Ponte Calvi, 5, Genoa, GE
NH Collection Genova Marina
B&B Hotel Genova City Center

B&B Hotel Genova City Center

Corso Andrea Podestà, 18, Genoa, GE
B&B Hotel Genova City Center
Best Western Hotel Metropoli

Best Western Hotel Metropoli

3 out of 5
P.zza Fontane Marose, Genoa, GE
Best Western Hotel Metropoli
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Santa Maria di Castello

When visiting Santa Maria di Castello in Genoa, don't miss the chance to explore its rich artistic heritage and captivating city attractions. The area offers a blend of historical sites, charming streets, and local eateries that showcase the vibrant culture of Liguria. Take in the stunning views, appreciate the architecture, and enjoy the nearby galleries for a truly enriching experience.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, head to Mercato Orientale Genova, just 0.6 miles away, where you can find local goods and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, Fiumara Shopping & Fun, 2 miles away, offers entertainment and family-friendly options. For designer deals, visit Serravalle Designer Outlet, 23 miles away.

Recreation

At Luigi Ferraris Stadium, immerse yourself in vibrant sports activities that energize the spirit. Nearby, Parco Avventura Genova Righi offers a serene escape with nature trails and relaxation spots, perfect for rejuvenation. Fiera di Genova combines sports excitement with wellness, making it ideal for an active retreat.

Adventure

Explore the Piscina di Pra, located 7 miles from Santa Maria di Castello, where you can enjoy thrilling water activities. For hiking enthusiasts, the Camogli - San Rocco - Batterie - San Fruttuoso Trail, 12 miles away, offers breathtaking views and outdoor vibes. Don’t miss the Parco Acquatico Bolleblu, a vibrant waterpark 22 miles away, perfect for family fun and adventure.

Nightlife

In Santa Maria di Castello, enjoy the adventure vibes at The Bigo Lift, a stunning ferris wheel just 0.2 miles away. For a cultural evening, Teatro della Gioventu, 0.7 miles away, offers romance and entertainment. Don’t miss UCI Cinemas Fiumara, 2 miles away, for a cozy movie night.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Santa Maria di Castello

In Santa Maria di Castello, explore historic palaces, charming piazzas, and beautiful churches that reflect the rich culture of the area. This vibrant neighborhood offers family-friendly experiences and is a gateway to nearby attractions, including the iconic Castello in Genoa. Don't miss the chance to soak in the local history and enjoy the scenic beauty that Santa Maria has to offer, making it a perfect spot for tourists seeking a cultural adventure.

  • Piazza de Ferrari: This vibrant square serves as the heart of Genoa, surrounded by stunning architecture and bustling city life. Enjoy the impressive fountain and soak in the local culture while sipping coffee at nearby cafes.
  • Palazzo Ducale: A historic palace that once housed the Doges of Genoa, this cultural gem features beautiful art exhibits and grand halls. Stroll through its impressive corridors and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
  • Cattedrale di San Lorenzo: This striking cathedral, known for its unique black-and-white striped façade, is a must-see. Step inside to admire its magnificent interiors and learn about its significance in Genoa's heritage.

Best time to go to Santa Maria di Castello

The best time to visit Santa Maria di Castello is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
February43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowModerately Low
March48.9°F (9.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately High
July74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighModerately High
August74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately High
October59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighModerately Low
November50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageModerately Low
December44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria di Castello

To save money during your visit to Santa Maria di Castello, plan your trip in February or October to November when hotel prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best rates, especially on Saturdays, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Consider using Expedia to find last-minute deals and packages that combine your hotel, flights, and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future bookings. Additionally, explore free activities and use public transport to keep travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Santa Maria di Castello is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Santa Maria di Castello are February and October to November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Santa Maria di Castello about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Maria di Castello is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Maria di Castello is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you customize your travel experience by choosing your budget, preferred destination, and other criteria. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the most affordable to the most expensive, making it simple to find the best deals. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package through Expedia that combines your hotel stay in Santa Maria di Castello with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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