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Moving to Genoa, Italy | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Genoa, Italy

Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 19, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Genoa, Italy for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Located on the Italian Riviera, Genoa is a port city with a long maritime tradition, and its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of seafood dishes and traditional Italian fare. Before moving to Genoa, it is important to be aware of the language barrier. While many locals speak English, Italian is the primary language spoken in the city. It is also important to be aware of the cost of living in Genoa, which is higher than in other parts of Italy. Additionally, Genoa is a very walkable city, so having a car is not necessary. Finally, it is important to be aware of the weather in Genoa, which can be quite humid in the summer months.

What do I need to know before moving to Genoa?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Genoa, they said:

"Genoa is a beautiful city located in the northwest of Italy, and is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Before moving to Genoa, expats should be aware that the city is quite hilly, so it is important to be prepared for some steep climbs. Additionally, the city is quite compact, so it is easy to get around on foot or by public transportation. Expats should also be aware that the local language is Italian, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before arriving. Finally, Genoa is a great city for expats, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore," replied a member in Genoa.

How do I find a place to live in Genoa?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Genoa is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Idealista, Immobiliare, and Casa.it are popular rental sites in Italy and offer a variety of listings in Genoa. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rentals in Genoa. Finally, you can ask around in the local community for recommendations and advice on finding a place to live," explained one expat living in Genoa, Italy.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Genoa?

"Expat homes and apartments in Genoa are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Expat homes and apartments in Genoa are typically well-equipped with modern appliances and amenities, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. Many buildings also have elevators and secure entry systems," said one expat in Genoa.

What is the average cost of housing in Genoa?

If you are thinking about moving to Genoa, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Genoa can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €800-€1,000 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to €1,500 per month. Prices outside of the city center tend to be lower, with one-bedroom apartments costing around €600-€800 per month and two-bedroom apartments costing up to €1,000 per month," explained one expat living in Genoa, Italy.

Should I buy or rent a home in Genoa?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Genoa, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Genoa can be a great investment. The city is known for its rich history and culture, and its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea makes it a desirable place to live. The cost of living in Genoa is relatively low compared to other Italian cities, and the real estate market is stable. If you plan to stay in Genoa for a long period of time, buying a home may be the best option. However, if you are only planning to stay for a short period of time, renting a home may be the more cost-effective option," said one expat who made the move to Genoa.

What should I pack when moving to Genoa?

We asked people living in Genoa to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Genoa, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the weather, such as light layers for the summer and heavier layers for the winter. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the city, as well as a raincoat and umbrella for the frequent rain showers. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as pictures of family and friends, favorite books, and any other items that will make you feel comfortable in your new home," remarked one expat who made the move to Genoa.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Genoa?

We asked people in Genoa if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Genoa, it is important to be aware of cultural norms and etiquette. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to avoid making jokes or comments that could be seen as offensive. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language, and to avoid speaking English or any other language in public," said one expat in Genoa.

Why do people move to Genoa?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Genoa, they responded:

"Genoa is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant local lifestyle. The city is home to a number of historical sites, including the Palazzo Ducale, the Aquarium of Genoa, and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. Genoa also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from sailing and kayaking to hiking and mountain biking. The city is also known for its excellent cuisine, with a variety of restaurants offering traditional Italian dishes as well as international cuisine. Additionally, Genoa is a great place to live for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, with its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals," wrote one expat living in Genoa.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

How are healthcare services Genoa?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Genoa, they replied:

"Genoa offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Genoa also has a number of pharmacies, laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a range of services, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Additionally, the city has a number of health centers and community health centers that provide preventive care and health education. Genoa also has a number of specialized centers for mental health, addiction, and other health issues. Finally, the city has a number of home care services that provide assistance to those who are unable to access traditional healthcare services," remarked one expat in Genoa.

What are medical services in Genoa like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Genoa, they replied:

"Genoa offers a wide range of medical services to its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide access to medications and medical supplies. Additionally, Genoa has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care," wrote one expat living in Genoa.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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