Digital Nomad Life in Genoa, Italy
Summary: Genoa, Italy is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. The city is located on the Mediterranean Sea and offers a variety of activities for digital nomads to enjoy. The approximate population of Genoa, Italy is 602,000. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Genoa is estimated to be around $1,500 USD. To rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Genoa, it would cost around $800 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Genoa is the historic center, as it is close to the city's main attractions and offers a variety of restaurants and shops. The weather in Genoa, Italy is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (12-24 Celsius) throughout the year.
How do I meet people in Genoa?
When we asked people living in Genoa about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats living in Genoa can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Genoa. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and learn more about the city," explained one person living in Genoa, Italy.
"-For Books try FNAC on Via 20 September -For Curry try the Asian Super Markets along from Porto Antico toward Station Principe -For Ex-Pats try the English Bar off a side street Nr Piazza di Ferrari (on left as you head towards Via Garibaldi," said one expat in Genoa.
What is life like in Genoa?
When we asked people living in Genoa what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Genoa as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding experience. The city is known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, such as its beautiful beaches, historic churches, and lively nightlife. The city also offers a variety of activities, from shopping and sightseeing to outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The cost of living in Genoa is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. Additionally, the city is well-connected to other parts of Italy and Europe, making it easy to explore the region. With its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant culture, Genoa is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said one person in Genoa.
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.
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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.
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Where should I live in Genoa?
We asked digital nomads and 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," said one person in Genoa.
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:
"Be prepared for lots of form filling and walking up and down hills. Genova is very, very hilly. Relatively un-touristed other then by Italians, and, in my opinion, an undiscovered treasure as far as the English are concerned," said one person in Genoa.
"Before retiring in Genoa, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than the national average. They should also research the local healthcare system and the availability of medical services. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. It is also important to research the local job market and the availability of housing, as well as the public transportation system. Finally, expats should consider the climate and the weather in Genoa, as it can be quite humid and hot in the summer months," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Genoa.
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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.
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.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Genoa?
"Expats in Genoa appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is evident in its architecture, art, and cuisine. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, expats appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the locals, who are always willing to help out newcomers. Finally, Genoa's stunning coastal location and Mediterranean climate make it a great place to live and explore," said one expat who made the move to Genoa.
"Genova is a beautiful and interesting city. There are always surprises to look at, i.e. statues, frescoes on old buildings when you wander around the somewhat dirty, mysterious alleys. The piazza around the old port is beautiful. There is a great acquarium and some restaurants where you can have dinner or drinks overlooking the yachts and the water. There is a little village called Bocadese which is now incorporated into Genova. It has a small beach where you can swim and looks very traditional. Another small village, Nervi, has a beautiful seacliff walkway with lots of restaurants. Genova is connected by rail with Cinque terre, Santa Margarita Ligure, Pisa, Milan, and Nice, France - all of which make interesting day or overnight trips. We brought our two dogs with us from the United States. Italians love dogs. They are allowed on buses, trains and in many restaurants. People stop on the street to pet and admire the dogs. There are water fountains for dogs everywhere. Italians seem to have a good sense of humor and are very nice, generally. There are many musical events to attend in various parts of Italy. Public transport is very good compared to the U.S. and traveling in a rental car on the highways is not difficult although Italian road designers seem to be obsessed with building tunnels, so you don't really get to see that much from the autostrada," explained one foreigner living in Genoa, Italy.
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.
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.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Genoa?
"Expats in Genoa often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as Italian is the primary language spoken in Genoa. Additionally, the pace of life in Genoa is much slower than in many other cities, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace. The local cuisine can also be a challenge for expats, as it is quite different from what they may be used to. Finally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to navigate, as they are quite different from what expats may be used to," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Genoa.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Genoa for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Genoa for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance coverage," explained one expat living in Genoa, Italy.
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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.
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.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Genoa?
We asked people in Genoa if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"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 who made the move to Genoa.
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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.
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.
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What are healthcare services like in 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," said one digital nomad in Genoa.
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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.
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.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Genoa?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Genoa appreciate the city's rich history and culture, as well as its stunning architecture and picturesque views. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Additionally, the city's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea makes it a great place to enjoy the beach and other outdoor activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Genoa to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season," said one digital nomad in Genoa.
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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.
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.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
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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