A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Genoa vs. Brescia for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Genoa or Brescia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Genoa or Brescia, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia

Brescia is a authentic, under-rated, and historic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Brescia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Genoa or Brescia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Genoa than Brescia. Genoa is bigger than Brescia, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Genoa is better known for its museums, beaches, and historical sights, while Brescia is more popular for its shopping. Genoa is more touristy than Brescia and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Also, Genoa is famous for The Via Garibaldi Palaces. Brescia is well known for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Genoa different from Brescia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brescia and Genoa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Genoa or Brescia?

Genoa is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

Brescia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Is the Food Better in Genoa or Brescia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Genoa and Brescia.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Genoa and Brescia.

If you're looking for night time activities Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Brescia. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for its beaches. However, Brescia is not a beach destination.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Brescia is not a beach destination.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for its Old Town?

Genoa is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Brescia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Genoa or Brescia?

Brescia is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brescia. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Families?

Genoa is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Genoa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Couples?

Genoa is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Genoa is well known for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Students?

Genoa is well known for students. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

It's common for students to visit Brescia. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Is Genoa or Brescia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Genoa is well known for its public transit. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Genoa can move around easily with public transportation. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

While Brescia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

Is Genoa or Brescia a more walkable city?

Genoa is well known for its walkability. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

Brescia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Brescia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brescia or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Brescia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Genoa or Brescia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Genoa than Brescia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Genoa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Brescia.

Families should spend more time in Genoa than Brescia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Genoa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Genoa than Brescia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Genoa that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than Brescia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Genoa.

One day in Genoa or Brescia?

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Brescia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Genoa or Brescia?

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brescia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Genoa or Brescia?

Genoa is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Brescia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Brescia. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Genoa or Brescia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the undisovered destination of Brescia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Genoa and Brescia, we can see that Genoa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Genoa Expensive? and Is Brescia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Genoa or Brescia?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Brescia. When comparing the sizes of Genoa and Brescia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Genoa or Brescia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Genoa or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Genoa as well as Brescia. The summer months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In the summer, Genoa is around the same temperature as Brescia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Genoa in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Brescia averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Genoa this time of the year. In the summer, Genoa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia. Genoa gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Genoa gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Genoa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Genoa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Genoa is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 19°C (66°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Genoa gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Genoa usually receives more rain than Brescia. Genoa gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Genoa or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Genoa during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brescia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brescia can get quite cold in the winter. Genoa is much warmer than Brescia in the winter. The daily temperature in Genoa averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Brescia fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Genoa often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Genoa gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets more rain in January than Brescia. Genoa gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Genoa and Brescia. Many visitors come to Genoa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Genoa is a little warmer than Brescia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Genoa in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Brescia averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during spring. Genoa gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Genoa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brescia. Genoa gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brescia and Genoa