Rolli Palaces: Guided Tour

Must Do Experiences

• Marvel at the stunning frescoes and Baroque interiors of Palazzo Lomellino, a masterpiece of Genoese aristocratic living

• Glide through the opulent corridors of Palazzo Imperiale and discover its remarkable collection of art and antiques

• Walk along Strada Nuova, Genoa's historic 'Royal Street,' lined with palaces that once impressed kings and ambassadors

• Listen to your bilingual guide share fascinating stories about how the Rolli system shaped Genoa's political and cultural influence across Europe

Hidden Gems

• Ask your guide about the secret passages and hidden rooms that connected some of the palaces, used by the elite to move discreetly between homes

• Visit during the early morning hours when the crowds thin out and the natural light streaming through the windows creates an almost ethereal atmosphere inside the frescoed halls

• Look closely at the ceiling frescoes for subtle self-portraits and hidden symbols that the aristocrats embedded as signatures of their power and lineage

What Makes it Special

• The Rolli Palaces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their extraordinary preservation of Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture

• These palaces were specifically designed to host visiting dignitaries, making them one of the earliest examples of diplomatic hospitality architecture in Europe

• The tour includes two of the most significant palaces — Palazzo Lomellino and Palazzo Imperiale — each offering a unique window into Genoa's aristocratic past

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for combining your palace tour with a stroll along Strada Nuova and the surrounding historic center. Summer can be crowded, so booking an early morning tour is recommended, while winter visits provide a quieter, more intimate atmosphere inside the palaces.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a camera with good low-light performance, as the interior lighting in the palaces can be dim to preserve the artworks

• The grand staircases and frescoed ceilings are the most photogenic spots — look for wide-angle shots to capture the full scale of the architecture

• Avoid using flash, as it can damage the centuries-old frescoes and may be prohibited by the guides

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Genoese aristocrats took immense pride in their palaces as symbols of wealth and cultural refinement, so appreciate the attention to artistic detail throughout When visiting, observe quiet courtesy inside the palaces as they are considered protected heritage sites and active cultural spaces It is customary to ask permission before taking photographs in certain areas, and respecting these guidelines shows appreciation for Italian cultural heritage

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Palazzo Imperiale often hosts temporary art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, so check the schedule for special showcases

• During the summer months, Strada Nuova comes alive with open-air events and evening illuminations that highlight the palace facades

• Genoa's cultural calendar includes occasional late-night palace tours and themed events celebrating the city's Renaissance heritage

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep an eye on your belongings in the busy tourist areas around Via Garibaldi, especially during peak visiting hours

• Watch your step on the historic marble floors, which can be slippery, and be mindful of uneven surfaces in older sections of the palaces

• Stay with your guided tour group, as the palace corridors and rooms can be labyrinthine and easy to lose your way in