Genoa is not just its port and aquarium: just steps from the center, on the mountains that embrace the city, lie five historic fortresses little frequented by tourists. This one-day itinerary combines hiking and history, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf and the hinterland. Starting from Porta Soprana, you climb along green paths to Forte Diamante, Forte Fratello Maggiore, Forte Sperone, Forte Begato, and Forte Tenaglia. Each fortress tells centuries of defense of the Republic of Genoa, with imposing structures and often free visits. The route, about 10 km with moderate elevation gain, is suitable for those who enjoy walking and discovering authentic corners. Perfect for a day trip away from the crowds, with stops for a picnic with a view. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and a camera: the sunset light on the bastions is unforgettable. A different way to experience Genoa, among fortresses and nature, in a 1-day itinerary that combines hiking and unique panoramas.
🗺️ Your trip at a glance
A one-day walking route among lesser-known but panoramic fortresses, ideal for those who love hiking and history off the beaten path. Discover Genoa from above, among trails and centuries-old bastions.
- Ideal for: hikers and history lovers seeking an out-of-the-ordinary experience.
- Highlights: 5 historic fortresses, breathtaking views, circular route, free visits, away from the crowd.
- For whom: active travelers, curious minds, lovers of urban trekking and authentic discoveries.
Itinerary stops
Stop no. 1
Start from Forte Begato, the Panoramic Fortress
The first stop on this itinerary is Forte Begato, the most imposing fortified barracks in Genoa’s defense system. Built between 1818 and 1830 by the Savoy military engineering corps after the annexation to the Kingdom of Sardinia, it sits on a vast plateau at 475 meters altitude. Its square layout with four corner bastions and a central courtyard could accommodate up to 800 soldiers. Today, after decades of neglect and some restoration, the fort is at the heart of an ambitious redevelopment project that includes a cable car from the Maritime Station. For now, you can reach it on foot from Righi in about an hour, following the Mura trail. The panorama is spectacular: it overlooks the Val Polcevera and the port, and on clear days you can see the Maritime Alps. Don’t miss the chance to explore the exteriors and imagine the lives of the soldiers who once guarded the city from here.- Mura al Forte di Begato, Genova (GE)
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You should go if…
If you love hiking off the beaten path and are passionate about 19th-century military history, Forte Begato is your ideal stop: a hidden gem offering unique views.
Forte Begato
Stop no. 2
Forte Puin
After climbing up the Sentiero delle Farfalle (Butterfly Trail), you’ll find yourself in front of Forte Puin, one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Parco delle Mura. This Savoy gem, completed in 1830, was reopened to the public in October 2025 after a €720,000 restoration. Its compact structure—a central tower with a bastioned enclosure—once housed up to 28 soldiers. Today it is managed by the Outdoor Experience association, which opens it every Sunday from 10 am to sunset (free entry). Climb up to the terrace: the 360° panorama stretches from Genoa to the sea, all the way to Forte Diamante and the mountains of the hinterland. I recommend arriving early to enjoy the morning light or at sunset, when the fort turns golden. A perfect spot for a picnic with a view, far from the city chaos.- sentiero delle farfalle, Genova (GE)
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You should go if…
A small but perfectly restored fort, ideal for those seeking a dive into history with the city’s best panorama. Those who come here love the quiet and breathtaking views.
Forte Puin
Stop no. 3
Little Brother Fort
Continuing along the path, you leave Fort Puin and in about half an hour you reach Little Brother Fort, perched on Monte Spino at 622 meters. Built by the Sardinian Military Corps between 1816 and 1832, this twin fort of the demolished Big Brother dominates the Val Polcevera. The structure is a square tower within a bastioned enclosure, with a bombproof barrel vault over 2 meters thick. Today it is in a state of abandonment, with vandalized interiors, but the atmosphere is evocative. The garrison here consisted of 12 soldiers, which could increase to 40, armed with three cannons aimed at the valley. The 360° view ranges from the Sanctuary of Madonna della Guardia to Corsica on clear days. The fort is always open and free, but watch out for broken floors and collapsed stairs. Bring water because the sun is strong, and enjoy the silence broken only by the wind and the rustle of wild boars.- begato – fratello minore, Genova (GE)
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You should go if…
A solitary and decaying fort, perfect for those seeking authentic ruins far from tourist circuits. Those who come here love breathtaking views and history experienced unfiltered.
Little Brother Fort
Stop no. 4
Forte Quezzi
Leaving Fort Fratello Minore, the trail climbs toward Forte Quezzi, a ruin that seems to emerge from the scrub. Here history was made in haste: in 1800, during the siege of Genoa, General Massena ordered it completed in just three days and three nights, using barrels of earth and dry stone walls. Crazy, right? Today only the perimeter walls of the two-story barracks remain, along with a silent atmosphere broken only by the wind through the pines. At 285 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Val Bisagno and the Biscione district, that long curvilinear building that looks like a serpent. During World War II, the first floor was demolished to make way for anti-aircraft guns. Now it serves as a shelter for flocks, and among the stones lives the rare tarantolino. No ticket, no opening hours: the fort is always open, but bring water and sturdy shoes because the trail is steep and there is no refreshment. The view, however, rewards every step.- Via Lamberto Loria, Genova (GE)
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You should go if…
A nearly forgotten ruin, ideal for those seeking authentic places and views over the Val Bisagno without crowds. Here you can feel the history of haste and abandonment.
Forte Quezzi
Stop no. 5
Fort of Santa Tecla: The Rediscovered Bastion
Last stop, but not least in importance: the Fort of Santa Tecla. After the ruin of Fort Quezzi, here you’ll find a completely different structure: restored, alive, managed by associations that organize events and shows. It stands 180 meters above the San Fruttuoso district, with views stretching from the city to the sea. Its history is long: designed in 1747 by De Sicre, it was strengthened by the Savoy in the 19th century and used as a prison, tavern, and home. Today, after a €1.75 million restoration completed in 2025, it is accessible to all, with an elevator to the terrace. The 11th-century church of Santa Tecla is still visible in the inner courtyard. If you like history mixed with contemporary culture, this fort will win you over. Take bus line 67 from Piazza Martinez or, if you’re feeling energetic, walk down from Fort Richelieu in half an hour.- Salita Superiore di Santa Tecla, Genova (GE)
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You should go if…
A fort that blends past and present, perfect for those who love restored fortresses with cultural events and breathtaking views without the crowds.
Forte di Santa Tecla
