Genoa (Piazza Principe RailSt)

Important for passengers: The station has a complex structure. The main tracks are located on the upper level, but there are also underground platforms (Sottoterranea), where commuter trains often arrive. Watch the information boards carefully: if a track number is marked with the letter "S" (for example, 1S or 2S), you need to go down via the escalator. There is a direct passage from the station building to the metro station and exits to bus stops on Piazza Acquaverde.

• Official website: Current schedules and tickets are available on the website of the national carrier, Trenitalia.
• Information line: Information can be obtained through the Trenitalia call centre or at information kiosks directly at the station.
• Address: Piazza Acquaverde, 16126 Genova GE, Italy.
• Opening hours: The station building is open to passengers from 05:00 to 01:00; ticket counters typically operate from 06:00 to 21:00.
• Luggage storage: The KiPoint service is located on the ground floor (Piano Terra), operates daily, and is a paid service.
• Accessibility information: The station operates a Sala Blu service to assist passengers with reduced mobility (booking at least 24 hours in advance is recommended).

Getting to Genova Piazza Principe station is effortless, as it is deeply integrated into the city's transport system.

Public transport: Directly beneath the station lies the Principe metro station. The square in front of the main entrance hosts the terminus for many city buses (lines 3, 20, 32, 34, 35), connecting the station with the seafront and residential areas.

From the airport: The most convenient method is the dedicated Volabus shuttle, which runs between Christopher Columbus Airport and the city centre. The stop is located right at the station exit, and the journey takes about 20–30 minutes.

On foot: The station is within walking distance of major attractions. The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) can be reached in 5 minutes via Via Balbi, while the Aquarium and the Old Port are 10–15 minutes away.

Genova Piazza Principe station offers a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable wait and journey.

Tickets and waiting: The main hall houses ticket counters and numerous red self-service machines. General waiting areas are available for passengers, while the FrecciaClub lounge operates for business class ticket holders.

Amenities: The premises include paid washrooms, a railway police station, a pharmacy, and currency exchange points. Wi-Fi is provided free of charge for a limited time after registration. The station is equipped with elevators and escalators for access to platforms.

Luggage: A luggage storage facility is available, which is particularly convenient for transit tourists wishing to explore the city light.

There are numerous options at the station and in its vicinity where you can have a meal before your journey.

At the station: Inside the building, popular chain establishments operate, including McDonald's and several coffee shops. Here you can quickly drink an espresso at the counter or buy a fresh sandwich and water for the road. The average cost for coffee and pastries is about 3–5 Euros.

Near the station: If time permits, step out onto Via Balbi or walk down to the port. Within a 5-minute walk, there are many trattorias serving the famous Genoese focaccia (with cheese or olives) and pasta with pesto sauce. This is an excellent and affordable way to experience the local cuisine.

The history of Genova Piazza Principe station dates back to the mid-19th century. The station was grandly opened in 1860, designed by architect Alessandro Mazzucchetti, and immediately became a symbol of the city's technical progress.

A key stage in its development was the construction of a tunnel connecting Piazza Principe with the second major station, Brignole, allowing trains to transit through the city. Over a century and a half, the building has been reconstructed multiple times to cope with growing passenger traffic, yet its façade has retained majestic neoclassical features, reminiscent of the rich history of the Republic of Genoa.

A few useful tips for passengers at Genova Piazza Principe station:

Ticket validation: If you are travelling on a regional train with a paper ticket, you must validate it in the green or yellow machines before boarding the carriage. Failure to do so may result in a fine from the conductor.

Time and navigation: Arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before departure. Due to the presence of underground tracks, moving between platforms may take longer than it appears. Listen carefully to announcements and check the electronic boards.

Safety: Be vigilant in crowded places. Do not leave your belongings unattended, especially in café areas and when boarding the train.