Hotels in Genoa, Liguria, Italy

Verified by Pablo Aznar Cristeto
from the blog Aprendizaje Viajero

Genoa is the regional capital of Liguria and the sixth-largest city in Italy. It has a population of over 850,000 residents and is home to the country's largest port. Extending several kilometres along the Mediterranean coast and up the hillside, Genoa is a gateway to the Italian Riviera, making it an ideal base to explore the wider region. The city has one of the world's largest historical centres, also known as the old town. The town has several lovely beaches, and it's also well-known for its gastronomy. Holidaymakers can expect plenty to see and lots to do, all while enjoying great summer weather.

There are plenty of hotels in Genoa, from cheap and comfortable rooms to luxury suites. Visitors can also choose to stay in their preferred area near the beach, in the old town or a more modern neighbourhood.

Neighbourhoods of Genoa

While the whole city is beautiful and interesting, a few district and areas particularly stand out—some must-see places to experience include:

• Centro Historico: The old town centre is a maze of connected narrow streets that are mostly traffic-free. The incredible architecture reflects the city’s rich past, and it features many impressive churches, imposing squares and beautiful buildings.
• Porto Antico: Down the hill from the old town, this old port was recently rejuvenated and is now one of the city’s top attractions.
• Stazione Principe: Many of the area's best landmarks, monuments and museums are located in this district.
• Stazione Brignole: This area contains Piazza della Vittoria, Piazza De Ferrari and Via XX Settembre—a major shopping street.
• Boccadasse: Formerly a fishing village, this pretty town has now transformed into rows of brightly coloured houses, ice cream shops, great bars and a small pebble beach.

What to see and do in Genoa

When it comes to the best sights to see in Genoa, History and architecture are very much front and centre. Some of the top sights include:

• The Beaches: If you don’t mind pebbles, the city offers several attractive and relaxing beaches. The beaches are lined with great seafood restaurants, too.
• Castello d'Albertis: A stunning neo-Gothic and castle-like structure. It houses an ethnographical collection from all across the world.
• Lanterna lighthouse: This iconic monument stands 117-metres tall, and it is visible from some 30-kilometres away from the sea.
• Palazzi dei Rolli: Listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. These Baroque-style landmarks are spread all over the streets of Via Garibaldi, Via Balbi and Via Cairoli.
• Cattedrale di San Lorenzo: Dating back to the 12th century and home to magnificent frescoes, this structure has an unusually striped exterior.
• Teatro Carlo Felice: A splendid opera house that's right in the heart of the city.
• Acquario: One of the largest aquariums in Europe. It has over 600 species and a unique floating display.

What to eat in Genoa

Though it's based on a range of Ligurian and Italian flavours, Genoese cuisine is largely influenced by its status as a major seafaring city. Must-try dishes include:

• Focaccia: A famous bread that originates from Genoa.
• Pesto: A world-famous sauce that was invented in the city.
• Pansotti: A vegetable-based ravioli served with a walnut-cream sauce.
• Farinata: A tasty crepe made from chickpea flour.
• Cima: A veal escalope stuffed with various ingredients, like eggs, pine nuts, cheese and peas.
• Squid with anchovies: A crunchy snack made with deep-fried squid and fish.
• Cappon Magro: A pyramid of crisp salad and fresh seafood.

Typical events and festivals in Genoa

Genoa is a city that always has something going on. Some main events to look out for are:

• Holy Week: Easter festivities take over much of the city's centre.
• Suq a Genova: An annual multi-ethnic and cultural celebration that takes place in June.
• Goa Boa Festival: Liguria's most prominent rock and hip-hop music festival that takes place in July.
• La Paganiniana: An October celebration dedicated to history's most-celebrated Genoese violinist, Niccolo Paganini.

How to move around in Genoa

Being a very hilly city, Genoa designed its public transportation system to combat its steeply undulating landscape and terrain. Along with its bustling metro system, the city also has two funicular railways and a dedicated inclined elevator. There's even a rack railway and 10 public lifts to navigate through the city's various levels. The town also has great bus and trolleybus services that serve numerous routes, plus several private taxicab companies. Moving around the old town is best done on foot.

The climate in Genoa

Genoa is classed with a humid and subtropical climate, with average year-round temperatures around 19° C. The weather is significantly warmer in July and August. The daily average during these months peak at around 28° C. Genoa is also quite notably a windy city. During winter, the northern winds often carry some of the cool air from Po Valley. The best time to visit Genoa is anytime over the spring or summer since the temperature is most pleasant.