 Genoa, that Rubens nicknamed La Superba (the superb) has always been a crossroads of different cultures, where the ancient has lived alongside the modern and even art tells its story of bankers and ocean explorers. Lying on dry land, between the sea and the mountains, this city offers to the visitors its rich museums, stately palaces, the "caruggi" (narrow alleys) of its historic city centre, the largest in Europe. Looking ahead to the international dates of the last few years - and specifically the 1992 Columbus celebrations, the G8 Summit in 2001 and the year 2004, when it was named the European capital of culture - this principal Ligurian city has completed an extensive restoration initiative, returning the splendour of its treasures to the city.
From Genoa, just travel a few kilometres east or westwards in order to arrive in one of the most beautiful Rivieras in the world: Portofino, Camogli, Cinque Terre (a cluster of five fishing villages perched timelessly on the cliffs of Ligura's most stunning coastline) and Sanremo, natural jewels, richly enhances by man, where the scents of the earth melt into the smells of the sea in simple and flavourful dishes that, accompanied by oil and wines of unique taste, they are worth a voyage to Liguria alone.
WHY GENOA
- to discover the greatest historical centre in Europe
- to visit the Christopher Columbus house
- to visit the greatest port in Italy
- to taste the typical Genoese cuisine
- to visit the greatest Aquarium in Europe
- to visit over twenty museums in the 2004 European Capital of Culture
- to reach the close Portofino and the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera
THE ESSENTIAL GENOA
Walking Tour of the Centro Storico
For those wishing to immerse themselves in the architectural history of the city, we recommend trips to Palazzo del Principe, Commenda, Via Balbi, Porta dei Vacca, Piazza Banchi, Palazzo San Giorgio, Piazza San Matteo, San Lorenzo Cathedral, Palazzo Ducale, Chiesa del Gesù, Porta Soprana, Torre Embriaci, Santa Maria di Castello, Via Garibaldi (formerly "Strada Nuova") and Palazzo Spinola in Pellicceria.
 Porto Antico (Historic Port)
Thanks to the work of the architect Renzo Piano, the quays of the historic port in Genoa have been transformed into a large and picturesque area with an aquarium, museums, libraries, the Città dei Bambini (Kids Town), Piano's "Bolla" (Biosphere), restaurants, bars and cinemas.
In addition, you can take a boat tour of the port from the quay nearest the Aquarium or go on excursions to Portofino, Camogli, San Fruttuoso and the Cinque Terre.
City View from the Castelletto Belvedere and Righi
The views from the heights around Genoa are breathtaking. Go to the Castelletto Belvedere (to get there, take the lift from Piazza Portello). This semicircular terrace overlooks the slate roofs of the houses in the old city and offers spectacular views of the sea.
Similarly beautiful are the views from Righi (take the funicular from Largo della Zecca).
Genoa by Night
Genoa has lots of places to cater for night owls and the lanes of the historic centre boast a vast range of bars, clubs and live music venues in places such as Piazza delle Erbe, Salita Mascherona, Via Ravecca, Salita Pollaioli and Via San Bernardo.
Alternatively, try the many nightspots along the sea front in Corso Italia and around the Porto Antico.
Genoa for Children
A trip to Europe's larest Aquarium with more than 600 species is a must for children. Children will also love the Città dei Bambini (Kids Town), the Galata-Museums of the Sea and the Museo di Storia Naturale (Museum of Natural History).
Genoa for Foodies
Don't leave Genoa without having tried some of the city's most famous dishes such as pesto, farinata, the torta di bietole, cima pansoti with sugo di noci (nuts sauce), stuffed anchovies, pandolce and, last but not least, the world-renowned Genoese focaccia.
PUBLICATIONS
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Genova Porta del Mediterraneo
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Golfo Paradiso
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APT Genova publicated
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APT Genova publicated
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