Genoa is Italy's biggest port and Europe's biggest medieval town. Its old city is a maze of alleyways and important palazzos built in the 16th and 17th centuries by the wealthy mercantile families of the city. Genoa used to be one of the most important maritime powers and it is today a lively port which was Europe's European Capital of culture in 2004. Renowned for its amazing collections of artwork and as home to the Renaissance chapel of St John the Baptist, Genoa is also home to the nearby region of the Italian Riviera, famous as a holiday town and seaside resort playground for film stars, jetsetters and the wealthy.
Genoa is a striking city renowned for its imposing ancient palazzos and maze-like layout of streets and alleyways that lead you to a wealth of the city's treasures. Genoa accommodation is a unique experience in itself, with many of the hotels enjoying stylish and contemporary rooms with all the modern comforts inside a supremely beautiful and historic facade that blends with the iconic medieval architecture of the region. Accommodation options vary in star rating and price, however most hotels are priced quite reasonably especially compared to other Italian destinations. All accommodation options are also conveniently situated close to public transport and popular attractions. Book Genoa Accommodation
Genoa's local airport, Aeroporto Cristoforo Colombo, or the Christopher Columbus Airport is just 6km from the city centre and offers regular bus services to Old Town or the main city train station, Piazza Verdi. Genoa is best explored on foot, particularly in the older parts of Poto Antico, however there are also local bus services that run throughout the city. Tickets must be pre-purchased from local news stands or tobacco shops. Taxis are also readily available and visitors are advised to book these through their accommodation. Getting around Genoa.
Located in the heart of Old Town, the Palazzo Ducale is one of Genoa's most popular attractions and was home to a number of dodge rulers. Home to St John the Baptist's Renaissance chapel, Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is located just west of Piazza Matteotti. Nearby, the Palazzo Reale is a lavish place home to a grand ballroom, Turkish carpets and silk curtains as well as amazing artwork including Van Dyck's famous 'Crucifixion'. The street of Via Garibaldi is a narrow road overflowing with Renaissance art as well as spacious private courtyards and sculptured facades. The street also features the finest art gallery in Genoa, the Galleria di Palazzo Bianco. The culture centre of Porto Antico is also home to a number of exhibition halls that have been converted from old warehouses as well as a number of seafront restaurants and cafes offering picturesque views of the marina. Read more about the Attractions in Genoa
Another popular region of Genoa located nearby is the Italian Riviera, renowned as a popular resort town and holiday playground for wealthy Europeans and the rich and famous. Popular attractions at the Italian Riviera include San Remo and Portofino, home to casinos, seafront hotels, exclusive waterfront shopping, cocktail bars and restaurants. More Information.
Genoa, originally known as Genova, comes from the Italian word 'Giano' a translation of the Roman God Janus, known as the protector of doors and passageways. Genoa is the birthplace of famous explorer Christopher Columbus. Some of Italy's most famous cuisines come from Genoa including the focaccia and pesto. Genoa is home to a number of annual events, the most unusual of which is the Festival of Clowns held in December. Genoa is home to the largest marine park in Europe in the form of its Aquarium.
