Heres how to plan the perfect trip to Genoa.
Its off the beaten path.
I can confirm we didnt hear many Americans (like us) during our trip.
Colorful buildings in Genoa, Italy.Credit:Piero M. Bianchi/Getty Images
Located in Northern Italys Liguria region, this vibrant port city has a tremendous history.
The wealth and influence of its merchants is still evident in Genoas grand architecture and layout.
Christopher Columbuss childhood home is just a short walk from the iconic black-and-white striped Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
Quattro Fiumi guest room in Palazzo Durazzo.Courtesy of Palazzo Durazzo
People think its going to be a boring port city, said Grisdale.
Theres always this surprise about just how beautiful and special the city itself is.
Its also a great home base for exploring beyond the city bounds.
The old fishing village of Boccadasse, Genoa, Italy at dawn.Sean Pavone/Getty Images
Inside, youll find antiques and original murals alongside contemporary Italian design.
The rooftop terrace has incredible views of Genoa.
Such is the case for this boutique hotel within a palace.
Meat market in Genoa, Italy.piola666/Getty Images
Expect historic frescos and old-world elegance amid modern amenities.
Hotel Continental
This is a well-managed four-star property, Della Grazia said.
Best Things to Do
Sean Pavone/Getty Images
Explore Boccadasse.
Alley with markets and restaurants.© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images
Unless you stay in that area, youll likely need to take a taxi to and from Boccadasse.
Tour the historic center of Genoa.
Spot a lively bar, order a well-priced negroni, and sip it while eating peanuts and olives.
A family walking in Genoa’s Boccadasse neighborhood.Sol de Zuasnabar Brebbia/Getty Images
Just be in the very heart of the city and explore and live as a local person.
It is a city that is easy to explore on foot, said Grisdale.
Henry James famously described Genoa as the most winding and incoherent of cities.
Busses speeding by in Genoa, Italy.MASSIMO SCARSELLETTA/Getty Images
They are magnificent, said Della Grazia.
By visiting them, you’re free to realize how rich and powerful these families were.
Take a day trip.
What are you hoping to get out of your stay?
Indulge in all the local specialties.
You cant avoid pesto in Genoa.
According to Della Grazia, Sa Pesta is the place to go if you want to taste excellent farinata.
Prices, I believe, are some of the best in Italy.
Via XX Septembre is your best bet if you’re after name brands.
For a unique experience, visit the Romanengo factory and store, Italys first confectionery factory.
Some techniques used here date back hundreds of years.
Another highlight is the historic Mercato Orientale, which sells all kinds of vegetables, meats, and pastas.
It used to be the supermarket 100 years ago.
You get excellent local food products, Della Grazia said.
Luckily, seafood pasta is delicious in every language.
The menu offers traditional Ligurian dishes like pasta and seafood in a sophisticated, white tablecloth setting.
Rosmarino
This restaurant blends traditional and modern dishes, Della Grazia said.
This is a traditional trattoria in the narrow alleys near the Old Port, Della Grazia said.
The menu has all the local hits (pesto, pansotti, fried anchovies), plus tiramisu.
Its not a destination that depends on tourism, she says.
Della Grazia agrees: All seasons are good.
Note that many restaurants and museums are closed on Monday and Sunday afternoons year-round.
While in Rapallo, Grisdale insists you visit the fantastic food boutiqueParla Come Mangi.
you’ve got the option to also book viaItTaxi online.
Genoa has a small underground metro system, but youll hardly need it if you have comfortable walking shoes.
