Travel To Genova
Introduction to Genova
Charles Dickens wrote in 1884 that Genoa ‘is a place that grows upon you every day…(It) abounds in the strangest contrasts; things that are picturesque, ugly, mean, magnificent, delightful and offensive, break upon the view at every turn.’ This is a description that even today sums up the city well as there is always a sense of excitement and expectation in the air. Words by Alice Dean
Show/Hide More...Genoa’s history has been shaped by its geographical location in Liguria, Northern Italy and next to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city has been involved in trade since the sixth century BC, and is where Italy’s industrial revolution in steel and shipping first took off. Although the docks sat empty and relatively deserted for some time since then, they have been recently renovated. This has brought much more tourism to Genoa and reflects its ability to be modern. The more historic centre is an interesting contrast to this new development and the architecture of the Caruggi is breathtaking. Casually wandering through these alleys transforms the city back to the intrigue, drama and mystery of its past. The view when approaching the city has often been compared to a large pile of spaghetti, and the design of the roads is much like a rollercoaster. The churches and piazzas that are stuck in the hillside appear surprisingly suddenly, meaning Genoa is great city to explore, but certainly not for the weak kneed! The language traditionally spoken here is different from standard Italian, in fact Genoese is considered more similar to French. Unfortunately, today only the older generation preserves this ancient dialect as most of the young speak Italian. Genoa certainly has enough to entertain, and is an important symbol of Italy’s ability to move into the twenty first century whilst still incorporating the past.
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Where to stay in Genova
1. Hotel Bently LUSH
The rooms at this hotel are modern, comfortable and well equipped. The location is excellent for exploring the city and facilities offered to guests include a restaurant, bar and Turkish bath.
2. San Biagio Hotel REASONABLE
Although not centrally located this residence is ideal for business travellers as it is a modern hotel that provides conference rooms with an excellent service. There is also a restaurant and gym available to guests.
3. Best Western Hotel Metropoli REASONABLE
Hotel is situated very near the Via Garibaldi and the Palazzo Ducale and so is ideal for investigating all the main attractions. The rooms are large, tastefully decorated and comfortable.
4. Golden Tulip Hotel Moderno Verdi REASONABLE
This hotel is within easy reach of the train station and other major attractions. The historical building has a lot of character and the rooms are warm and inviting and the service is personal and friendly.
5. Hotel Soana BUDGET
Hotel Soana is a family run hotel and has a superb location in the centre of the city. The rooms are simple but adequate and to ensure city noise is kept to a minimum for guests the property closes every night at 1am.
6. Hotel Continental Genoa REASONABLE
This hotel has wonderful traditionally decorated rooms which emulate the Italian Liberty style. There is an option for executive suite or an apartment although all standards of room have good facilities. The residence is very near to the train station.
7. Balbi Family Hotel BUDGET
This small hotel has an excellent situation for all the popular attractions of the city. The rooms are light and airy and most have room for a third bed if required. Groups are welcome and there is a complimentary breakfast served every morning.
8. Hotel Bristol Palace REASONABLE
Hotel Bristol Palace has rooms that are both traditional and functional. Its location is very central to major attractions and there is an in house restaurant offering local specialities.
9. Best Western City Hotel REASONABLE
This four star hotel is only a short walk away from the opera house Palazzo Ducale as well as other sights. Rooms are available for up to four people making it an excellent choice for families.
10. Hermitage Hotel REASONABLE
Hermitage hotel has excellent access to the sea front of the city. The rooms are simple in design but clean and have good views of the ocean and surrounding hills.
Where to eat in Genova
Genoa prides itself on being the creator of the best pesto in the world, and the Genovese make a tasty sauce consisting of basil, garlic, parmesan and pine nuts.
Pansotti is also a popular local delicacy which is a tart with egg, spinach and ricotta cheese.
What to see in Genova
1. Piazza di Ferrari
This is the main square of the city and boasts an impressive fountain in its centre. Major buildings surround the pleasant piazza and this is a good place to start from when exploring the streets of Genoa. The enormous staircase leads to the next door square, Piazza Matteotti.
2. Musei di Strada Nuova
The cities best art collection is housed at the Musei di Stada Nuova which has been created out of three former palaces. The pieces vary from Niccolo Paganini’s violin to a range of Italian and Flemish artists. Some of the rooms have lavish frescoes and are equally as impressive as the artwork that surrounds them.
3. The Caruggi
Wandering through the streets of the old city known as the Caruggi transports you into historical Genoa. A whole day can be spent exploring these winding alleys. However, although the city is generally safe precautions should be taken here at night because of the risk of petty crime.
4. Galleria Mazzini
Just off Via Roma, the glass covered Galleria Mazzini is where the cities designer and boutique shops can be found. Whether spending or window shopping this area is worth spending some time in and makes a diverting change from the other attractions of Genoa.
5. Porto Antico
Genoa’s port has been renovated and the area now hosts some of the cities leading exhibition centers. There are restaurants and cafes to be found here as well as an ice rink. For an excellent view of the city there is a glass circular elevator designed by Renzo Piano which goes as high as sixty meters.
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