Boutique & Luxury Hotels in Genoa Boutique Hotels in Italy

Niccolò Paganini, a native of this enchanting city, once said he never gave encores but you’ll definitely want to give Genoa a second visit. Start in the vast ancient port of the city, the largest in Italy and among one of the biggest in Europe. Restored to its magnificence by world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, visit the old cotton factories by the water, now turned into museums and learning centers for children and adults. Take the famous Bigo, a panoramic elevator and symbol of the port. Walk along the ‘carruggii’, dark and narrow medieval alleys typically found in the historic center. Visit the Cathedral of St. Lawrence riddled with legends such as a bomb that never exploded against the Cathedral and a sleeping dog sculpted in the wall – we dare you to find him! While strolling through Piazza Garibaldi, you’ll reach Via Garibaldi and Via Caroli so you’ll eventually reach the famous Profumo pastry shop where stuffed peaches, pandolce cake, or sugar violets are on display and ready to be tested. Explore the fun-filled acquarium containing over 6000 specimen of marine life, dine in Palazzo Milo overlooking the waters, or attend an outdoor concert Arena. Take a walk in the winding streets and alleys, known as ‘caruggi’, and discover the basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, the Duke’s Palace, the lavish Carlo Felice Theatre and the famous lantern. Surround yourself in history and art inside the Palazzi dei Rolli, a prestigious group of buildings which are now museums hosting a variety of masterpieces. End your days with a luscious fish dinner in the fisherman’s cove of Boccadasse, enriched by a small beach and colorful boats. Or better yet, listen to the sound of the sea while walking while eating a cheese focaccia from the bread shop hidden under an archway.

Nearby: Camogli, Arenzano, Sestri Levante