Genoa's Historical Centre invites you to wander through Europe's largest medieval quarter where history whispers from every corner. The labyrinthine caruggi (narrow alleyways) lead to magnificent discoveries like Christopher Columbus's house and the striped Cathedral of San Lorenzo. UNESCO World Heritage sites and Renaissance palaces create an open-air museum where centuries of maritime heritage come alive with every step. Traditional osterie serve mouthwatering farinata and authentic pesto pasta alongside family-run trattorias dishing up fresh seafood. Stay in charming boutique B&Bs housed in converted palazzos with original frescoes. Getting around is best done on foot, though metro stations at De Ferrari and San Giorgio connect you to the wider city when your legs need a break.
Boccadasse feels like a medieval fishing village plucked from a storybook and placed on Genoa's coast. Colourful houses in coral and seafoam green cascade down to a pebble beach where traditional boats bob in the bay. Narrow stone alleyways wind between centuries-old buildings adorned with hanging laundry and flower boxes. The Church of Sant'Antonio anchors this picturesque spot where locals still fish from traditional boats. Small trattorias serve fresh focaccia and seafood caught that morning, with most places closing for afternoon siesta. Though public transit is limited, the area rewards explorers on foot with its intimate scale and stunning views. Accommodation is primarily holiday rentals in converted fishermen's houses, offering an authentic slice of coastal Italian life.
Carignano offers a refined slice of authentic Genoese life where elegant 19th-century villas and the magnificent dome of Santa Maria Assunta Basilica create a sophisticated residential retreat. Stroll tree-lined streets with ornate balconies and marble facades or visit the Museum of Modern Art housed in the historic Villa Croce. The neighborhood's peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome escape from tourist crowds. Upscale trattorias serve exceptional Ligurian cuisine featuring fresh pesto and focaccia that locals swear by. While accommodation trend towards elegant bed & breakfasts in converted villas, the area remains well-connected to Genoa's attractions via regular AMT bus service and walkable streets.
Nervi
Nervi's stunning seaside promenade, Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, winds along dramatic cliffs with breathtaking Mediterranean views. Historic villas house art galleries while botanical gardens showcase exotic plants in this peaceful coastal retreat. The medieval tower stands sentinel over pebble beaches where clear waters invite swimmers during warm months. Seafood-focused trattorias line the waterfront serving fresh focaccia and local specialities. Choose from elegant boutique hotels in converted Belle Époque villas or family-run B&Bs with garden terraces. The train connects to city centre Genoa in just 20 minutes, making day trips easy.
Perched high above Genoa, Castelletto rewards explorers with jaw-dropping views of the harbour and terracotta rooftops from its famous Spianata lookout. Art Nouveau villas and elegant palazzos line the peaceful, tree-shaded streets where locals outnumber tourists. Historic castles like Castello d'Albertis offer cultural depth while terraced gardens cascade down the hillsides. The neighborhood's intimate trattorias serve authentic Ligurian specialities like pesto and focaccia with prices reflecting the upscale setting. Getting around means tackling steep cobblestone streets, but the 8-minute funicular ride connects you effortlessly to city centre Genoa.
Experience a world beneath the ocean with a visit to Aquarium of Genoa, just one of the attractions in Centro Est. Why not take a stroll along the port and watch the sunset while you're here? If you have fun at Aquarium of Genoa, you'll love The Bigo Lift (Il Bigo) and Galata Maritime Museum, both a short walk away.
You can stroll along Old Port for relaxing water views when you're in Centro Est. If you carry on walking you'll get to Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal and Genoa Maritime Station for some more water views.
Find out about the history of Genoa when you take a trip to Piazza Principe. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Wander through Europe's largest medieval old town, marvelling at ornate palaces and hidden piazzas. Indulge in fresh pesto and seafood at bustling trattorias before exploring the revitalised Porto Antico waterfront.
Visitors to Genoa like this walkable city's seaside, historical sites, restaurants and port. Why not go on a fun excursion to Port of Genoa Cruise Ship Terminal? And while you're here, be sure to stop by Piazza de Ferrari and Teatro Carlo Felice.
