Nowadays, Genova is frequently included in itineraries of tourists who travel across Italy. It has warm winters and breezy summers thanks to its location by the sea, so it's a great destination all year-round.
Genova is a surprising destination that keeps its authenticity despite the increase of tourists around. It has the largest historical city center in Europe that is protected by UNESCO, one of the biggest ports in the Mediterranean (from which most cruises start), centuries of history, amazing landscapes and viewpoints and delicious food. Its characteristics make it perfect for any kind of tourist and age-range.
You can't leave the city without having a stroll in the historical center, the heart of the city. You will think you are in a huge labyrinth that stretches from the port area until Piazza De Ferrari, the main square of Genova. Here you can visit San Lorenzo Cathedral and learn about the legend of the tiny dog sculpted closed to the right entrance door. Inside, there's even an unexploded bomb from WW2. Historical Genoese shops, art galleries, boutiques, bars, and ethnic supermarkets succeed in creating a fascinating and unusual balance.
These restaurants are my favorite ones where I like to gather with friends or family, because of the atmosphere and the unique food cooked there.
Le Ombre Rosse - Vico degli Indoratori, 20-22-24 R, 16123 Genova // It's enclosed in a Medieval house on two floors with several tiny, dark but intimate rooms. It's perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Dishes are different every day and you can choose the creation of the chef or more typical Genoese recipes.
Pizzeria Il Pedigrotta - Piazza Gerolamo Savonarola, 27/R, 16129 Genova // This pizzeria is just a few minutes walking from the historical center. Their pizzas are tasty, rich in ingredients and even exceed the size of the place.
Il Genovese - Via Galata, 35r, 16121 Genova // The owner is nationally famous for the pesto sauce. You have to come here if you want to try real Genoese food, just like your nonna would cook.
Trattoria Della Raibetta - Vico Caprettari, 12r, 16123 Genova // This is a typical trattoria, small and cozy Italian restaurant. Here you can eat the most famous fish dish from Genoese tradition.
Soul Kitchen - Piazza dell'Agnello, 41 r, 16124 Genova // Although most Genoese restaurants offer vegetarian options, this one is known for being veg-friendly. They often organize courses too!
As a local, I'm happy to share with you what we love to do in our city.
Have an Aperitivo with Friends or Colleagues // This is the top 1 thing to do in Genova after 5:00 pm: everyone loves to gather and get an aperitivo after work. My suggestions are Muà (where most people from the offices nearby go), and any bar you find in Piazza delle Erbe or Piazza Lavagna.
Enjoy the Sunset at Spianata Castelletto // Most locals and tourists love to see Genova from the top of the hill. Spianata Castelletto is probably the most popular place to go. From here you can see the whole historical center, the port, and the lighthouse, the symbol of Genova. You can get there using a city elevator from the center.
Eat an Ice Cream in Boccadasse // Take bus number 31 from Brignole and in twenty minutes you will get to the neighborhood called Boccadasse. It seems to be in a completely different city. This used to be a small fisherman village, and today is one of the most beautiful and expensive places to live. Get an ice cream and eat it on the beach.
Have a Walk in Corso Italia // This is the main promenade by the sea and it's just a few kilometers long, which links the central area with Boccadasse. Here most people love to jog or having a walk with their dogs. After a long working day, you might want to stretch your legs a little.
Take Pics at the Old Port // This is one of the must-see places in Genova. During the golden hours, the sea and the buildings surrounding the port get incredibly charming and you can't miss the opportunity to take a few pictures here.
Guide and Photos by Annalisa | Viaggio Vagando | Twitter | Facebook
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