Once the maritime powerhouse of the Mediterranean, Genoa is still a great port today. Unfortunately great ports aren’t known for their great beauty as well, though Genoa certainly has its appeal. But what this somewhat tarnished assumption means is that the best places to stay in Genoa are also some of the most reasonably priced accommodation you'll find on the Italian Riviera. Our Gurus’ picks include affordable guesthouses, charming B&Bs, elegantly worn grande dames and some beautifully converted townhouses and palazzos.
Location means a lot when it comes to Genoa, and our recommendations here are all close to the ancient maze of narrow streets of the historic heart of town. This part of Genoa is ageing with style, and its vibrant atmosphere has encouraged just the right sort of regeneration — the sort that adds to rather than bulldozes! Central Genoa is a great place to eat and drink (this is the capital of pesto), with innumerable cafes, bars and restaurants, an excellent collection of galleries and boutiques, and now Europe’s largest aquarium. Also worth a look are the Christopher Columbus Museum, a great celebration of the local-boy-done-good, and the Maritime Museum. Plus there are several of those impressive, striped Ligurian churches, including a cathedral.
Genoa isn’t known for its beaches, but it does have several very nice ones. Our Gurus recommend the old seaman’s neighbourhood of Boccadasse for beaches, but there are some closer to the centre of town as well.
As a vibrant port city, you'll find plenty of crowds here throughout the seasons. However if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Genoa during the peak summer months, you'll need to get organised and book ahead to avoid disappointment.