MAIN Travel Destination Guides Europe Italy Genoa

Genoa, or Genova in the native Italian, is a port city on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in northern Italy. The capital of the Province of Genoa and of the region of Liguria, this gem of the Italian Riviera is not a common tourist destination. Those who do visit understand why it is called la Superba (the Superb one).

Genoa is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and of pesto. Genoa salami is an American variety of salami commonly believed to have originated in the area of Genoa. A city of climbing, twisting streets and alleys opening into small squares where wonderful shops and restaurants invite guests to stop for a coffee, a delicious meal, or some shopping.

There are no records of when the area was first settled and the harbor first used, but a city cemetery, dating from the 4th century BC, is proof that the site was used by the Ancient Greeks.

History and modern living merge in this city where centuries of tradition serve as a backdrop to one of the finest modern universities. The Old Harbor (Porto Antico) is home to ferries that shuttle to Africa and other European ports and the Museo Galata, the biggest aquarium in Europe. An ancient lighthouse, Torre della Lanterna, still stands guard in the bustling port.

In Genoa's Piazza De Ferrari you can visit the Opera and the Palace of the Doges. Strada Nuova, now called Via Garibaldi is a World Heritage site designed in the mid-16th century lined with homes of the city's most eminent families, including Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, Palazzo Grimaldi and Palazzo Reale. The famous art college, Musei di Strada Nuova and the Palazzo del Principe are also located on this street.

St. Lawrence Cathedral and the famous cemetery of Staglieno, renowned for its monuments and statues are just two of the places that draw visitors.

A lion stands guard on the steps of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Genoa.

Work on the Romanesque style Cathedral of San Lorenzo is rumored to have been funded by loot brought home by the Crusaders an the fortunes made by Genovese shippers during the Crusades. The Cathedral was consecrated in 1118. The rich, multicolored patterns of marble used to build the outside of the Cathedral create an unusual visual experience even before you enter.

Once inside you discover a wealth of art treasures and architecture that melds light, color and space into an awe inspiring wholeness.

Around the Web, discover more about the sights, sounds, aromas and the friendly locals of Genoa, with top online guides offering special looks by activities and events, related photo galleries, travel video, and more reasons why a trip to Genoa should be on any travelers must-see list:

More about Genoa tourist attractions around the Web:

The American Women's Club of Genoa - This ex-pat community offers tourist tips, where to eat and historic facts and fun trivia.

PlanetWare.com > Europe > Italy > Genoa Tourism - Your complete guide to Genoa with facts, information and tips on hotels and accommodation, self guided walking tours, the old harbor, art museums, restaurants & shopping, nearby attractions, maps and pictures.

Genoa Guide - An easy to use city guide from schmap.com includes a map with highlights pinpointed as well as good descriptions of the historic and modern tourist attractions you'll find in and around Genoa. A bit slow to load at times, but worth the wait!

Euroflora - Hosted in Genoa, this is one of the most important international flower and horticulture exhibitions in the world, held every four years. The last Euroflora took place in 2011.

also see -> Italian Beache | Learn Italian Travel Phrases | Cinque Terra

also see -> Christmas in Italy