Genoa
 

Is it worth a visit

We stayed overnight in Genoa about ten years ago, using it as a stopover on a longer journey. We found it an absolutely fascinating place, with an mediaeval feel to it, very narrow streets leading down to the dock area which you could just imagine teeming with merchants in years gone by. The city is built perched on the cliffs, very atmospheric. The other part that remains in my mind after all these years is the promenade along the coastline, again built into the cliffs. We really enjoyed it, but I didn't feel we needed to stay any longer.

Of all the places I've been in Italy, Genoa was my least favorite. I was there last may and although it has an interesting layout, it was dirty and there wasn't too much to do. I did visit the aquarium ( which was nice) and went to the city overlook. There are so many other places in Italy to go... cinque terre is close by....

I agree with Ann--think it's worth several hours then I would head down the coast for about 15 miles to Camogli where there is an outstanding hotel the Cernobio dei Dogi which is right on the water and was a summer home of the dukes of Genoa. You will be on the same peninsula as Portofino, which is on the southern side. From there your next day could be to Cinque Terre or Lucca etc. BTW, Genoa has some outstanding restaurants, Gran Gotto being a very well known one. If you've been to Bologna, you will find Genoa similar but on the water. I would see it if you're near.

genoa has two interesting things to see. the oldest part of town is a maze of narrow side streets with some interessting shops. the other is surprise the main cemetary. the structures are bigger than most homes and more elaborate and ornate. generations of people are planted there. it is acre after acre of tis good for a morning or afternoon stroll. otherwise a somewhat barren city. i fail to see the similarity of genoa to bologna-the old section of bologna is beautiful and offeres many attractions. we usually do not repeat italian cities but that one is one of the exceptions.