Hotel Esperia
Relaxed and friendly, this hotel set in its own grounds just steps from the sea makes a great alternative to staying in Genoa, which is easily accessible by train in just 15 minutes from the station opposite. Guest rooms are on the old-fashioned side, but all have a small balcony with views of either the sea or the hotel garden (request the Comfort category for a little more space). The panoramic Anita Garibaldi seaside promenade is close by, and it's a short and pleasant stroll across a leafy park to reach Nervi's two main attractions, the Wolfsoniana collection and the modern art gallery. If you're not inspired by the hotel's handy but somewhat staid restaurant, there's a choice of trattorias in the town, while drivers will be relieved to avoid getting embroiled in Genoa's traffic.
