Liguria: 10 Things to see absolutely in Genoa

What to see in Genoa in Liguria?

What are the places of interest to visit?

What to see in particular?

Here are the 10 things to see in and around Genoa and not to be missed!

Genoa, the city of art. Set between the sea and the mountains of Liguria, Genoa offers those who visit it breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.

Rich in noble palaces, museums, churches, but also more “modern” attractions such as the famous Aquarium, Genoa deserves to be visited at least once.

Famous for its “Rolli”, which today are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Genoa is a city to be experienced in all its facets.

Now, west Liguria and its villages, we indicate 10, but to know that there are many more to see.

Historic Center and “Caruggi”

The historical center is certainly the heart of the city.

Formed by the so-called “caruggi“, that is narrow alleys that date back to the medieval period, “creuze” (typical narrow lane or mule track that cuts, often vertically, the hills of Genoa and all of Liguria) and small squares, it is one of the many elements that have been included in the heritage of humanity by Unesco as name “The Strade Nuove”.

Rich in noble palaces, churches and monuments, the Historic Center of Genoa is the testimony of how different styles, eras and cultures have come into contact in this city, leaving a tangible imprint in the style of most of the buildings present.

You can admire some of the most fascinating alleys starting from Piazza Caricamento and going on foot towards via al Ponte Reale and Piazza Banchi where the Loggia della Mercanzia is located, a medieval building that housed the trading of merchants and bankers.

Royal Palace Museum

The Museum of Palazzo Reale in Genoa is located inside what was commonly called Palazzo Stefano Balbi, one of the 42 “Rolli” in Genoa.

To compose the museum, in addition to the “house” of the Balbi, there is also one of the most important art galleries in the city, which contains works created by Van Dyke and Tintoretto.

In addition to this, you can find, shortage of Genoese sculptures, frescoes and furniture dating back to the 17th-18th century.

Genoa Aquarium

The Genoa Aquarium is without doubt the most famous place in the city. Inaugurated in 1992 in the Porto Antico area, the Genoa aquarium is the second largest in Europe after the one in Valencia. Inside there are 12,000 specimens of 600 different species.

Among these, sharks, seals, penguins and turtles are particularly successful. The aquarium is structured in such a way that visitors can literally “walk” in the tanks, which are well over 70.
Recently the structure has further enlarged thanks to a new pavilion designed by Renzo Piano, called the “Cetacean Pavilion”.

Galata Museo del Mare

The Galata Museo del Mare, after the Genoa Aquarium, is one of the most important maritime museums in the Mediterranean. Dedicated to the history of navigation and to the celebration of the bond that has always connected man and the sea, Galata takes its visitors on a real journey through the reproductions of the boats that accompanied man in his discovery of the sea. From rowing ships to sailing ships, from boats related to geographical explorations to those used to discover America.

The Lantern

The lantern, symbol of Genoa, is the ancient lighthouse of the city.

With a structure 77 meters high, it dates back to the fourteenth century and had the task of signaling the entrance of the port to ships.

Specifically, the lighthouse became such in 1326, when the first oil lantern was installed inside.

To see it, the lantern is truly spectacular: the tower in fact stands on top of a hill 40 meters high, which makes the Lantern 177 meters high above sea level.

Old Port

Ancient trade center of Genoa, the Porto Antico has now become one of the cultural centers of the city in 1992, when the area was “modernized” by Renzo Piano on the occasion of the five hundred years of the Discovery of America .

Today the Porto Antico area is home to some of the city’s major attractions, including the Genoa Aquarium, the Galata and the Biosphere, a glass and steel bubble that floats on the water and contains at its inside a tropical environment with some animals such as butterflies and birds

Cathedral of San Lorenzo

Dating back to the 9th century, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo is a splendid example of Genoese style.

The Duomo was remodeled several times until the 16th century, as can be seen from the mixture of different architectural styles both inside and outside.

The Cathedral is composed of three naves that collect works of all kinds, from sculptures to frescoes and paintings, up to a Treasure Museum, which contains the Sacro Catino which, according to legend, would be the Holy Grail, in addition to the Ark of the Ashes of San Giovanni Battista and other objects related to the patron of Genoa.

Albertis Castle

Castello d’Albertis is currently the home of the Museum of World Cultures.

It is one of the most famous house-museums in Genoa and its surroundings, a symbol of the adventurous life that its owner and founder, Captain Enrico Alberto d’Albertis had. The museum aims to offer a sort of journey between different cultures and peoples with which the Captain came into contact through archaeological and ethnographic finds that will amaze you.

Via Garibaldi and its museums

Commonly called “Strada Nuova”, via Garibaldi is often called the “golden road” of Genoa, thanks to the exorbitant quantity of noble palaces that arise there.

Among these, three palaces stand out which today are known as the “Strada Nuova Museums”: Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco and Palazzo Doria Tursi.

The first, which was the home of the Brignole – Sale, collects the family’s private collection, which tells more than two centuries of history, which also includes works by Van Dyck and Veronese.

The second one is the seat of an important collection of paintings of the Italian, Flemish, French, Dutch and Spanish tradition, which range from the 16th to the 18th century. The third also contains displays of ceramics and tapestries, as well as being the place where “il Cannone” is preserved, the famous Paganini violin built in 1734.

Belvedere Castelletto

Finally we offer you a real gem, probably the one that is the best panoramic point in the city. The Spianata Castelletto is a fantastic “suspended balcony” overlooking the historic center.

It is a rather romantic place, absolutely not to be missed especially if you visit Genoa as a couple. Particularly fascinating if you reach it via the liberty style elevator.

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Discovering the Cinque Terre

Sun, beaches, nature, but not only. The Cinque Terre also contain architectures that highlight an ancient history and something magical.

The name that derives from the five seaside villages that are located in the 15 km of one of the most pristine Mediterranean coasts of Liguria.

Following the paths of the 5 villages

The crystal clear sea and the network of paths that offers varied landscapes have made the Cinque Terre today among the most popular destinations for tourists.

The first town located in the western part is that of Monterosso al Mare, the most populous of the villages.

Located in the center of a small natural gulf, protected by a modest artificial cliff, it contains within it stretches of fine gravel beaches. But interesting of this village are not only the beaches, but also the monuments, such as the medieval Aurora Tower, which divides the old village from the new one, the “giant statue” and the hermitage of S. Antonio del Mesco.

Proceeding east, climbing a small promontory that fits into the sea, you will find Vernazza, where there are valuable architectural elements that testify to the economic and socially superior level of life of the past.

Centrally located is Corniglia, the only village in the Cinque Terre that does not directly overlook the sea. To reach it you need to climb a promontory, through a staircase of almost 400 steps called “Lardarina” (or alternatively you can take the road that connects it to the railway station).

Another village located on a promontory is Manarola. It rises in the terminal part of the valley of the Groppo stream and the houses face one another close to the other on the main street. The splendid “Via dell’Amore” also starts from Manarola, carved into the rock wall, a road famous all over the world for its beauty and its breathtaking views, declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site.

Road that you can walk in peace until you get to Riomaggiore, the easternmost village of the Cinque Terre.

The historic center, whose original core dates back to the 13th century, is made up of several parallel orders of Genoese tower houses that follow the steep course of the stream. Due to the floods that have affected this region in recent years, some paths are closed for a long period (it is in fact expected to reopen in April 2018) so before venturing into these areas it is recommended to check the various updates on the dedicated websites, in so as not to find unpleasant surprises.

Beaches and nature

In Cinque Terre there are a large number of beaches for all.

Walking on the blue path, tourists can go down to the sea at any time.

Generally they are all free, and some offer paid services, such as bars, umbrellas, deck chairs, showers etc.

A characteristic of the coast is that the wind hardly ever blows, so swimming is pleasant even when it is not too hot.

Both because it is the largest and because it is the only one with sand, Monterosso is the beach most frequented by tourists while the others are more rocky.

First Protected Area and then Regional Park, the Cinque Terre became National Park in 1999, a tool to safeguard a unique environment in the world.

In addition, the territory between Punta Mesco and Capo di Montenero has been declared a Natural Marine Protected Area to preserve the beautiful seabed.

Furthermore, due to the presence of whales and dolphins, these waters are part of the Cetacean Sanctuary.

Good Ligurian cuisine

The cuisine of the Cinque Terre preserves the characteristics of the past almost intact. The mild climate allows the cultivation of olives, citrus fruits and viticulture. The top product is certainly the “Sciacchetrà”, a rare and precious liqueur wine famous all over the world.

Another famous product is the “limoncino”, a liqueur made from the tasty lemons of these lands.

Obviously, being in Liguria, the home of basil pesto, be sure to take a first course with good local pesto.

If you love fish, here you will be spoiled for choice between the famous salted anchovies of Riomaggiore, the frying of whitebait, the cuttlefish of zimino rock, the octopus and the stuffed squid.

On the table of the five coastal villages you can taste the typical Ligurian dishes, especially the Genoese pesto, especially the fish dishes, with some local specialties.

One of the most typical desserts of the locality is certainly the tart with lemon jam.

Now, after west Liguria, its hidden villages, the city of Genoa and Cinque Terre tour, you to find the your perfect experience for your next holidays in Liguria with Elite Luxury Tours!

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Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

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• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
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Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

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West Liguria: 5 little villages that can’t be missed!

There are wonderful succession of villages interspersed with the lush green of nature in west Liguria.

From the Mediaeval Apricale to the little Principality of Seborga, from the romantic Tellaro to the old Maritime Repubblic of Noli.  A tour to discover an unexpected Liguria which surprises you from every angle.

There are five historical villages in Liguria, selected among the lots of hidden treasures of this region that will be able to astonish even the most expert traveller, unveiling their hidden beauty between alleys and little squares steeped in history and culture, giving compelling emotions in front of the spectacle of the sea and unforgettable walks up and down hills and mountains.

1. Apricale 

Climbed on the mountain of Bordighera, in the intense green of vegetation, the view of Apricale really takes our breath away.

At 13 kilometres from the sea of the Riviera di Ponente, Apricale is a little treasure recently given back to its authentic charm by thorough works of recovery and restoration, performed by international artists and enlightened entrepreneurs, who decided give life back to this little Mediaeval jewel.

Cars must be parked at the bottom of the town, and from there you should move on foot to reach the Castle.

The best souvenir to bring back home, from here, is a bottle of the very good extra-virgin oil of olives DOP Riviera dei Fiori, extracted by taggiasche olives.

2. Cervo 

Not far from Apricale, but directly facing the sea, there is an enchanting and charming place, the little town of Cervo, it is very quiet and very enjoyable to visit.

The time seems to have stopped here: between the blue of the sea and the green of the hills, its Mediaeval houses, the caruggi and the stone arches, the squares and the terraces depict an authentic landscape, to cross only on foot and without hurry.

Discovered over half a century ago by Sandor Vegh, the renowned Hungarian violinist, who saw great potentiality in the characteristic concave façade of the Church of Saint John and who decided to transform the village of Cervo in the centre of the Chamber Music.

Very fresh fish is king in Cervo, matched with the very good Riviera Ligure di Ponente Vermentino DOC.

3. Noli 

In Noli we look at the history of prosperity, travels and adventures of the Maritime Republics, Italian port towns that had had independence, autonomy, and great commercial wealth since the IX century.

The most famous are Amalfi, Genoa, Pisa and Venice. However, there were other four towns that had a remarkable importance and among these there is the little village of Noli in Liguria. From its port men departed to the Holy Land during the Crusades. During Maritime Republics, alled of Genoa, used its wealth to build 72 towers, massive walls and prestigious palaces. Still visible today.

4. Seborga 

It is one of the smallest commons of our Country with 315 inhabitants. But, above all, Seborga, or better, the Principality of Seborga is the smallest state in the world, even if it is an imaginary one.

Inside the village, you can’t resist the illusion to find themselves in a tiny Mediaeval kingdom. Seborga is an old and attractive village, dating back to the X century, characterised by narrow cobblestones alleys, arches and rocky doors, that lead to the beautiful Piazza San Martino, with the Palazzo dei Monaci, where the old Seborga mint is still held. Around the half of last century, the inhabitants of Seborga claimed that after the Italian unification, made by the Savoy, the Principality of Seborga wasn’t legitimately listed among the properties of the Kingdom of Italy.

The unique history of Seborga gives this old village even more charm and magic.

5. Borgio Verezzi

One of the the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più belli d’Italia), a common between sea and hills.  We recommend you to discover Borgio Verezzi, this small Ligurian village full of charm that will amaze you with its beaches and beautiful hill walks. Visitable in all periods of the year Borgio Verezzi will conquer you with its suggestions and colors. If this is still not enough, let yourself be enchanted by its gastronomy. Don’t predict gnocchi with pesto and snails alla Verezzina.

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Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

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• charming accommodations, 
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West Liguria: the Italian Riviera of Flowers

When we say “Riviera dei Fiori” in Italy, we mean the area of ​​the West Liguria Riviera (from Genoa … to France).

A wonderful succession of villages interspersed with the lush green of nature.

The “Riviera dei Fiori” is in fact the last patch of western Liguria near France, well-known for its rather temperate climate.

Three main provinces:

• Genova
• Savona
• Imperia

GENOA

Genoa the capital of its province and Liguria.

Located on the Golfo of Genova in the Ligurian Sea, Genova has historically been one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean and it was one of Italy’s two largest maritime republics (together with Venice) that enjoyed enormous power and prestige as early as the Middle Ages.

For this reason Genova has been called la Superba (“the proud one”) by Petrarca due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks.

Today Genova is one of the most fascinating Italian cities.

Part of the old town of the city was inscribed on the World Heritage List (UNESCO) in 2006 as Genova: Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli and its richness in culture, history, art, music and cuisine allowed it to become the 2004 European Capital of Culture.

The city is a succession of enchanting walks along the coast and steep creuze (small brick roads), which climb up the hills and descend vertiginously to dive into the sea while the historic center develops in an intricate maze of alleys (caruggi) that open unexpectedly in small squares.

It’s a succession of precious treasures, corners of peace and beauty and an incredible mix of different tastes, colors, scents and cultures.

SAVONA

Between Genoa and Imperia, there is the province of Savona also called the Riviera delle Palme.

The Riviera delle Palme includes the entire Province of Savona, from Varazze and Spotorno

For over 932 square kilometers of coast, mountains and inland valleys. Here the inhabitants live a reality of the sea, green pines and olive trees.

• Finale Ligure is part of the most beautiful villages in Italy (I Borghi più belli d’Italia). It is made up of three urban centers: Finale Marina, with its splendid promenade and alleyways (winding streets and side streets), elegant shops and lively cafés; Finalpia (or Finale Pia) and a little further inland, Finalborgo.
• Pietra Ligure, on the other hand, is a small seaside town surrounded by beautiful hills and vegetation, as well as by large beaches with hospitable accommodation and holiday resorts. It is an important tourist destination, mainly for those who come from the big cities of northern Italy.
• Albenga one of the most important cities of the Riviera di Ponente with art, history and fun; but to explore the sea and its seabed we recommend an excursion to the Gallinara Island, (Regional Nature Reserve since 1989).
• Finally, do not forget Alassio, famous for its Muretto (wall) with the autographs of all the celebrities who have chosen to stay here; Il Muretto also lends its name to a local beauty contest that takes place every summer.

IMPERIA

Imperia is a coastal city. It is the capital of the Imperia province and in the earlier times it had been the capital of the ancient district of Intemelia.

The city is well known for its cultivation of olives and flowers.

The city is famous not only for its food industries but also for tourism.

Oneglia and Porto Maurizio are the main cities from which Imperia born.

The pretty, touristic side of the city is best seen around Porto Maurizio whilst Oneglia is more devoted to the production of olives and flowers.

If you approach Imperia from the west, the road following the coastline suddenly opens up to a beautiful view of a large, beautiful bay of shimmering blue water surrounded by majestic hills covered with the colorful orange buildings of the city.

Sanremo

Sanremo is It is one of the agricultural commodities in western Liguria and in particular within the Province of Imperia.

Sanremo is the “city of flowers” for excellence. Famous for its annual Italian Song Festival and for its Casino.

Sanremo is an extremely suggestive city.

It’s not simply the city of the famous Italian Song Festival, but it’s one of the most fascinating villages in the region.

La Pigna, the ancient historic center of Sanremo retains the charm of a medieval village and acts as a counterweight to the newer part of the city with the famous Casino.

A walk in La Pigna allows the most attentive tourist to discover an unpublished San Remo, made of winding alleys and stairways, arches and buttresses, secluded and silent squares.

The final Ponente Riviera municipality before the French side, is Ventimiglia. Don’t lost to visit its historic center conserves unique art treasures.

Just few chilometers to the glamorous Monte Carlo (France).

Need some inspiration for your next travel project? Choose ELT!

Whatever your ideals of a journey, just focus on the emotions you want to live.

We’ll take care of the rest.

ELT offers:

• unconventional itineraries,
• thematic tours,
• charming accommodations, 
• local flavors with the authentic taste

Our tailor-made services allow you to relax and have an exclusive luxury vacation.

ELT offers solutions for any travel need: leisure, business or blesiure tourism!

Contact Elite Luxury Tours