Cruises from Genoa

The city of Genoa is presently the capital of Liguria. As the birth place of the famous Christopher Columbus (1951-1506), Genoa sits on the Mediterranean Sea, just along the Gulf of Genoa. The city is beautiful to behold with an Italian port, a university town, an industrial centre and a major commercial centre. The ancient city of Genoa was founded in 218BC by Ligurians and has since developed into a major tourist destination. What many love most is its Mediterranean touch and the busy streets. Genoa resides on the southwest coast of Italy’s northern region, with its old area characterised by narrow streets, and the modern area characterised by beautiful villas and gardens.

An interesting feature of Genoa is the striking marble palaces built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Genoa used to be Italy’s principal centre of commerce and industry until Christopher Columbus caused that position to be relinquished with his discovery of alternative trade routes. Officially known as the Republic of Genoa, the city offers visitors so many things to do and see. Residents of Genoa proudly call their republic ‘Republica Superba’ otherwise known as Proud Republic. Holidaymakers will find numerous excellent restaurants and shops to explore in Genoa.

Amazing sites can be found in the old part of the city; such sites include squares, old palazzos, tiny lanes, monuments and museums, etc.

Among the fun things to enjoy is Genoa’s festival called the Regatta Storica, which is a celebration among locals and crews from its medieval maritime cities of Venice, Amalfi and Pisa. The competition is an old tradition of Genoa where its winner hosts the next event. Holidaymakers that travel to Genoa in June are afforded the opportunity of witnessing this great festival. Another of Genoa’s festivals is the International Ballet Festival, when a string of performers converge from all over the world to entertain. The fine gardens of the Villa Gropallo play host to a large crowd of people that visit to witness the occasion. The Villa Gropallo is in Nervi, a beautiful resort with attractive grasses and plants as well as a lively seaside promenade. These are just two of several festivals that are held at different locations within the city.

Getting around Genoa does not constitute many problems as the Genovese are always more than willing to lend a helping hand. Many locals choose to move around on foot, which is not a bad idea owing to the city’s narrow/small streets.

However, it’s advisable to get a copy of the city’s navigational information from the tourist office to ease your getting around. This navigational help will enable you to find your way to the Genoa market place in search of olives, fresh fruit and herbs, among your other needs. The market opens on Mondays through to Saturdays (7 a.m. – 1 p.m. & 3:30 – 7:30 p.m.).

Cruise liners enter pass through Genoa en-route to Portofino and the Italian Riviera. Many visit San Lorenzo while others prefer Acquario di Genova (Aquarium of Genoa), which is breathtaking. Wherever you decide to make your preferred holiday spot, be sure to enjoy every moment of your stay in Genoa.