What to see in Genoa? 2018 Mini-guide (+ The best hostel in Genoa)

What to see in Genoa? Discover the precious artistic and cultural patrimony of the Ligurian capital! And in full Hosteslclub style, we have selected the best hostel in Genoa for you!

Suspended between a light blue sky and a dark blue sea, Genoa is without a doubt, one of the most fascinating cities of the peninsula. Dynamic and traditionalist, has so much to offer, such as the historic centre and the largest aquarium in the world... and that's without mentioning the victory of the Parco Durazzo Pallavicini as the most beautiful park in Italy in 2017!

If the wonders of Genoa overwhelm you and you don't know where to begin, we have created a super personalised classification of the places you really can't miss, reduced down to what you can see in Genoa in only a day!

• What to see in Genoa: Chapter 1, the romantic view

Photo via Instagram by @massi86

We can open our list with an essential stop for any couple of young lovers, the Spianta Castelletto. In reality, it is one of the cult places to visit in the city, a great source of pride for the locals. Situated above a small hill, it is a balcony over Genoa. Nothing obstructs your view: from the historic centre to the port, right up to the famous Lanterna and the view towards the sea.

For the athletic types: to get to the most panoramic point of the city you have to climb around 250 meters upwards, between alleys and typical Ligurian streets... but the view will be worth your efforts!

For the more relaxed: You can take the Liberty lift from Piazza Portello (0,90 c per ride) and in 2 minutes you will find yourself at the Spianata.

• What to see in Genoa: Chapter 2, The Rolli of Strada Nuova

Photo via Instagram by @_lorsen_ (From the account @Genovamorethanthis)

Genoa offers 42 wonderful historic palaces (yet more UNESCO heritage sites) one next to the other, gathered around a handful of streets in the historic centre. We're talking about the so-called 'Roll', old dwellings of the lords of the ancient Genoise Republic, a glitz of 18th-century stucco, Italian gardens, precious marbles and world-famous pieces of art.

Today the Palazzo Rosso, Bianco and Tursi guard works of art from some of the most famous European painters, from Rubes and Van Dyck to Canova, and offer breathtaking views of the city from the top floors.

Photo via Instagram by @nicoladongo

A special mention goes to the Palazzo Reale (6,00 euro entrance), the antique Genoese residence of the Savoia, as well as being one of the most beautiful museums of the city. This is reflected in the Hall of Mirrors, a triumph of gold and reflections in perfect eighteenth-century style. Before you leave, give a few moments to admire the Russer in the internal courtyard, a rare example of a Genoese cobbled mosaic floor with a Byzantine influence.

• What to see in Genoa: Chapter 3, the Genoa beach and nearby beaches

If you are suffering from the heat of the summer, or not so keen on the culture, don't worry, the beach is yours to enjoy. There are also some great beaches outside the city - head towards Levante to the small town of Bogoliasico, where you can find two lovely sandy beaches. You can also aim for Sori, Portofino and Recco to enjoy some amazing Italian beaches.

• What to see in Genoa: Chapter 4, special “Caruggi”

Photo via Instagram by @simonetta.montagna (all account @Genovamorethanthis)

If you haven't walked among the Caruggi then you haven't really seen Genoa. These are very narrow streets, the famous “Crêuza de mä” sung by De Andre, that go up and down, turn and overturn like a fisherman's net, creating a dense network of roads (around 20 km long) of little squares, tunnels, churches and houses. Getting lost in the Caruggi is the best way to see them, enjoying the surprise of finding yourself near the ancient port, and then near the mountains. All around is the smell of focaccia, pesto and fried fish.

• What to see in Genoa: Chapter 5, the largest aquarium in the world (and the cutest dolphins)

Photo via Instagram by @molinas92 (from the account @acquariodigenova)

The Aquarium of Genoa is the protagonist of the antique port area, situated in front of the Bigo and the Bisoftera, both masterpieces of Renzo Piano, and the museum of the Mediterranean del Galata. With more than 12,000 species of animals, 200 species of plants and an underwater tunnel of 15 meters, you can visit the aquarium for over 3 hours and upon 2 levels, and Genoa wins the prize of the largest Aquarium in Europe.

Amongst the most appreciated tanks are those of the seals and the penguins. but the prize for the most original tank goes to the grotto of the Moray Eels, a good 6 meters high. Another prized tank is that of the dolphins, which you can see from above and below, almost as if you are watching them from the open sea.

Entrance is from 9.00 to 20.00 (last entrance at 18.00), ticket price 26.00 euro.

And if your not tired yet, here are some more unforgettable locations.

The Cathedral of San Lorenzo: the Duomo of the city, with the 'Zebra' facade, is without a double the best example of the Genovese gothic style.

Photo via Instagram by @visitgenova

Parco Durazzo Pallavicini di Pegli: 8 hectares of park nominated as excellent in 2017. What makes it so different? The natural and architectural landscape has been created as various theatrical 'acts' making your visit a real 360° cultural and artistic experience.

Hostel in Genoa? Here is the best hostel in the city!

The Victoria House Genova represents to perfection the spirit and soul of sleeping in a hostel. Clean, in a great position, with large, bright rooms, it places its guests in a climate of familiarity and sharing that should be the heart of any experience in a hostel. In addition to the free Wifi, you will find a wonderful communal terrace to have a drink with others, Genoa in the background.

Why is the Victoria House Genova one of the best hostels in Genoa: the photos speak for themselves... don't you already feel at home? The relaxed and friendly atmosphere has definitely convinced us!

We can't finish without mentioning the Manena Hostel, the first hostel in Genova to open in the centre of the city. Strict recycling, energy and water saving policies and furniture made of recovered materials and the ingredients for this alternative hostel.