Genoa: Palaces, Shipping and City History

Genoa: History, Shipping and the Sea

Genoa offers a range of interests for travellers: urban development and architecture, shipping, historical walks, harbour and sea views, and local food culture. If you are looking for a hotel in Genoa, this variety can help with your planning: first consider which subjects are of particular interest to you during your stay. The sites differ both in their historical periods and in how they bring history, culture or landscape to life.

Strade Nuove, Palazzi dei Rolli and San Lorenzo

The Strade Nuove and the system of Palazzi dei Rolli in the historic centre date from the late 16th and early 17th centuries. They represent Europe’s first example of an urban development project parcelled out by a public authority within a unified framework. The focus is therefore not only on the architecture of individual palaces, but also on the layout of an urban planning project. Via Garibaldi forms the centre of this UNESCO World Heritage ensemble. Visitors interested in architecture can therefore consider the buildings, the historical period and the distinctive planning approach together.

A much older point of reference is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo: it was built around 1098 on the site of an earlier basilica dating from the 5th or 6th century. Compared with the much later UNESCO ensemble, it offers a different historical perspective. Those who want to get to know Genoa through its architectural history can distinguish the earlier basilica, the construction of the cathedral and the period when the Strade Nuove were created.

Maritime Museum and Submarine

The Galata Museo del Mare is the largest maritime museum in the Mediterranean. There, you can explore the interior of the submarine Nazario Sauro S 518. The maritime focus therefore ranges from the museum as a whole to the specific interior of a named submarine. Those who choose shipping as a central travel theme will find both a museum setting and a hands-on exploration experience here.

Staglieno: History and Guided Walks

The Cimitero Monumentale di Staglieno was officially opened to the public on 1 January 1851. The cemetery offers guided tours and themed walks. This allows you to distinguish between two aspects of the site: the date is part of its history, while guided tours and themed walks describe possible ways to visit. If you would like to include a guided or themed walk in your travel plans, Staglieno offers both options.

Castello D’Albertis: Former Home and Harbour Views

The Castello D’Albertis Museo delle Culture del Mondo combines a former home with views of the harbour. Visitors can enter the former home of Captain Enrico Alberto D’Albertis. From Montegalletto Hill, the Castello overlooks the Port of Genoa. These features make the site appealing to travellers who want to focus on both the historic home and the harbour views during their visit.

Nervi and Genoa’s Food Culture

For sea views, there is the Anita Garibaldi promenade in Nervi: a two-kilometre terrace overlooking the sea. Its length gives the site a tangible dimension, while the view defines its character. Genoa also has a culinary side: the old “sciamadde” are traditional food shops associated with street food. In this way, landscape and food culture complement the city’s architectural and maritime themes.

Find a Hotel in Genoa to Match Your Interests

When looking for a hotel in Genoa, it can help to decide first what you want to focus on during your stay. The sights offer a range of interests; you can then compare specific hotel offers based on the details that matter for your trip.

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