Genova at a glance
Typical Food and Wine Products of Genoa
- Pesto alla Genovese: A traditional sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
- Focaccia: A flat oven-baked bread, often seasoned with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs.
- Farinata: A thin, crispy pancake made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt.
- Trenette al Pesto: Pasta served with pesto, green beans, and potatoes.
- Panissa: Fried chickpea flour dough, often served as a snack or appetizer.
- Cima alla Genovese: A traditional stuffed veal dish, usually served cold in slices.
- Corochinato: A locally produced white wine, known for its distinct flavor.
Cultural Sites to Visit in Genoa
- Aquarium of Genoa: One of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring a wide variety of marine life.
- Palazzo Ducale: A historic palace that now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
- Cathedral of San Lorenzo: The city's main cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic-Romanesque architecture.
- Via Garibaldi: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this street is lined with magnificent palaces and museums.
- Genoa Maritime Museum: Showcases the rich maritime history of Genoa.
- Galata Museo del Mare: An interactive museum dedicated to the history of navigation.
- Boccadasse: A charming old fishing village within the city, known for its picturesque views and colorful houses.
Possible Day Trips
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Portofino
- Travel time: About 1.5 hours by train and boat.
- What to see: The beautiful harbor, Castello Brown, and the Church of San Giorgio.
- How to get there: Train from Genoa to Santa Margherita Ligure, then boat to Portofino.
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Cinque Terre
- Travel time: About 1.5-2 hours by train.
- What to see: The five picturesque villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with stunning coastal views and hiking trails.
- How to get there: Train from Genoa to any of the Cinque Terre villages.
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Camogli
- Travel time: About 45 minutes by train.
- What to see: The scenic harbor, Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, and Dragonara Castle.
- How to get there: Train from Genoa to Camogli.
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Sestri Levante
- Travel time: About 1 hour by train.
- What to see: The Bay of Silence, the Bay of Fables, and the historic center.
- How to get there: Train from Genoa to Sestri Levante.
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Rapallo
- Travel time: About 30 minutes by train.
- What to see: The seaside promenade, Castello sul Mare, and the Sanctuary of Montallegro.
- How to get there: Train from Genoa to Rapallo.
Useful Tips
- Advance Booking: For excursions to popular destinations such as Cinque Terre and Portofino, it is advisable to book in advance.
- Time Available: Always check the ship's departure time to plan your activities accordingly.
- Local Transport: Use taxis, buses, or shuttle services to get around the city and its surroundings comfortably.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.