Genoa, with its winding streets and immense port, is famous for its maritime history and vibrant culture. This city, also known as La Superba due to its glorious past and landmarks, is perched on the Italian Riviera‘s coastline. Genoa’s story is long and full of important events, including being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Its fame also comes from its historical center—one of Europe’s biggest old towns. If you’re curious about the best areas to stay in Genoa, this guide is for you.
The city’s historical context is like a trip through time. History feels alive here, from the grandeur of the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the ancient paths leading to the Old Port area. Genoa’s tourist industry is significant enough to support many hotels, from family-run guesthouses in historic buildings to luxury rooms overlooking the harbor.
Other attractions in Genoa include the Aquarium, one of Europe’s largest, which offers a deep dive into marine life. Meanwhile, Via Garibaldi is lined with magnificent palaces and art galleries. The Genoa Botanical Garden showcases lush plants and is a peaceful escape from city life. And don’t miss a visit to Lanterna, the old lighthouse and symbol of the city.
While Genoa functions as an important economic hub thanks to its busy port, it also retains a relaxed atmosphere by day that transitions into lively nightlife as dusk falls. The city’s music scene is thriving, with many venues for live performances, as well as dozens of bars, trattorias, and restaurants.
We encourage you to keep reading this post to understand more about Genoa’s various districts and decide the ideal place to stay based on my visits to the city. Whether you come for work or play, each corner of this storied seaside metropolis offers something special.
Accommodation Options in Genoa, Liguria
The Best Areas to Stay in Genoa: A Summary
If you don’t have the time or the patience to read this whole article, here is a quick summary of our recommended areas to stay in Genoa. Keep reading to find out more information about each of these districts.
- Best area for sightseeing: Centro Storico
- Best area for business travelers: Brignole
- Best location for nightlife: Porto Antico
- Best location for families: Nervi | Porto Antico
- Best-connected area in Genoa: Piazza Principe
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Genoa, Italy?
The best area to stay in Genoa is Centro Storico. Genoa’s historical center is charming, with labyrinthine alleys and impressive landmarks like the San Lorenzo Cathedral. Here, you can enjoy traditional Genoese pesto in quaint trattorias. Its central location gives you access to museums and the famous Porto Antico. The area is vibrant at night when the ancient buildings are lit, and street performers fill the squares with music.
Find available accommodation in Genoa’s Centro Storico.
Best Hotels in Genoa Centro Storico
- Best five-star hotel: Hotel Bristol Palace
- Best four-star hotel: Hotel De Ville
- Best three-star hotel: HNN Luxury Suites
- Best budget hotel: Hotel Twenty Nine
- Best B&B: Palazzo Cicala
Where to Stay in Genoa, Italy
- Nestled within a labyrinth of narrow alleyways known as ‘carrugi,’ the Genoa Historical Center is home to medieval architecture and Renaissance art. Staying here means being steps away from historical landmarks such as the opulent San Lorenzo Cathedral and the Doge’s Palace.
- Porto Antico is an ideal place to stay to soak in the scenic waterfront views. It is near attractions like the Aquarium of Genoa, the largest in Italy.
- Nervi offers a pleasant respite with its picturesque parks and stunning sea cliffs for those seeking a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle. Located to the east of central Genoa, Nervi is well-connected by train.
- Piazza Principe is an important hub in Genoa with convenient access to the city’s main train station.
- Brignole is a great area for business travelers and is home to the city’s secondary transport hub, facilitating access to the rest of Genoa and other cities.
The Best Areas to Stay in Genoa, Liguria
1. Centro Storico: Best Location for Sightseeing, Culture & History
Staying in Genoa’s Historical Center means immersing yourself in the heart of Ligurian culture and history.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Genoa:
- Rich history
- Stunning architecture
- Abundance of cultural landmarks
- Charming narrow streets
- Local atmosphere
- Spectacular views of the city
- Proximity to the waterfront
- Vibrant nightlife
- Delicious local cuisine
- Easy access to public transportation
- World-class museums
- Genoa Cathedral
- Palazzo Ducale
Genoa’s Centro Storico is, as its name implies, the historic heart of the Italian city. This area showcases Genoa’s long-standing maritime republic legacy, with a history that extends back to the Middle Ages. The district spans several kilometers and is noted by its network of narrow streets and alleys called ‘caruggi.’
Centro Storico is home to many noteworthy historical sites. The San Lorenzo Cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a primary example of Genoa’s grandeur. Similarly, Piazza De Ferrari is known for its iconic bronze fountain and surrounding buildings, including the Teatro Carlo Felice, Palazzo della Borsa, and the Ligurian Academy of Fine Arts.
The Palazzi dei Rolli on Via Garibaldi form part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. These elegant Renaissance and Baroque palaces once hosted notable guests during state visits. Additionally, several art galleries offer insights into Italian and European art movements.
At night, Centro Storico transforms into a hub of bars and live music venues. Wine bars on Vico della Scienza offer visitors a taste of regional wines paired with local specialties.
Due to its narrow streets, walking is the best way to get around Centro Storico. Nonetheless, Genoa’s main railway station, Piazza Principe, located near the district’s border, provides rail services to regional destinations, including La Spezia, Cinque Terre, and Savona.
The Metro system also serves Centro Storico at Darsena, Sarzano/Sant’Agostino, San Giorgio, and De Ferrari stations, linking it with other city areas. Additionally, various funicular railways, such as the Zecca–Righi funicular, offer a fun and panoramic way to get to the hilly parts of Genoa.
The accommodation options here range from historic converted palaces to modest hotels.
Best Hotels in Centro Storico, Genoa
Hotel Bristol Palace
The Bristol Palace features an impressive elliptical staircase leading to its elegant rooms. This historic building is in central Genoa, a 2-minute walk from Piazza De Ferrari.
Hotel De Ville
Located in Genoa, the Aquarium of Genoa is a 3-minute walk away. Hotel De Ville offers express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a bar, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a shared lounge.
HNN Luxury Suites
Located in Genoa, HNN Luxury Suites features views of the city. Featuring a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The accommodations feature room service, a concierge service, and ticket service for guests.
Hotel Twenty Nine
Located in Genoa, Hotel Twenty Nine offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and express check-in and check-out. The accommodations also offer room service, a concierge service, and ticket service.
Palazzo Cicala
Offering spacious rooms in a 17th-century building, Palazzo Cicala is in front of San Lorenzo Cathedral, at the heart of Genova.
2. Porto Antico: Great Area for Sightseeing and Food
Located adjacent to the historic center, Genoa’s Porto Antico has transformed from an ancient port into a modern cultural hub.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Genoa:
- Central location
- Rich history
- Proximity to the harbor
- Accessible public transportation
- Aquarium of Genoa
- Royal Palace Museum
- Variety of restaurants
- Nearby shopping centers
- Galata Maritime Museum
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Beautiful waterfront views
Porto Antico, the ancient port of Genoa, bridges old maritime traditions and the contemporary developments that have revitalized the city’s waterfront.
The redevelopment of Porto Antico, spearheaded by renowned architect Renzo Piano, took place ahead of Columbus’ 500th-anniversary celebrations in 1992. Today, the area is a focal point for cultural activities in Genoa.
Among the area’s noteworthy attractions is the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe, which offers visitors insights into diverse aquatic ecosystems. Adjacent to it is the Biosfera, a glass sphere housing tropical flora and fauna. Additionally, Porto Antico houses Museo Luzzati at Porta Siberia, which hosts exhibitions on art and design.
The Galata Museo del Mare, Italy’s largest maritime museum, focuses on the city’s seafaring history. Nearby, the Bigo Elevator provides panoramic views across the cityscape and ocean.
Porto Antico is the city’s main recreational area. It’s filled with cinemas, shops, and spaces for exhibitions and conferences. After sundown, the area comes to life with its many bars and restaurants offering seafood and Italian delicacies.
Public transportation makes Porto Antico accessible via metro stations such as San Giorgio or Darsena and several bus lines.
Best Hotels in Porto Antico, Genoa
NH Collection Genova Marina
The NH Collection Genova Marina is steps away from Genoa Aquarium and near the Maritime Museum and offers free WiFi and a modern fitness area. It is in the old harbor, 5 minutes’ walk from the center.
3. Nervi: A Quiet Neighborhood with Breathtaking Views
Nervi is a great neighborhood to stay in Genoa thanks to its combination of natural beauty, accessible transportation, and varied accommodations
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Why is this the best area to stay in Genoa:
- Coastal beauty and seaside charm
- Great local restaurants
- Easy access to public transport
- Lively local markets and shops
- Scenic parks and hiking opportunities
Nervi is a picturesque area located in Genoa’s southeastern periphery. Its position along the Ligurian coast offers a serene coastal setting away from the busy center. Historically, Nervi was a fishing village before becoming part of the city, and it retains much of its original charm.
What makes Nervi a great district to stay in Genoa is its maritime landscape, including a picturesque harbor. The Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, named after the wife of Giuseppe Garibaldi, is a lovely promenade extending along the sea cliffs. It offers scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
This walkway attracts those who appreciate coastal panoramas and leads to key attractions like the Nervi Parks, an amalgamation of several villas’ gardens opened to the public, which covers an area of approximately 92,000 square meters.
Cultural attractions in the area include Museo Giannettino Luxoro, housed in a villa dating back to the late nineteenth century and specializing in decorative arts. Several restaurants in the area offer local Ligurian cuisine with sea vistas.
Regarding transportation, Nervi has a railway station on the Genoa – La Spezia line. This makes it accessible for those exploring the Ligurian coast by train. Additionally, public bus services connect Nervi with Genoa’s city center and other coastal towns.
Best Hotels in Nervi, Genoa
Capitolo Riviera
Located in Genoa and with Spiaggia Capolungo reachable within a 14-minute walk, Capitolo Riviera provides concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, and free WiFi.
Hotel Esperia
This property is a 2-minute walk from the sea and Nervi’s historical parks. It features air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and free on-site parking.
Locanda Villa Moderna
The family-run Locanda Villa Moderna offers elegant, antique-style rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. It is in the coastal town of Nervi, just a 15-minute drive from central Genoa.
4. Piazza Principe: Best-Connected Area in Genoa
Piazza del Principe is home to the main railway hub in Genoa.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Genoa:
- Central location
- Genoa Piazza Principe railway station
- Wide range of accommodation options
- Historic architecture
- Easy access to public transportation
Piazza del Principe is Genoa’s main railway station. It offers a strategic location to explore Genoa and its surroundings.
The area draws its name from the Palazzo del Principe, a historical building commissioned in the early 16th century by Andrea Doria, a notable Genoese statesman and condottiero. It is surrounded by extensive gardens and has exquisite interiors adorned with frescoes and artworks from prominent artists of the period.
Other attractions within this area include the Royal Palace Museum, which houses an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts. Furthermore, this district is within walking distance of some of Genoa’s key attractions, like Via Balbi and the UNESCO-listed Via Garibaldi, famous for its opulent palaces.
Piazza del Principe also serves as a transport. Piazza Principe railway station, Genoa’s main station, operates numerous regional and long-distance trains, including high-speed services to Milan, Turin, Rome, and beyond.
In addition to train services, Piazza del Principe is well-connected through public transport options, including buses and taxi services.
Best Hotels in Piazza Principe, Genoa
Hotel Continental Genova
Located opposite Genova Principe Train Station, the Continental is a restored Art Nouveau hotel overlooking the city. It offers elegant rooms with parquet floors, free WiFi, and a large breakfast buffet.
Hotel La Superba
Hotel La Superba is located in the center of Genoa and offers a view of the beautiful Piazza del Principe. It is also near the cruise ship and ferry harbor at the Ponte dei Mille. The rooms come with elegant parquet floors.
Hotel Nuovo Nord
Nuovo Nord is an affordable hotel enjoying a wonderfully central location in Genoa’s historic center. Set steps away from the train station, everything is just walking distance away.
5. Genova Brignole: Best Location for Business Travelers
Genova Brignole is known for its concentration of financial institutions and as one of the city’s transportation hubs.
Genova Brignole is another important transportation hub in Genoa.
Located east of Genoa’s city center, this station serves as a critical junction on the Genoa–Pisa railway, which connects Genoa to major cities, including Rome, Milan, and Turin. The current building was constructed in 1905, though the station itself was initially inaugurated in 1868.
The Brignole area is Genoa’s financial hub, concentrating many of the city’s office buildings and high-rises.
Attractions near Brignole include cultural institutions such as the Museum of Natural History Giacomo Doria. Meanwhile, the Villa Croce Museum of Contemporary Art showcases modern pieces in an elegant villa. Nearby, Piazza della Vittoria is an urban square crowned by a lovely archway. Moreover, the Teatro Nazionale di Genova is an important stage for theatrical productions.
Genova Brignole station offers departures to regional destinations such as Ventimiglia and La Spezia, making it a great place to base yourself if you plan to visit Cinque Terre. Long-distance trains on this line include services to destinations like Rome, Milan, and Naples, and even night trains to Sicily.
Best Hotels near Genova Brignole
Best Western Hotel Moderno Verdi
Steps away from Genoa Brignole Train Station, the elegant 4-star Best Western Hotel Moderno Verdi offers stylish interiors in an Art Nouveau building. A generous breakfast buffet is served every morning.
Hotel Brignole
This 3-star hotel is a 3-minute walk from Genova Brignole Train and Metro Station. It offers air-conditioned rooms with an LCD TV and a free wired internet connection. Piazza De Ferrari Square is a 12-minute walk away.
Hotel Fiume
Genoa’s Hotel Fiume is a 3-minute walk from Genova Brignole Train Station and a 15-minute walk from the historic center and the Aquarium.
6. Pegli: Quiet and Upscale Area to Stay in Genoa
Pegli is known for its historical villas and Italian Riviera beaches.
Pegli is a residential district located approximately 11 kilometers (about 6.8 miles) from the city center Facing the Ligurian Sea and backed by the hills of the Polcevera Valley, Pegli offers a tranquil seaside atmosphere not far from the city. Originally an independent town, Pegli was annexed to Genoa in 1926 and has maintained much of its distinct character.
Historical records trace Pegli to Roman times. Since the Renaissance, it has been a coveted location for the Genoese aristocracy to build their villas. A notable one is Villa Durazzo-Pallavicini, a 19th-century estate with an extensive botanical garden and museum.
The district also offers access to the historic promenade of Passeggiata di Corso Italia, which connects Pegli to Genoa’s center. Additionally, the Naval Museum (Museo Navale di Pegli) provides insight into maritime history and traditions.
Pegli is home to scenic public parks and beaches. There are also traditional Ligurian restaurants and gelaterias.
Transport links between Pegli and other parts of Genoa include train services from Pegli railway station and numerous bus lines. The AMT bus service provides regular connections, including routes along the scenic coast road.
Best Hotels in Pegli, Genoa
Hotel Mediterranee
Hotel Mediterranee is an 18th-century seafront building in the Pegli area of Genoa.
Where to Stay in Genoa: A Personal Take
Recently, I had the chance to travel to Genoa as a part of a northwestern Italy route. I decided to stay at the NH Collection Genova Marina, which was a wise decision. The hotel was right by the water, providing stunning views of the marina. Its location was perfect for exploring the city on foot. The rooms were modern and comfortable, with all the amenities you’d expect.
Genoa’s Centro Storico is filled with narrow alleyways that open into small squares, each telling a different story. Meanwhile, Porto Antico is an area that has been revitalized into a cultural hub with museums alongside bars and restaurants.
I recommend staying in these areas for those wanting to explore Genoa. That said, next time I’m in town, I plan to stay in other parts of the Italian Riviera, like Nervi or Pegli. Both areas have their charm and offer a different perspective on Ligurian life.
Staying in Genoa: Useful Information for Your Visit
Getting to Genoa is easy with its Christopher Columbus Airport, just a short bus or taxi ride from the city. Train travel is also a good option – the main station, Genova Piazza Principe, connects to various Italian cities.
Genoa is a large city that extends along the coast and up the hills, making some parts steep. The city center is manageable on foot. Public transportation consists of one metro line, buses, and a few lines of funiculars. Piazza Principe and Brignole stations are central railway hubs.
Don’t miss out on local dishes like pesto alla Genovese and focaccia.
The climate here sees mild winters with temperatures around 10°C but can drop at night. Summers are warm; expect around 25°C and can get humid. Spring and fall are pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C.
Make sure to see the Aquarium of Genoa. It’s a top attraction here, and there is much to learn about marine life. Don’t forget the Palazzo Reale, the picturesque harbor area (Porto Antico), and Via Garibaldi, lined with impressive palaces.
For your stay, consider the Porto Antico area; it’s close to major sights and the waterfront. For quieter options, look at Nervi or Pegli, which have relaxed atmospheres and good connections back into town.
If you’re saving money, stay in budget hotels or hostels further from the center—public transport will still make your sightseeing easy. When looking for a place to stay, checking reviews online usually helps you find good-quality rooms within your budget. Early booking often works best for prices.
