A Foodies Paradise: A Curated Guide To Genoa
Peter Thomas
Genoa boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre famed for its narrow streets, grand architecture and culinary delights such as pesto, focaccia and tocco. An ideal base for exploring north-west Italy, this historic city offers easy access to Cinque Terre and Milan, making it a must-visit on any Italian itinerary
Where To Stay
Hotel Torre Orefici
This three-star hotel in an unassuming laneway close to Genoa’s port is ideal for a short stay. Just a five-minute walk from Palazzo Bianco and the historic town centre, Hotel Torre Orefici offers simple rooms with air conditioning and all the standard amenities. It’s not going to win any awards, but as far as price and comfort go, you could do a lot worse. $$
For more information, visit torre-orefici.hotelitalianriviera.com.
Grand Hotel Savoia
Grand Hotel Savoia is one of the oldest hotels in Italy. A stone’s throw from the main station, it retains the Belle Époque design of 100 years ago. Reminiscent of something you would see in a Wes Anderson film, the hotel features 117 rooms, three restaurants and a seasonal rooftop solarium bar. There’s even a wellness centre with Turkish baths for those needing a soak after a day of sightseeing. $$$$
For more information, visit grandhotelsavoiagenova.it.
Palazzo Durazzo
This 17th-century building was once home to the powerful Durazzo family but now operates as a luxury hotel in the heart of Genoa. Inside you’ll find 12 individually designed rooms combining traditional architecture with modern amenities. We suggest a stay in the Il Doge suite, which includes a seven-metre frescoed ceiling, walk-in rainfall shower, fully stocked bar and breathtaking sea views. $$$$
For more information, visit palazzodurazzo.com.
@palazzodurazzosuites
Hotel Astoria
Recently renovated while still keeping the historical feel of the Art Nouveau building, Hotel Astoria is for those who want to splurge. There is a raft of different rooms and suites up for grabs, each soundproofed and equipped with all the amenities you can imagine. Restaurant Giotto serves Ligurian dishes while the old-fashioned bar is perfect for a nightcap. $$$$
For more information, visit astoriagenova.it.
Where To Eat
Le RUne
Just a few steps from Plaza Portello, this multi-level restaurant uses fresh local ingredients to craft a seasonal menu showcasing the delights of the Ligurian region. The Michelin-starred eatery places an emphasis on seafood, with its desserts also highly regarded. Think grilled octopus, beef ravioli, risotto and gelato. $$$
For more details, visit ristorantelerune.it.
Gran Ristoro
If a handy snack on the go is what you’re craving, stop by Genoa institution Gran Ristoro, a small yet bountiful sandwich shop close to Palazzo De Marini. The process for ordering is easy. Choose your filling – everything from meats and cheeses to roasted peppers and sundried tomatoes – and the server will slap it together between a fresh bread roll. Pair with a nice Chianti and have yourself a tasty light lunch. $$
For more details, visit gran-ristoro.it.
@granristorocaffe
Ristorante Montallegro
Ristorante Montallegro overlooks the city and serves hands-down the best pizza in Genoa. Slinging both red and white base pizzas, Montallegro is famous for its one-metre pies that are meant to be shared by four but can be easily finished by two. Must tries include the Bufalina (buffalo mozzarella, basil, cherry tomatoes and oregano), and for non-pizza lovers, the Pansotti with walnut sauce, which is a local vegetarian pasta dish. $$$
For more details, visit ristorantemontallegro.it.
Antico Forno Della Casana
Focaccia is life in Genoa, so no trip to the northwest is complete without a visit to Antico Forno della Casana. Referred to by many as the best focaccia in Genoa, this busy shopfront offers a great selection with a range of fillings, although it’s hard to go past the traditional Focaccia Genovese, which is plain focaccia seasoned with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Bellissimo. $$
For more details, visit anticofornodellacasanagenova.myadj.it.
Where To Drink
Jalapeño
This cosy spot is a great place to stop and enjoy an aperitivo, which, for those not in the know, is like happy hour, but instead of cheap drinks, you get free snacks. Think cold meats (salami, prosciutto), cheese, mini-paninis and more. There is a solid selection of bottled beer and five taps, with plenty of local wines and friendly service to boot.
For more information, visit facebook.com/jalapeno.genova.
Cantine Di Colombo
With a wine list exceeding 3000 different labels, you’re spoiled for choice at this cosy wine bar. Natty wine enthusiasts will be all over Cantine di Colombo, with their cellar holding a range of natural wines at affordable prices. There are plenty of outside tables and an adjoining bottle shop, so you can take your favourite drop home
For more information, visit cantinedicolombo.com.
Les Rouges Cucina & Cocktails
Founded by three brothers in 2013, this cocktail bar is in the heart of Genoa’s historic centre. The food is what the Italian’s would call “deliziosa”, but it’s the cocktails that set this establishment apart from the rest. We suggest the Mi-To Barricato, which is Campari and Vermouth aged in a wooden cask. Great for a nightcap.
For more information, visit lesrouges.it.
Bocú
Grab a glass of the good stuff or a seasonal cocktail paired with a tasty selection of cured meats and cheese and watch the world go by at Bocú. The staff here organise special tasting evenings that include four glasses of vino and a shared platter as the team guides you through the story of each drop. The wine list is extensive, while tequila lovers will be all about “The Hangover” cocktail.
For more information, visit bocugenova.it.
@bocu_genova
Where To Play
Explore Old Town
The historic centre is a medieval maze of alleys known as “caruggi” that’s home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites (La Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi del Rolli), artisan workshops, bakeries, gelato stores and a range of bars and restaurants serving both local and international cuisines. Other cultural hotspots include Christopher Columbus’ House, the ancient city gate, Porta Soprana, and the Gothic architecture of the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
Visit Cinque Terre
Genoa makes the perfect base for those wishing to explore Cinque Terre – five colourful UNESCO World Heritage coastal fishing villages dotted along the coastline. Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore make up the five towns, and all are linked by train or hiking trails for the more adventurous. Each offers something different, with top-tier restaurants, pebble beaches and busy bars with views.
Nikolai Kolosov
Stroll Around Port Antico
Port Antico is one of the busiest ports in Europe and has plenty of activities for solo travellers, couples and families. Kids will get a kick out of the Aquarium of Genoa, the largest in Europe, while the Experience Museum is dedicated to the five senses. Enjoy a boat tour, take a ride on the Ferris Wheel or explore the Vascello Neptune pirate ship that was used in the film Pirates.
Day Tripping
Along with Cinque Terre, there are a plethora of day trips you can take from Genoa. Portofino is just an hour away and one of those magical places where you’ll see superyachts tied up next to fishing boats. Travel inland a few hours and explore the fashion capital, Milan or take a train to Pisa and marvel at the Torre Pendente di Pisa (Leaning Tower of Pisa).
Fer Padilla
