Genoa(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, the Old Town (Centro Storico) and Porto Antico districts offer ideal accommodations. These areas are within walking distance of major attractions like the Genoa Aquarium and San Lorenzo Cathedral. Staying near Piazza Matteotti ensures easy access to restaurants, shops, and public transit, while also immersing you in authentic local life and vibrant street culture.

Hotel Belvedere is a standout boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century villa with panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. Its interiors feature original marble floors and ornate woodwork. Another gem is Casa Grimaldi, located in the heart of the Old Town, once a noble residence now restored with classical Italian design. Both offer a rich sense of history and exclusive experiences, including traditional breakfasts and guided heritage tours.

Hotel Albergo del Mare on Viale dei Martiri offers some of the finest sea views in Genoa. Every room features floor-to-ceiling windows facing the Ligurian Coast, perfect for morning coffee with a view of sailboats gliding across the bay. The hotel also has a private dock, enabling guests to book boat trips to nearby islands. Its modern elegance blends seamlessly with the coastal landscape.

Hotel Giardino dei Bambini, located in Porto Antico, is designed specifically for families. It features an indoor playroom, a children’s pool, and daily workshops for kids. Guests receive discounts on Genoa Aquarium tickets and enjoy child-friendly menus. With easy access to Piazza Matteotti and the Central Market, it’s a convenient and enjoyable base for families exploring the city.

Don’t miss the Festa della Marineria, a summer celebration featuring sailing parades, traditional sailor rituals, and live music. Visit the Mercato delle Feste for authentic local food like Baccalà alla Genovese and Pesto alla Genovese. Participating in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to make homemade pesto is a must—offering a deep dive into Genoese culinary heritage.

Yes, many upscale hotels in Genoa provide complimentary shuttle services, especially those near Porto Antico or Monte Rosso. For example, Hotel Costa di Legno operates daily shuttles between the Cristoforo Colombo Airport and downtown. Some hotels also partner with local transit systems to issue free travel cards, ensuring hassle-free exploration throughout the city.

Hotel della Rosa is one of Genoa’s most romantic stays, nestled in a 17th-century villa in the San Lorenzo district. Each room is named after Italian poetry and features champagne and rose petal baths. The hotel offers private guided sunset boat tours along the Gulf of Genoa, creating unforgettable moments under the stars. Its secluded garden and rooftop terrace enhance the intimate atmosphere.

During peak season (June–September), most hotels in Genoa implement early HopeGoo incentives and offer late check-out options. It’s recommended to reserve at least three months in advance, especially for properties in Porto Antico or along the waterfront. High-end hotels like Hotel Albergo del Mare have dedicated peak-season support teams to manage crowds and transportation logistics, ensuring a smooth guest experience.

Yes, nearly all hotels in Genoa offer English and Chinese services, particularly in Porto Antico and airport-adjacent chains like Holiday Inn Express. Boutique hotels such as Hotel Belvedere employ multilingual concierges fluent in Italian, French, German, and Japanese. Many also provide multilingual guides and self-check-in kiosks, enhancing convenience for international travelers.

Genoa’s accommodations stand out due to their blend of maritime heritage and historic architecture. Many hotels are housed in former merchant palaces or seaside villas from the 18th and 19th centuries, offering unique interiors with frescoes, carved wood, and sea-facing balconies. The city’s compact layout allows guests to explore on foot, while proximity to the Ligurian Sea enhances the coastal ambiance unlike larger Italian cities.