Genova (Genoa)

Genoa is the capital city of Liguria and is beautifully situated in the middle of the Northwest Italian Riviera. The city has more than half a million inhabitants and is home to Italy's oldest football club, Genoa CFC. Located almost in the centre of the region, Genoa is home to a wide range of cultural attractions such as the Royal Palace and gardens in the old town, the famous Piazza de Ferrari in the city centre and a wide range of options whether you want to immerse yourself in the city's culture and history or just want to do a bit of shopping.

The port of Genoa; the old Antico Porto, is a sight in itself. It is the largest in Italy and is always bustling, the air is filled with the smell of food and there are often musical acts to entertain. Here you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views from the rotating elevator balcony, visit Europe's largest aquarium or simply stroll and take in the atmosphere.

In the beating heart of the city, Piazza de Ferrari is characterised by its large fountain, and not far from here you'll find the charming old town where perhaps the city's greatest attraction lies: the Museo di Palazzo Reale - a fantastic museum housed in an authentic and extremely well-preserved 17th-century building. There's plenty of art by some of the greats and the royal gardens are an experience in themselves.