Genova - Help!

Genova has a number of beautiful palazzi, remnants of the days when it was a leading maritime city, ruled by powerful merchant families. Some are open for visits. We saw the Palazzo Reale. Cultural exhibits are held in the Palazzo Ducale. The cathedral is also worth visiting. There is a redeveloped waterfront with an aquarium. You might consider devoting one of your days to an excursion to Camogli or Portofino. Better yet, why don't you stay in one of the small towns close to Genova, e.g, Sta Margherita? You can get to some of the places by boat or take the train into Genova. I would check to see if Cadogan or the Touring Club of Italy publishes a guide for that area. Both have very detailed information and reliable restaurant and lodging recommendations.

There is an aquarium there. I've never been, but I have friends who say that it is great.

Christopher Columbus' childhood home is there, and his (a replica?) ship.

Genova is worth seeing, the historic center and taking a walk along the lungomare. I've been to the aquarium, but don't know if this is something you need to take time out for in Italy. The nearby towns are also worth seeing, Nervi, and Camogli especially where you can take the ferry to several neat spots, including the monastery of San Fruttoso, the view from there has to be one of the most beautiful things that I have ever seen in Italy. You don't say when you are going, but if it is warm there are also beaches and the sea there is beautiful. Can't help you with lodging, I've always gone and come back in one day.

We really enjoyed Genoa. Stayed at the Hotel Cairoli. We liked taking the funicular "up the hill" and getting the views from the top. Also loved Camogli.