Why Genoa, Italy Should Be Your Last Minute Summer Holiday Destination
[Image: Hanciong]
Universally, summer is most people’s favourite time of year. It’s the season where most people venture off to a well-deserved holiday to recharge their batteries and soak up some sunshine. Sadly, though, September is just around the corner in a few weeks’ time and we will be forced to embrace the beginning of the autumnal equinox. The days will become greyer, colder, and shorter. So before all that happens, why not treat yourself to a last minute mini-holiday? But where? Well, how about the Italian Riviera, specifically Genoa?
Besides being the birthplace of the great explorer Christopher Columbus, this Italian port city features a variety of cultural attractions that will intrigue any keen traveller. From seaside culinary delights to stunning harbour sceneries, Genoa has just as much to offer as the likes of Venice, Rome and Milan.
Therefore, here are some simple recommendations on what to see, do and eat at this historical port city and why it should be your last minute summer holiday destination.
The Porto Antico
[Image: ristorantecaffedeimusei]
With an array of sail boats and cruise ships docked by the shore, one can’t help but to be enchanted by the nautical charms of the Old Port of Genoa otherwise known as Porto Antico.
With a long history of being Italy’s major seaport, the area has also been converted into a vibrant tourist hot-spot. Exciting attractions include the aquarium Acquario di Genova and the octopus-looking architectural centrepiece next to the outdoor concert venue Piazza Delle Feste.
Boccadasse
[Image:Fotoscatti]
Just outside of the city centre lies the humble fishing village of Boccadasse. For those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of overcrowded touristy areas, the village offers a sense of peaceful tranquillity courtesy of the picturesque view of the colourful houses resting on the shores of a secluded pebbly beach.
Boat tour
[Image: liguriaviamare]
If you wish to explore the city by sea, hop on a commercial harbour boat tour and witness stunning views of the city framed around colourful Italian buildings resting on the slopes of the Apennine Mountains. For marine mammal lovers, other sea excursions include being able to go whale and dolphin watching.
Old Town
[Image: Visitgenoa]
Whilst exploring Genoa’s Old Town district, be prepared to wander through the labyrinth-like Caruggi alleyways. There, you will discover various hidden gems such as fashionable boutiques, miscellaneous shops, delis, restaurants and cafes inside the very heart and soul of the city.
Rossopromodoro
[Image: Portoantico]
Rossopromodoro is an authentic Neapolitan restaurant chain with various international outlets including Italy, the UK, Saudi Arabia and Japan. Its Genoa location overlooking the port along the Magazzine Del Cotone makes it the perfect dinner location. Guests can indulge in a fine selection of fresh seafood and oven-fresh pizzas whilst witnessing a spectacular sunser
Douce Patisserie Cafe
[Image: Caffedelbar]
This humble yet vibrant café is located on Piazza Giacomo Matteotti right next to the San Lorenzo cathedral. Douce offers a fine range of homemade desserts that any sweet tooth would find hard to resist.
A nicely added touch is the feel-good and potentially romantic ambiance created by local street musicians performing at the area.
And there you have it, a guide to the ancient Italian port city. Grazie mille!
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