Ok, I’m going to put it out there that Genoa didn’t match up to the other places we’ve stopped on this trip. There are elements of beautiful architecture and a natural harbour, but the level of industry and the impeding of some of the best views with heavily used elevated highways means the place simply looks too cramped and busy.

The waterfront was disappointing as it’s a working dock area more so than a marina but there is construction happening so it just may turn the corner and rediscover its beauty in the future. If you scour the docks you will find a number of expensive luxury boats to drool over, if that’s your thing.

Having said that, there are hidden gems inside the city such as Piazza De Ferrari and a myriad of narrow alleyways to explore so there is still a lot to see. Plus there is the food. Traditional trofie pasta with pesto sauce hits the spot after a day walking around the city.

There are no complaints about our accommodation either. HNN Luxury Suites in “via Balbi” was a great choice so made for a comfortable night’s sleep and it was central enough to everything we wanted to see.

One thing we did find necessary to do is to look in every open door. Hidden behind the facade could be a gem. We happened upon beautiful foyers with decorative walls and ceilings.

All in all Genoa is a nice enough place, but compared to Marseille and Nice it doesn’t quite compete. Still, it’s worth a quick visit if you are in the area and keep an eye on it as there may be improvements in the future.