Alleys of Genoa, Italy, is a definitely impressive place, which will open your soul and the history that hides in every corner. Visit this labyrinth of narrow streets, of the lively Italian culture, its traditions, and its people. Although they are a bit old, they are more alive than ever. In these small but lovely places, there are great stories and secrets waiting for you to discover them. Live the best experience in Genoa, nothing more and nothing less than in the heart of the city.
Things to do
The Alleys (Caruggi)
These narrow streets of just over a meter, or “Caruggi” as they are locally known, are meandering mazes throughout the city. It is impossible not to get lost in them, but that is the best part. You can start your tour from Porto Antico (Old Port). Go discovering the wonders and secrets between these peculiar streets. The names of the alleys refer to the trade or work that was being carried out, such as Vico Della Rosa (Callejón de la Rosa), Vico del Ferro (Iron Alley) or Vico Dei Lavatoi (alley of the toilets).
Shops and workshops
Throughout the alleys, you can still run into some craft workshop that still retains the ancient techniques through the years. In addition, there is an immense variety of shops such as bakeries, and pizzerias. In the surroundings of the Via Sottoripa catwalk, discover a complete street of vendors of the freshest and most delicious fish in the city. The so-called Sciamaddle stores or “llamas”, due to their large wood-fired ovens and marble counters. Via Garibaldi is a good place to eat while night falls and admire its surroundings full of imposing palaces.
Porto Aquarium
Near the Porto Antico, you will find the second largest aquarium in Europe. This amazing place has a large glass dome biosphere. The aquarium receives more than 1 million tourists every year to admire the 400 species that the aquarium preserves. It has about 70 water tanks where more than 15 thousand animals are distributed. In addition, you will not only be able to see marine animals, but there are also reptiles, amphibians, and rainforest animals
How to get there
Genoa Airport (GOA), is only 10 minutes away from the city center. On the other hand, the most atmospheric way to get to Porto Antico is in the NaveBus (water bus) that connects it with the coastal suburb of Pegli, where many of the hotels are located.
When to go
Genoa has a mostly mild climate throughout the year, although winter can bring cold winds from the north.
How long
Although Genoa is a bit small, plan your visit for about 2 or 3 days so you can enjoy the only alleys and get to know some other important place in the city.
Opening and closing hours
Start your day very early in the morning to maximize your opportunities to eat and drool. Stores open every day and close at dusk. The aquarium opens Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Planning
Before arriving at your destination, book your plane tickets and ensure your stay. Although it is a small place, there are times of the year in which many tourists go. As for where to stay, there are several good hotels. Some are in the center and others on the coast. You can find them at different rates depending on the level you are looking for. You can always rent a car or bicycle, although it is best to walk in the beautiful narrow streets.
Inside information
Do not forget your sunscreen and comfortable shoes to walk the long alleys and shops of Genoa. The baked and fried foods typical of this area will be fresher at the beginning of the day. It is better to avoid narrow alleys at night if you are alone.
History
This city was, after all, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, and at its height, it was among the greatest maritime powers in history; It still has one of the two largest ports in Italy. It was destroyed by the Carthaginians and then was saved and rebuilt by the Romans. In the Italian Wars, the city was taken by Carlos I and commerce were declining. Years later, for the middle ages, with the help of Spain and its participation in the crusades, Genoa was positioning its commerce in the Mediterranean.
Websites
- www.genova-turismo.it
- www.civiltaforchetta.it/Stampa/HowtoeatinGenoa_s.html
Other nearby attractions
Milan
Just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Genoa, you can find nothing more and nothing less than the world-famous “Fashion Capital”, Milan. In addition to being a glamorous city, it also has incredible and beautiful landscapes and works of art in its buildings. You can visit one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, as is the Duomo, as well as an amazing opera house and museums. On the other hand, you can also taste its cuisine in the thousands of restaurants and bars in the city.
Florence
This is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy. It is also known as “The city of art” because she can find the best museums and art galleries. It is impossible for this city to disappoint, among the amazing views of the sunset from the Ponte Vecchio and the most incredible works of art, such as Michelangelo’s David. You can visit Florence in a day or a week, in the same way, you will always want to know more about this city.
Rome
Without a doubt, you cannot visit Italy without going through its capital, Rome. Although every city in Italy is full of history, Rome has one of the most important and impressive stories in the country. The streets of the city are soaked from several eras, each corner teaches you something different and surprising, it is impossible to get bored. Check out ancient Rome at the Colosseum, the most visited monument. In addition, you cannot miss a visit to the Pantheon and the Basilica of St. Peter.
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