views, Genoa

Favorite thing: We passed through Genoa on our driving holiday through Italy. We spent only a few hours there, but it left an impression on the whole party. My father-in-law remembers have his wallet nicked in the first 5 minutes, but I remember the feel of the place.

It's a tough port town crammed full of monumental architecture from the days when Genoa was a great maritime power and a flourishing trade centre. The shabby wharf area is juxtaposed against the stately commercial district. Just wandering the streets of the city centre is very rewarding. Do keep your valuables under close surveillance though.

Favorite thing: Via Garibaldi, street of pride and luxury.
Prominent rich families had to have their homes located here. It was the mater of prestige.

Today most of those lavish houses are still homes to Genovese families, many have opened the ground floor levels and atriums for visitors to admire.

We met this couple glowing with happiness just after their wedding, walking through the streets and posing to their photographer. Congratulations!

Favorite thing: This was one of the boats I saw in the harbour of Genoa. They're so big that you stand still looking at them. I've also visited one of these cruise boats as they let you enter the boat as a visitor just before it sails away. A nice experience, waiting to have enough money to go on a real cruise!

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Favorite thing: The building on the right looks great, but if you inspect closer, it's not brick, it's painted on stone! Strange but true!