Genoa is considered as the largest medieval quarter in Europe. With a wealth of churches, palaces, and museums, a fascinating aquarium, an interesting port and a historic center it is a place worth visiting.

Genoa Attractions:

• The early 13th-century San Lorenzo Cathedral has a black and white striped marble facade.
• The Aquarium of Genoa is the second largest in Europe.
• The National Gallery in the Palazzo Spinola has original furnishings from the 16th-18th centuries, frescoed ceiliings, and an excellent collection of art.
• The Civic Museum, housed in the 16th-century Palazzo Bianco, also has a great collection of paintings by Genoese and other European artists.
• The carruggi, narrow alleys, are interesting to wander around (take a map, you can get lost easily).
• Via Garibaldi and Via Balbi are good walking streets with generously decorated mansions and old palaces.
• The Renaissance and Baroque Rolli Palaces, in Genoa's center, were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2006. About 80 Rolli palaces were built in the 16th century, when Genoa was one of Italy's four great maritime republics. Many of them were restored in 2004.
• There's a walking path along the scenic spruced-up port area.

From Piazza Castello there are fabulous views of the port and city (take the public elevator).