Genova

Genoa (Italian: Genova) is the sixth largest city in Italy, with a population of more than 600,000 inhabitants. Genoa is also one of Europe's largest cities on the Mediterranean Sea and the largest seaport in Italy. It forms the southern corner of the Milan-Turin-Genoa industrial triangle of north-west Italy and is one of the country’s major economic centres. It has a history of a major financial centre that dates back to the Middle Ages due the Banco di San Giorgio, which was one of the oldest chartered banks in the world.

Genoa has been also nicknamed la Superba ("the Superb one") due to its glorious past and impressive landmarks. Part of the old town of Genoa was inscribed on the World Heritage List (UNESCO) in 2006. The city's rich art, music, gastronomy, architecture and history, allowed it to become the 2004's European Capital of Culture. For more information, visit the tourist office website.

How to reach Genova

The International Cristoforo Colombo Airport of Genoa offers direct flights from/to many European cities. The airport is located in Genova Sestri Ponente, only 10 km far from the centre of Genoa. Alternatively, the two airports of Milan Linate and Milan Malpensa are located at less than 3 hours by train or car from the centre of Genoa.

Genoa is well connected to the Italian railway network through the two main train stations of Genova Piazza Principe and Genova Brignole.See the Trenitalia website for the timetables.

The Ligurian Riviera

Genova is at the centre of the Ligurian Riviera. The Ligurian Riviera is famous for its particularly mild climate which, together with the charm of its old fishing ports and the beauty of its landscape, has made it a popular destination for travellers and tourists since the time of Byron and Shelley.