Hotels in Genoa

Still wondering what to do in Genoa? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Genoa and book your hotel today!

Genoa, a historic port city on the Ligurian Sea, offers a deep dive into Italy's maritime past. This significant trade hub, once a powerful republic, is often recognised for its intricate network of caruggi – narrow alleyways that twist through the old town, revealing hidden squares and ancient palazzi. It's the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and home to one of Europe's largest aquariums, drawing many to its waterfront.

Beyond its naval heritage, the city boasts impressive architecture, including the grand Rolli Palaces, a collection of aristocratic residences designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the imposing San Lorenzo Cathedral, with its striking striped façade, or wander through the Old Port area, which has undergone extensive regeneration. The local cuisine, particularly pesto and focaccia, reflects the region's strong culinary traditions.

When planning your stay in Genoa, the Old Port area is often the most practical choice for accommodation. It’s well-connected and offers a good balance of historical interest and amenities.

For those who appreciate history and being at the heart of the city, the Centro Storico (Historic Centre) provides numerous boutique hotels and guesthouses housed in ancient palazzi. This labyrinthine area, with its narrow *caruggi* (alleys), is home to the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Palazzo Ducale. You'll find many traditional trattorias here serving Ligurian specialities like pesto, and it’s a short walk to the Aquarium of Genoa and the Galata Museo del Mare at the Old Port.

Alternatively, the area around Via Garibaldi and the Strada Nuova Museums offers more upscale hotel options, often within magnificent UNESCO-listed palaces. This district provides a sense of grandeur and direct access to significant art collections. It's a quieter, more refined part of the city, yet still conveniently close to the main attractions and the De Ferrari square, a key cultural hub.

Further east, beyond the Old Port, the Foce district presents a different feel, with more modern hotels and a promenade along the sea. While a little further from the very centre, it offers a refreshing change of pace and good transport links back into town. It's also closer to the exhibition centre and offers views out towards the harbour.

Genoa’s public transport, including buses and the metro, is efficient, making it easy to navigate the city regardless of your chosen district. The main train station, Genova Piazza Principe, is centrally located and provides connections to regional and national services. For air travel, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is a short bus or taxi ride away, with the Volabus offering direct links to the city centre and the main train stations, making hotel location choices straightforward for arrival and departure.

When planning your stay in Genoa, consider travelling outside the peak tourist times to find better value on accommodation. Hotel prices are typically higher from June to August and during major events like the Salone Nautico (Genoa Boat Show), which usually takes place in September. For more affordable rates, look to book during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October, excluding the boat show period. Even better, visiting in the off-season, particularly from November to March, can yield significant savings, as demand is lower and many hotels offer competitive deals.

Another way to manage costs is to explore accommodation options slightly away from the historic centre or the Porto Antico, as hotels there often command a premium. Areas just a short bus or metro ride away can offer equally comfortable stays for less. Additionally, booking well in advance, especially if your travel dates coincide with public holidays or local festivals, helps secure better prices before they rise.