Genoa

About

Dating back to at least the ancient Etruscan civilization Genoa has been a port city since its conception. A medieval maritime powerhouse, the city remains Italy’s largest and busiest port, but behind that layer of industry is one of Italy’s most grandiose cities. The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa’s Old Town is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Renaissance and Baroque palaces lining its 16th and 17th century ‘new streets’. Of the 100 or so palaces in the city, many are open to visitors with the Palazzo Reale taking the cake for decadence. Still containing many of its original furnishings and art, this 17th century looker even has its own version of the Hall of Mirrors. Along with having one of the largest historic centers in Europe, Genoa boasts a slew of world-class museums, and the largest aquarium on the Mediterranean. And, of course, you’d be remiss not to indulge in the local cuisine, which is hands down some of the best in the country.