Families rich in tradition characterised Genoa, and their palaces carry major names. These “palazzi” are still among the most visited attractions today in the capital of Liguria. Nowadays many of them are museums. Renaissance palaces worth seeing are the Palazzo Bianco, the Palazzo Rosso and the Palazzo Doria Tursi.

The Acquario di Genova near the harbour is already a beloved attraction, drawing thousands of visitors of all ages each year with its mix of entertainment, dissemination of knowledge and environmental education. In addition to the underwater world, Europe’s largest aquarium offers a hummingbird forest and biosphere, plus the nearby Galata Museum of the Sea.

The historic noble palaces on the Strade Nuove (Via Garibaldi, Via Balbi and Via Cairoli ) not only number among the world’s most interesting architectural works but since 2006 have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Start your stroll through the historic centre here, the largest and best-preserved city centre in Europe after Venice, and take a guided tour to learn more about the charms of the magnificent palazzos.

When you’re ready to take a break, let the delectable offerings of the numerous restaurants in the Old Town make your mouth water. Enjoy Liguria’s most famous dish, pesto alla genovese, made from basil, parmesan, pecorino, olive oil, garlic and pine nuts, or a still-warm piece of focaccia, a flatbread baked from flour, salt, yeast and olive oil.