Overview Genoa (called Genova in Italian) is a historic city and seaport located in northern Italy. This city is well known because of the fact that Christopher Columbus was a native.
Costa Cruises in particular features many cruises departing from Genoa. Typically, cruisers use this port merely as a place to get on or off a ship; however, Genoa is a beautiful city that's worth giving a day or two of your time to, before or after a cruise.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Genoa, Italy:
Africa & Middle East
Mediterranean
Northern Europe
Transatlantic Cruises
Currency The official currency is the Euro. ATM machines are available, but make sure you use one that works with the card you're using. ATM machines will usually give you a better exchange rate than a bank or hotel. Using a credit card is a great way to avoid having to exchange currency.
Language The official language of Italy is Italian. However, you'll find a decent number of people that speak some English in the tourist areas.
Tourist Attractions
The most well known landmark in Genoa is its Medieval Gates. Other popular attractions include the Piazza del Ferrari, located in central Genoa, around which are the Opera and the Palace of the Doges. The house in which Christopher Columbus was said to have been born is also located nearby.
The Old Port, called Porto Antico, is a very popular tourist area as well. In this area is an aquarium, a museum, as well as various stores and restaurants.
Built during the 1530's, the Piazzo Bianco is one of the city center's main buildings. Within it is the Gallery of the White Palace, a wonderful art gallery.
The St. Lawrence Cathedral, known as the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo (in Italian), is the seat of the Archbishop of Genoa. This ancient building was founded during the 5th or 6th century AD! During World War II the British bombed Genoa, and one of the bombs hit the church. The site of the impact is know a popular tourist attraction.
Port Location Cruise ships dock in an industrial marine terminal nearby the Old Port; however, it's not recommended to walk there because you'd have to walk on the highway to do so...taking a taxi is a much better (and safer) option.
