Genoa is a city that continues to inspire, captivate, and beguile all who visit. Nestled between the Ligurian mountains and the azure blue sea, it is one of the most fascinating, unique, and beautiful European cities.
Known worldwide as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa’s rich history is reflected in its many museums and churches.
From its maze of hilly alleyways to its monumental cobblestone squares and its kilometre-long promenade, the city is steeped in a charming blend of architectural heritage and modern eclecticism.
I have stayed in many different hotels during my countless trips to Genoa, ranging from artsy boutiques to grand heritage buildings. Here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Genoa, Italy (in no particular order)...
1. Meliá Genova – a beautiful, Insta-worthy and Art Deco boutique hotel perfect for design-loving Millennials and Gen Zs
Often dubbed the best in town, this discreet boutique hotel is a soothing contrast to the pulsating city. Its off-the-beaten-path location and luxuriant leafy surrounds make it a top-choice for celebrities.
The monumental façade shines light on the property’s heritage, and the aesthetics are brightened on the inside by plenty of Art Deco influences, which are first visible in the striking lobby area.
The hotel’s centrepiece is the Zen-like spa, which greets guests with its traditional stone walls and houses a heated pool, a moody steam room, and a modern gym. My bedroom was super classy, with contemporary furnishings cast in tones of greige, pairing elegantly with the pale parquet floors.
To book, check prices or availability for Meliá Genova
2. AC Hotel Genova by Marriott – a trendy, Instagrammable and cool hotel where guests can enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace
I thought this hotel was the perfect destinationto combine business and leisure, owing to the first-rate amenities on offer. There is plenty of space to carry out work on-site, where a sophisticated atmosphere is set.
The spacious rooms are decorated with smooth wooden hues, and come with minibars, an ergonomic workstation, and plush seating areas. The lounge bar is a relaxed space where guests can mingle with a crafted beverage in hand, and the Italian restaurant combines mouth-watering cuisine with awe-inspiring views across the hilly cityscape.
These views are especially captivating at night time when the buildings illuminate the surrounding verdant terrain.
3. Hotel De Ville – an elegant, family-friendly and spacious hotel filled with historic character and unique handcrafted décor
Dating to the dawn of the city in the Middle Ages, this historic residence has undergone many artistic and structural changes that has made it one of Genoa’s most fascinating noble residences.
Its strategic position straddling the main points of interest in the city makes it a top choice for cultural aficionados like myself – Having all the popular landmarks on my doorstep was the ultimate treat. Spread across two floors, the 17 rooms each come with unique furnishings in line with the building’s heritage, which include the period arches.
These traditional elements are however harmonized with modern touches. A few steps from the hotel lies one of my favourite Genoese restaurants, Al Sottoripa Pizza&Cucina, .
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel De Ville
4. Grand Hotel Savoia – a unique, upscale and quirky 5-star hotel where guests can experience the delicious flavours of authentic Italian cuisine
Here we have one of Genoa’s finest luxury hotels, built in 1897 and frequented by royals & celebs alike. Marble floors, Murano glass chandeliers and antique furniture adorn the property and give it a real sense of grandeur, and the panoramic rooftop terrace that overlooks the city is majestic.
I thought the common areas were incredibly stylish, and there was plenty of space to kick back on comfy sofas. The soundproofed rooms boast jaw-dropping vantage points over the piazza and beyond, and come with polished wooden floors.
The on-site Salgari restaurant is a popular Italian dining spot among the local population, while the Trattoria Tralalero is a more relaxed affair where typical Genoese cuisine is served.
5. Hotel Continental Genova – a newly renovated, spacious and contemporary hotel with hip features moments away from the ancient harbour
Overlooking Piazza Principe, Hotel Continental Genovabeckons guests to discover historical glimpses into the city. With its lavish and clean lines, the property strikes a beautiful union between the elegance of a late 19th-century building and the freshness of modern furnishings.
I was immediately allured by a warm atmosphere upon arrival to the hall, and its coloured velvet and precious marbles are truly eye-catching. By night, you can treat the tastebuds to a journey through the flavours of Ligurian cuisine, in a restaurant embellished with graceful Italian art.
All the guestrooms are equipped with individually controlled air-con, a telephone line, an LCD TV, a mini bar, and a tea & coffee maker.
6. Domus Victoria – a classic, modern and antique-style hotel within walking distance of local popular attractions
Opulent and glamorous, Domus Victoria is ornate with classy antique furniture and bespoke wall paintings which share a nod to a bygone era.
A peaceful garden terrace embellished by luxe white tables and chairs welcomes guests with exquisite views over the city’s grand towers, forming the most idyllic backdrop to your evening of cocktails. On-site you will also find a shared lounge, a restaurant, and a bar, all of which await with delicious local food and crafted beverages.
Each room provides convenience in the form of a desk, a kettle, a fridge, and a minibar, while a private terrace and a flat-screen TV enhance the essence of luxury.
7. Hotel Britannia – a hip, vibrant and pet-friendly accommodation steps away from an array of restaurants
Hotel Britannia is housed in a completely renovated historic building with a nautical theme, only a stone’s throw from Genova Principe Station.
I felt a truly communal atmosphere here, owing in part to the delightful staff presence and in part to the graceful common areas. I met some interesting people while hanging out on hammocks on the colourful plant-lined terrace, where an old fishing boat has been turned upside down and made into a seat!
After getting to know a group of friendly travellers, we embarked on a handful of memorable urban excursions together. Some stand-out features of Hotel Britannia were the 24/7 bar, the common kitchen, and the barbeque corner on the terrace.
8. Teseo Rooms & Relax – a stylish, charming and elegant B&B featuring spa and wellness facilities
Teseoinvites you to fully get to know the old city, and wake up to the scent of focaccia in the air. The hotel was born from the desire to not just create a simple B&B, but bring a brand-new hospitality concept to the heart of Genoa.
A step outside lands you within a maze of narrow alleys, lined with quaint boutiques, artisan cafés, and charming eateries. The rooms draw inspiration from Greek names that revolve around the myth of Theseus.
Mine was the Demofonte room, and its classic style favoured pastel and restful colours in shades of grey and brown.
9. Hotel Palazzo Grillo – a new, contemporary, historic and design boutique accommodation located in the heart of the Old Town
Here we have a brand-new boutique hotel which invites you to experience the sumptuousness of a Renaissance palace from Genoa’s golden age.
This 16th-century home is set on a pedestrianised, mansion-lined square in the historic heart of the city, woven into a maze of medieval alleys. It welcomes guests to an impressive blend of intimacy and ostentation, through a vaulted, museum-worthy entrance hall.
The frescoed corridors, contemporary furnishings, and noble materials gave me a real sense of sophistication here, and my cosy guestroom was embellished with period features, parquet flooring, and large windows. Meanwhile the designer sofas and art books that dot the sleek living room ooze a sense of relaxation.
10. Palazzina B – Contemporary Studio – a bright, modern and cozy accommodation well equipped for a great stay
I thoroughly enjoyed my secluded stay at this peaceful inner-city abode. Fully renovated in 2018, this modern studio is located in a quaint pedestrianised area, with the city’s most important attractions at your fingertips.
Palazzina B can accommodate up to 4 people, and is dressed in a homely boutique flair that epitomizes comfort, sophistication, and elegance. There are two large bathrooms and a laundry room, and the living space is embellished by beautiful velvet furniture, fluffy rugs, and an ambient lighting system.
The in-room kitchen is fully equipped, so you can cook up feasts to tuck into on the glass dining table.
11. Genova Suite Art – a sleek, chic and stylish accommodation in an ideal location for a memorable vacation
This classy abode is dressed head to toe in boutique-style furnishings, and an air of industrial functionality suffuses the interiors. Genova Suite Art presents a sleek new look, but there’s a certain mystique about the property.
If you look closely, you will find that many of the design features beautifully preserve its historic charm. I booked the Fresco Suite, and the vaulted ceiling was painted with frescoes dating back to the 16th-century.
The in-room decorations were fresh and modern, and the plush bed linens promoted a blissful night’s sleep. I thoroughly enjoyed the continental breakfast here – It was set in a quaint breakfast room and consisted of homemade pastries and fresh juice.
12. CORVETTO rooms – a cute, cozy and intimate accommodation perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway
This traditional property, set close to Punta Vagno Beach, is one of my favourite retreats in Genoa. The beautiful interiors, enhanced with handcrafted décor, exude the elegance of a bygone era.
During my stay, I felt like I had the roof terrace all to myself, and this was the perfect spot to gaze out across the sprawling metropolis while tucking into a delicious local lunch.
Elegant corridors lead you past exquisite artwork to the gorgeous guestrooms, each equipped with bespoke artisan décor. My room was brimming with chic sophistication and accompanied by a modern marble-clad bathroom fitted with branded toiletries.
To book, check prices or availability for CORVETTO rooms
Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Ireland, UK and the US but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting craving for culture, good food and great football. Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @scottbalaam
