Italy. Genoa

  After our time in Santa Margherita Ligure, we took a train to the charming town of Bogliasco, where we chose to stay for the night. Our decision was driven by a desire to explore lesser-known, non-touristic destinations. The following morning, we continued our journey by train to Genoa...
 Walking from Bogliasco train station to the campsite, we strolled through the town's main streets, immersing ourselves in its natural beauty...






  We liked the very cozy atmosphere of Bogliasco, and despite a very eventful day, after setting up our tent at the campsite, we couldn't resist returning to the city center to enjoy the stunning coastline once more...


  Finding a very cozy local restaurant, we visited it to enjoy pizza with local homemade wine...
  Celebrating the beautiful day we spent in Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Bogliasco...
  Next day began in Bogliasco, where we woke up in our hillside campsite. After enjoying a leisurely morning admiring the coastal views, we explored the picturesque streets of Bogliasco...



  We then ventured to Genoa by train, and the first place we visited was Boccadasse Beach. It is a charming seaside, renowned for its picturesque beach and colorful buildings that line the waterfront. 
  The neighborhood retains its historic charm with narrow, winding alleyways and quaint fishing village ambiance. It's a place where local fishermen still bring in their daily catch and repair their nets by the shore...




  Here, we visited a café to enjoy Italian espresso, savoring the authentic flavors amidst the charming ambiance of Boccadasse...
  After enjoying our time in Boccadasse, we ventured to the Piazza De Ferrari, the main square and arguably the heart of Genoa...


  We visited the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo (Cathedral of Saint Lawrence), founded in the 12th century.  The cathedral's exterior captivated us with its Romanesque-Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and a majestic façade. Its imposing presence in the heart of Genoa reflected the city's rich cultural heritage... 


  Stepping inside, we were awed by the cathedral's grand interior, characterized by soaring columns, vaulted ceilings, and beautifully crafted chapels. The play of light through stained glass windows illuminated the sacred artworks and altars, creating a serene atmosphere...



  Visiting the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo was not just a journey through architectural marvels and artistic treasures but also a meaningful exploration of Genoa's religious heritage and cultural identity. It left us inspired by the beauty of faith and the enduring legacy of human creativity and devotion...
  We stopped at a local focacceria and tasted pizza with pesto sauce...
 After, we continued strolling in the city..

 We reached Piazza Banchi, which has its origins in the Middle Ages, when it emerged as a key commercial center. Its name derives from the "banchi" or benches of the money changers and merchants who conducted their business here. During the 12th and 13th centuries, the square was the epicenter of Genoa's financial and trading activities, reflecting the city's status as a powerful maritime republic. The presence of money changers and merchants highlights the square's importance in the economic life of Genoa...
 After, visited street Vico di S. Cristoforo, which is situated within the intricate maze of narrow alleyways, known as "caruggi," that characterize Genoa's old town (Centro Storico). These alleyways are a defining feature of the city, dating back to the Middle Ages. They were designed to provide protection and a cool refuge from the summer heat, showcasing the practical and ingenious urban planning of the time...


  The tradition of friggitorias (fried food shops) has deep roots in Genoa, reflecting the city's historical reliance on simple, hearty, and flavorful foods. Friggitoria San Giorgio continues this tradition, maintaining the authenticity and quality that have made such eateries a beloved part of Genoese life...
Opting for the seafood mix at Friggitoria San Giorgio is a fantastic way to savor the best of Genoa's fried seafood offerings... 
 We took the Mix Completo, which included tender calamari rings and tentacles, lightly battered and fried until crispy; sweet, succulent shrimp with a delicate, crispy coating; and flavorful small fish that are a staple of Ligurian cuisine, fried to enhance their natural taste. We paired this delicious assortment with Italian beer Messina and Ichnusa. We stayed to eat on the embankment near the port, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere...



  After that, we came back to Boccadasse, to meet the sunset there...

  The atmosphere in Boccadasse is uniquely captivating. The air is filled with the aroma  the salty tang of the sea. Locals and visitors alike stroll leisurely along the promenade, enjoying gelato or simply soaking in the beauty of their surroundings...



  Having enjoyed our morning espresso and the charm of Boccadasse, we decided to return later in the day. This time, we chose a different cozy spot to savor cappuccinos. As we sipped our rich, frothy cappuccinos, we watched as the sun cast a golden glow over the village, enhancing the pastel tones of the buildings and creating a postcard-perfect view. The sense of timelessness, combined with the friendly, laid-back vibe of the area, made our return to Boccadasse a truly memorable experience...


 Overall, our time in Genoa and Boccadasse offered a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary indulgence, and scenic tranquility—a truly memorable experience that captured the essence of Liguria's coastal charm.

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