Yes — Genoa is Italy's grittiest, most rewarding surprise
✅ Reasons to go
- The largest medieval old town in Europe (caruggi)
- Incredible seafood and pesto at the source
- Dramatically cheaper than other Ligurian towns
- Fascinating maritime history (Columbus was born here)
- Gateway to Cinque Terre and Portofino
- Palazzo dei Rolli are UNESCO World Heritage
❌ Reasons to skip
- The old town can feel gritty/rough in spots
- Some areas near the port are sketchy at night
- Cruise ship crowds on port days
- Less "pretty" than other Ligurian towns
- Can feel grey in winter
- Not an obvious tourist destination
💡 Pro tip: The caruggi (narrow medieval alleys) are magical — get deliberately lost. The best focaccia shops and pesto restaurants are hidden in here.
Bottom line
Genoa is worth visiting for travellers who like cities with edge, history, and incredible food at real prices.