Is the historical centre of Genoa still as bad in terms of crime as it was a few years ago?

Question

Does the crime spoil the enjoyment of a visit? Where's best to stay to feel safe?

Answer 1

I lived in Genoa a few years ago and miss it tremendously!  When I first arrived there, I was told that I could walk the small streets in the city center during daylight hours only, but after dark they were not safe.  I had no trouble following this advice as I would not walk through many cities in other parts of the world down small streets at night, either.  Not once while living in Genoa did I feel unsafe or have any problems with crime.  I know that for the G8 summit that they had there a few years ago the city cleaned up much of the area as well.  

As for hotels, I would recommend Starhotels President (Web site below). The hotel is in a great location, near the train station Brignole, and is in a very safe part of town. There is a large park across the street that often has fairs and what we would consider a type of swap meet. It is easily within walking distance of Via XX Settembre (the main shopping street that leads to the historical city center) and is located along two main bus routes that take you either east towards Nervi (highly recommended visit as well) or along the cost to Boccadasse (also recommended!!!).

There is also a Sheraton in Genoa, but it is at the airport. It is my favorite hotel there, but it is a bit far for a daily commute into the city (though there is an airport bus that you can purchase a daily pass for that can take you back and forth and, if it is still in force, the daily ticket can be used for unlimited bus transportation throughout the city as well.

Enjoy Genoa - it is my favorite place in the world!

Answer 2

Genova has come a long way - you'll be delighted with it!  Read the travelogue we wrote after our recent visit: http://www.thetravelzine.com/it_w2006_6g...

and about our two previous trips, when we stayed at very well-located hotels:

http://www.thetravelzine.com/italy3.htm

The Jolly Hotel Plaza, Via Martin Piaggio 11, is an excellent four-star hotel. The location is central and easy walking to the city sights. The lobby is rather austere but the rooms are warm, spacious and comfortable, beautifully decorated and the bathroom is large with all the amenities.

http://www.thetravelzine.com/italy8.htm

The four star Hotel Bristol Palace is a fifteen minute walk from the P.P. train station at Via XX Settembre, 35. This converted mansion is a beauty. The small, Euro-style lobby is deceptive because when you exit the elevator on your way to your room, you are confronted by a magnificent spiral stairwell which starts one floor above the street level lobby. Our high-ceilinged room was generous in size and decorated in excellent taste with some handsome antique furnishings. The large marble-floored bathroom had a whirlpool tub, semi-enclosed for showering.