Piazza De Ferrari serves as a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. Its construction between 1870 and 1880 marked a significant development in the city's urban landscape. In the center of Piazza De Ferrari lies its most recognizable feature, the Fontana di Neptune, this ornamental fountain adds a touch of grandeur to the square. The piazza acts as a meeting point for residents, offering a space for shopping, socializing over drinks, or attending civic events. The square is a feast for the eyes, bordered by architecturally significant buildings. Palazzo Ducale, with its impressive facade adorned with frescoes, stands alongside the Teatro Carlo Felice, a neoclassical opera house. Other noteworthy structures include the Palazzo dell'Accademia and the Palazzo della Borsa. Via XX Settembre, a major artery for both traffic and pedestrians, also converges onto the piazza.
One of the main roads of the city, its current appearance comes from the beginning of the twentieth century, when the already existing via Giulia was enlarged and new liberty, neo-renaissance buildings were constructed along it. Among these buildings there are many interesting examples of eclectic architecture, with elaborate decorations, facades with floral designs, bow-windows, multi-coloured window frames, and enormous statues supporting the balconies above them. The road, built over the Ponte Monumentale, is without doubt one of the livliest in the city, and is a favourite area of the genovese for their afternoon stroll. There are many types of shops on the road, (clothing, electrical appliances), but there are also bars and cafés, and fashionable meeting places (nightclubs, restaurants, cinema, patisseries).
Established in 1992, the Aquarium of Genoa holds the title of Italy's largest aquarium and ranks among Europe's biggest. Designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano, this vast institution invites visitors on an enthralling underwater journey. Inside, you'll embark on a global aquatic adventure, encountering a mesmerizing array of marine life across meticulously crafted exhibition sections that replicate various marine environments. From Mediterranean Sea inhabitants to vibrant tropical coral reef dwellers, the aquarium showcases the wonders of the oceans. Marvel at sleek sharks, gentle manatees, playful penguins, and countless other captivating creatures amidst stunning natural settings. With 70 tanks totaling 6 million liters and nearly 10,000 meters of exhibit space, the aquarium houses 12,000 animals from 400 species, including dolphins, sharks, seals, and penguins.
This trail is carved into the rock and it weaves through the little port of Nervi, with its picturesque pastel coloured houses, and the splendid villas of Capolungo, whose park leads to the sea. It is easily traversed in all seasons, shielded from the cold winter winds, with incomparable views over the eastern Riviera. Along the route there are numerous open air bars, ice cream shops, restaurants and night clubs, as well as a 16th century look-out tower which stands over the cliffs and reefs. The atmosphere on starry summer nights is incredibly romantic.
Far from the lights of the city center, at the Astronomical Observatory, there are several interesting guided tours organized by the Università Popolare Sestrese: your attention will be directed not towards the grey slate rooves and the blue of the sea but at the immense starry sky, full of fascinating mysteries. Guided tours can be reserved through the university; booking required. The Observatory is also open to school parties.