One of the really nice things about European train stations, is that they are within walking…read moredistance of where the action is. This allows for a longer layover stop to be a place where you can explore a bit, and even perhaps get a bite to eat. This is definitely the case for the Genova Piazza Principe, which is very close to the Cruise Boat Port and near many restaurants that serve both transportation hubs. We arrived around lunch time on a Saturday from Ventiglia around 12:20 pm. We grabbed some lunch from a nearby restaurant, and came back around 1:30, and found a place outside to sit. Sitting outside pretty much means being near cigarette smoke. We were going to Pisa, and they announced the track about an hour before arrival. There was an elevator from the tunnel underneath (each track has their own). Ground level is always 0 in Europe and the basem ent levels are -1. (no G or B here). The train to Pisa had a final destination of Rome, so a lot of people had luggage for the weekend. The train came to Track 20 at 2:42 for a 3:01 departure, so we had plenty of time to find our assigned seats. There was space for our luggage overhead, and our American size luggage fit fine. We left at precisely 3:01, and made the following stops. We noticed that at each stop, they allowed 3 - 5 minute layover to allow people to easily get in and out with luggage. 3:05 Genova Brignole - left at 3:10 3:29 Rapallo. Left at 3:36 3:42 Chiavari. Left at 3:44 4:22 La Spezia Centrale. Left at 4:24 4:41: Massa Centro. Left at 4:43 4:52: Viareggio. Left at 4:53 5:07: Pisa Centrale. Left at 5:09 This definitely did inspire for future trips to know that we could take a train into Rome from France. The trip cost 11,9€ each.

The two main stations in Genoa are Bringole and Principe, with connections to everywhere. There are…read morestores and caffès both in this station and all around the area. Many hotels too. You are close to the waterfront, the winding dark alleyways of the old town, tourist attractions, and numerous hotels and restaurants.

Flew from Orly to Genoa via Volotea.....think a spanish version of Ryan air…read more Quick simple flight. Genoa has a really tiny airport that is uncomplicated....that's a good thing. Just don't expect Gene Simmons face on a Rock and Brews taproom or any big amenities.....another good thing.

This was by far the worst airport I have visited…read more I had to sit on the floor waiting for my plane because all the seats (there aren't many) were taken. Cleaning is merely a suggestion in the restrooms as they were dirty. The only reprieve was the Genova Lounge. However, you have to pay to get into this lounge but gladly since it actually has some seating. I suggest if you had to go to this "airport" that you use the lounge to wait until 30 minutes prior to boarding. When I arrived, one of the airport workers inquired about how much money I had. Considering that my flight came from the Schengen area, this was not ok as I was not clearing customs. This worker should be fired. Also, taxis are a complete rip off. 27 Euros each way to a very short distance in town. Nothing coming back via Genova airport.

We found out about this hotel online while we were in the United States. It was reasonably priced…read moreand I was trying to build up my stays to get a "free night" with Hotels.com so we decided to stay here. The location is convenient with several restaurants next door and across the street. If you drive, parking can be expensive, but I think the prices would be similar at any of the hotels in the area. This place is also popular. When we arrived they were sold out. Luckily we had booked online. This place is also very secure. You are given a key to get you into all the doors that you will need to go through to get to your room. Now about the room, if you like fresh air, you are able to open the window, but there is also air conditioning. The room size was nice especially if you compare this to other hotels in Europe. The bed was comfortable, there was a closet for your clothes and a mini fridge. Also the staff was very friendly amd took extra time to show us how to work the doors etc. I would definitely stay here again.

Stazione di Genova Brignole is the second largest station in Genoa. We were so happy to see this…read moretrain station within walking distance of our hotel and to realize that we could catch the two trains we were going to be taking right here, instead of going back to the main station. It is located on Piazza Verdis and is used by about 60,000 passengers a day and 22 million per year. The building has a Roman-style façade and is extensively decorated with stucco and stone from the quarries of Montorfano. The walls of the rooms inside are decorated with frescoes by De Servi, Berroggio and Grifo. It was an easy station to navigate. It was also nice to have a tourist office right there, where the staff was so friendly and helpful.

This hotel is just a 3 minute walk from the train station and a quick walk to the center of town…read moreand the waterfront. The hotel has had a total makeover, including a very large addition in the back of the property. The facilities are very sleek, modern, well appointed and very inviting. There is an amazing spa where we received wonderful massages and we took advantage of the Turkish bath and sauna. The breakfast buffet is presented beautifully and was kept fully stocked with a large variety of cereals, breads, eggs, yogurts, meats and cheeses. We did not eat dinner at the restaurant but did have desserts there each night which were graciously presented and were delicious. The modern bar is fully stocked and our bartender was exceptional both nights we were there. The staff are over the top friendly and helpful, making us feel like royalty during our short stay in Santa Margherita.

We stayed here during our visit to Portofino and it was an amazing stay. The room was beautifully…read moredecorated and spotless clean. The breakfast had a very good variety (including three types of honey and macadamia nuts!). We received a complimentary upgrade to a suite. The staff was extremely helpful and friendly. The hotel offers valet parking. It was truly a five star experience!!!

We were here 4 years ago and liked it so much we came back! Don't let the outside fool you, this is…read morea beautiful place that is well cared for. The service is excellent - we arrived early off a cruise ship and the clerk took our luggage and made us an espresso & a latte while we visited. By the time we finished, our room was ready, he took our bags up, and we were off to walk this beautiful city! Within walking distance to the train station even dragging your bags. Beautiful finishes, quiet rooms, great service, and comfy beds. Bravo!

My family loved this hotel! Great location in Rapallo and walkable to train station and great…read morerestaurants/shopping. The owner and employees were so kind. The hotel was very comfortable and accommodating. We had 3 guests in one room and they had an extra twin set up upon our arrival in the room for the third person. Bathroom was very spacious as was the room. And the cute dog at the front desk was someone we looked forward to seeing every time we returned to the hotel! We loved the experience -- this is our favorite boutique hotel we stayed in!

One of the most adorable cities I've seen on the western coast of northern Italy. Easily walkable…read moretown with an abundance of history and culture. The train in town can take you down the coast to other towns such as Vernazza which is part of Cinque Terre, the five towns. The whole area is beautiful and a must see for tourists.

So I couldn't check in on my way over as I seem to be monopolizing this part of Italy with my…read morereviews. This is a small little train station for a must-stop town that one can do in an entire day. I saw that water was for sale and I didn't look for a br, but not sure if I would have used it anyway. Then again, the train bathrooms can be a nightmare, and the worst I have seen are in fact in business class! It's a lot different from an airplane (or maybe not too different in the end). There are loads of stairs (well, two double flights) which would not be a problem if I hadn't packed enough clothes for a month on my two week hiatus. One could easily walk to their hotel from here in 5-15 minutes, but a cab is only 15 euros so it was just worth it to do that in the end. I was worried that I would not be able to get a seat with all of my stuff, but as this is one of three first stops I finally got a pick of the seats. The problem is that you have to hoist your luggage pretty high as the seats fill up. My shoulders are finally hurting from all of this but I am hoping it will help burn off my daily feast of pizza, pasta, croissants and of course gelato...but I digress. In the end, the station is at least a 3 as it was pretty clean and I was not hassled by beggars! Nor did I worry about the little money I still have left.

Great experience here recently. Breakfast spread was pretty nice every morning although would have…read morebeen nice to vary some of the items daily as I was there for a week. Decor was retro-modernish, done perfectly. Rooms were not the largest although don't have much experience with other hotels in the area to compare to. Wasn't a problem for us though, had a nice little balcony. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Walk to the train station was about 10-15 mins. Would stay here again.

Beautiful hotel, best breakfast ever. Slightly off the beaten path but perfect. Lobby area was so…read morequiet at night and if I hadn't been so tired I would have "lounged" there. Most accommodating and friendliest staff I have encountered on my two week tour. Helpful for dinner bookings although maybe not suggestions. Maid was fast and efficient--probably the best I have encountered here, too! Quiet too, although the rooms were tiny with only a sliding door and one shower pane door in the bathroom as part of the industrial-eclectic chic style. In short, I loved the lobby layout and breakfast more than my room, and I am not sure when I will return, but I adored this hotel and I would highly recommend it! Our window was tiny and looked into other places but seemed very Italian looking at the hanging clothesline and all!