"Bird's-eye view of Porto Antico Built in 1992 for the Columbian Celebrations, the Bigo was designed to stylistically resemble the cranes that have been used for centuries to load and unload goods in the Genovese harbor. At a cost of only 4 euros, a trip up this'rotating glass elevator is a great way to get a panoramic view of the old port area. In the summer months, the Bigo stays open til 11pm - a gorgeous way to see the lights in the surrounding hillsides."

"Swallow your fear of heights Just remember that these towers have been standing since 1163. They probably won't fall today! But even if you have a fear of heights, do pay the 2 euro to walk up the beautiful interior circular staircases in these ancient towers of the Barbarossa walls (the second recorded expansion of the old city). The views of the mountains at sunset are spectacular."

"Dusk at the top of the world The winding streets of ancient Genoa all lead in one direction—straight up. Lace up your tennis shoes and keep climbing. Eventually you will reach a small park at the edge of the city, the entrance to one of the many fortresses that speckled its 17th-century walls. From here you'll be treated to one of the best views of both old and new Genoa. Come at dusk for a stunning sunset over the urban edge of the Ligurian Sea. (And if you are too tired to walk back down, catch the funicular for less than two euros!)"

"Sunset over the Mediterranean Perched high above the old port, Castello D'Albertis boasts some of the most gorgeous panoramas of the ancient town and the old port. On most days, you can spot every single cruise ship in harbor, too. While there is a public elevator (ascensore, in Italian) that takes you up (catch it on Via Balbi), you can also climb the stairs (and burn off some of your focaccia calories!). Find the stairs just after the abandoned Cathedral on Via Balbi - and then just keep walking up!"

"Green space in downtown Genoa Genoa is not a city with a thriving public park scene, unfortunately, so the Villetta Di Negro is a lovely green oasis in the heart of the city. Climb past the towering statue to Mazzini, and head all the way to the top of the park past quaint waterfalls and odd pieces of the now-closed zoo. Reach the top, though, and find two stunning panoramas—one of the ancient city, and one of the modern 19th-century section of town. Just keep in mind that this is a public park, and can be filled with all sorts of people. As such it makes the most sense to come in groups during the daylight hours (which clearly allows for the best views, as well!)."

"Take the spiral staircase to the terrace The top two floors of the Palazzo Spinola were tragically destroyed by fire, thus destroying their historical treasures. Instead of just closing the space completely, the decision was made to renovate the floors into the National Gallery - and fill them to bursting with gorgeous pieces of Italian art/clothing/ceramics. When your tour is over, climb the small iron spiral staircase to the terrace and enjoy sweeping views of the old city straight from the heart of it!"

"Sunset hike (or elevator ride!) and evening picnic Pack a few slices of focaccia (and a half bottle of prosecco) and head up to Castelletto at sunset for a beautiful view of the lights coming on over the harbor. If you want to walk it (I warn you, it is steep!), take the staircase at the end of Via Garibaldi and just keep heading up. You will eventually come to the Piazza di Castelletto and its sweeping views. If you prefer the elevator for a quick ride, catch it in the Piazza del Portello."

"Boats to paradise Board a boat in the bustling harbor of Porto Antico for a day of whale watching, or a quick trip up the Ligurian coast to the tiny enclave of San Fruttoso, an abandoned Monastery standing guard over the sunken statue of Christ of the Abyss. Bring your scuba gear for spectacular views of this hidden abbey, completely cut off from the world except for a steep mountain side hike or a ferry from the dock of a neighboring village."