Nonetheless, it's worth a visit, particularly during January's Festival della Canzone Italiana, when professional musicians come to perform the latest in Italian music. It's a major televised event all over Italy. Genoa, the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, is a stop over destination and not the place to spend any time. Head, instead, to Portofino or Rapallo, small coastal towns west of Genoa. They're lovely, ritzy spots known for attracting the jet set. Santa Margherita is situated between Rapallo and Portofino; it's a convenient base from which to explore both areas. Cinque Terre is an isolated collection of five small fishing villages linked by rail and hiking trails. Boasting incredible natural beauty and a low-key vibe, it's a fantastic destination any time of the year. View our Italian villas in Liguria..
