After all that walking, how about a quick photo break? There’s no better backdrop than Via XX Settembre, one of Genoa’s most beloved streets. Stretching just under a kilometre, this grand avenue showcases the city’s elegant, upscale 19th-century architecture on both sides of the bridge. Think wide open spaces, impressive architecture, and stylish boutiques. At first glance, it has all the makings of a perfect city street. Well... almost. When it was first proposed, Via XX Settembre stirred some controversy. The mayor at the time championed it as a bold move toward modernity, while locals opposed the destruction of buildings and neighbourhoods. Whether through compromise or resignation, Via XX Settembre was eventually completed, connecting Piazza della Vittoria to Piazza De Ferrari. Until the 1980s, the number of cinemas and theatres lining the street was so impressive that it became nationally known as “the street of cinemas.” These days, both locals and tourists stroll along its pavements, venturing into the many big-name stores. Who knows, maybe you’ll be tempted too...