Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m thrilled to share my personalized 12-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Genoa and its surrounding areas during the
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Genoa
Kick off your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Genoa. Start your day at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the main square and a hub of activity. From there, wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with stunning Renaissance palaces. In the afternoon, head to the revitalized Porto Antico area, where you can stroll along the waterfront, visit museums, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. For dinner, I recommend trying the famous Focaccia genovese from Antico Forno Calassi or Focacceria Mandrilla.
Day 2: Cinque Terre Day Trip
No visit to the Ligurian coast would be complete without exploring the breathtaking Cinque Terre. Take a train or join a guided tour to these five picturesque villages perched along the rugged cliffs. I suggest starting your hike in Monterosso al Mare and making your way to Vernazza, one of the most photogenic villages. Don’t forget to try the local seafood dishes like acciughe ripiene (stuffed anchovies) or cappon magro (a seafood salad) for lunch.
Day 3: Genoa’s Historic Gems
Today, delve deeper into Genoa’s rich history and culture. Start at the impressive Palazzo Ducale, a former palace that now houses museums and exhibitions. Next, visit the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola to admire its impressive art collection. In the afternoon, explore the charming Boccadasse neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and seaside atmosphere. For dinner, indulge in some authentic pesto alla genovese at Trattoria Da Maria or La Buona Forchetta.
Day 4: Portofino Day Trip
Take a day trip to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino, a true gem on the Italian Riviera. Join a boat tour to admire the colorful houses and luxury yachts from the water, or hike up to the Castello Brown for stunning panoramic views. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets and indulging in some delicious seafood or gelato.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- Use public transportation (buses, metro, trains) to get around Genoa efficiently and avoid traffic.
- Many attractions and museums in Genoa are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Book your Cinque Terre hiking passes and train tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and hiking in Genoa and the surrounding areas.
- Don’t miss out on trying the local specialties like focaccia, pesto, seafood dishes, and gelato.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic side of Genoa and the Ligurian coast. Remember, the best way to experience a destination is to embrace the local culture, try new things, and create lasting memories. Buon viaggio!