Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you my personalized 13-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Genoa and its surrounding areas in
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Genoa
Kick off your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Genoa’s historic center. Start your day at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the city’s main square, and marvel at the stunning Renaissance architecture. From there, wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with magnificent palaces and museums. In the afternoon, head to the Porto Antico, Genoa’s revitalized old port area, where you can stroll along the waterfront, visit the aquarium, or grab a bite at one of the many cafés and restaurants. For dinner, I recommend Trattoria da Marcello, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Genovese cuisine.
Day 2: Cinque Terre Day Trip
Today, you’ll embark on a breathtaking journey to the Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque coastal villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera. Take the train or join a guided tour to explore these colorful towns, each with its own unique charm. I suggest starting your hike in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the villages, and making your way along the scenic trails that connect the towns. Don’t forget to stop for a refreshing gelato or a glass of local wine along the way. For dinner, head back to Genoa and indulge in some fresh seafood at Osteria da Fortunata, a cozy osteria with a lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Exploring Genoa’s Cultural Treasures
Spend the day delving into Genoa’s rich cultural heritage. Start at the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent palace that once served as the residence of the Doges of Genoa. Next, visit the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola, a stunning art gallery housed in a 16th-century palace. In the afternoon, wander through the charming Boccadasse neighborhood, known for its colorful houses and picturesque harbor. For dinner, I recommend Ristorante Boccun di Vino, a cozy restaurant serving delectable Ligurian specialties and local wines.
Day 4: Portofino Day Trip
Escape the city for a day and explore the enchanting seaside town of Portofino. Take a boat tour along the stunning coastline, admiring the vibrant houses and crystal-clear waters. Once you arrive in Portofino, wander through the charming streets and indulge in some window shopping or grab a bite at one of the cafés lining the picturesque harbor. For a more active adventure, hike up to the Castello Brown, a 16th-century castle offering breathtaking views of the town and the Ligurian Sea. On your way back to Genoa, stop at Trattoria Rosmarino for a delicious traditional Italian dinner.
Day 5: Genoa’s Aquatic Wonders and Scenic Views
Start your day at the world-famous Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, where you can marvel at the incredible marine life and learn about conservation efforts. Afterward, head to the Spianata Castelletto, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the city and the harbor. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along Via San Luca, a picturesque street lined with historic churches and palaces. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante Zeffirino, a cozy restaurant serving delectable Genovese cuisine in a charming setting.
Day 6: Milan Day Trip
Today, you’ll venture to the fashion capital of Italy, Milan. Start your day at the iconic Duomo, a magnificent Gothic cathedral that took nearly six centuries to complete. Explore the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade, and indulge in some window shopping or grab a coffee at one of the elegant cafés. In the afternoon, visit the Sforza Castle, a Renaissance fortress housing several museums and art collections. On your way back to Genoa, stop at Osteria da Fortunata for a delicious seafood dinner.
Day 7: Genoa’s Historical Gems
Immerse yourself in Genoa’s rich history by visiting the Museo del Risorgimento, a museum dedicated to the Italian unification movement. Next, explore the Palazzo Reale, a magnificent royal palace that once served as the residence of the House of Savoy. In the afternoon, escape the city’s hustle and bustle at the tranquil Parco dell’Acquasola, a beautiful park offering stunning views of the city and the sea. For dinner, I recommend Ristorante Brinca, a cozy restaurant serving delectable Ligurian specialties and local wines.
Day 8: Pisa Day Trip
No trip to Italy would be complete without visiting the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Take a day trip to this historic city and explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the famous leaning tower, the Duomo, and the Baptistery. After snapping your obligatory “holding up the tower” photos, wander through the charming streets and indulge in some local cuisine. On your way back to Genoa, stop at Trattoria Rosmarino for a delicious traditional Italian dinner.
Day 9: Exploring Genoa’s Vibrant Markets and Museums
Start your day at the lively Mercato Orientale, a bustling market where you can find a wide array of fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs. Next, visit the Museo di Palazzo Reale, a stunning museum housed in a former royal palace, showcasing an impressive collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, a scenic promenade offering stunning views of the harbor and the city. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante Boccun di Vino, where you can indulge in delectable Ligurian specialties and local wines.
Day 10: Florence Day Trip
Today, you’ll embark on a journey to the enchanting city of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Start your day at the world-famous Uffizi Gallery, home to an incredible collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Raphael, and Michelangelo. Next, explore the iconic Piazza della Signoria, a stunning square surrounded by historic buildings and sculptures. In the afternoon, cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops and offering breathtaking views of the Arno River. On your way back to Genoa, stop at Trattoria da Marcello for a delicious Genovese dinner.
Day 11: Genoa’s Hidden Gems
Discover some of Genoa’s lesser-known treasures by visiting the Palazzo del Principe, a stunning 16th-century palace that once served as the residence of the Doria family. Next, explore the Museo Diocesano, a fascinating museum showcasing an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts. In the afternoon, escape the city’s hustle and bustle at the tranquil Parco delle Mura, a beautiful park offering stunning views of the city and the sea. For dinner, I recommend Ristorante Zeffirino, where you can indulge in delectable Genovese cuisine in a charming setting.
Day 12: Lucca Day Trip
Venture to the charming city of Lucca, known for its well-preserved Renaissance-era city walls and historic center. Start your day by exploring the iconic City Walls, which offer a scenic walking path with stunning views of the city. Next, visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a unique square built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, and climb the Torre Guinigi, a medieval tower with a rooftop garden. On your way back to Genoa, stop at Osteria da Fortunata for a delicious seafood dinner.
Day 13: Farewell to Genoa
On your final day in Genoa, take some time to explore any areas you may have missed or revisit your favorite spots. Indulge in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs or simply relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city. For your last meal in Genoa, I recommend Ristorante Brinca, where you can savor delectable Ligurian specialties and local wines, creating lasting memories of your Italian adventure.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- The best way to get around Genoa is by walking or using public transportation, such as buses and the metro. Taxis can be expensive, but they’re a convenient option for longer distances or late-night travel.
- When it comes to local cuisine, be sure to try the famous Genovese pesto, focaccia bread, and seafood dishes like trofie al pesto and cappon magro.
- Cinque Terre is definitely worth visiting as a day trip from Genoa, but keep in mind that the trails can be crowded during peak season, so it’s best to start your hike early in the morning.
- For beach lovers, the nearby towns of Camogli and Sestri Levante offer beautiful coastal areas with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- When visiting popular attractions and museums, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance or arrive early to avoid long queues.
I hope this itinerary has inspired you to explore the vibrant city of Genoa and its surrounding areas. Remember, the best way to experience Italy is to embrace the local culture, savor the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions. Buon viaggio!