Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 5-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Genoa and the Italian Riviera. Having lived in Italy for two years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the country’s rich culture, history, and cuisine. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the authentic side of Genoa and its surroundings, while avoiding the typical tourist traps.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Genoa
Start your journey by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Genoa’s city center. Begin at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the main square adorned with beautiful fountains and historic buildings. From there, wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with stunning Renaissance palaces. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Porto Antico, the revitalized old port area, where you can stroll along the waterfront and admire the maritime heritage. For lunch, I recommend Trattoria Rosmarino, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Genovese pesto dishes. In the evening, indulge in the famous Focaccia di Recco at Ostaia di Vico Palla, a local favorite.
Day 2: Exploring the Cinque Terre
No visit to the Italian Riviera would be complete without a day trip to the breathtaking Cinque Terre. Take the train from Genoa and spend the day hiking between the picturesque villages of Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza. Soak in the stunning coastal views, colorful houses, and charming atmosphere of these UNESCO-listed towns. I suggest packing a picnic lunch with local produce from the markets in Cinque Terre to enjoy during your hike.
Day 3: Discovering Genoa’s Attractions
Today, explore some of Genoa’s top attractions. Start at the impressive Genoa Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, and marvel at the diverse marine life. Next, ride the Bigo Panoramic Lift for breathtaking views over the city and the harbor. In the afternoon, visit the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent palace that once served as the residence of the Doges of Genoa. For lunch, I recommend Ristorante Boccondivino, where you can savor delectable Genovese seafood dishes.
Day 4: A Day in Portofino
Take a day trip to the charming seaside town of Portofino, a true gem of the Italian Riviera. Start by taking a boat tour to admire the picturesque harbor and colorful houses from the water. Then, embark on a scenic hike to the Castello Brown, a 16th-century castle offering stunning views over the town and the Ligurian Sea. For lunch, I suggest Puny, a cozy restaurant serving delicious Ligurian cuisine with a modern twist.
Day 5: Indulging in Genoa’s Food Scene
Dedicate your final day to exploring Genoa’s vibrant food scene. Start at the Mercato Orientale, a bustling market where you can sample local delicacies like farinata (chickpea flatbread) and panissa (chickpea fritters). Then, take a stroll along Sottoripa, a historic street lined with traditional food shops and eateries. Stop for a taste of pansoti, a classic Genovese pasta dish, at one of the local trattorias. In the evening, consider joining a street food tour to savor the best of Genoa’s culinary offerings.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- Use public transportation (buses, metro, and trains) to get around Genoa and nearby areas efficiently.
- Many attractions and restaurants are closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Genoa Aquarium to avoid long queues.
- Spring is a great time to visit Genoa and the Italian Riviera, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Consider attending local festivals like the Sagra del Fuoco (Fire Festival) in April or the Rolli Days in May, celebrating Genoa’s UNESCO World Heritage palaces.
I hope this itinerary inspires you to explore the authentic side of Genoa and the Italian Riviera. Remember, the best way to experience a destination is to immerse yourself in the local culture, savor the regional cuisine, and embrace the unique charm of each place you visit. Buon viaggio!