Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m excited to share my personalized 6-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Genoa and the surrounding Italian Riviera region during the fall season. As someone who has lived in Italy, I’ll provide you with insider tips and recommendations to help you experience the authentic side of this incredible destination, away from the typical tourist traps.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Genoa
Start your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Genoa. Begin your day at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the city’s main square, and admire the stunning Renaissance architecture. From there, wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with magnificent palaces. In the afternoon, head to the revitalized Porto Antico area, where you can stroll along the waterfront and visit the aquarium or maritime museum. For dinner, I recommend Osteria da Fortunata, a cozy trattoria serving delicious traditional Genovese cuisine.
Day 2: Exploring the Cinque Terre
Today, you’ll embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque coastal villages. Take the train to Monterosso al Mare and hike the scenic trail to Vernazza, passing through vineyards and olive groves along the way. Spend some time exploring these charming villages, with their colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and narrow, winding streets. I suggest stopping for lunch at a seaside trattoria and indulging in some fresh seafood and local wine.
Day 3: Discovering Genoa’s Cultural Treasures
Dedicate this day to exploring some of Genoa’s most impressive museums and cultural attractions. Start at the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent palace that now houses art exhibitions and events. Next, visit the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola, which showcases an impressive collection of Italian art. In the afternoon, learn about Italy’s unification at the Museo del Risorgimento. In the evening, enjoy an aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks and snacks) at the historic Caffè Tommaseo, a local favorite.
Day 4: A Day in Portofino
Take a day trip to the charming seaside town of Portofino, known for its picturesque harbor and luxury boutiques. Start your day with a scenic hike to the San Fruttuoso Abbey, a beautiful monastery nestled in a secluded cove. After working up an appetite, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Puny, a cozy restaurant with a terrace overlooking the harbor. In the afternoon, consider taking a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline and admire the colorful houses from the water.
Day 5: A Culinary Adventure in Genoa
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Genoa with a food tour. Start by sampling the city’s famous focaccia at Antica Sciamadda, a historic bakery. Next, learn about the art of making pesto at Profumo di Focaccia, and taste this iconic Genovese sauce. Continue your tour by exploring the city’s vibrant markets and tasting local specialties like seafood and cheese. In the evening, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to recreate these delicious dishes at home.
Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation
On your final day in Genoa, take it easy and explore the city at your own pace. Wander through the charming streets and browse the local boutiques for unique souvenirs or fashion finds. Stop for a leisurely brunch at Eatery, a trendy café known for its delicious pastries and coffee. Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Genoa’s beautiful parks or gardens, soaking up the autumn sunshine and reflecting on your incredible Italian adventure.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- Use public transportation or walk to get around the city center, as parking can be challenging.
- Many museums and attractions are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- If hiking the Cinque Terre, book your hiking passes in advance to avoid long lines.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as Genoa and the surrounding areas are best explored on foot.
I hope this personalized itinerary has inspired you to experience the authentic side of Genoa and the Italian Riviera. Remember, the best way to truly immerse yourself in the local culture is to embrace the slower pace of life, savor the delicious cuisine, and engage with the friendly locals. Buon viaggio!