Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share my personalized 9-day itinerary for exploring the beautiful city of Genoa and its surrounding areas. 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 provide you with an authentic Italian experience, steering clear of tourist traps and focusing on the hidden gems that only locals know about.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Genoa
Kick off your Italian adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Genoa’s historic city center. Start your day at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the main square adorned with stunning Renaissance architecture. From there, wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with magnificent palaces and museums. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Porto Antico, the revitalized old port area, where you can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a delicious lunch of focaccia genovese from Antica Sciamadda or Focaccia Calani.
Day 2: Cinque Terre Day Trip
Today, embark on a breathtaking journey to the picturesque Cinque Terre, a collection of five colorful villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. I recommend taking the train from Genoa and hopping off at Monterosso al Mare to begin your hike along the famous coastal trails. Along the way, stop in Vernazza and soak in the stunning views of the charming harbor and vibrant houses clinging to the cliffs. Don’t forget to fuel up with a hearty lunch of spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) at one of the local trattorias.
Day 3: Genoa’s Cultural Treasures
Delve deeper into Genoa’s rich history and culture by visiting some of the city’s most impressive museums and palaces. Start your day at the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent Renaissance palace that now houses art exhibitions and cultural events. Next, head to the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola to admire its impressive collection of Italian art. In the afternoon, explore the Museo del Risorgimento, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Italy’s unification movement. For dinner, indulge in a classic pesto alla genovese (Genovese-style pesto) at Trattoria Da Maria or La Lanterna di Genova.
Day 4: Portofino and the Italian Riviera
Escape the city for a day and venture to the charming seaside town of Portofino. Take the scenic coastal road or hop on a train for a picturesque journey. Once there, embark on a leisurely hike to the San Fruttuoso Abbey, a stunning medieval monastery nestled in a secluded cove. Alternatively, you can opt for a boat tour to admire the rugged coastline and vibrant villages from the water. In the evening, treat yourself to a delectable fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) at one of the local restaurants overlooking the harbor.
Day 5: Exploring Genoa’s Hidden Gems
Today, venture off the beaten path and discover some of Genoa’s lesser-known attractions. Start your day at the lively Mercato Orientale, a bustling market where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and sample fresh produce and street food. Next, ride the Bigo Panoramic Lift for stunning views of the city and the harbor. End your day at the Spianata Castelletto, a scenic overlook offering breathtaking panoramas of Genoa’s historic center. For dinner, indulge in a creamy gelato from Profumo di Rosa or Il Gelato di Gianni.
Day 6: Milan Day Trip
Take a day trip to the fashion capital of Italy, Milan. Start your visit at the iconic Duomo di Milano, a magnificent Gothic cathedral that took nearly six centuries to complete. Stroll through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade, and explore the impressive Castello Sforzesco, a Renaissance castle housing several museums and art collections. Before heading back to Genoa, indulge in a delicious Milanese risotto or a classic aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks and snacks) at one of the city’s trendy bars.
Day 7: Genoa’s Artistic and Natural Wonders
Immerse yourself in Genoa’s artistic and natural beauty today. Start your day at the Musei di Strada Nuova, a complex of Renaissance palaces housing impressive art collections. Next, visit the Palazzo Reale, a former royal residence boasting opulent interiors and stunning gardens. In the afternoon, escape the city and explore the tranquil Parco dell’Acquasola, a lush park offering hiking trails and picturesque views of the surrounding hills.
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 the historic city of Pisa and marvel at the architectural wonder that is the Piazza dei Miracoli (Cathedral Square). Climb the famous leaning tower for panoramic views of the city, and explore the adjacent Duomo di Pisa (Pisa Cathedral) and Baptistery. Before returning to Genoa, indulge in a delicious pizza or gelato in one of Pisa’s charming cafés.
Day 9: Relaxation and Final Explorations
On your final day in Genoa, take it easy and spend the day at your own pace. Use this time to revisit your favorite spots, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. If you have any remaining energy, consider exploring some of the areas you may have missed, such as the Palazzo del Principe or the Museo di Storia Naturale.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Genoa’s historic center is best explored on foot.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Be mindful of opening hours and closures, as many attractions are closed on Mondays.
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Leaning Tower of Pisa to avoid long queues.
- Embrace the local cuisine and try specialties like pesto alla genovese, focaccia genovese, and fresh seafood dishes.
I hope this personalized itinerary has inspired you to explore the authentic side 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 vibrant atmosphere. Buon viaggio!