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 the stunning Ligurian coast. 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 Heart of Genoa
Start your journey by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Genoa’s historic center. Begin at the iconic Piazza de Ferrari, the city’s main square, and wander through the charming Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with stunning Renaissance palaces. Don’t miss the Porto Antico, the revitalized old port area, where you can stroll along the waterfront and visit the Galata Museo del Mare (Maritime Museum). For dinner, I recommend Osteria da Ö Vitin, a cozy trattoria serving delicious Genovese specialties like pesto and focaccia.
Day 2: Cinque Terre Day Trip
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 along the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) to Vernazza, soaking in the stunning views of the Ligurian coastline. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets and enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of the local trattorias. Trattoria Marietta in Vernazza is a personal favorite for its delicious seafood dishes and friendly atmosphere.
Day 3: Genoa’s Cultural Treasures
Delve into Genoa’s rich history and culture by visiting some of its most impressive landmarks. Start at the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent palace that once served as the residence of the Doges of Genoa. Next, explore 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 seaside promenade. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante Boccadasse, where you can savor fresh seafood while enjoying the beautiful views.
Day 4: Portofino and the Italian Riviera
Spend a day exploring the glamorous Portofino, a picturesque fishing village on the Italian Riviera. Take a boat tour along the coastline to admire the colorful houses and luxury yachts, or hike up to the Castello Brown for panoramic views of the harbor and the Ligurian Sea. In the evening, return to Genoa and indulge in a delicious meal at Trattoria Da Maria, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Genovese cuisine.
Day 5: Genoa’s Aquarium and Shopping
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. Afterward, head to the Spianata Castelletto for breathtaking views of the city and the harbor. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping along the bustling Via XX Settembre, Genoa’s main shopping street, where you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and local shops.
Day 6: Camogli and San Fruttuoso Abbey
Escape the city for a day and explore the charming coastal towns of Camogli and San Fruttuoso Abbey. Start in Camogli, a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful houses and delicious seafood. Then, take a boat or hike to the stunning San Fruttuoso Abbey, a medieval monastery nestled in a secluded cove. Spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters or relaxing on the beach before returning to Genoa for the evening.
Day 7: Genoa’s History and Culinary Delights
Immerse yourself in Genoa’s rich history by visiting the Museo del Risorgimento, dedicated to the Italian unification movement, and the Palazzo Reale, the former royal palace. In the evening, embark on a delightful food tour to sample some of the city’s most iconic dishes and learn about the local culinary traditions from a knowledgeable guide.
Day 8: Finalborgo and Noli
Venture outside of Genoa for a day trip to the charming medieval towns of Finalborgo and Noli. Stroll through the narrow streets of Finalborgo, admiring the well-preserved architecture and visiting local artisan shops. In Noli, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach or explore the historic center, including the beautiful Romanesque cathedral.
Day 9: Farewell to Genoa
On your final day in Genoa, take some time to revisit your favorite spots or explore any areas you may have missed. Indulge in one last delicious meal at a local trattoria, pick up some souvenirs, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city before bidding it farewell.
General Travel Tips for Genoa, Italy
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as many areas in Genoa are best explored on foot.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Try to visit popular attractions early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Don’t forget to sample the local specialties like pesto, focaccia, and seafood dishes.
- Check opening hours and make reservations for popular restaurants and attractions in advance.
Genoa and the Ligurian coast offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the authentic side of this region, creating lasting memories that will stay with you long after your trip. Buon viaggio!