Exploring Genoa in 6 Days

Day 1: Historic Explorations

Genoa, Italy

8:00 AM

Visit Genoa Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of the Genoa Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, with its impressive black and white striped facade.
Located in the heart of the city centre, easily accessible by walking.
Free, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Via Garibaldi

Stroll along Via Garibaldi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with grand palaces and museums, such as Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi.
Just a short walk from the cathedral.
Entrance fees may apply for museums, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Trattoria da Maria

Indulge in traditional Ligurian cuisine at Trattoria da Maria, known for its fresh seafood dishes and homemade pastas.
Located in the city centre, a great place to relax and refuel.
£20 per person, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Doge's Palace

Discover the Doge's Palace, a historic landmark that once served as the seat of the Republic of Genoa, featuring lavish interiors and fascinating exhibits.
Nearby Via Garibaldi, easily reached on foot.
£10, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Relax at Boccadasse

Wind down the day at the picturesque fishing village of Boccadasse, with its colourful houses, seaside promenade, and charming cafes.
A short bus or taxi ride from the city centre.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Portofino

Portofino, Italy

8:00 AM

Travel to Portofino

Embark on a scenic train journey from Genoa to the beautiful coastal town of Portofino, famous for its colourful buildings and picturesque harbour.
Take a train from Genoa to Santa Margherita Ligure and then a boat to Portofino.
£15 for round trip transportation, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Explore Portofino

Wander around the charming streets of Portofino, visit the historic Castello Brown, and enjoy stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
Portofino is a small town, easily walkable once you arrive.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Chuflay Restaurant

Dine at Chuflay Restaurant overlooking the harbour, and savour fresh seafood and local dishes while enjoying the scenic views.
Located in the heart of Portofino, a perfect spot for a delicious meal.
£30 per person, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Relax on San Fruttuoso Beach

Head to San Fruttuoso Beach, a hidden gem accessible by boat from Portofino, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters.
Take a boat from Portofino to San Fruttuoso Beach.
£10 for boat ride, 2 hours
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Day 3: Culinary Delights

Genoa, Italy

9:00 AM

Take a Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in the traditional Ligurian cuisine by joining a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare local specialities like pesto sauce and focaccia bread.
Various cooking schools offer classes in the city, make a reservation in advance.
£50 per person, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Tralalero

Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Trattoria Tralalero, where you can taste the dishes you've learned to prepare in the cooking class, along with other regional delicacies.
Located near the city centre, a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
£25 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Mercato Orientale

Wander through Mercato Orientale, Genoa's vibrant food market, to experience the lively atmosphere and sample local produce, cheeses, and wines.
Located in the city centre, an easy walk from the cooking class.
Free entry, costs for purchases, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria della Ruota

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Osteria della Ruota, a cosy restaurant known for its creative dishes and extensive wine selection.
Reserve a table in advance, located in the historic centre.
£40 per person, 2 hours
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Day 4: Explore Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00 AM

Travel to Cinque Terre

Take a train from Genoa to the stunning Cinque Terre, a collection of five colourful seaside villages perched on the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera.
Trains run regularly from Genoa to the Cinque Terre, with the journey taking around 2 hours.
£20 for round trip transportation, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Explore Riomaggiore

Begin your exploration in Riomaggiore, the first village of the Cinque Terre, known for its pastel-coloured buildings tumbling down the cliffside to the harbour.
Easily walk around the village and visit the marina.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Nessun Dorma

Enjoy a tasty lunch at Nessun Dorma, a popular cliffside restaurant in Manarola, offering spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding vineyards.
You can reach Manarola by train or hiking from Riomaggiore.
£25 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Hike the Lover's Lane Trail

Embark on the Lover's Lane Trail, a scenic coastal path connecting Manarola to Corniglia, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the terraced vineyards.
The trail is well-marked and takes about 1 hour to complete.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Wine Tasting Day

Genoa, Italy

9:00 AM

Visit Villa Durazzo

Explore Villa Durazzo and its beautiful gardens in Santa Margherita Ligure, a historic residence which hosts cultural events and art exhibitions.
Take a train or bus from Genoa to Santa Margherita Ligure, then walk to the villa.
£8, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Wine Tasting at Cantine Lunae

Head to Cantine Lunae in La Spezia for a wine tasting experience, sampling delicious wines produced in the local vineyards.
You can drive or take a train to La Spezia from Santa Margherita Ligure.
£20 per person, 2 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Locanda Lorena

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Locanda Lorena, a charming restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Poets, known for its fresh seafood and Ligurian specialities.
Located in Portovenere, reachable by boat or bus from La Spezia.
£30 per person, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Relax in Lerici

Spend a relaxing afternoon in Lerici, a picturesque coastal town with a castle overlooking the sea, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
Take a bus or boat from Portovenere to Lerici.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Farewell to Genoa

Genoa, Italy

9:00 AM

Explore Acquario di Genova

Visit the Acquario di Genova, one of Europe's largest aquariums, home to a diverse range of marine species and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Located in the Old Port area, accessible on foot or by public transport.
£20, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Spianata Castelletto

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Spianata Castelletto, a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Genoa while savouring local dishes and refreshing drinks.
Located atop Castelletto Hill, accessible by a historic funicular or a short walk.
£20 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Shopping at Via Sestri

Explore Via Sestri, a bustling shopping street in Genoa ideal for picking up souvenirs, local crafts, and fashion items.
Located in the town centre, easily accessible on foot.
Personal shopping budget, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Trattoria Rosmarino

Conclude your Genoa adventure with a farewell dinner at Trattoria Rosmarino, known for its authentic Ligurian cuisine and warm hospitality.
Book a table in advance at this popular eatery located in the city centre.
£35 per person, 2 hours
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