Overview
Get to know this busy city and the surrounding area.
The city of Genoa covers and area of 94 square miles between the Ligurian Sea and Apennine Mountains.
The beauty of Santa Margherita can be easily seen while driving through its sophisticated streets, elegant villas and hills filled with olive trees. The end of this scenic uphill drive will end in Ruta, where the wonderful panoramic views of Genoa’s gulf can be enjoyed.
After continuing on with the drive, a stop will be made in Camogli, a small Italian fishing village located on the west side of the Portofino peninsula. During the late Middle Ages, Camogli was a sizeable seaport with a fleet of tall ships. Today, it is filled with colorful houses, and every May holds a large festival celebrating its fishing history. In Recco, a small township province, it is time to celebrate a different history, focaccia al formaggio. The focaccia bread with melted cheese, which this small town is famous for.
With a full stomach, it is time to head out to Genoa, which has been given the nickname la Superba due to its impressive history and landmarks. Upon entering the city, catch a glimpse of Corso Italia, the city’s main promenade along the sea while driving down its longest street, Corso Europa. In the city there are numerous sites to be seen from throughout its long history, such as Christopher Colombus’ house near the main entrance of the city, the Piazza della Vittoria, Piazza De Ferrari, Carlo Felice (the Opera House), Saint Lawrence’s Cathedral, and the Palazzo Ducale. In the city’s historic center, one of the largest in Europe, is the Gallery Mazzini and then Via Aurea, and Via Garibaldi. Once again, it is time get in the vehicle and drive, this time up the hilly roads to Castelletto to enjoy the stunning views.
The Royal Palace began construction in the early 17th century, and was worked on by many well-known architects over time. Today it still contains much of its original decoration and furniture. It is now a museum where elegantly furnished rooms, works of art, and beautiful gardens can viewed. Though the Royal Palace is impressive, Prince Andrea Doria’s Palace, which is the richest household in the city of Genoa is a site to be seen. In 1529 Andrea Doria, who was a skillful admiral and legendary man of arms, began construction on what would become this wonderful villa overlooking the Gulf of Genoa. This would become his quiet retreat, and where he would return from his numerous journeys. This was also the household chosen for his successors, the Doria Pamphilj family.
Genoa’s Porto Antico (Old Port) has been transformed into a busy tourist center with walkways along the harbor, museums, and other tourist attractions. It is also home to the Aquario di Genoa (Genoa Aquarium), which features exhibits on conservation management and sea life. It was built in 1992 as the largest aquarium of its kind in Europe.
One of the best things to do Italy is to eat like a local. So before hopping back in the vehicle and driving on the motorway back to Genoa, there will be time to stop and get a bite to eat at a Genoese Trattoria. Many traditional Genoese dishes can be enjoyed, such as Farinata, Stoccafisso in umido, baccalà, and torta pasqualina.
- If you have a group, please contact ShoreTrips for pricing.
- Lunch, beverages and entrance fees are not included in the cost of the tour.
- Please note that on the first Sunday of each month many tourist sites in Italy have free admission. This can often result in long lines. If you are staying at a hotel, it may be beneficial to avoid booking a tour involving inside visits to major attractions on these days. If you have questions, contact ShoreTrips.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
