This full-day excursion from Genoa promises to whisk you away on a captivating journey through the city’s maritime past and the picturesque splendor of Portofino. Set out on a guided tour, learn about Genoa’s architectural marvels, and then set off on a scenic drive along the Tigullio Gulf. The highlight? A mini-cruise to the charming fishing village of Portofino, where you’ll savor local cuisine and take in the panoramic views. With free cancellation, it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Genoa showcases the maritime history and architecture of Genoa through a guided walking tour, followed by a scenic bus ride and boat trip to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino.
- The tour includes highlights such as the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli in Genoa, as well as opportunities to explore Portofino’s charming harbor, hike to Castello Brown, and savor local cuisine.
- The duration of the tour is 9 hours, and it is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and restrictions on pets and large bags apply.
Tour Overview
The "Full-Day Tour of Genoa and Portofino" offers travelers an opportunity to explore the historic city of Genoa and the picturesque fishing village of Portofino.
Priced from $96.84 per person, the 9-hour tour is conducted in English and features a guided walking tour of Genoa’s old town, a scenic bus ride along the Tigullio Gulf, and a roundtrip boat ride to Portofino.
Travelers can book the tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and no pets or large bags are allowed.
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Exploring Genoa’s Maritime History and Medieval Charm
Genoa, the birthplace of the legendary explorer Christopher Columbus, beckons visitors with its rich maritime history and medieval charm.
On the guided walking tour through the city’s narrow alleyways, travelers discover Genoa’s storied past. They’ll admire the impressive architecture, including the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The old town’s maze of lanes offers a glimpse into the city’s seafaring roots, with picturesque port views. From the famous Lanterna lighthouse to the bustling Piazza de Ferrari, Genoa’s combination of history and modernity captivates all who explore its medieval core.
Walking Through Genoa’s Old Town
As visitors step into Genoa’s old town, they’re immediately captivated by the maze of narrow alleyways that wind through the city’s historic heart.
The guided walking tour takes them through this charming neighborhood, showcasing:
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Striking medieval architecture, including ornate palaces and churches.
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Bustling outdoor markets, where locals haggle for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
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Hidden courtyards and stairways that offer glimpses into the city’s rich past.
With the knowledgeable guide providing insightful commentary, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Genoa’s maritime heritage and the resilience of its people.
Scenic Bus Ride Along the Tigullio Gulf
After exploring the historic charm of Genoa’s old town, the tour then takes visitors on a scenic bus ride along the picturesque Tigullio Gulf.
The drive offers breathtaking views of the stunning coastline, where the mountains meet the sea. Passengers may even spot dolphins swimming in the clear waters.
The bus winds along the winding roads, providing an up-close look at the charming seaside towns and villages that dot the shoreline.
This leisurely journey sets the stage for the tour’s final destination – the enchanting fishing village of Portofino.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the Picturesque Fishing Village of Portofino
From the scenic bus ride, the tour then takes visitors on a mini-cruise to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino.
A scenic bus ride leads to a mini-cruise to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino.
This charming destination, celebrated by writers and poets, offers three main highlights:
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Strolling the colorful harbor-front promenade, lined with boutiques, cafes, and yacht clubs.
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Hiking to the iconic Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress with panoramic views of the Italian Riviera.
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Indulging in the local cuisine, such as fresh seafood dishes and the renowned Genovese pesto.
The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty of Portofino make it a perfect conclusion to this comprehensive tour of the Ligurian coast.
Included Features and Booking Details
This tour includes several key features to enhance the experience. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of historic Genoa, a scenic bus ride along the Tigullio Gulf, and a roundtrip boat ride to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and excludes food, drinks, and optional gratuities. Booking is available with a convenient reserve now and pay later option, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.
| Feature | Details |
| — | — |
| Included | Guided tour of Genoa, boat ride to Portofino, scenic bus ride |
| Excluded | Food, drinks, gratuities |
| Booking | Reserve now & pay later, free cancellation up to 24 hours |
| Duration | 9 hours |
Meeting Point and Requirements
The tour meeting point is at the City Sightseeing bus stop in Piazza Caricamento, Genoa.
Participants must bring a valid passport or ID, as well as a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and large bags aren’t permitted.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, visitors are advised to adhere to the following requirements:
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Bring a valid passport or ID
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Carry a camera to photograph the scenic landscapes
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Avoid bringing large bags or items that may impede mobility
This practical information will help travelers prepare for the full-day tour of Genoa and Portofino.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have generally rated the full-day tour of Genoa and Portofino favorably, with an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on 28 reviews.
Guides received praise, with a 5/5 rating, while transportation garnered a 4.3/5 score.
Value for money, however, was rated 3.5/5.
The overall value-for-money rating of 3.5/5 suggests room for improvement to maximize the experience.
Positive reviews highlighted the knowledgeable guides, engaging tour, excellent bus conditions, and breathtaking coastal views during the boat ride to Portofino.
While most customers were satisfied, some feedback suggested room for improvement in certain areas to maximize the value-for-money experience.
The Sum Up
This captivating full-day tour from Genoa to Portofino offers an immersive experience at a reasonable price. Visitors can explore Genoa’s rich maritime history, admire its stunning architecture, and journey along the breathtaking Tigullio Gulf before discovering the picturesque fishing village of Portofino. With a guided walking tour, scenic bus ride, and mini-cruise, this tour provides a well-rounded and convenient way to experience the highlights of this enchanting region.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Guided Tours in Genoa
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