Tour of Genoa and Day Trip to Portofino From Genoa

Exploring the historic charm of Genoa and the picturesque beauty of Portofino is a must-do experience for any traveler visiting Italy. This full-day tour provides a seamless way to discover the highlights of both destinations, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal landscapes that make this region so captivating. From the UNESCO-listed historic center to the charming harbor of Portofino, the tour offers a well-curated blend of guided exploration and free time, ensuring travelers…

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Genoa, featuring lavish 16th-century palaces, the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, and the Palazzo Ducale.
• Enjoy a scenic journey along the Tigullio Gulf to the picturesque coastal village of Portofino, with potential sightings of sailboats, yachts, and dolphins.
• Experience a 2-hour guided walking tour of Genoa’s historic center, led by an English-speaking guide.
• Indulge in the local cuisine of Genoa during the free time provided for lunch, exploring the vibrant dining scene.
• Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle and boat, with gratuities included in the tour package.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour of Genoa and Portofino offers a compelling blend of historic exploration and scenic beauty.

Visitors will discover Genoa’s UNESCO-listed historic center on a guided walking tour, followed by free time for lunch.

Next, they’ll travel to the picturesque seaside town of Portofino, accessible by an air-conditioned vehicle and round-trip boat ride.

In Portofino, guests can wander the colorful streets and soak in the stunning coastal vistas.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation, and a 2-hour walking tour of Genoa, providing a well-rounded experience of these two captivating Italian destinations.

Included Services and Meeting Details

This tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and the services of an English-speaking guide.

You’ll enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of Genoa’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gratuities are included, but food and drinks aren’t specified.

The meeting point is at City Sightseeing Genova, Piazza Caricamento, in Genoa. The tour starts at 9:30 am and ends at Porto Antico di Genoa.

It’s important to check for any updates on the meeting location and potential changes to the itinerary before your tour.

Historic Center of Genoa

Genoa’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the starting point for the walking tour. This area is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow alleyways, and vibrant atmosphere.

The tour explores key highlights, including:

• The lavish 16th-century palaces that line the Via Garibaldi
• The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, an example of Romanesque-Gothic style
• The Palazzo Ducale, once the seat of the Genoese government
• The picturesque Piazza de Ferrari, home to the city’s opera house and fountain

The walking tour provides an immersive look into Genoa’s rich maritime history and cultural heritage.

Lunch Break in Genoa

After exploring the historic center of Genoa, the tour provides some free time for participants to enjoy lunch at their own expense.

This allows travelers to sample the local cuisine and explore the city’s vibrant dining scene. Genoa is renowned for its seafood, pesto, and traditional Ligurian dishes.

Visitors can wander through the charming streets, popping into cafes, trattorias, or specialty shops to indulge in the flavors of the region.

The free time offers a chance to refuel and recharge before the next leg of the tour to the picturesque town of Portofino.

Journey to Portofino

Following the tour of Genoa’s historic center, the group boards an air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic journey along the Tigullio Gulf to Portofino.

During the drive, they may catch glimpses of:

• Picturesque coastal villages
• The sparkling Ligurian Sea
• Sailboats and yachts dotting the horizon
• Dolphins swimming in the distance

Upon arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure, the group transfers to a boat for the final leg of the journey to the charming fishing village of Portofino.

This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Italian Riviera.

Exploring Portofino

Upon disembarking the boat, visitors are immediately captivated by Portofino’s colorful, picturesque harbor. Pastel-hued buildings line the crescent-shaped shore, reflecting in the sparkling turquoise waters.

Visitors can stroll along the winding promenade, popping into boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that showcase the region’s vibrant culture. The main piazza offers stunning vistas of the harbor and the iconic Castello Brown, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the town.

From here, travelers can hike up to the Statue of Christ of the Abyss, a bronze statue submerged in the sea, or explore the charming medieval streets leading up the hillsides.

Tour Feedback and Ratings

The tour garnered a rating of 3.7 based on 34 reviews.

While visitors praised the natural beauty of Santa Margherita and Portofino, the tour faced some critiques:

• Overcrowded conditions at certain points of the itinerary
• Delays and late starts to the tour
• Lack of detailed guidance from the tour leader
• Mixed reviews on the overall organization and effectiveness of the experience

Despite these drawbacks, many travelers still enjoyed the scenic boat ride and the opportunity to explore the picturesque villages along the Ligurian coast.

Careful planning and managing expectations are advised for those considering this tour.

Additional Considerations

Though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 39 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Guests should be aware that free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility.

It’s important to check for any updates on the meeting location or potential changes to the itinerary, as these details can sometimes vary.

Things To Know

Can I Take Photos During the Walking Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the walking tour. The tour allows participants to explore Genoa’s historic city center and capture scenic views along the way, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the group.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Casual attire is generally acceptable, as the tour involves both walking and boat rides.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

The tour allows you to bring your own snacks and drinks. However, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want them during the day.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Travelers can cancel their booking without penalty if they need to change their plans within this time frame.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements for This Tour?

There are no specific fitness requirements for this tour. Participants should be able to walk for up to 2 hours and navigate uneven terrain. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller and service animal friendly.

Sum Up

This full-day tour offers a captivating blend of Genoa’s historic charm and Portofino’s stunning coastal beauty. Visitors will enjoy Genoa’s UNESCO-listed center, savor local cuisine, and then embark on a scenic journey to the picturesque harbor town of Portofino. This experience provides an unforgettable glimpse into the enchanting landscapes and cultural heritage of Italy’s Ligurian coast.