Genoa 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center

• Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Italian breakfast at Pasticceria Tortajada, famous for its traditional Genoese pastry.
  • Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the nearby Battistero del Santissimo Battista, both architectural masterpieces dating back to the 12th century.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Strada Nuova, also known as Via Garibaldi, lined with beautifully preserved palazzos from the Renaissance era.

• Afternoon:

  • Head to the Palazzo Ducale and explore its rich history, including the famous Apartment of Andrea Doria.
  • End your day with a visit to the Galata Museo del Mare, a maritime museum housed in the ancient Genoese Arsenal.

• Evening:

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Trattoria del Boca, a family-run restaurant serving traditional Ligurian cuisine.
  • Take a walk along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Genoese port.

Day 2: Discovering the City’s Rich Art Scene

• Morning:

  • Visit the Palazzo Reale, home to several museums including the Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Reale and the Museo Bollini.
  • Explore the Chapel of San Barnaba, an art nouveau masterpiece designed by Gio Ponti and Pier Luigi Spadolini.

• Afternoon:

  • Head to the Fondazione Bisazza to see the stunning mosaics created by artist Tino Sehgal.
  • Visit the Chiesa di San Siro and admire the famous frescoes by Giovanni Battista Castagna, known as il Parmigianino.

• Evening:

  • Enjoy a meal at Osteria del Porto Antico, offering a variety of Ligurian dishes with a modern twist.
  • Take a nighttime stroll through the Porto Antico area, with its illuminated buildings and lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Day Trip to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure

• Morning:

  • Take a train from Genoa’s Brignole station to the picturesque town of Portofino, famous for its colorful houses, yacht-filled harbor, and luxurious boutiques.
  • Climb the Brown Path for stunning views of Portofino and the surrounding coastline.

• Afternoon:

  • Head to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure and enjoy a lunch at Ristorante La Bocca.
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, exploring the charming town, or visiting the Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, a beautiful 17th-century villa turned museum.

Day 4: Relaxing in Genoa

• Morning:

  • Spend your final morning in Genoa at leisure. Consider visiting the Aquarium of Genoa or the BioPark, an eco-museum focused on biodiversity and sustainable development.
  • Alternatively, take a boat tour of the Genoese port for a unique perspective of the city.

• Afternoon:

  • Enjoy a final meal at Trattoria del Gigante, known for its fresh seafood and friendly service.
  • Pick up any souvenirs or gifts at local shops in the historic center before heading home.

Things to Know:

• Genoa’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be sure to take plenty of photos!
• The city can be quite hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and consider using public transportation or hiring a driver for some sights.
• The Ligurian region is famous for its pesto sauce, so don’t miss the opportunity to try it at least once during your visit!

Transportation:

• Genoa has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Tickets can be purchased at tabacchi (tobacco shops) or at automatic machines at stops.
• To reach Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, take a train from Genoa’s Brignole station.

Tips:

• Be sure to make reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Learn a few basic Italian phrases to help you navigate and interact with locals.
• Embrace the relaxed pace of life in Genoa and enjoy the city’s unique charm!