Get ready for an exciting journey to one of the grandest cities in all of Italy. Board your motorboat at the pier for the short cruise to Santa Margherita. At Santa Margherita, transfer to a motorcoach for a scenic drive to Genoa. Enter the old city walls through the Porta Soprana, guarded by twin towers. Stroll past Columbus' house, believed to be the birthplace of the great navigator. Cross Piazza De Ferrari passing the Stock Exchange Building and the Teatro Carlo Felice en route to Piazza Matteotti, site of the Ducal Palace and the Chiesa del Gesu. The Chiesa del Gesu was built from 1589 to 1637. This holy site is richly decorated in marble and ancient artifacts. The church boasts frescoes by Carlone and paintings by Guido Reni and Rubens. Next, head to the nearby Ducal Palace Courtyard. The Palace that once housed the Magistracy of the Republic now serves as the seat of trade activities. The Courtyard contains bars, restaurants, art galleries, libraries, information points, and craftsmen's stores linked to the tradition and the culture of the region. Continue on to the Cathedrale di San Lorenzo. Located within the heart of old Genoa, this medieval cathedral was consecrated in 1118 and named after St. Lawrence, who passed through the city on his way to Rome. San Lorenzo is beautifully constructed with a striking contrast of black slate and white marble. During the visit your guide will point out interesting features such as several ancient holy items inside the cathedral. After visiting the Cathedral, journey to the Piazza Caricamento and the 13th Century Palazzo di San Giorgio. Browse the shops along the Via di Sottoripa, the historic street leading off the Piazza Caricamento.