Port
Portofino, Italy
Activity Level
Moderate
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$149.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Genoa is surely one of the grandest cities in all of Italy. Board a motorboat for a short cruise to Santa Margherita; then, transfer to a motorcoach for a scenic drive to Genoa.
Enter the Old City through the Porta Soprana Gate, guarded by twin towers. Stroll past Columbus’ house, believed to be the great navigator's birthplace. Crossing Piazza de Ferrari, watch for the Stock Exchange Building and the Teatro Carlo Felice en route to the Chiesa del Gesu (Church of Jesus), built between 1589 and 1637. Richly decorated in marble and ancient artifacts, the church boasts frescoes by Carlone and paintings by Guido Reni and Rubens.
Next, cross the Square and head to the Ducal Palace Courtyard. The Palace that once housed the Dukes of the Republic now serves as the seat of trade activities. The Courtyard contains bars, restaurants, art galleries, libraries, information points, and craft stores.
Visit the Cathedrale di San Lorenzo, located in 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. Note the striking contrast of black slate and white marble and, inside, view some ancient holy artifacts.
In Piazza Caricamento, view the 13th-century Palazzo di San Giorgio and browse in the shops along the adjacent Via di Sottoripa.