Discovering Genoa and Portofino with an Open Top Bus: A How-To Guide

Looking for an adventure in Liguria? Join us on a tour dedicated to exploring Genoa and one of its beautiful coastal towns, Portofino. This one day trip will take you along the beautiful Riviera di Levante, crossing scenic places such as Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Rapallo. Our panoramic open-top bus is perfect for taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of the Ligurian coast. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your tour from Genoa to Portofino with ease.

Experience

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience Liguria’s beautiful coast without the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation. Our one-storey panoramic open-top bus provides a unique view of the coast, allowing you to sit back and relax while taking in the breathtaking scenery. With audio-broadcast commentary available in both English and Spanish, you’ll learn interesting facts and insights about the coast and Liguria.

Highlights

Here are some of the tour’s main features that you should look forward to:

• Discovering Genoa and the enchanting town of Portofino
• Crossing the picturesque Riviera di Levante
• Enjoying scenic views of Liguria by an open-top bus
• Learning interesting facts about the coast and Liguria with audio commentary in English and Spanish

Full Description

The tour starts in Genoa and goes along the scenic Riviera di Levante, a long, narrow coast that stretches from Genoa to La Spezia. As the bus crosses the coast, you’ll witness the unique beauty of this Italian region. Along the way, the audio commentary will teach you about the fascinating history and culture of Liguria. Once the tour arrives in Portofino, you’ll have free time to explore this enchanting town. Famous for its pastel-colored buildings, charming harbor, and designer boutiques, Portofino is an excellent spot for taking pictures and enjoying a walk. With three hours of free time, you can choose to hike along the coast or indulge in some Italian cuisine.

How to Plan Your Tour

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour from Genoa to Portofino:

Booking the Tour

The tour is offered by GetYourGuide, a leading online platform for booking travel experiences worldwide. You can book the tour online by visiting this link: book the tour here.

Tour Schedule

The tour from Genoa to Portofino lasts for about seven hours. It starts at 10:30 am in the morning and returns to Genoa around 6 pm.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is at the Piazza Caricamento in Genoa, right next to the Aquarium. You can reach the meeting point easily by bus or taxi.

What to Bring

Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking and a camera to capture the stunning views. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended, as the sun can be strong in this area.

What’s Included

The tour includes a round-trip transfer by open-top bus from Genoa to Portofino, three hours of free time in Portofino, and audio commentary in English and Spanish.

What’s Not Included

Food and beverages are not included in the tour price. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Portofino where you can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.

Book Your Tour Now

Genoa and Portofino are two beautiful destinations that you should visit when you’re in Liguria. This day trip from Genoa to Portofino is the perfect way to explore the stunning coast and enjoy some free time in one of Italy’s most charming towns. With an open-top bus, audio commentary, and three hours of free time in Portofino, you’re sure to have a great adventure. Book your tour today and get ready to discover the beauty of Liguria!

Frequently Asked Questions About Genoa

1. What is Genoa?

Genoa is a city and the capital of the Liguria region in Italy. It is located on the western coast of Italy on the Gulf of Genoa. Genoa is the sixth-largest city in Italy and is known for its rich history, culture, art, and cuisine.

2. How do I get to Genoa?

Genoa has an international airport, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, which is located about 6 kilometers west of the city center. You can also reach Genoa by train or car. The city is well connected by train to other major Italian cities like Milan, Turin, and Rome.

3. What are some popular attractions in Genoa?

Genoa has a rich history and culture, and as a result, has several popular attractions. Some of the most popular ones include:

• The Palazzi dei Rolli – A UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of a group of palaces from the 16th and 17th centuries
• Aquarium of Genoa – One of the largest aquariums in Europe
• The Old Port – A picturesque area with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops
• The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo – A beautiful cathedral dating back to the 11th century
• The Galata Maritime Museum – A museum showcasing the maritime history of Genoa

4. What is the food like in Genoa?

Genoa is known for its delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Pesto alla Genovese – A sauce made from basil, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and extra virgin olive oil
• Focaccia – A flatbread topped with olive oil and sometimes other toppings like onions or olives
• Baci di Dama – A type of cookie made from hazelnuts and chocolate
• Trofie al Pesto – A pasta dish made with trofie pasta and Pesto alla Genovese
• Panissa – A type of polenta made from chickpea flour

5. Is Genoa safe for tourists?

Genoa is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like all major cities, there are certain areas that should be avoided, especially at night. It is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions like not carrying too much cash, staying in well-lit areas, and not walking alone at night.

6. When is the best time to visit Genoa?

The best time to visit Genoa is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of March to April or October to November.

7. What are some day trips I can take from Genoa?

Genoa is well-located for day trips to other parts of Italy. Some popular destinations include:

• Cinque Terre – A group of five picturesque villages on the Italian Riviera
• Portofino – A beautiful fishing village with brightly colored buildings and a picturesque harbor
• Pisa – Home of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Turin – A beautiful city known for its beautiful architecture and rich history

8. What are some local customs and practices in Genoa?

In Genoa, it is considered polite to greet people with a handshake, especially if they are someone you are meeting for the first time. It is also customary to dress well when visiting churches or other religious sites. Additionally, tipping is not considered mandatory in Italy, but it is appreciated, especially in restaurants or cafes where a service charge may not be included.

9. What is the currency used in Genoa?

The currency used in Genoa, and in the rest of Italy, is the euro. Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or when visiting smaller towns or markets.

10. What language is spoken in Genoa?

The official language of Italy is Italian, and this is the language that is spoken in Genoa. However, many people in Genoa also speak English, especially in tourist areas. It is always a good idea to learn a few basic Italian phrases, however, as this can make traveling in the city easier and more enjoyable.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Genoa, Italy

Genoa is a lovely city in Italy, and it’s home to a lot of historical landmarks, delicious food, and fascinating culture. Whether you are there for a short trip or a long vacation, it’s important to find the best ways to spend your time in this beautiful city. In this guide, we’ll explore the top attractions and activities you can’t miss while touring Genoa.

1. Visit the Historic City Centre

Visiting the historic city centre of Genoa is a must-do activity for any tourist. The city is home to hundreds of medieval buildings and narrow streets that make it an enchanting place to explore on foot. The city’s historic centre is part of its UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is one of the largest in Europe. Here are some highlights you can’t miss:

• The Porta Soprana
• The Palazzo Ducale
• The Piazza De Ferrari
• The Old Harbour and Aquarium
• The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo

2. Try the Traditional Genoese Cuisine

Italy is known for its delicious cuisine, and Genoa is no exception. Try the city’s famous pesto sauce, which is made from basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, and is usually served with pasta. You can also try the local focaccia bread, farinata, and other seafood dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in Genoa:

1. Osteria la Faticaccia
2. Bonobo – caffe & bistrot
3. Gianfranco Vissani
4. Da Rina
5. Le Mura

3. Enjoy the Maritime Culture

Genoa is one of Italy’s most important seaports, so it has a long history of maritime culture. You can visit the Galata Museo del Mare, which is one of the largest marine museums in the Mediterranean Sea. You can also visit the Naval Museum, which explores the history of Genoa’s navy. Here are some other maritime activities you can enjoy:

• The whale watching tours along the Ligurian Coast
• The boat tours to the nearby seaside towns of Camogli and Portofino
• The fishing trips to Portofino and Santa Margherita
• The kayaking and snorkelling tours of the sea caves and hidden beaches

4. Take a Walk on the Beach

Genoa is home to some beautiful beaches, such as Boccadasse, Nervi, and Arenzano. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the views of the sea. Here are some other activities you can do at the beach:

• The beach volleyball and soccer games on the sand
• The beachside concerts and festivals in the summer
• The windsurfing and kiteboarding lessons for beginners
• The beach yoga and pilates classes for relaxation and mindfulness

5. See the City from Above

Genoa has a lot of hilltops that provide stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea. You can take a funicular, a cable car, or a hiking trail to get to the top of the hills. Here are some of the best viewpoints:

• The Spianata Castelletto, which offers a 360-degree view of the city
• The Forte Sperone, which overlooks the Old Harbour and the sea
• The Santuario di Nostra Signora di Guadalupe, which has a beautiful chapel and a garden
• The Museo di Sant’Agostino, which has a panoramic terrace and a botanical garden

Book Your Tour Now

Genoa is a city full of surprises and adventures, and it’s a great destination for tourists who want to experience Italy’s culture, cuisine, and history. Whether you are interested in landmarks, food, culture, nature, or relaxation, Genoa has something for you. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.