Liguria is a corner of Italy where natural beauty intertwines with cultural heritage. Its rugged coastline and terraced hills cradle picturesque villages, each with ancient stories waiting to be discovered. As you stroll through colorful alleys and charming little harbors, you can feel the spirit of a land that has always blended the sea, tradition, and culture.
From the breathtaking views of the Cinque Terre to the elegant resorts of the Ligurian Riviera, every glimpse is an invitation to explore. Medieval castles, historic churches, and lively squares tell tales of a fascinating past, while the local cuisine and sea breeze complete the experience.
In Liguria, each day is a meeting with nature, history, and the authentic emotions of the Mediterranean.
Arrival at Milan Malpensa Airport and private transfer by minibus to Genoa, with English-speaking assistant and driver. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant, featuring a first taste of Ligurian cuisine (3-course menu with ½ bottle of wine and ½ bottle of water included). After lunch, transfer by minibus to the hotel. Evening at leisure.
Meet your guide and transfer by private minibus to Camogli, a typical and romantic fishing village characterized by its tall, brightly colored houses. Set within a stunning natural landscape, Camogli has captivated travelers from around the world for centuries. Originally a maritime and trading hub, the town later developed a strong artisan tradition, particularly in spinning, weaving, and dyeing fabrics. Don’t miss tasting the traditional focaccia or the delicious cheese focaccia, and especially the Camogliesi al Rum, the town’s signature sweet treats. Continue on to Rapallo, one of the gems of the Gulf of Tigullio. Beautifully situated, its historic center is filled with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants nestled among the narrow Ligurian lanes, while its elegant seaside promenade is lined with Liberty-style cafés. Enjoy lunch at a typical local restaurant (3-course menu with ½ bottle of wine and ½ bottle of water included). In the afternoon, proceed to Santa Margherita Ligure, where you will board a boat to Portofino. Nestled in a stunning bay, Portofino was once a peaceful fishing village. Its tall, colorful houses curve gracefully around the iconic piazzetta. In the 1950s, it became an internationally renowned destination, yet it has retained all of its refined charm to this day. Enjoy a guided visit of the village, then return by boat to Santa Margherita and transfer back to your hotel. (Total duration: approximately 7 hours)
Meet your guide and transfer by private minibus to Levanto, where you’ll board a boat excursion to discover the enchanting Cinque Terre — a full day immersed in the colors, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of the Ligurian coast. During the cruise (approx. 4 hours), you’ll enjoy swimming and snorkeling stops, as well as a light breakfast and aperitif featuring local organic products, soft drinks, and wine served on board. The Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes five picturesque villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. In addition to their historic churches and sanctuaries, the area’s unique charm lies in its man-made terraced landscapes, carved into the cliffs and covered with vineyards — producing excellent DOC wines such as Sciacchetrà — and olive groves stretching toward the sea. After the boat tour, continue by train to Manarola for a guided visit of the village and its scenic walk, offering spectacular coastal views. Return to Monterosso for a short visit before departing in the afternoon back to Genoa by minibus. (Total duration: approximately 9 hours) In the evening, enjoy dinner at a typical restaurant in the historic center (3-course menu with ½ bottle of wine and ½ bottle of water included). Transfer to the restaurant is not included — if the hotel is located in the city center, it will be within walking distance.
In the morning, meet your guide for a walking tour of Genoa, a mysterious and eclectic city — a crossroads of artists and cultures that has always intertwined its ancient history with the sea, voyages, and sailors. Genoa’s narrow alleys (caruggi), decorated palaces, and multicultural atmosphere tell stories of distant traditions and centuries-old craftsmanship. Enjoy a timeless journey through one of Europe’s largest medieval historic centers, filled with the aromas and flavors of ancient artisan shops still active for over a hundred years. Here, the famous denim fabric was born — and the 14 sixteenth-century “Teli della Passione”, indigo-dyed linen cloths, are preserved as early examples of it. From the Old Port and Palazzo San Giorgio — home to the world’s first bank, the Banco di San Giorgio (founded in 1406) — the tour continues up through the caruggi, among historic palaces and shops, to Via Garibaldi (Strada Nuova), built in 1550 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This elegant street, lined with noble palaces of Genoa’s wealthiest families, was studied by Pieter Paul Rubens, whose drawings helped spread the Renaissance style throughout Northern Europe. You’ll then reach Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of the city, overlooked by Palazzo Ducale, former seat of the Doge. Nearby stand Porta Soprana, one of the ancient medieval gates, and the House of Christopher Columbus, where the great explorer was born. Continue to Piazza San Matteo, the historic quarter of the Doria family, one of the city’s most influential noble dynasties during the Republic of Genoa. Descending along Via San Lorenzo, you’ll arrive at the majestic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, built in 1098 in the typical Genoese Gothic style of alternating black and white bands, which houses the relics of St. John the Baptist, the city’s patron saint. Duration of the walking tour: approx. 3 hours Comfortable walking shoes are recommended At 2:00 PM, depart by private minibus for Milan Malpensa Airport. End of services.
