Diffident Genoa does not offer herself to the first-comer. Only to those who learn to love her will she reveal the secrets of her narrow alleyways and tall palaces, display the hospitality of the port dwellers, and the traces of the crusades and trade that made her a power in the Mediterranean.Day 1
The Largest Historical Centre in Europe
Arrival to the hotel. In the afternoon, visit to the largest Historical Centre in Europe, starting at the Romanesque cathedral with the Diocesan Museum and the Treasure Museum, which houses holy relics from the crusades and the green chalice of the Holy Grail. After dinner, a walk down the ‘carrugiu lungu’, the long alley. Return to the hotel and overnight stay.
2
The Superb Palaces of the Golden Age
Breakfast. A full immersion into the golden age of the Republic of Genoa when its bankers were the richest in Europe and
built sumptuous palaces for themselves. Visit to the ‘Paxo’- the residence of the Doge and seat of political power-, the Ducal Palace, Palazzo Tursi, and the art galleries of Palazzo Bianco, of Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), of Palazzo Rosso and of
Palazzo Spinola. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.3
From Eastern to Western Riviera in Search of Villas
Breakfast at the hotel then departure for a tour of the most beautiful public parks, fruit of the 19th-century romantic spirit. Visit to Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, which houses the Botanical Gardens and Archaeological Museum of Liguria, Villa Doria Pamphili, which houses the Naval Museum, and Villa Brignole Sale Duchessa di Galliera, with its magnificent Italian-style gardens.
4
The Port: Crusades, Commerce and Cruises
After breakfast, tour of the bustling port area, where remnants of the past merge with the frenetic pace of a modern seaport. We will visit the Marina di Porto Antico (the ancient marina), the Magazzini del Cotone (cotton warehouses), and the historical district of the Molo (waterfront), ending with an unforgettable trip to the Aquarium, among the largest and most renowned in Europe. Lunch at a characteristic restaurant in town. Departure.
