Genoa Highlights VIP Private Tour (half day)
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Genoa Highlights VIP Private Tour (half day)

Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get ready to fall in love with Genoa on this private tour, exploring the city’s history, charm, and stunning views in comfort!

Begin at Castelletto, the city’s top viewpoint, with sweeping views of the Historic Center and Old Port - perfect with a gelato or granita. Stroll along Via Garibaldi, a Renaissance street with 13 UNESCO-listed palaces, then visit Boccadasse, a charming fishermen’s village with colorful houses and a quaint harbor.

Explore the Old Port, including Palazzo San Giorgio and the Portici di Sottoripa, key sites in Genoa’s maritime history. Finish at Piazza De Ferrari, Palazzo Ducale, and Porta Soprana. See the 12th-century town walls and the house where Christopher Columbus grew up, connecting the city’s rich past to its famous explorer.

The tour is designed for you, and it can be tailor-made to fit your wishes.

The tours are guided by handpicked professional tour guides, fluent in English with licensed touristic vehicles.
*Back-to-ship on-time guarantee!

Available options

Genoa Highlights - 4 Pax

Up to 4 passengers<br/>Pickup included

Genoa Highlights - 2 Pax

2 Passengers<br/>Pickup included

Genoa Highlights - 6 Pax

Up to 6 passengers <br/>Pickup included

Private small group (7-15 PAX)

VIP minibus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
WiFi on board
Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

Perched above the historic heart of Genoa, Castelletto offers the most breathtaking panoramic view of the city. From this elegant terrace, you can admire the entire Historic Center, the Old Port, and many of Genoa’s most iconic landmarks spread out beneath you. The mix of ancient rooftops, church domes, and glistening sea creates an unforgettable scene.

Optional - Once at the top, relax and soak in the view with a refreshing gelato or granita from one of the nearby cafés - a perfect Genoese moment high above the city.

2
Stop 2

A masterpiece of Renaissance elegance, Via Garibaldi is one of Genoa’s most beautiful streets - home to 13 UNESCO-listed palaces. Built during the city’s Golden Age, these grand residences showcase stunning frescoes, marble courtyards, and timeless architecture that tell the story of Genoa’s noble past.

3
Stop 3

Discover the enchanting charm of Boccadasse, a picturesque fishermen’s village that feels like stepping into a painting. Colorful houses line narrow lanes leading down to a small pebble beach and a harbor dotted with traditional boats. This beloved Genoese gem is the perfect place to experience the authentic coastal spirit of Genoa.

4

Standing proudly near the Old Port, Palazzo San Giorgio is one of Genoa’s most historic and impressive buildings. Built in the 13th century, it once served as both a government palace and the seat of the powerful Bank of Saint George, one of the world’s earliest banks. Its beautifully frescoed façade and grand architecture reflect Genoa’s maritime glory and make it a must-see landmark for anyone exploring the city’s rich past.

5

Located near the Old Port, the Portici di Sottoripa is one of Genoa’s oldest and most atmospheric streets. Dating back to the Middle Ages, its arched arcades once sheltered merchants and travelers arriving by sea. Today, it’s a lively walkway filled with local shops, traditional eateries, and street food stands, offering a true taste of Genoa’s vibrant everyday life.

6

At the heart of Genoa lies Piazza De Ferrari, the city’s main square and a symbol of its modern elegance. Surrounded by grand buildings and crowned by its impressive central fountain, it marks the meeting point between the historic center and the new city. Lively and full of energy, this is the perfect spot to explore Genoa’s culture, architecture, and vibrant urban life.

7

Palazzo Ducale stands proudly in the heart of Genoa as a symbol of the city’s rich history and grandeur. The Ducal Palace is the most important landmark, and the 12th-century town walls are still visible, symbolizing the pride of the inhabitants.

8

Step back in time at Porta Soprana, one of Genoa’s oldest and most iconic city gates. Dating back to the 12th century, its imposing towers and medieval walls mark the entrance to the historic center. Just a few steps away, you can see where Christopher Columbus grew up, making this area a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. linking this historic gate to the city’s famous explorer.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT FR ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Pickup from the port of Genoa.

About Genoa

Genoa, the capital of the Liguria region, is a historic port city known for its rich maritime heritage, medieval architecture, and delicious cuisine. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Genoa offers a unique blend of authenticity, culture, and coastal beauty.

Top Attractions

Aquarium of Genoa

One of the largest aquariums in Europe, featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours €27 for adults, €18 for children

Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)

A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is a must-visit for its historical and artistic significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Treasure Museum: €6)

Palazzi dei Rolli

A UNESCO World Heritage site, these Renaissance and Baroque palaces were once the homes of Genoa's noble families.

Historical 2-3 hours €10 for a combined ticket to multiple palaces

Galata Museo del Mare

A maritime museum that explores Genoa's rich seafaring history through interactive exhibits and historic ships.

Museum 2 hours €10 for adults, €8 for children

Boccadasse

A charming fishing village within Genoa, known for its colorful houses, pebble beach, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Beach Half-day Free (restaurants and activities vary)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pesto Genovese

A traditional basil sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and Pecorino cheese.

Sauce Contains dairy and nuts.

Focaccia

A flat, oven-baked bread topped with olive oil and sea salt, often flavored with rosemary or onions.

Bread Vegetarian.

Trofie al Pesto

A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto sauce.

Pasta Contains dairy and nuts.

Farinata

A savory chickpea flour pancake, similar to a thin, crispy crepe.

Snack Vegetarian and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Ligurian Alps Scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sunbathing at Boccadasse Beach Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours along the coast Kayaking in the Mediterranean

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, vibrant festivals, and lively beaches. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Italian
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Genoa is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas and on public transport. Be cautious at night, especially in the city center.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air
  • Cristoforo Colombo Airport • 7 km from city center
By train

Genoa Piazza Principe, Genoa Brignole

By bus

Genoa Piazza della Vittoria, Genoa Brignole Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is clean and efficient, with only one line currently in operation.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico (Old Town) Albaro Foce Sestri Ponente

Day trips

Portofino
30 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day

A picturesque fishing village known for its colorful houses, luxury yachts, and stunning coastal views.

Camogli
25 km from Genoa • Half-day to full-day

A charming fishing village with a beautiful pebble beach, colorful houses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Cinque Terre
100 km from Genoa • Full-day or overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of five colorful coastal villages with stunning views and hiking trails.

Festivals

Genoa International Boat Show • October Euroflora • Spring (every 5 years) Genoa International Film Festival • September

Pro tips

  • Explore the historic center on foot to discover hidden gems and narrow alleys
  • Try the local specialties, such as pesto, focaccia, and seafood
  • Visit the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe
  • Take a day trip to the nearby coastal villages of Portofino and Camogli
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife in the Foce and Centro Storico neighborhoods
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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