3 Days Itinerary in Genoa, Italy - Travel Guide
La Dolce Vita: A 3-Day Exploration of Genoa
| Days | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Day 1 – Unveiling the Historic Center of Genoa |
| 2 | Day 2 – Delving into the Artistic and Maritime Ensemble |
| 3 | Day 3 – Tasting and Shopping Extravaganza |
Introduction
Discover the rich history, undeniable charm, and mouthwatering cuisine of Genoa, the vibrant port city of Italy. In a span of 3 days, let us explore hidden alleys, medieval architecture, and taste the best of Ligurian dishes. This itinerary is ideal for those who appreciate art, history, and excellent food.
Day 1 – Unveiling the Historic Center of Genoa
Our journey begins at the heart of the city - the Piazza de Ferrari. Soak in the lively atmosphere and admire the surrounding shops and historic buildings. From there, head toward the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, an awe-inspiring mix of Gothic and Romanic architecture that holds centuries of history. Once done, grab a light lunch from a nearby traditional 'friggitoria' (fried food shop). Then, let's take a relaxing stroll to the oldest part of the city, the Truillo district, where you'll find a maze-like network of narrow alleyways - the 'caruggi.' Spend the afternoon lost in history, finishing up at the lively Porto Antico, where you can appreciate the sunset and enjoy a well-deserved Italian feast featuring Genoese specialties like 'Trenette al Pesto.'
Day 2 – Delving into the Artistic and Maritime Ensemble
On our second day, deepen your appreciation for Genoan art by visiting the Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco. These two art museums, just a stone's throw from each other, house a remarkable collection of Italian and European paintings. Post the art rendezvous; let's shift gears and visit the Aquarium of Genoa. It's one of the largest in Europe, offering a detailed study of aquatic life from seas and oceans around the world. Let's wrap up the day at Boccadasse, a quaint old mariners' neighborhood. Grab a gelato and watch the sky change colors as the sun dips into the sea.
Day 3 – Tasting and Shopping Extravaganza
No journey through Italy is complete without a deep taste of local cuisine. Hence, the last day is dedicated to savouring Genoa's gastronomical wonders. Start with a visit to the Mercato Orientale, the city's vibrant food market. Savor the flavors of fresh produce, local cheese, and pastries. Enjoy a lunch of 'Farinata' – a traditional Ligurian chickpea pancake. Post this, let's head to the notable shopping streets of Via XX Settembre and Via Roma. The winding streets and countless shops promise a delightful shopping experience. For your final dinner in the city, I suggest indulging in 'Focaccia Genovese' and local seafood dishes. Back at Porto Antico, let's cap off our Italian adventure with a toast to La Dolce Vita!
Paul Brown
FAQs about this
3 day itinerary in
Genoa
Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Genoa when the city has a pleasant climate.
Genoa is generally safe, but like any major urban area, it's good to be cautious, particularly in crowded places and during the night in the historic center.
The city center and old town are perfectly walkable. However, Genoa also has a good network of buses, a metro line, and funiculars to reach places on higher ground.