Exploring Liguria’s coastline in a vintage car promises a blend of scenic beauty and a dash of nostalgia. This From Genova to Portofino day trip, offered by wego lab, combines the thrill of driving a classic vehicle with the chance to see some of Italy’s most picturesque spots. For those who love the idea of cruising along coastal roads with the wind in their hair, this experience offers a memorable, hands-on way to discover the Portofino area.
What I particularly like about this experience is how it balances driving your own vintage car with guided stops, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The inclusion of photo stops in Recco, Santa Margherita, and Portofino is a huge plus, as it’s clear that capturing the moment is part of the fun. Also, the fact that the cars come with both soft and hard tops means you’re protected from unexpected weather — a thoughtful touch that adds comfort to the adventure.
That said, one consideration for travelers is the requirement to have a valid EU driving license and comfort with manual driving. If you’re not comfortable driving a stick shift or don’t have a license, the experience can be adjusted with an additional cost for a driver, but it’s worth noting that the core appeal is in taking the wheel yourself. Also, keep in mind that lunch and refreshments aren’t included, so planning for a meal in Santa Margherita or Portofino is essential to fully enjoy the day.
This tour offers a fantastic way to see Liguria’s coast with a personal touch — whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply seeking a different perspective on these iconic towns.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Driving a vintage car adds a fun and engaging element to the day.
- Multiple photo stops allow you to capture stunning coastal views and memorable moments.
- Flexible itinerary with stops in Recco, Santa Margherita, and Portofino to explore at your own pace.
- Weather considerations are addressed with cars equipped with both soft and hard tops, plus heating.
- Small group size (up to four guests) creates an intimate experience.
- Requires valid EU driver’s license and comfort with manual gear shifting for the best experience.
Discovering Ligurian Beauty in a Classic Car
Imagine cruising along the winding roads of Liguria, the sea shimmering beside you, and a vintage car beneath you that turns heads at every corner. That’s the essence of this six-hour day trip from Genova — a perfect blend of scenic sightseeing, engaging driving, and authentic Italian coastal charm.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Camogli.
Starting Point: Piazza della Vittoria
Your adventure kicks off in Piazza della Vittoria in Genova, where you’ll meet your guide and get acquainted with the vintage vehicle you’ll be driving. The experience is tailored to your comfort level, with the choice of soft or hard tops on the cars, so you can enjoy the ride regardless of the weather. The availability of two two-seater vehicles means up to four people can share this joy, provided two hold valid driving licenses.
First Stop: Recco – A Coastal Photo Opportunity
After a brief briefing, you’ll set off toward Recco, passing through the Golfo del Tigullio, a stretch of coastline renowned for its beauty and quaint villages. Recco itself offers a perfect break to stretch your legs and take photos of its charming harbor. The group typically spends about an hour here, giving you enough time to snap some shots and maybe even grab a quick coffee.
Santa Margherita Ligure: Charm and Cuisine
Next up is Santa Margherita Ligure, a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its colorful houses, lively promenade, and elegant vibe. Here, you’ll have about two hours to explore, photograph, and enjoy a relaxed lunch — although food isn’t included, plenty of spots are ready to serve fresh seafood or classic Ligurian focaccia. The guide, who may be multilingual (Spanish, English, Italian), often helps with tips on local spots worth visiting.
The Jewel: Portofino
The highlight for many will be Portofino, the tiny harbor town famous for its celebrity visitors and scenic backdrop. With three hours allocated, you’ll have ample time to stroll, take photos of its pastel-colored buildings, and soak in the luxurious yet authentic atmosphere. The guide might also assist with capturing photos of your drive — as Märta Gunilla’s review mentions, guides often take videos and photos that you can enjoy afterward.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Weather readiness is addressed with cars equipped with heating and roofs, so don’t worry about sudden rain or cloudy days.
- Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, or a scarf to stay comfortable during stops and drives.
- Having a valid EU driver’s license and being comfortable with manual gear shifting is essential if you want to drive; otherwise, opting for a driver option is available at an extra cost.
- Lunch and beverages are on your own, so plan accordingly — the towns offer plenty of local options for a leisurely meal.
- The tour is private and can be tailored to your pace, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.
Why This Experience Is a Great Choice
This trip is perfect for car enthusiasts who relish the idea of driving a vintage vehicle. It’s also a wonderful way for small groups or couples to enjoy the Ligurian coast without the hassle of self-driving in unfamiliar territory. The stunning coastal views, combined with the charm of Santa Margherita and Portofino, make this a visually rewarding experience.
If you’re someone who values authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters with Italy’s scenic spots, this tour delivers in spades. Plus, the flexibility to follow the guide or take the wheel offers a nice balance between guided sightseeing and personal adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour
- Travelers with a valid EU driver’s license comfortable with manual gears
- Small groups or couples seeking a tailored, intimate experience
- Those interested in scenic drives and photography of iconic Italian towns
- Visitors looking for a fun, different way to explore Liguria’s coast
Who Might Want to Think Twice
- People uncomfortable with driving stick-shift cars
- Travelers not planning to eat lunch in the area, as options are not included
- Those looking for a fully guided tour without the driving component
Final Thoughts
This From Genova to Portofino classic car trip offers a combination of scenic beauty, authentic charm, and engaging driving that’s hard to match. The experience is well-organized, with thoughtful touches like weather protection and photo opportunities, making it appealing for those seeking a personal connection to Liguria’s stunning coast.
If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising along Italy’s coastline in a vintage convertible, this tour delivers that dream with an authentic, relaxed vibe. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, appreciate good scenery, and want a memorable, personal experience outside the typical bus tour.
Overall, it’s a highly-rated, carefully curated way to see Liguria’s highlights with a touch of vintage glamour. Whether you’re a car aficionado or just looking for a different way to enjoy Italy’s coastal beauty, this trip will leave you with plenty of photos, stories, and smiles.
FAQ
Do I need a driver’s license to join this tour? Yes, you need a valid EU driver’s license and should be comfortable driving a manual transmission car.
Can I drive the vintage car myself? Absolutely, if you meet the driving requirements. Otherwise, you can opt to have a guide drive for you at an additional cost.
What’s included in the price? The rental of the car, insurance, and fuel are included, but lunch, coffee breaks, gratuities, and hotel transfers are not.
How long is the tour? The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.
What should I bring? Remember to bring your driver’s license, sunscreen, and a hat or scarf for sun protection.
Are the cars equipped for bad weather? Yes, they feature both soft and hard tops and have heating, so weather conditions shouldn’t disrupt your plans.
Can I customize the stops or the itinerary? The tour is private and flexible, so your guide can accommodate your preferences within the available schedule.
This classic car tour through Liguria offers a perfect mix of scenic drives, charming towns, and personal adventure. It’s a memorable way to experience the Italian Riviera, especially if you’re looking for something a bit different from the usual sightseeing.