A Walk Through Genoa’s Old Town and a Drive to Portofino: An Authentic Ligurian Experience
This tour offers a charming taste of Liguria, starting with a stroll through Genoa’s Old Town—a labyrinth of narrow, historic Carruggi—and then switching gears to a scenic drive along the coast to the glamorous village of Portofino. It’s a full day that balances cultural insights with spectacular scenery, guided by locals who know their territory as well as they know their family history.
What I love about this experience is the way it captures both the essence of Genoa’s urban charm and the natural beauty of the Ligurian coast. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, born and raised in Liguria, and their passion shines through as they share stories, myths, and fascinating trivia that aren’t in any guidebook. Plus, the opportunity to behave like a true Genoese at a lively, local osteria adds a genuine touch you won’t find in standard tours.
One thing to consider is the traffic—Italy’s roads are often busy, and since part of the tour involves traveling on open roads, delays are possible. While rare, traffic jams could slow down the schedule or limit certain parts of the experience, and no refunds are offered for such issues. Nonetheless, with a flexible booking policy, it’s easy to reserve and decide closer to the date.
Key Points and Takeaways
- Expert Guides: Guides are local, enthusiastic, and passionate about sharing Liguria’s stories.
- Authentic Local Flavor: The lunch stop at a lively osteria encourages you to experience Genoese culture firsthand.
- Rich Narratives: The guides share history from before JC to today, including myths and curiosities.
- Scenic Coastal Drive: The drive to Portofino offers breathtaking views and a relaxed way to see the coast.
- Flexible Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges, claustrophobia, or motion sickness.
Exploring Genoa’s Old Town: A Tangle of Carruggi
The tour kicks off with a walk through Genoa’s Old Town, a maze of narrow, winding streets known locally as Carruggi. These ancient alleyways are packed with history, character, and a hint of chaos, but walking through them is like stepping back in time. The guides, such as Luca or Maria, are born and raised here—they know every corner and story, which makes the experience lively, personal, and full of insider tips.
As you navigate the labyrinth, you’ll notice the architecture—a mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings, with hidden courtyards and quaint shops. The guides point out fascinating curiosities, like how certain streets gained their names or legends about local characters. They’ll explain that Genoa’s history stretches back to the days before JC, and its importance as a maritime hub is woven into every stone.
A highlight is discovering the local atmosphere, feeling the vibrancy of the neighborhood’s cafes, markets, and lively street life. The guides encourage you to ask questions and even to behave like a Genoese, which adds a fun, immersive element—think of it as a cultural role-play. For a genuine experience, you’ll stop at a typical sciamadda—a local, bustling osteria—where you can enjoy a hearty Ligurian lunch.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Camogli.
The Lunch Experience: Dining Genoese Style
The included meal takes place at a local osteria that’s more than just a restaurant — it’s a social hub. Here, you can savor traditional Ligurian dishes, perhaps a focaccia or a trofie al pesto, while observing the lively chatter of locals. The guides suggest behaving as much as possible like a Genoese—this could mean joining in the conversation or simply soaking in the cheerful, unpretentious atmosphere.
This stop isn’t just about food; it’s about connecting with local life, understanding the convivial Ligurian spirit, and gaining insight into everyday culture. It’s a break that feels authentic and unpretentious, offering a chance to relax and recharge before heading to the coast.
Scenic Drive to Portofino: Coastal Beauty on Wheels
Post-lunch, the tour shifts to a standard Italian-sized car—comfortable enough for three or four passengers—with larger vehicle options available on request. The drive along the coastline is truly a highlight. Your guides—familiar with every twist and turn—will point out landmarks, share stories about local legends, and describe the geography of this rugged, dramatic coast.
The road itself offers stunning views of cliffs, colorful villages, and the shimmering sea. The drive to Portofino takes about an hour, during which you’ll be able to appreciate why this area is considered one of Italy’s most picturesque spots.
Once in Portofino, you’ll have about an hour to stroll the charming harbor, maybe enjoy a gelato (they often recommend Paciugo in particular), and absorb the elegant yet relaxed vibe of this tiny fishing village turned celebrity hotspot. The guides will suggest a leisurely walk to capture all the best views, and share stories about Portofino’s history and myths.
Returning to Genoa: Eyes and Soul Full of Beauty
The trip back is equally scenic, giving you another opportunity to admire the coast from a different angle. The guides will keep you engaged with stories and insights, ensuring you leave with a deep appreciation for Liguria’s diverse charms.
The entire experience from start to finish is designed to give you not just sightseeing but a sense of place—the rich history, local customs, and scenic beauty weave together into a memorable day.
Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Full Day
At a fair price point, this tour includes the cost of both car and petrol—so there are no hidden costs—plus the expertise of guides who truly care about sharing their homeland. Keep in mind, food, drinks, and museum tickets are not included, so plan accordingly. Given the personalized, private group setup, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience than large bus tours, but the price reflects the quality of guides and the authentic local flavor.
Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and the cancellation policy allows a full refund if you decide to change plans more than 24 hours in advance.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers eager to see the real Liguria beyond the tourist hotspots. It’s ideal for those who enjoy cultural storytelling, local cuisine, and scenic drives, and are comfortable with small group formats. While not suitable for people with mobility challenges or those prone to traffic delays, it’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, personalized glimpse of Genoa and Portofino.
Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
If you’re after a balanced mix of walking, local flavor, and scenic driving, this tour offers genuine value. The guides’ passion and knowledge turn what could be just a “drive and walk” into a storytelling journey through Liguria’s history and culture. The opportunity to behave like a Genoese, enjoy authentic cuisine, and absorb some of Italy’s most stunning coastal views makes this a rich, memorable day.
For travelers who want an intimate, flexible experience with personalized attention, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a great way to step off the beaten path and encounter Liguria’s true essence—portions of history, local life, and natural beauty—all wrapped into one full day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity involves walking and car travel, and it’s designed as a private group. Children who are comfortable walking and sitting during the drive should enjoy it, but the tour is not specifically tailored for very young kids.
How long is the entire tour?
It lasts about a full day, with the morning spent exploring Genoa’s Old Town, lunch at a local osteria, and an afternoon drive to Portofino and back.
What language options are available?
Guides speak English, Spanish, French, and Italian, so you can choose your preferred language.
Are large vehicles available?
Yes, larger cars can be arranged on demand, which makes the experience more comfortable for bigger groups or those with specific needs.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option.
Is the tour suitable for people with low fitness levels?
It’s not suitable for those with low fitness, as there is walking involved around Genoa and Portofino, and some steep or uneven paths.
What are the main highlights?
The highlights include the authentic Old Town walk, the lively lunch experience, and the scenic coastal drive. The guides’ local knowledge is a standout feature.
Are tickets for museums included?
No, museum or attraction tickets are not included, so you might want to budget for that if you plan to visit specific sites.
How does the tour handle traffic delays?
Traffic can occasionally cause delays, and no refunds are provided if this happens. The guides will do their best to keep the schedule flexible.
Is this tour good for couples or small groups?
Absolutely. It’s designed as a private group experience, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a personalized day together.
This Genoa and Portofino day trip offers a thoughtful blend of history, local culture, and stunning scenery, guided by passionate locals eager to share their homeland. It’s a well-rounded choice for travelers who want more than just the usual sightseeing—an authentic taste of Liguria’s charm.