7 days in and around Genoa: an experience rich in history, nature and hidden gems

Liguria’s Riviera holds a subtle charm, shaped by contrasts and harmonies: sea and mountains brushing against each other, villages perched above the blue, hills lined with olive trees, and glimpses that seem frozen in time. 

In particular, Genoa and its surroundings are a patchwork of art, history, and nature. From the heart of the city, with the Palazzi dei Rolli and the Old Port, to the villages of the Levante coast with their cliffside trails, and on through hidden beaches and authentic small towns: every stop reveals a Liguria worth discovering, far from the usual routes.

So let’s get ready to experience something truly special over 7 days in and around Genoa, exploring this land slowly, guided by the rhythm of the sea and the places that embody its true spirit.

Our journey of 7 days along Liguria’s Riviera follows a clear intention: to explore in and around Genoa with a different gaze, striking a balance between must-see landmarks and lesser-known places often overlooked by the heaviest tourist flows.

In a region where overtourism is a real risk—especially around the Cinque Terre, beautiful yet often overwhelmed by mass tourism—this itinerary becomes an invitation to slow down, take alternative routes, and rediscover more authentic areas.

Here’s why we’ll explore not only the splendid historic center of Genoa, so rich in history and culture, but also the peripheral neighborhoods like Nervi and Boccadasse, where we can breathe a more authentic atmosphere, as well as charming villages like Camogli and San Fruttuoso. A journey designed to discover the area from every angle, with a sustainable approach that respects the environment and local communities.

Genoa, the capital and vibrant heart of Liguria, is our privileged starting point. The city is a treasure trove of history and culture, a UNESCO World Heritage site for the Strade Nuove and the Palazzi dei Rolli, featuring a charming Old Port and authentic corners to discover or relax in. In 2025, it was the only Italian city featured in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel.

The itinerary initially focuses on the city center, while in the following days we will visit museums and historic villas, exploring distinctive peripheral “neighborhoods” — authentic villages where we can breathe an atmosphere of times gone by, such as Nervi and Boccadasse.

Finally, during the last two days, we will travel a few kilometers along the Riviera di Levante, reaching the beautiful Camogli and San Fruttuoso. Getting around the province by public transport is very easy and quick.

- Morning: let’s begin our itinerary in Genoa, exploring the 17th-century noble palaces along the historic Via Garibaldi, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli. This circuit of aristocratic residences once hosted kings, cardinals, and ambassadors visiting the Republic of Genoa.

Some of these buildings, such as Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Doria Tursi, are open to the public and house magnificent art collections and beautifully preserved interiors.

We continue our walk through the maze of atmospheric alleys in the historic center, where the scents wafting from the bakeries guide us to an essential stop: a piece of traditional Genoese focaccia.

- Afternoon and evening: let’s wander through the hidden little squares, perhaps stepping into a quiet and picturesque courtyard, as we make our way to the stunning Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its unmistakable black-and-white striped façade. Along the way, we can stop at Palazzo Spinola—also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site— a lesser-known gem in Piazza di Pellicceria, home to a charming National Art Gallery.

We end our day with an aperitif in the caruggi, the narrow, winding alleys of the city center, full of charm, local spots, and authenticity; the perfect way to conclude our visit to “La Superba” and start our 7-day journey in and around Genoa.

Day 1 highlights:

- Via Garibaldi, Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli.

- Historic center and Genoese focaccia.

- Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

- Palazzo Spinola.

- Aperitif in the caruggi.

- Morning: Genoa was one of the most powerful maritime republics of the Mediterranean for centuries, and its connection to the sea has shaped the very identity of the city. That’s why, to discover the most authentic side of its maritime soul, we begin the day exploring the Old Port, a waterfront area completely redeveloped in the 1990s based on a project by Renzo Piano.

We start with a visit to the Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest and most modern in Europe, featuring carefully designed environments that host marine species from all over the world — from dolphins and jellyfish to sharks.

- Afternoon and evening: just a short walk from the Aquarium, the Galata Maritime Museum awaits us. It’s an interactive and immersive experience that tells the story of five centuries of navigation, exploration, and travel.

We then wrap up our second day with a panoramic view over the city by taking the lift up to the Spianata di Castelletto, a scenic terrace suspended above the rooftops, domes, and bell towers of Genoa. Here, we can relax with a sea-view aperitif at one of the nearby cafés, or simply wander a bit more through the streets of the city, soaking in its magical atmosphere.

Day 2 highlights:

- Old Port.

- Aquarium of Genoa.

- Galata Maritime Museum.

- Castelletto viewpoint.

- Morning: after two days exploring the urban heart of Genoa, let’s head west to discover a greener, more relaxing side of the city. Our first stop is Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, a gem of 19th-century landscape architecture located in Pegli (15 minutes by train from Genoa Piazza Principe station, or by taking the characteristic Navebus, the public boat service departing from the Old Port that takes you to Pegli by sea).

Its vast park, designed as a true open-air theatre, leads visitors along a scenic route through temples, ponds, caves, and exotic gardens, with surprising views and an almost timeless atmosphere.

- Afternoon and evening: just one train stop away (about 3 minutes) lies the neighborhood of Pra’. Here we’ll spend a couple of special hours joining a guided tour to the local farm Il Pesto di Pra’ – Serre sul Mare.

We’ll discover the deep connection between this land and the cultivation of Genoese DOP basil, visiting the greenhouses and learning about the production process, before watching a traditional pesto-making demonstration with a mortar. The experience ends with a tasting of typical Ligurian flavors: focaccia with pesto, crostini, trofiette, and a glass of local wine. A genuine dive into the tastes of Liguria. 

If time allows, in the late afternoon we can hop on the train again and reach Genova Voltri in just a few minutes to admire the 19th-century elegance of Villa Duchessa di Galliera, another gem surrounded by a refined and romantic Italian-style garden.

Day 3 highlights:

- Villa Durazzo Pallavicini.

- Basil Tour at Serre di Pra’, guided tour and tasting.

- Villa Duchessa di Galliera.

- Morning: we leave Genoa and head east along the Riviera di Levante by taking a regional train to Nervi, which we’ll reach in about 20 minutes.

Nervi is a district on the city’s outskirts, although it was once an independent fishing and trading village, active since the early Christian era. Today, it’s known for its lush parks and scenic coastal paths.

Let’s begin with the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, a panoramic seaside walk perfect for a relaxing stroll. Not far from the promenade, the Parchi di Nervi offer a cool, shady retreat among centuries-old trees—an ideal summer escape from the city heat.

- Afternoon and evening: on the northern edge of the parks are two must-see museums; the Wolfsoniana, where modern art meets local history, and the Galleria d’Arte Moderna, home to a fine collection of 20th-century Italian and international works.

After this cultural break, we follow the Anita Garibaldi promenade to reach the Porticciolo di Nervi, a picturesque harbor that still preserves the atmosphere of a traditional fishing village. Before heading back to the city for the night, let's enjoy a plate of trofie al pesto in one of the charming seaside restaurants.

Day 4 highlights:

- Train to Nervi.

- Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi.

- Parchi di Nervi.

- Wolfsoniana or Gallery of Modern Art.

- Porticciolo di Nervi.

- Dinner at a local restaurant.

- Morning: a short walk from Genova Piazza Principe station lies a surprising place where travel, ethnographic collections and sweeping views of the port come together. This is Castello d’Albertis, a fascinating neo-Gothic residence built at the end of the 19th century by Captain Enrico Alberto d’Albertis, now home to the evocative Museum of World Cultures. The castle can be reached via the fascinating Montegalletto elevator.

Inside, you can wander through decorated halls, discover travel journals and explore multimedia installations that tell the stories of distant peoples, offering the vision of a 19th-century explorer through a contemporary lens.

- Afternoon and evening: after the museum, those looking to spend time outdoors can head up to the hillside district of Righi, where the trails of the Parco delle Mura begin—an extensive green area embracing the city and dotted with the remains of Genoa’s ancient Forts.

Alternatively, if you wish to experience the charm of an authentic coastal village, make your way to Genova Brignole and take bus no. 15 towards Nervi. In about 15 minutes, you’ll reach the Caprera/Orsini stop, and a short walk along Via Cavallotti leads you into the heart of Boccadasse, an old fishing village with a unique, timeless atmosphere, pastel-coloured houses and fishing boats resting on the shore.

Narrow lanes, a small beach, and a panoramic terrace overlooking the sea: just minutes from central Genoa, yet it feels like stepping into another world. As the sun begins to set, this is the perfect spot for a seaside aperitif in one of the cafés overlooking the bay.

Day 5 highlights:

- Castello d’Albertis and Museum of World Cultures. 

- Parco delle Mura.

- Boccadasse.

- Aperitif with a view.

- Morning: less than 30 kilometers separate the center of Genoa from Recco. It takes about 30 minutes by train to reach the latter.

The historic center unfolds between the train station, Piazza Nicoloso, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. But the real star of Recco is its famous focaccia, a PGI-certified delicacy celebrated across Italy and considered a true institution here.

Paper-thin and golden, filled with melted cheese that oozes from the folds of the dough—each bakery offers its own take, and they’re all worth trying. As we stroll through the streets and catch its scent in the air, resistance is futile. It’s the perfect time for a hearty breakfast or mid-morning snack with a view of the coast.

- Afternoon and evening: we hop back on the train for just one stop, getting off at Camogli-San Fruttuoso. Camogli is a charming old town centered around its small harbor, framed by pastel-colored houses, steep stairways, and shaded alleys.

Let’s spend the afternoon exploring this picturesque village at a leisurely pace, visiting the beautiful Baroque Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and Castel Dragone, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the sea. But above all, let’s soak in the atmosphere that makes Camogli so unique—a rare balance of authenticity, tranquility, and pure beauty.

Day 6 highlights:

- Train from Sori to Recco.

- Recco town center and cheese focaccia.

- Train from Recco to Camogli.

- Camogli historic center.

- Santa Maria Assunta Church.

- Dragonara Castle.

- Morning: for the new stage of our 7-day itinerary in and around Genoa, here we are ready for the spectacular excursion from Camogli to the enchanting San Fruttuoso (about 3 hours, one way). We’ll start early in the morning to reach Camogli by train, and from there we continue on foot toward the small hamlet of San Rocco, where panoramic views open onto the hills and the turquoise waters of the bay. 

Let's take the trail that climbs toward Portofino Vetta, continuing until we reach Pietre Strette, a peaceful spot in the heart of nature, perfect for a short rest. Then, we follow the downhill path that leads directly to San Fruttuoso, about an hour’s walk away.

- Afternoon and evening: once in San Fruttuoso, we dive into the magic of this stunning hidden cove—accessible only on foot or by sea. Nestled in this secluded paradise is the evocative Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a small historical gem that tells centuries of stories through its architecture and setting.

Let’s take time to unwind on the pebble beach, enjoy a refreshing swim, or—if you're into diving—explore the underwater statue of the Christ of the Abyss, a symbolic feature of this extraordinary place.

In the late afternoon, let’s return to Camogli aboard a panoramic ferry that, in just over 30 minutes, offers stunning views over the Golfo Paradiso. Let’s enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the sea before heading back to Genoa by train, for one final, quiet nighttime farewell to this beautiful city, suspended between mountains and sea, in perfect harmony between art and nature.

Day 7 highlights:

- Trekking from Camogli to San Fruttuoso.

- Abbey of San Fruttuoso.

- Doria Tower and Christ of the Abyss.

- Boat to Camogli, seafood dinner and return to Genoa by train.

Absolutely! Genoa is a vibrant port city rich in history, art, and culture. Beyond the historic center and the famous Old Port, it offers stunning seaside views, unique museums, and authentic Ligurian cuisine. It’s a destination that rewards curious travelers willing to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

To truly appreciate Genoa’s main attractions and nearby coastal villages, plan for at least 3 to 5 days. This allows a relaxed pace to soak in the city’s atmosphere and explore its hidden gems.

Genoa has an efficient public transport network including buses, metro, and funiculars, ideal for reaching hilltop neighborhoods and coastal areas. Walking is also rewarding in the compact historic center, but for day trips along the Riviera, using regional trains or renting a car can be convenient.

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists. Summers can be busy, especially along the coast, while winters are mild and sometimes rainy.

Don’t miss trying pesto alla genovese, focaccia, fresh seafood, and farinata. Many local trattorie serve authentic dishes that reflect Genoa’s maritime heritage and Ligurian traditions.