When traveling to the Northern part of Italy, Genoa should not be avoided. Whether you spend just one day in Genoa or choose to stay here for a long weekend or much more, here are the best ideas for day trips from Genoa.
Day trips from Genoa that will impress you
I was lucky to discover Genoa some many years ago, and since then I’ve returned twice – once on a one day in Genoa trip getting from Milan to the Cinque Terre, and the other during a cruise trip in the Meditteranean which had a stop in Savona.
Even though the town is very old and has been very important throughout the years (founded in the 6th century B.C., later on, Genoa was an independent city-state and one of the most important ports in Italy for many years), today it is not one of the top tourist attractions in Italy.
Make sure to read also all the things to know when traveling to Italy for the first time
Perfectly located on the Italian Northern Riviera, the town offers plenty of options for spending the time and taking day trips from Genoa.
Boccadasse, Genoa
Not really a day trip outside of Genoa, since Boccadasse is part of the city just a bit outside of Genoa’s center. But you should not miss Boccadasse Genoa, because the sight is just amazing.
Moreover, here is where I had the best ice cream in my life at the Antica Gelateria Amedeo. And trust me, with at least one trip to Italy in the past 10 years, having lived there for almost one year, I have had plenty of ice cream.
What else to do in Boccadasse, Genoa?
Bring a towel and catch some sun, come in the evening for a drink on the small beach, walk on the waterfront and take in the stunning views and the sea.
Savona
Another port town in Liguria, many ofter overlook Savona, but it is such a great destination for a day trip from Genoa. Here is where we stopped during our cruise on the Mediterranean Sea.
Whether you choose to stroll through the port of Savona, see Savona’s Sistine Chapel, learn a little bit of history at the medieval Fortress and the Archeological Museum, or simply go to the beach, this Italian town won’t disappoint.
Finalborgo and Noli
I must admit I loved both Finalborgo and Noli a whole lot!
Both small, infused with history, one by the sea, while the other is perched on a hill, these are the places where you will be able to get lost on the streets without tourists.
The water in Noli was utterly blue, while the climb on the hill in Finalborgo (or Finale Ligure) offered great views over the city walls and cobbler stone houses.
Rent a car and drive the whole way from Noli to Genoa along the coast, because that’s where the wow factor is.
Read next: Steal this Huge Italy Bucket List!
Camogli
Another iconic view in Liguria, and the perfect day trip from Genoa, Camogli is such a beautiful gem by the sea.
This is the local’s beach destination outside of Genoa, but you can also wander around on the streets with colorful buildings.
Just before you go, stop by and eat some delicious seafood at one of the restaurants with stunning views.
The French Riviera
Nice, Monaco, Cannes, yellow Menton, just to name a few of the Frenc towns reachable by car or by train in less than 3 hours from Genoa, Italy.
And come on, who doesn’t dream about seeing this part of the world, with a French twist?
But I honestly think Italy is the cheaper version of this part of the Riviera, thus a good idea to stay in and spend a day in Southern France.
Cinque Terre
Yes, day trips from Genoa to Cinque Terre are possible. Why do I say it in the plural? Well, because the Cinque Terre has much more to offer and you will want to see all the 5 villages on separate days.
Also, you might want to go from Genoa to Portofino, the famous Italian town known as being such a fancy destination.
You can easily organize everything by train, because it is rather difficult to park in the Cinque Terre, and if you do find a place it is usually really expensive.
Lucca
Challenging Bologna with a large number of towers, Lucca is another underrated and less known yet charming town worth seeing.
With its many labyrinth streets, Lucca won’t bore you for sure and will entertain you, while you discover a more quiet part of Tuscany.
So why don’t you start planning your trip to Genoa right away?
Italy Travel Resources
- Why not include the Amalfi Coast on your one week in South Italy Itinerary?
- Or head North for another 7 days in Northern Italy itinerary.
- Make your trip longer and stop for one day in Rome, spend 3 days in Cinque Terre, and finish it off with one day in Genoa.
- Looking for those authentic Italian villages? Check out my list of 11 less known Italian towns to add to your list of places to see next in Italy.
- Taste great food and explore red streets in one or 2 days in Bologna.
- How many days in Venice? That’s the question you might ask yourself and I got you covered. Together with all the best attractions to include on your list.
- See the most romantic part of Italy with my Amalfi Coast road trip itinerary.
- Cannot travel to Italy or do you want some inspiration? Check out these Italy virtual tours!
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[…] course, one can choose to spend a longer time here and take a day trip from Genoa to Cinque Terre, or a day trip from Genoa to Portofino and other places like the Northern Italian […]