Genoa

Your coach journey from Genoa will take you to the small fishing village of Camogli, famed for its pastel-coloured houses, some of which are adorned with seashells. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the small historical centre of this charming village.

Step aboard your boat for a cruise along the Ligurian coast, marvel at the picturesque scenery of rugged cliffs and secluded coves. Pause for photos in the bay in front of the village of San Fruttuoso. The imposing Benedictine Monastery and Doria Tower are said to date back to the 13th century.

Stop at the picture-perfect village of Portofino where your guide will show you the small Piazzetta and narrow streets hosting some of Italy’s most exclusive boutiques. Take a stroll uphill to the little Church of St George, where the remains of St George the dragon-slayer are said to be. The climb is well worth the effort for the panoramic views over the bay and Tigullian Gulf, so don’t forget your camera.

During the boat ride, you’ll be offered local white wine and focaccia bread as you cruise along the coastline taking in the scenery.

Your journey from Genoa will take you to Santa Margherita to enjoy a scenic boat ride to Portofino. Idyllically set along the beautiful Riviera coastline, Portofino is an exclusive resort favoured by the international jet-set.

Your guide will show you the famous Piazzetta, meeting place of the elite. Take a stroll uphill to the little Church of St George, where the remains of St George the dragon-slayer are said to be. The climb is well worth the effort for the panoramic views over the bay and Tigullian Gulf.

Your route takes you up past the Brown Castle an ancient fortress, which once protected the village. From here, a 20-minute walk along a path dotted with towering trees takes you to Punta del Capo, where the lighthouse dominates the cliff. The view of the promontory, the gulf and the coastal villages is simply stunning.

Returning to the Piazzetta, you’ll have some free time to take a stroll, pick up a souvenir of your visit or enjoy a delicious Italian ice-cream.

Take a short boat trip from the port before heading into the centre of Genoa where your walking tour begins.

Genoa is a network of alleyways and your guide will take you to discover the secrets within the walled courtyards. You’ll be introduced to many of the historic sights, including the former home of Columbus, St. George Palace, once the seat of the Captain of the People, and the first bank in Italy.

De Ferrari Square, the heart of Genoa and the site of the Neo-Classical Banco Roma and Accademia, features a wonderful bronze fountain. See the San Lorenzo Cathedral, which has striking bands of black and white marble, and the baroque Church of St Jesus home to two of Rubens paintings. Visit the fine 16th century courtyard of the elegant Palazzo Ducale, which was once the seat of the Doges of Genoa.

During some free time at the end of your tour you may wish to enjoy a cappuccino or some delicious Italian ice-cream!

A short boat ride from the quay will take you to the heart of Genoa for a guided walking tour of the city.

You’ll see the former home of Christopher Columbus, St George Palace, and the heart of Genoa, De Ferrari Square, site of the Neo Classical Banco Roma and Accademia which features a wonderful bronze fountain. See the 13th century San Lorenzo Cathedral and the Church of St Jesus and visit the courtyard of the elegant 16th century Palazzo Ducale, once the seat of the Doges of Genoa.

Once you have discovered the city highlights, it’s time to head to the famous Aquarium to explore the underwater world, including sharks, dolphins and penguins. The Aquarium is one of the most important worldwide, and provides a home for more than 6,000 animals belonging to 600 different species. You’ll be amazed the variety of marine life and terrestrial habitat from throughout the world.

Each region of Italy has its own specialties, and each town prides itself on its versions of the classic regional cuisine. Liguria is famed for wonderful focaccia bread and heavenly pesto sauce.

Your journey will take you along the motorway towards the town of Recco, the famous Ligurian capital of food, where you’ll discover the secrets of the delicious local cuisine. You’ll be welcomed into a gourmet restaurant by a chef who will enlighten you on the art of Italian cooking.

A demonstration will be given on how to make pesto sauce – ingredients of which include fresh basil, garlic, cheese and walnuts. You’ll also learn how to make ‘trofie’, the typical Ligurian pasta and discover specialties such as ‘pansoti’ and fresh fish – Ligurian style.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch of wonderful Italian dishes - including some of your own creations. Locally-produced wine will be served and your meal will be rounded off with dessert and coffee. Afterwards, enjoy some some free time in Recco to browse some of the small souvenir shops or relax and soak up the Riviera atmosphere.

Setting off from historic Genoa, you’ll take a drive along the motorway and head to cosmopolitan Milan. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a guided walk taking in the giant 14th century Cathedral (exterior view only). With an array of building styles and statues, it is one of the largest churches in the world.

See the Opera House, opened in 1778, one of the world’s most prestigious theatres (exterior view only), step inside Gallerie Vittoro Emanuele, an ornate shopping mall home to stylish shops and chic cafés displaying mosaic floors decorated with signs of the Zodiac.

At the end of your guided tour, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some free time to do as you please. Milan is famous for its designer shops including Gucci, Armani, and Versace, and for its stylish ambience. Enjoy a spot of shopping or window browsing and soak up the atmosphere of this famous city.