Santa Margherita

Setting off from the pier, you’ll take a drive along the highway and on to Sestri Levante. Facing two beautiful bays, this idyllic town has been a well known beauty spot for hundreds of years and was praised by the early Renaissance poets. Although the town has grown considerably since these early times, it has lost none of its original charm.

Upon arrival, your guide will offer a brief introduction of the town, before you head off for independent exploration. You will have around 1½ hours to enjoy Sestri Levante at your own pace. Stroll the delightful streets and browse the shops, or simply relax in one of the many local cafés. You may wish to enjoy the sparkling Fable Bay or take a walk to Silent Bay, a tiny protected inlet.

Afterwards, you’ll meet with your guide at the designated meeting point and time for the return drive to Santa Margherita. Your route will take you along the beautiful Roman Aurelia road, passing by the villages of Lavagna, Chiavari and Rapallo and offering panoramic views across the Tigullio Gulf.

Idyllically set along the beautiful Riviera coastline, Portofino is an exclusive resort favoured by the international jet set. Enjoy a scenic coastal cruise from Santa Margherita to Portofino, where your walking tour of this tiny, picture-perfect village will begin.

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.

As you 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.

Rounding the huge rocky spur known as Punta Chiappa, you’ll reach Camogli. This small fishing village is famed for its pastel-coloured houses, some of which are adorned with seashells. Stroll through the small historical centre and visit the wonderful baroque Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. Enjoy some free time in Camogli to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps try some of the local ice-cream.

Your next stop will be at the beautiful little village of Portofino. Here, your guide will show you the small Piazzetta and narrow streets hosting some of Italy’s most exclusive boutiques. The brightly-painted houses and idyllic setting make this tiny fishing village picture-perfect, so remember to take your camera.

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

On arrival in Genoa, a panoramic tour will introduce you 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.

Afterwards, your guide will take you on a walking tour to discover a network of alleyways and the secrets within the walled courtyards of Genoa. You’ll see San Lorenzo Cathedral, which has striking bands of black and white marble. You’ll also visit the fine 16th century courtyard of the elegant Palazzo Ducale, which was once the seat of the Doges of Genoa.

After your guided tour, you’ll have around 3 hours’ free time. Wander the charming cobbled streets of the old town, or visit the new marina area and famous Genoa Aquarium. Alternatively, you may wish to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch, tasting some of the wonderful local cuisine such as ‘trofie’ and ‘cheese focaccia’.

Setting off from Santa Margherita, your journey will take you to the delightful town of Recco. You’ll travel along the Via Aurelia, the ancient Roman ‘Golden Sun’ Road, which offers panoramic views over the Tigullio Gulf.

Upon arrival at a local restaurant, a demonstration will be given on how to make pesto sauce – ingredients of which include fresh basil, garlic, cheese and walnuts. You’ll also see how to make ‘troffie’, the typical Ligurian hand-made pasta, and discover specialties such as focaccia, delicious bread made with olive oil.

Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch of wonderful Italian dishes. Locally produced wine will be served with lunch and your meal will be rounded off with dessert and coffee.

The name Cinque Terre, ‘Five Lands’ was once only accessible by sea and even today there are no proper roads linking the villages you visit on this unique tour.

Departing the pier you’ll head for La Spezia, where your guide will join your coach. Travelling on the coastal road to Manarola, you’ll capture the delightful coastal landscape along the way, and see the steep rugged and often vertical cliffs down to the sea below.

You’ll arrive into Manarola, where your guide will lead you along ‘The Path of Love’, a spectacular coastal path that leads you to Riomaggiore.

Enjoy the beautiful surroundings before boarding a boat and sailing to the charming village of Vernazza. Some free time will be given for you to explore this picturesque fishing village at leisure.

You’ll rejoin your guide for a short walk to the train station, where you will take the local train back to La Spezia to re join your coach for the journey back to Santa Margherita.