Historic Genoa

At 9 a.m., low light grazes the Palazzi dei Rolli on Via Garibaldi—polished marble, Perin del Vaga frescoes, and the bell of San Lorenzo cutting the air. Down by the Old Port redesigned by Renzo Piano, the Bigo’s white masts punctuate the harbor, and just behind, the 1992 Aquarium shelters slow-drifting manatees. A squeeze through a narrow caruggio lands you at Piazza Banchi and the Loggia dei Mercanti, once a 16th‑century exchange. Between two baroque churches, you burn your fingers—happily—on a hot slice of Recco cheese focaccia.

Collected at your hotel in Portofino, you ride a Mercedes along the coast via Santa Margherita Ligure and Nervi (about 1 hr 10, 38 km) while the day’s plan is fine‑tuned. In Genoa, drop-offs happen right at the Rolli palaces, then on to the Lanterna before lunch at the Old Port. After the Aquarium or the Galata Maritime Museum, there’s a detour to Boccadasse for an espresso by the boats; return when you wish, luggage safe and cabin cool. Within Genoa’s ZTL maze, your private driver handles access and parking without drama.