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It has been too long since I was in Genoa and exploring the gems of the Italian Riviera. So, to be back with enthusiastic, fun guests was absolutely, well it was superb to be back in ‘la Superba”!

  Join us from our base in cosmopolitan (and underrated!) Genoa as we immerse and explore the famous Cinque Terre, Portofino and more…not like tourists but like locals with locals…

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(Note: I took sooo many photos on this trip and there are well over 100 in this post so please be patient while the post/photos download(s). I promise it will be worth it! Grazie!)

Once again, collaborating with my Friends in Liguria, Emanuela & Anna of BeautifuLiguria, we have created the perfect Itinerary!

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I’ll let the photos tell the rest! After our first “Benvenuti” aperitivo…we’re off to explore Genoa, Portofino, Cinque Terre, and more! A pesto! Oh, I mean, a presto!

Benvenuti!

Welcome to Genoa begins with, of course, a welcome aperitivo at our hotel…

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For the next four days, we enjoy day tripping from our elegant hotel in the historical heart of Genoa…

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Starting with Genoa on foot!

Stylish and sophisticated with stunning architecture and shops, Genoa is full of surprises…

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…Including a marvelous marketplace, “Mercato Orientale” in the center of the city!

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A labyrinth of medieval “carrugi”, intriguing passageways, and elegant palazzi…Genoa is all of this and more.

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Presto, it’s Pesto!

And then there’s the signature dish, pesto! And what better place to make it than in a palazzo? And not just any palazzo! A spectacular renovated palazzo!

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Mario and Cristina are our pesto experts and they walk us through the traditional and authentic method of making pesto Genovese – with mortar and pestle!

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And it is absolutely divine! We enjoy our creations and are proud graduates in the art of pesto making!

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Alessandro and the Chocolate Factory

One more stop at Romeo Vigonotti where Alessandro makes chocolate exactly the way it has been made since 1866, for 150 years  – the same techniques, the same machinery, and the same passion!

Before we enter the actual chocolate-making factory, we have to “suit up”!

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Alessandro shares how the chocolate is still made as well as how he chooses and uses only the finest ingredients. The proof is in the chocolate tasting – absolutely delish!

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The Famous Five Lands

We’re off to visit scenic Cinque Terre, the famous Five Lands. Our day begins with an unforgettable visit to a vineyard on the terraced mountainside. Producing  “heroic wines”, the vineyards have been lovingly been brought back to production with incredible hard work and dedication.

Heydi and Azienda Agricola Possa

Walking literally on the same paths that have been used for centuries, we find ourselves virtually among the grapes on the edge of the mountains. The views are spectacular. Needless to say, our appreciation for the commitment required to cultivate this land- past and present – is immense.

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Back in Riomaggiore al Mare, we join Heydi at his cellar where we hear his story and enjoy a private tasting of his wines.

I especially love the photos of his son helping him with the harvest! What a very special experience!

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Train hopping through the Five Lands!

Francesca’s experience navigating crowds and trains is invaluable as we spend the day visiting these popular villages.

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More Italian Riviera

Next? The lesser known but equally spectacular towns of Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino… We’re happy to follow Francesca for leisurely introductory strolls, a little lunch, gelato, and a surprise: a private boat ride to Positano.

No words…just all smiles and pure enchantment on the Italian Riviera…

Camogli

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Santa Margherita Ligure

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Portofino

A delightful surprise, we get a private boat ride to Portofino!

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Dinner with the King…of Pesto!

Our day and stay in Genoa ends on a perfect note with dinner at Roberto’s, the King of Pesto!

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So much experienced, we are truly living the dream…but there’s more!


Tomorrow we head for Lake Como!

♦ Read what recent guests say about their recent Genoa/Italian Riviera and Lake Como tour!

♦ Are you ready to “live YOUR dream? and experience Genoa and the Italian Riviera?

Stay in touch for 2021 tour dates…

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Let us plan your perfect vacation! ♦

With my Italy Trip & Tour Design services, my Friends, Emanuela and Anna, and I will create YOUR custom itinerary, always with valuable advice and suggestions, and the expertise of professional local destination experts.

⇒Your next fabulous Italy vacation is a CLICK away… Let’s begin today, shall we?

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