Top 10 great day trips from Genoa in 2024

Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by Ingrid & Alex

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.

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Day trips from Genoa that will impress you

I was lucky to discover Genoa many years ago, and since then, I’ve returned, including as part of a Mediterranean cruise that stopped in nearby Savona.

Please note that I seldom traveled without insurance from SafetyWing, especially on cruises or day trips. It would be a pity for a small mishap to ruin my holiday or make a hole in my wallet. provides affordable insurance plans without compromising on coverage. Their plans include a wide range of benefits, from medical emergencies to trip interruptions, ensuring you’re well-protected at a price that fits your budget.

Even though the town is ancient and has been important throughout the years (e.g., Genoa ruled its own maritime empire once upon a time), 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 time and taking day trips from Genoa.

Boccadasse, Genoa

It is 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 sights are just amazing.

Moreover, this is where I had the best ice cream in my life; look for the Antica Gelateria Amedeo. And trust me, having lived and traveled to Italy frequently, I have had plenty of ice cream.

What else to do in Boccadasse, Genoa?

You should 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.

How to get to Boccadasse from Genoa?

From the city center in Genoa to Boccadasse, it is an easy 15-minute drive, and you can take a bus or a train.

Savona

Another port town in Liguria, many often overlook Savona, although it is such a great destination for a day trip from Genoa. It 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 go to the beach, this Italian town won’t disappoint.

The train from Genoa to Savona takes roughly one hour, and it is not expensive.

Finalborgo and Noli

I must admit I loved both Finalborgo and Noli!

Both are small and infused with history. One is by the sea, while the other is perched on a hill; these are the places where you can get lost on the streets without tourists.

The water in Noli was deep blue, while the climb on the hill in Finalborgo (or Finale Ligure) offered great views over the city walls and cobbled stone houses.

Rent a car and drive from Noli to Genoa along the coast; that’s where the wow factor is.

Read next: Steal this Huge Italy Bucket List!

Camogli

Another iconic place in Liguria, and the perfect day trip from Genoa, Camogli is a gem by the sea.

It is the local beach destination outside of Genoa, but you can also wander on the streets flanked by colorful buildings.

Just before you go, stop by and eat some delicious seafood at one of the restaurants with stunning views.

How to get from Genoa to Camogli?

Drive for roughly 35 minutes, or take the regional train for the same amount of time.

The French Riviera

Nice, Monaco, Cannes, yellow Menton, just to name a few of the French 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?

However, I honestly think Italy is the cheaper version of this part of the Riviera. Thus, it is a good idea to stay in Italy 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 for being such a fancy destination.

You can easily organize everything by train because it is rather difficult (and expensive) to park in the Cinque Terre.

Portofino

Portofino, a charming coastal village on the Italian Riviera, is renowned for its beauty, picturesque harbor, and upscale atmosphere. Moreover, it is easily reached on a day trip from Genoa.

The small harbor of the town is postcard-perfect, filled with luxury yachts, fishing boats, and pastel-colored buildings. It’s a delightful place to stroll along the waterfront, take photos, and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.

Visit the historic landmarks, such as the Castello Brown, a fortress with panoramic views of the village and the sea. The Church of St. Martin is another notable landmark, featuring a simple yet elegant design.

How to get from Genoa to Portofino?

Getting from Genoa to Portofino is very easy, no matter if you take the train, boat, or drive there.

The train ride takes between 35 minutes to 1 hour and costs between 5 EUR and 20 EUR, depending on the train you choose. Book your train ticket in advance here!

If you would rather go by boat and admire the beautiful city as you approach it by sea, you can book an organized boat tour here.

Driving from Genoa takes around 50 minutes, and you must get on A12/E80 from SS45. My go-to destination for the best car rental prices is DiscoverCars. 

Santa Margherita Ligure

Visit Santa Margherita Ligure together with Portofino for the best experience since the 2 villages are so close to each other.

Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade. Enjoy the views of the harbor, colorful buildings, and the Ligurian coast.

Visit the main square, Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta, surrounded by cafes and shops. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere.

Explore the town’s main church, Basilica of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia. This baroque church dates back to the 17th century and features impressive artwork. Visit Villa Durazzo, a historic villa with gardens. The villa often hosts cultural events, and the gardens provide a peaceful retreat.

Milan

One hour and a half away by train, Milan is another great option for a day trip from the Ligurian town of Genoa.

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of the Milan Cathedral. Climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. Book your ticket in advance to make the best out of your day.

Visit one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, known for its impressive glass-domed roof and high-end boutiques – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Explore the Castello Sforzesco fortress and cultural complex, home to museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Book your ticket here.

Book tickets in advance to see one of the most famous artworks in the world. Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Explore the Navigli district with its picturesque canals, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to enjoy aperitivo by the water.

There are so many things you could do on a day trip to Milan.

Lucca

Challenging Bologna with its 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 quieter 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
• 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 for 2 days in Bologna.
• See the most romantic part of Italy with my Amalfi Coast road trip itinerary.

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