An itinerary through Genoa’s magnificent public parks, born of the romantic spirit of the 19C: Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, around 70 acres of parkland stretching over the hills and housing the Botanical Gardens and Liguria’s Archaeological Museum; Villa Doria Pamphili, which houses the Naval Museum; Villa Brignole Sale in the Albaro district; and Villa Brignole Sale Duchessa di Galliera with its magnificent Italian gardens.

A full immersion into the golden age of the Republic of Genoa when its bankers were the richest in Europe and built sumptuous palaces for themselves. Visit to the ‘Paxo’, residence of the Doge, otherwise known as the Ducal Palace, the ancient seat of government of the Republic and now Europe’s largest all-purpose cultural centre, also housing important art exhibitions; Palazzo Tursi, now the City Hall; the Palazzo Bianco art gallery and Palazzo Rosso pinacoteca; the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) art gallery; and the National Gallery at Palazzo Spinola di Pellicceria.

Visit to the bustling Port area where remnants of the past merge with the frenetic pace to of a modern seaport. We will take a walk along the ancient marina, see the renovated cotton warehouses and the historic Molo district, ending with a visit to the unforgettable Aquarium, one of the largest and most famous in Europe.