Excursion Portofino & santa margherita tour at Genoa

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

You will meet your English speaking guide at the pier and board your coach to Santa Margherita Ligure.


Once in Santa Margherita you will board a private local boat to reach Portofino.


Portofino, Church of San Giorgio

Through the centuries Portofino functioned primarily as a fishing village and, occasionally, as a small naval port, today it is a classy resort-village. Portofino's miniscule bay is neatly packed with pricey yachts, common pleasure boats and, as a vestige of its past, some fishing boats.

The waterfront is lined with multicoloured pastel buildings, canopied outdoor cafes and a quay fit for strolling young lovers and its surrounding hills host bougainvillea-garnished villas owned by the rich and famous.


A very pleasant walk heads up to the right as you face the harbour: here you'll find a very attractive walking path through one of the largest concentrations of flora and fauna in the Mediterranean for views of the entire bay and the Tigullian Gulf. From here proceed by foot up the hill to the Church of San Giorgio. The Shrine was built in Romanesque style in 1154. During the Second World War the church was completely destroyed by a bomb dropped by a fighter-bomber. In 1950, the church was restored keeping the original structure in mind.

This small church, sitting on a ridge above Portofino, is said to contain the relics of its namesake, brought back from the Holy Land by the Crusaders. Portofino enthusiastically celebrates St. George's Day every April 23.


Some free time before heading to the boat pier and board the boat again for a short ride to Santa Margherita Ligure.


Santa Margherita Ligure

Alight on land and enjoy the this city that is known for its elegance and atmosphere that mingles many different historic eras in artful fashion. Stroll the charming streets and soak up the unique charm of this town nestled around its port, with nautical, medieval, and Belle Epoque influences in its architecture. Enjoy the effect of the cobbled streets, medieval churches and elegant hotels that make this place fascinating, refined, and yet still understated as compared to other Italian Riviera destinations.


After the guided tour, enjoy short free time before reboarding the coach for the return drive to Genoa

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Portofino, Santa Margherita, Tugullio Gulf, Boat Trip

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate to extensive amount of walking over cobblestone surfaces, steep alleys and a few steps to negotiate to get off/on the boat. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.