Excursion Walking tour of genoa: in the footsteps of paganini tour at Genoa

Discover Genoa in the footsteps of one of its most famous luminaries, Niccolò Paganini, during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Genoa, Palazzo Ducale, Grimaldina Tower, Church of San Donato, Teatro della Tosse

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Palazzo Ducale, where an exterior photo stop is made outside of its Grimaldina Tower. Niccolò Paganini was detained here in 1815, only to return 20 years later to play at a reception organised by the Governor of Genoa, Count Filippo Paolucci. Afterward, head to the 11th-century Church of San Donato, where Niccolò Paganini's birth documents are kept. Following a guided walking tour inside the church, continue on for an exterior visit to the Teatro della Tosse. Formerly the Teatro Sant'Agostino, it is situated in front of the Church of Sant'Agostino. It was here that Paganini held his first public academy in 1795 and performed, perhaps for the first time, the Carmagnola with variations.

Carlo Felice Theatre, Basilica di Santa Maria delle Vigne, Vintage Artwork

Next, continue on to the Carlo Felice Theatre. Founded in 1828, it was destroyed during World War II, then rebuilt in the 1980s and reopened in 1991. Paganini played here for the first time in November 1834, then returned the following month for a benefit concert in which the proceeds were donated to the poor. After an exterior photo stop here, head to the late-10th-century Basilica di Santa Maria delle Vigne, situated outside the walls of Genoa in a verdant area surrounded by vineyards. The Baroque renovation of the Basilica dates back to 1640. Inside, marvel at works by Lazzaro Tavarone, Domenico Piola and Bernardo Castello. It was in this church in 1794 that a 12-year-old Paganini played in just his second public performance.

Palazzo Tursi, Paganiniana Hall, Gesù and Vuillaume Violins, Personal Effects of Paganini

The highlight of your tour is guided tour of Palazzo Tursi. Visit its Paganiniana Hall, which preserves and exhibits the famous violin made by Guarneri del Gesù in 1743. Paganini preferred this violin over all the instruments he owned, affectionately calling it 'my violin cannon' for the fullness of its sound. During your visit, see the original accessories of the Cannone, Vuillaume violin, which the musician gave to his favourite, Camillo Sivori, as well as autographed letters, scores including the Carmagnola, autographed letters, and personal effects. Afterward, some free time is made available for shopping and exploring on your own. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Genoa, Palazzo Ducale, San Donato Church, Teatro della Tosse, Carlos Felice Theatre, Basilica, Palazzo Tursi, Paganiniana Hall, Violins, Personal Effects

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometres), at times over uneven, natural, and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Tursi. Walking in Genoa during free time is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and Euros and/or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Proper attire is required to enter the basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. The National Museums are closed on Mondays. The tour sequence may vary.