Portofino Shore Excursion - This private shore tour visits Europe's largest aquarium, plus enjoys walking tours of Genoa's old town and the resort village of Portofino.

After meeting your guide in Portofino, you start by driving to Genoa. Your first stop today is the Aquarium of Genoa which can be an emotional experience as you grapple with the concept of the immensity of the ocean and the richness it holds beneath. This unique experience unlocks a universe teaming with life and full of mysterious and strange creatures. Seals, dolphins, penguins, sharks, and fish of all shapes and colors accompany you along your path of discovery in this marine world.

Following the aquarium visit you enjoy free time for lunch in a local pizzeria or restaurant (meal not included).

After lunch you begin your city tour with a stop at the panoramic terrace of Castelletto where you enjoy views over the historical center of Genoa, the port and the Lanterna (lighthouse) which is considered the symbol of the city.

Next you'll enjoy a walking tour of the old town starting at the House of Columbus near the medieval gate of Porta Soprana. You visit the popular square called Piazza De Ferrari which is the contemporary heart of the town and includes the Carlo Felice Opera House and some beautiful fountains. You also see the Ducale Palace, with its neoclassical facade, which was the seat of the government of the Republic of Genoa.

Then you walk to the Piazza San Matteo, the best preserved example of a medieval residential quarter. San Matteo was the square of the Doria family area, and still maintains most of its medieval look, including beautiful palaces, porticoes, and traditional black and white striped facades.

Churches seen include Saint Andreas, which is considered a masterpiece of Genovese baroque architecture, the most important period in Genovese art and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Built in the 13th century, it is a good example of gothic architecture. Several renovations throughout the ages have also left their mark, and with the variety of art shown one next to the other your visit gives you a virtual course in Italian Art history.

Portofino has long been a capital of high society and the so-called 'jet set', but it is much more than that. It is a bay and village of astonishing beauty with an important natural pier. It offers lush Mediterranean hillside forests and a charming village loaded with history and beauty. Portofino began as a Phoenician port, then was ruled by Rome and finally served the Republic of Genoa. It is a cultural meeting point and has been loved by writers and philosophers such as Nietzsche, Maupassant and Truman Capote who all lived here.

Later this afternoon you return to Portofino to enjoy a walking tour of the famous resort village. Your walking tour includes a visit to the Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta, where it is possible to see the traditional Cristi, a huge Crucifix that is carried through the town by the faithful during religious processions.

You will also visit the church of San Giorgio on top of the promontory, with its extraordinary view down onto the village.

You will walk to the Lighthouse, through the verdant Regional Park and up to a terrace outlook facing the tranquil Tigullio Gulf. By the time you have finished with your private guided tour you too will understand why this place is so highly regarded and famous the world over.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs