The Metropolitan City of Genoa offers attractions for a wide range of interests. If you’re a history enthusiast, you will love Genoa's old town, which features Piazza De Ferrari, Doge's Palace, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. For a scenic getaway, visit Portofino, famous for its colorful waterfront villas and designer boutiques. Alternatively, the fishing village of Camogli offers similar scenery with a more laid-back atmosphere and more affordable prices.

To experience the city of Genoa without spending a dime, explore the historic city center. Wander through its narrow alleyways, known as caruggi, and admire the impressive Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo (also called the Genoa Cathedral). Sit by the fountain while people-watching in the Piazza De Ferrari. Additionally, the Royal Palace Museum and Palazzo Spinola National Gallery offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month.

The most popular method is by taking a train from Genoa's main railway stations (Genoa Piazza Principe or Genoa Brignole) to Santa Margherita Ligure, which takes 30 minutes to an hour. From Santa Margherita Ligure, you can take a scenic ferry ride to Portofino, which takes approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive directly to Portofino for about an hour. For a simpler option, there are also tour packages available that include round-trip transportation.

The best time to visit the Metropolitan City of Genoa is during the late spring (April and May) and early fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Summer is great for visiting beach destinations such as Camogli and Portofino, as there is minimal chance of rainfall. However, keep in mind that summer can be crowded, so booking your accommodation in advance is recommended.

Don't miss pesto alla genovese (basil pesto), which originates from Genoa and is commonly used in pizza and pasta dishes. Other must-try foods include farinata, a chickpea flour pancake, and focaccia, an oven-baked bread often topped with rosemary, cheese, or other ingredients. The region is also renowned for its Vermentino and Pigato wines, which are definitely worth tasting.