Savona
Overlooked by the imposing fortress of Priamar, the port city will welcome you to the Riviera di Ponente, with its celebrated seaside resorts.
Popular cruises
Excursions that bring the spirit of travel to life
AT LIGURIAN FLAVOR SCHOOL WITH A MICHELIN-STARRED CHEF
Learn the secrets of Ligurian cuisine with a Michelin-starred chef: you'll prepare “pansoti” with walnut sauce with your own hands and discover other tasty dishes that are on every self-respecting Ligurian table. Then, in addition to the excitement of an exclusive experience, share the delights of the palate with your fellow "chefs for a day": With your hands in the dough, you might even feel a little Ligurian yourself, no?
Main stops
- Municipal market: interior visit
- Bino restaurant: cooking lesson with a Michelin chef
- Typical Ligurian lunch
The programme
- Your extraordinary experience begins at the port: this is where you'll meet the Michelin-starred chef who will accompany you on a discovery of the flavors of Liguria, from preparation to tasting!
- Together, you'll head to the municipal market and wander among the super-fresh fruit and vegetables, taking a look at all the ingredients that you'll be using in your cooking lesson.
- At Bino restaurant, you'll finally be able to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in: guided by the chef, you'll prepare typical “pansoti” , Ligurian ravioli filled with herbs and topped with walnut sauce.
- When the water comes to a boil, it's time to sit down at the table and savor the most authentic flavor of Liguria.
- Pansoti with walnut sauce are the real specialty around here, but certainly not the only one: you can also try "panissa", a mouthwatering snack made from water and chickpea flour, and "sardinara", a puffy, tasty focaccia topped with tomato, anchovies, capers, olives, and garlic.
- Then, you'll return to the ship with a suitcase full of emotions and a new skill: you now know how to prepare a traditional Ligurian dish, with a few impressive tricks taught to you by a Michelin-starred chef!
MONTE CARLO: BETWEEN LUXURY, HISTORY AND SPEED
Discover the exclusive charm of the Principality of Monaco, from the glamour of Monte Carlo, the allure of the Casino, and the legendary curves of the Formula 1 circuit. Walk through the streets of the old town, admire the Royal Palace and the Cathedral, and enjoy free time among luxury boutiques and cinematic settings. An experience of royalty, adrenaline and sophistication.
Main stops
- Monaco Ville: Royal Palace Square, Cathedral
- Montecarlo: Casino, boutiques, free time
The programme
- Traveling by bus from Savona you'll reach the Principality of Monaco, one of the smallest independent states in the world whose origins and history are inextricably linked to the Grimaldi family, the ruling dynasty for over 700 years.
- Your visit will begin in Monaco-Ville, the old town, which stands on a fortified rock in a very picturesque position overlooking the sea. Here you'll have the opportunity to admire the Royal Palace Square and, depending on your arrival time, you can also watch the changing of the guard.
- The next stop is the small Cathedral where the remains of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly are buried.
- In the late morning you'll proceed to Montecarlo, the most famous area of the Principality, with its casino, luxury hotels, social life and streets where the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place. You can spend your free time wandering the streets or doing some exclusive shopping in the boutiques of the most successful brands in the world.
The bus journey from the port to Monaco takes approximately 2 hours.* When there are religious festivals, the visit to the cathedral will be limited to the outside.* Documents required: for European guests: Costa Card and ID Card or Passport; for non-Europeans: Costa Card and Passport.
ALL OF SAVONA: HISTORY, ART AND FLAVORS
Discover Savona on a tour that takes you through its most authentic treasures. Stroll through the alleys of the historic center, admire the Cathedral of the Assumption and the majestic Priamar Fortress, then enjoy a typical fried fish dish in the heart of the port. The journey continues among the works of the Palazzo Gavotti Art Gallery and the refined pieces at the Ceramics Museum, for a complete immersion in history, art and tradition.
Main stops
- Walk through the old town
- Assunta Cathedral: external visit
- Priamar Fortress: external visit
- Local food tasting with fried fish
- Visit to Palazzo Gavotti, Picture Gallery and Ceramics Museum
- Free time
The programme
- Your walk through the old town will lead to the Assunta Cathedral, with its unmistakable Baroque façade. Did you know that the relics of Saint Valentine are kept here? Yes, the patron saint of lovers. Our guide will tell you some other interesting facts outside the monument.
- Stop off at the Priamar Fortress, built by the Genoese in 1547 to defend the recently conquered city. Today it houses the archaeological museum but in previous centuries it was also a prison: its illustrious detainees include Giuseppe Mazzini, charged with corruption and imprisoned in 1830.
- It's time for some food tasting. Some traditional fried fish await you at the harbor, strictly accompanied by a glass of local wine.
- But your adventure in Savona doesn't end here. You still need to see Palazzo Gavotti, which houses the Savona Picture Gallery, and the Ceramics Museum, showcasing an art mastered by the Ligurians. A journey through six centuries awaits, from 15th-16th century tiles, known as “laggioni”, to majolicas inspired by oriental porcelain.
- The excursion could take place in the morning or in the afternoon.
- Fried fish tasting or other typical local tasting.
- The excursion takes place on foot.
FINALBORGO AND NOLI: TWO VILLAGES NESTLED BETWEEN SEA AND MOUNTAINS
Experience the perfect meeting of Ligurian sea and mountains as you walk through the medieval walls of Finalborgo and the maritime stories of Noli. From time-worn stones to charming caruggi, and up to the breathtaking views from the Bishop’s Palace, this journey takes you to the authentic heart of Liguria, among tales of navigators and cliff-carved fortresses.
Main stops
- Walk through Finalborgo: Porta Testa gate; Monumental complex of St. Catherine; Piazza delle Erbe
- Sightseeing bus tour to Noli
- Walk through Noli: Torre Papone tower; arcade; loggia of the Repubblica Nolese; Porta Piazza gate
- Palazzo Vescovado panoramic viewpoint
- Oratory of Saint Anne: external visit
The programme
- The peaks and sea of Liguria provide the backdrop for everything: follow them with your gaze, as you discover two medieval villages with an exclusive Costa guide.
- Finalborgo is the work of Ligurian ingenuity: a fortified village built on steep terrain. And yet, the "Finale stone" of its walls was formed from marine sediments! Take a good look: it adorns the Porta Testa gate and the convent of St Catherine.
- Between the "caruggi", or narrow alleyways, and the false windows, you can breathe the air of the Middle Ages in Piazza delle Erbe, in the center of the village. Imagine what life was like back then: this is where merchants sold their marine and mountain treasures.
- Now it's time for a change of scenery in Noli, a fishing village with a thousand stories. Like that of the Torre Papone tower, for example, which features a room for hiding from enemy sea captains and their crews.
- After admiring the views of sea and mountains from the Vescovado viewpoint, head to the Noli arcade, with its "risseu" black and white pebble paving. Did you know that once upon a time, there was just water here? And that Christopher Columbus set sail from these walls?
- Meanwhile, those looking to discover Ligurian treasures had to pass through the loggia of the Repubblica Nolese and the Porta Piazza gate. You can make your way through them too: it's time to learn about local legends at the Oratory of Saint Anna!
- Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.
GENOA AND ITS ARTISANAL SHOPS
The Genoa of the Genoese awaits you: with its old town, from the Ancient Port to the Home of Columbus, through its ancient little shops, ending with a taste of Genoese focaccia, the coveted final prize.
Main stops
- Transfer to Genoa
- Ancient Port
- Old town, traditional old shops
- Columbus' House: external visit
- Traditional snack with Genoese focaccia
- Free time
The programme
- Genoa reflects the nature of its inhabitants, reserved and direct, more interested in action rather than words. The gray slate roofs hide artistic treasures of great value. Rubens, Dickens, Van Dyck, to name a few, have all been able to capture its rugged beauty.
- The tour of the old town starts from the Ancient Port. From here, our guide will take you through the characteristic narrow streets, known locally as "caruggi", to discover hidden corners. As you stroll along, you'll discover many traditional old shops reflecting the city's traditions and excellent food and wine: from pesto to pandolce, Pigato to Vermentino wine, you can pick up many local products.
- Near Columbus' House, make sure you taste some Genoese focaccia, as simple as it is delicious. Water, flour, salt and extra virgin olive oil all find the perfect balance. Below a crunchy crust, the soft heart of the bread melts in your mouth with every bite. This is the authentic Genoese breakfast.
- Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.
GENOA AQUARIUM AND ANCIENT PORT
Genoa's Ancient Port, restored in 1982 for the Christopher Columbus Celebrations, is home to the Aquarium, which covers an area of 10,000 square meters and includes 71 tanks including a few touch pools where you can stroke various different ray fish, a real delight. And in the end, what sweet surprise awaits children of all seas?
Main stops
- Genoa Aquarium
- Ancient Port and Bigo
- Free time
The programme
- You'll reach the Expo area, in Genoa's Ancient Port, a restored seaside area in the heart of Genoa's old town. This is home to the Genoa Aquarium, one of Europe's leading aquariums. You'll follow a path along 71 tanks full of marine plants and animals. You'll discover multicolored tropical fish, sponges and jellyfish, natural corals, steely-eyed sharks and even playful dolphins, seals and penguins. You can even stroke some ray fish specimens in the touch pools. A real "tour through the oceans of the world" that will thrill young and old.
- Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.
- This excursion is suitable if you have slight mobility impairments and can walk short distances unassisted. If you are a wheelchair user, the presence of a companion not provided by the ship is required. Most of our operators require the wheelchair to be foldable. However, in some ports there may not be adequate space to accommodate wheelchairs on the bus.Please, therefore, inform the on-board excursions office manager immediately after boarding to immediately reserve your seat on the bus before the tour begins.
ALL OF GENOA: PANORAMAS, HISTORY AND TRADITIONS
A complete tour to discover every shade of Genoa! Admire the city from above at Spianata Castelletto, explore elegant neighborhoods to the charming seaside village of Boccadasse, and be enchanted by the historic heart with Piazza De Ferrari, Palazzo Ducale and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. From the most panoramic point down to the sea’s edge, an experience that captures the full soul of the 'Superba'.
Main stops
- Spianata Castelletto: photo stop
- District of Castelletto and Albaro
- Boccadasse: stop and free time
- Old town: Piazza De Ferrari, Doge's Palace, Cathedral of San Lorenzo and House of Christoper Columbus (external visit)
- Free time
The programme
- Take your seat on the bus: Genoa awaits you with anecdotes about the most picturesque sights retold by our expert guide.
- Climb up to Spianata Castelletto and photograph the city from above. Few people know that this belvedere stands on the site of the fortress of the same name, which was razed to the ground in a popular revolt in 1849.
- From the Castelletto district, called “kasteletu” in Ligurian dialect, your descent to the sea begins. A strategic sighting point, this district boasts many mansions and is connected to the city center by elevators and funiculars.
- Bid farewell to the higher districts of the city as you're expected in Boccadasse. Legend has it that the seaside town was founded by Spanish fishermen in or around the year 1000. Wander along its narrow streets, known as “creuze”, and past its colorful houses: you'll feel like time has stood still.
- Discover the elegant districts of Albaro and Foce by bus and stroll through the city center: from the vast Piazza De Ferrari to the Doge's Palace, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its sayings and mysteries, to the outside of the house of Christopher Columbus.
- Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions in order to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.
GHOST TOUR: THE ALLEYS OF GENOA, WITH THEIR SHADOWS AND MYSTERIES
Venture through the most mysterious carruggi in the city, where the voices of the Black Lady, Witch Caterina and the devilish Branca Doria echo between the historical buildings and dark alleyways. Actors in costume will breathe life into tales of crime, intrigue and forbidden love, while the city transforms into an open-air theater. A journey through history and legend, brimming with thrills and timeless charm.
Main stops
- A thrilling walk in the alleyways of Genoa.
- Stories and legends for big and small alike.
- Sweet ending with ice cream for everyone.
The programme
This walk through the Genoa's narrow alleyways will catapult you into a maze of stories that will give you goosebumps! Legends, mysteries and disturbing characters await you around every corner: from the Black Lady to Branca Doria, and from the Phantom of the Opera to the much-feared Witch Caterina! And watch out for the Devil in the street of Salita Arcivescovato...they say that those who challenge him are never the same again! All brought to life by real actors in costume who will draw you into the story, with twists, laughs and... a few more thrills. But don't fear: The tour ends with a restorative ice cream, because after a journey into the supernatural, you'll be in need of something sweet to get back on your feet!And what could be sweeter than a gift from our Squok? Little ones will be delighted!
A FAMILY ADVENTURE: THE CAVE OF THE COUNTERFEITERS
Put on the right shoes for an adventure through nature and mystery. Set off along the Pilgrims’ Path, passing hidden ruins and breathtaking views, until you reach the spectacular Grotta dei Falsari, a natural window overlooking the sea that once served as a hideout for bandits and smugglers. Along the way, discover fascinating stories, take unique photos and enjoy a well-deserved snack with traditional Ligurian focaccia.
Main stops
- Hiking along the “pilgrims’ path”
- Typical snack with Ligurian focaccia
The programme
- Get ready for an adventure among ancient ruins and secret hideouts on the Ligurian riviera: fasten your hiking shoes, say goodbye to your family and set off… to conquer the Grotta dei Falsari!
- As you climb the Pilgrims’ path among the rocks, it won’t be the climb that leaves you breathless: eyes peeled, smartphone ready, and the challenge is who can snap the best views.
- When you encounter the ruins of the Lazzaretto look around: can you spot the island of Bergeggi in the distance?
- You’ll come across other super views among the ruins of the church of San Lazzaro and farther on toward the church of Santa Margherita.
- Climb a bit further, it’s worth the effort: at the retreat of Captain De Albertis you might still be able to smell the scents of the rare plants in his garden, collected during his many sea journeys.
- You’re there: explore the heart of the mountain, enter the Grotta dei Falsari, where bandits and pirates hid their wares in the attempt to evade the law.
- And before you head back, a snack is just what you need: here you eat an outstanding Ligurian focaccia!
- The experience is exclusively reserved for teenagers, who will always be accompanied by the guide and the leaders.
- To authorize the young people to take part in the experience on their own, parents must collect, fill out and sign the waiver and release from the MyTours desk. In the absence of a signed waiver and release, the booking for the experience may be canceled.
- Wear appropriate hiking shoes and clothing for the trail.
THE TRACKS TO THE GENOA'S HIDDEN MAGNIFICENCE
Costa introduces a new way to explore the city: a new experience offering the same quality, safety and duration as always, now reserved for small groups so as to best discover all the secrets of the city with your guide. Reach by train the opulent noble palaces where a hidden side of Genoa lies: that of Baroque cloisters, secret gardens and frescoed vaults. Only an exclusive Costa experience will allow you to experience the neighborhoods, squares and landmarks of ancient nobility which would otherwise be inaccessible: for a day, you will be the guest of the aristocratic families of the Rolli, sharing their prestigious history as well as some local delicacies.
Main stops
- Transfer to Genoa by train reserved for Costa guests
- Visit to the Spianata Castelleto and descent by elevator
- Piazza Fontane Marose
- Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino; Palazzo Gio Vincenzo Imperiale: internal visits
- Typical local product tasting in the Palazzo Imperiale
- San Lorenzo Cathedral
The programme
- The Genoa of palaces reveals itself in front of your very eyes, as part of this exclusive Costa experience, where you'll discover the secrets, places and habits of the most well-known aristocrats of the time.
- In the elevator at Spianata Castelletto, you'll settle into the role immediately: the noble folk would watch the harbor teeming with ships, merchants and fishermen from here. Like you right now.
- From high up to right in the center: Piazza Fontane Marose is an iconic square in this aristocratic neighborhood, and all around you, every palazzo building is brimming with history. Your guide will explain that the coveted Rolli register established the prestige of this area.
- Step into this world of luxury at Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino. Indeed, it is the "owners of this noble building" who will lead you past its fountains and through its gardens.
- Meanwhile, Palazzo Gio Vincenzo Imperiale is where you'll take your seat at the table like a real aristocrat. While you taste the typical focaccia, the Imperiale couple will tell you family anecdotes, and explain the traditional Genoese dishes.
- A last secret awaits you at Genoa cathedral. Can you see the dog carved onto the facade? It is said that when part of the building collapsed, he saved the life of the architect, his master. His noble spirit was more precious than any wealth.
- Before booking the excursion or once on board, contact the excursion office to check the availability of vegetarian or gluten-free dishes and to report any food intolerances.
AMONG CAVES, HIDDEN BAYS AND WONDERS: LIGURIA AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN IT BEFORE
A coastline that looks hand drawn, a sea that changes color with every stop, sea caves, snorkeling, movie-worthy bays and a traditional Ligurian tasting that tastes of real vacations.
A full day’s trip from Savona to Varigotti is the ultimate experience for anyone looking for an experience that’s not just nice… but truly extraordinary.
Main stops
- Snorkeling in the Bergeggi Sea Cave
- Stop off the coast of Bergeggi Island (Protected Marine Area) with refreshments
- Sailing along the coast of Spotorno and Noli
- Tasting on a boat in Saraceni bay
- Stunning views of the Falsari Cave
- A final swim at Varigotti's secret beach
The programme
The day begins when you climb aboard and catch your first glimpse of the sea, which already looks set to be something special.
After a short sail, here is the first wonder: The Bergeggi Sea Cave, a place that looks like something straight out of a postcard.
It's time to dive in for our first snorkeling session: crystal-clear water, plays of light, seabeds teeming with life. The kind of start that promises an extraordinary day.
A few minutes later, we arrive at Bergeggi Island, within its Protected Marine Area.
Here, a stop for a spot of snorkeling is a must, another chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings, and a refreshing drink that tastes of Liguria and the sea.
Then it's time to set off again towards Spotorno and Noli: the boat glides along the coastline, the guide shares stories and interesting facts, and the scenery becomes increasingly spectacular. Opposite Capo Noli, you'll come across a historic hotel dating from the early 20th century that looks like something straight out of a novel, and then it's time for the best bit of all: Saraceni Bay, one of Liguria’s most iconic spots. Here, we'll stop for a dreamy swim and tasting on board, right in front of the Falsari Cave.
Electric blue water, towering cliffs, stunning sea… and the scent of focaccia in the air.
Honestly? It’s hard to imagine anything better.
But the day doesn't end here: in the early afternoon, we’ll be heading to Varigotti’s Secret Beach, a hidden gem that feels like a real treat. One last stop, one last swim, one last moment of pure wonder.
You don't just file a day like this away in the archives of your memory: it stays with you.
- Only bring what you need: a swimming costume, a backpack with beach towel, a hat, suncream and a bottle of water.
- Before booking the excursion or once on board, contact the excursion office to check the availability of vegetarian or gluten-free dishes and to report any food intolerances.
GENOA EXPRESS: AQUARIUM AND ANCIENT PORT
Genoa's Ancient Port, restored in 1982 for the Christopher Columbus Celebrations, is home to the Aquarium, which covers an area of 10,000 square meters and includes 71 tanks including a few touch pools where you can stroke various different ray fish, a real delight. With the reserved train, just for your and a few other days, you have more time to visit the city. And in the end, what sweet surprise awaits the children from all the seas?
Main stops
- Transfer to Genoa by train reserved for Costa guests
- Genoa Aquarium
- Ancient Port and Big
- Free time
The programme
- From the Piazza Principe station, your tour escort will lead you straight to the Expo area, Genoa's Porto Antico, a reclaimed area toward the sea in the heart of Genoa's historic center. This is home to the Genoa Aquarium, one of Europe's leading aquariums. You'll follow a path along 71 tanks full of marine plants and animals. You'll discover multicolored tropical fish, sponges and jellyfish, natural corals, steely-eyed sharks and even playful dolphins, seals and penguins. You can even stroke some ray fish specimens in the touch pools. A real "tour through the oceans of the world" that will thrill young and old.
- This excursion is suitable if you have slight mobility impairments and can walk short distances unassisted. If you are a wheelchair user, the presence of a companion not provided by the ship is required. Most of our operators require the wheelchair to be foldable. However, in some ports there may not be adequate space to accommodate wheelchairs on the bus.
- The journey from Genoa Station to the Aquarium is approximately 20 minutes on foot.
BERGEGGI: SNORKELING AMONG HIDDEN WONDERS
Not just snorkeling, but an extraordinary experience in the heart of the Bergeggi Marine Protected Area. Reach the island by dinghy and dive into a world of coral, anemones and colorful fish, surrounded by underwater caves and spectacular cliffs. Crystal-clear waters, vibrant seabeds and all equipment ready for you: all you have to do is be amazed.
Main stops
- Bergeggi island
- Snorkeling on the sea bed among coral, anemones and typical marine animals
The programme
- We'll leave the ship and board a rubber dinghy to glide around the nearby island of Bergeggi, around 200 meters from the coast. You'll recognize an old watch tower on the summit.
- Bergeggi is heaven for snorkeling enthusiasts. Calm waters, clean sea and a sea bed rich with coral and seagrass. The easiest way to find yourself in the presence of anemones, molluscs and hundreds of colorful fish.
- Naturally, you'll find fins, mask and mouthpiece conveniently provided on the dinghy, all you need to think about is diving. By the way, do you have an underwater camera?
- At the end of the excursion, we'll of course glide back to the ship.
- The snorkeling kit, including your life jacket, is included.
- Minimum age: 8 years.
- This is one of the most popular excursions so book early.
AN INTENSE BLUE CORNER IN LIGURIA: MALPASSO BEACH
Welcome to Saraceni Bay! Enjoy a day of total relaxation on the beach! A shaded area or a sun lounger with parasol will be available for you, so you can enjoy the sun in comfort.
Main stops
- Malpasso beach in Saraceni Bay
The programme
A carefree day at the beach awaits you! You'll set off from the port of Savona, with a transfer that will take you directly to Malpasso beach. A sandy bay between cliffs soaring above the sea which will leave you speechless.
On arrival, you'll be accompanied to the area reserved for our guests, where a comfortable sun lounger with umbrella awaits. Here, you can relax in total freedom and enjoy the beach however you like.
And after a last dive into the crystal clear sea, a transfer will take you back to Savona.
Good to know- Only bring what you need: a swimming costume, a backpack with beach towel, a hat, suncream and bottle of water.
GHOST TOUR: THE ALLEYS OF GENOA, WITH THEIR SHADOWS AND MYSTERIES
Venture through the most mysterious carruggi in the city, where the voices of the Black Lady, Witch Caterina and the devilish Branca Doria echo between the historical buildings and dark alleyways. Actors in costume will breathe life into tales of crime, intrigue and forbidden love, while the city transforms into an open-air theater. A journey through history and legend, brimming with thrills and timeless charm.
Main stops
- A thrilling walk in the alleyways of Genoa.
- Stories and legends for big and small alike.
- Sweet ending with ice cream for everyone.
The programme
This walk through the Genoa's narrow alleyways will catapult you into a maze of stories that will give you goosebumps! Legends, mysteries and disturbing characters await you around every corner: from the Black Lady to Branca Doria, and from the Phantom of the Opera to the much-feared Witch Caterina! And watch out for the Devil in the street of Salita Arcivescovato...they say that those who challenge him are never the same again! All brought to life by real actors in costume who will draw you into the story, with twists, laughs and... a few more thrills. But don't fear: The tour ends with a restorative ice cream, because after a journey into the supernatural, you'll be in need of something sweet to get back on your feet!And what could be sweeter than a gift from our Squok? Little ones will be delighted!
A VOYAGE INTO THE SOLAR SYSTEM FOR BIG AND SMALL
Ready for a cosmic experience? At the Astronomical Observatory in Genoa, discovery meets fun. Even getting there is a real adventure: once you get to Genoa, a historical funicular will take you up the Baroque walls, with views over the city and the sea. Then it's straight to the Observatory, which will be opened exclusively for you, where the secrets of the sun, the stars and the planets await, before two surprises for little explorers which will make this “voyage” even more special.
Main stops
- Sightseeing bus tour to the city of Genoa
- Sightseeing tour on the funicular from Zecca to Righi
- Righi Astronomical Observatory: interior visit and activities for the whole family
- Snack at the Circolo Cacciatori Castellaccio
The programme
- You'll arrive at Zecca by bus, in the heart of Genoa's old town. Then, you'll arrive at your first adventure on the funicular, in front of a changing landscape: the higher you go, the more the views open up, until you get right to the top of the Righi hill.
- You're in the area of the ancient forts and the Baroque walls that once protected Genoa, and the view is incredible: from the city to the sea!
- This is where the Righi Astronomical Observatory is located, as close as possible to the stars.
- Your voyage of discovery of the solar system begins in the Planetarium: there are two UFOs near Saturn, but it's not an alien invasion. Pan and Atlas, the planet's moons, really look like flying saucers.
- A projection put on exclusively for you will reveal the secrets of the sun. Then you'll discover them with your own eyes, with the powerful telescope pointed at our star.
- Can you cross the sun? How hot is the surface? The Observatory's astrophysicists will not leave you without answers...or without surprises: two essential objects for turning little ones into real “experts of the cosmos”.
- And after filling up on discoveries, enjoy a tasty snack at the Circolo Cacciatori Castellaccio restaurant - just what you need to come back down to earth!
- Minimum age: 4 years.
GENOA AND ITS ARTISANAL SHOPS
The Genoa of the Genoese awaits you: with its old town, from the Ancient Port to the Home of Columbus, through its ancient little shops, ending with a taste of Genoese focaccia, the coveted final prize.
Main stops
- Transfer to Genoa by train reserved for Costa guests
- Ancient Port
- Old town, traditional old shops
- Columbus' House: external visit
- Traditional snack with Genoese focaccia
- Free time
The programme
- Genoa reflects the nature of its inhabitants, reserved and direct, more interested in action rather than words. The gray slate roofs hide artistic treasures of great value. Rubens, Dickens, Van Dyck, to name a few, have all been able to capture its rugged beauty.
- Reach Genoa by reserved train: the tour of the old town starts from the Ancient Port. From here, our guide will take you through the characteristic narrow streets, known locally as "caruggi", to discover hidden corners. As you stroll along, you'll discover many traditional old shops reflecting the city's traditions and excellent food and wine: from pesto to pandolce, Pigato to Vermentino wine, you can pick up many local products.
- Near Columbus' House, make sure you taste some Genoese focaccia, as simple as it is delicious. Water, flour, salt and extra virgin olive oil all find the perfect balance. Below a crunchy crust, the soft heart of the bread melts in your mouth with every bite. This is the authentic Genoese breakfast.
- Slight changes may be made to itineraries and the length of excursions to protect your health and to comply with regulations and the safety protocol.
THE TRACKS TO THE GENOA'S HIDDEN MAGNIFICENCE
Reach by train the opulent noble palaces where a hidden side of Genoa lies: that of Baroque cloisters, secret gardens and frescoed vaults. Only an exclusive Costa experience will allow you to experience the neighborhoods, squares and landmarks of ancient nobility which would otherwise be inaccessible: for a day, you will be the guest of the aristocratic families of the Rolli, sharing their prestigious history as well as some local delicacies. With the reserved train, just for your and a few other days, you have more time to visit the city.
Main stops
- Transfer to Genoa by train reserved for Costa guests
- Visit to the Spianata Castelleto and descent by elevator
- Piazza Fontane Marose
- Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino; Palazzo Gio Vincenzo Imperiale: internal visits
- Typical local product tasting in the Palazzo Imperiale
- San Lorenzo Cathedral
The programme
- The Genoa of palaces reveals itself in front of your very eyes, as part of this exclusive Costa experience, where you'll discover the secrets, places and habits of the most well-known aristocrats of the time.
- In the elevator at Spianata Castelletto, you'll settle into the role immediately: the noble folk would watch the harbor teeming with ships, merchants and fishermen from here. Like you right now.
- From high up to right in the center: Piazza Fontane Marose is an iconic square in this aristocratic neighborhood, and all around you, every palazzo building is brimming with history. Your guide will explain that the coveted Rolli register established the prestige of this area.
- Step into this world of luxury at Palazzo Nicolosio Lomellino. Indeed, it is the "owners of this noble building" who will lead you past its fountains and through its gardens.
- Meanwhile, Palazzo Gio Vincenzo Imperiale is where you'll take your seat at the table like a real aristocrat. While you taste the typical focaccia, the Imperiale couple will tell you family anecdotes, and explain the traditional Genoese dishes.
- A last secret awaits you at Genoa cathedral. Can you see the dog carved onto the facade? It is said that when part of the building collapsed, he saved the life of the architect, his master. His noble spirit was more precious than any wealth.
- Before booking the excursion or once on board, contact the excursion office to check the availability of vegetarian or gluten-free dishes and to report any food intolerances.
SPOTORNO: AMONG THE SEA AND NARROW STREETS
Enjoy the ultimate in relax with Costa exclusive transfer, directly from below deck, to the picturesque town of Spotorno.
Main stops
- transfer to the center of Spotorno
- free time
The programme
Once in Spotorno, immerse yourself in the tranquility of its charming shady alleyways, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Explore the local boutiques, enjoy an artisanal gelato or sip coffee in one of the cozy little squares.
If you prefer the sea, Spotorno's beautiful beach awaits you with its golden sand and crystal clear waters, ideal for a refreshing swim or simply to stretch out in the sun.
Whether you choose the village or the beach, Spotorno offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking relaxation and authentic beauty.
Good to know- The tour does not include a guide.
GENOA EXPRESS: AQUARIUM AND ANCIENT PORT
Genoa's Ancient Port, restored in 1982 for the Christopher Columbus Celebrations, is home to the Aquarium, which covers an area of 10,000 square meters and includes 71 tanks including a few touch pools where you can stroke various different ray fish, a real delight.
Main stops
Transfer to Genoa by train reserved for Costa guests** Genoa Aquarium* Ancient Port and Bigo* Free time
The programme
- From the Piazza Principe station, your tour escort will lead you straight to the Expo area, Genoa's Porto Antico, a reclaimed area toward the sea in the heart of Genoa's historic center. This is home to the Genoa Aquarium, one of Europe's leading aquariums. You'll follow a path along 71 tanks full of marine plants and animals. You'll discover multicolored tropical fish, sponges and jellyfish, natural corals, steely-eyed sharks and even playful dolphins, seals and penguins. You can even stroke some ray fish specimens in the touch pools. A real "tour through the oceans of the world" that will thrill young and old.
- This excursion is suitable if you have slight mobility impairments and can walk short distances unassisted. If you are a wheelchair user, the presence of a companion not provided by the ship is required. Most of our operators require the wheelchair to be foldable. However, in some ports there may not be adequate space to accommodate wheelchairs on the bus.Please, therefore, inform the on-board excursions office manager immediately after boarding to immediately reserve your seat on the bus before the tour begins.
Civitavecchia
Genoa (Portofino)
Trieste (Venice)
Messina
Venice (Marghera)
Corigliano-Rossano
Marsala
Alghero
Capri
Gallipoli
Ischia
Aeolian Islands
Tremiti
Lipari
Livorno (Florence)
Lampedusa
Olbia
Porto Cervo
Porto Empedocle
Portoferraio
Pantelleria
Porto Ercole
Porto Torres
Porto Torres
Poltu Quatu
Ravenna (Italy)
Salerno
Syracuse
S.NICOLA(IS.TREMITI)
Sorrento
Saint-Tropez
Stromboli
Taranto (Alberobello)
Trapani
VULCANO
Reggio Calabria
Marina di Carrara
Milazzo
Oristano
Crotone
Monfalcone
Piombino
Augusta
GAETA
San Remo
GOLFO ARANCI
La Spezia (Cinque Terre)
Portofino
Porto Cervo
Taormina (Naxos)
Capri bay
Venice lagoon
Etna skyline
Sanremo Bay
Aranci gulf
Stromboli Bay