The Italian Riviera & Sestri Levante
This tour will let you enjoy the eastern Italian Riviera (Riviera di Levante) with its impressive cliffs, Mediterranean vegetation and hidden, precious bays.
Driving all along the Ligurian coastline, the bus will drive you to the Basilica of San Salvatore dei Fieschi, dating back to second half of the 13th century and one of the most important medieval monuments of eastern Liguria.
The basilica is considered a masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture with its black and white motives on the façade, the lunette, the large marble rose window.
After the visit of the Basilica, the bus will take you to Sestri Levante, well known for the charm of its centre, the beauty of its beaches and the fantastic natural scenery.
The original part of Sestri Levante is actually on a peninsula, with the beautiful Baia del Silenzio (also known as “Portobello”) on one side and Baia delle Favole on the other. “Baia delle Favole” or “Bay of Fairy Tales” was named in honour of Hans Christian Andersen, who lived in Sestri for a short time.
The historical centre is crossed by narrow alleys (carrugi) and is rich of antique buildings in Renaissance style, with splendid portals dating back to the 16th century, hidden balconies and gardens.
Villa Durazzo and its Gardens
Santa Margherita is one of the most important towns of the Riviera di Levante, an elegant international tourist destination with a unique atmosphere. Nestling around the port, its special charm lies in the unusual mix of nautical and Belle Epoque styles.
Your guide will lead you to Villa Durazzo Centurione, built at the end of the 16th century: it was a summer residence built by rich Genovese family and it is surrounded by spectacular Italian gardens. It is considered the most beautiful mansion in town.
After the visit of the interior, you will also have the chance of walking along the terrace and indulging in a spectacular view of the harbour. Stroll along the lanes lined with statues that cross the gorgeous garden.
Santa Margherita Ligure boasts an impressive number of churches as well and your walking tour will include the visit of 17th century church of San Giacomo in Corte and Saint Erasmo Church which houses an oratory with a superb collection of mariners’ votary objects (Santa Margherita has been and it still is a maritime town of fishermen and merchants).
Charming Cinque Terre
Flavours of Ligurian Cuisine
A Stroll in Portofino
City Tour of Genoa
The Gems of the Riviera
