11/03/2012 (Saturday) -- Genoa and Portofino, Italy
This morning, disembarking the ship was quite hectic. MSC had passengers boarding and disembarking at every port and it seemed many passengers completed their one-week cruise and disembarking here at Genoa. When we got off the ship we were directed to the baggage claim area by mistake by the MSC staff. After walking out the port area, we were met by a man who asked if we want a taxi to go in town for 20 euro. We agreed and off we went with a driver who was to take us to town. While driving, he asked if we were interested in going to Portofino for 35 euro pp. It seemed like a good idea, especially to us because we have been to Genoa before and visiting Portofino sounded interesting. So, that was where we headed.
MSC Splendida approaching the hilly port of Genoa
our taxi passed by Novotel where we stayed four years ago
towns we passed by on our way to Portofino
arriving beautiful Portofino
climbing the steps up to the hill
church on top of the hill
great view
After about an hour, it started to rain just as we were ready to be picked up by Roberto.
Driving back to Genoa. Absolutely beautiful!
I believe this is Santa Margharita.
Roberto had to stop for gas.
Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria
Victory Square
Columbus House
our taxi driving in the narrow alleys
Cathedral of San Lorenzo
Piazza Ferrari
They were selling pizzas and foccacia in the tent on the right side of this picture. Delicious!
Back to the ship after a few hours in Genoa.
Genoa at night
Ready to set sail.
We had a wonderful day in Genoa with a surprise visit to Portofino. Thanks to our driver, Roberto, who was courteous and friendly. For the price, I really think it was worth it. The drive was about an hour each way and we spent approximately one hour in Portofino.
Roberto's Email: beta4916@gmail.com
Phone number: 00393936136737
Thank you for this wonderful and most helpful post. I have contacted Roberto and he responded very quickly!
ReplyDeleteHi I am thinking of contacting Roberto. How was your day with Roberto? Does he drive a reliable car? We will be quite rush as our ship does not stay very long in port so i just want to be sure we will be back on time :)
DeleteHi, sorry I did not have a picture of his car, but if I remember correctly, the back part of the white car in front of the cathedral was the one. It was quite new but of course it was in 2012. Roberto is a driver, not a tour guide, but he explained the sights as we drove along as much as he could. I am sure he can work out the time for your day in port. Let him know ahead of time of your schedule so he can plan. It was about an hour drive each way between Genoa and Portofino. Have a great trip! I was told that he is charging more than what we paid now.
DeleteYou are most welcome! Hope you will have a wonderful trip!
ReplyDeletei WILL TRY TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ROBERT'S MY CRUISE depart Barcelona on September 8 and I was wonder what to do to get in Portofino. We are a old couple , and have some one like Robert will be divine. Thank you for you post
ReplyDeleteYou are most welcome! Have a wonderful cruise in September! I think it will be great if you can find another couple to share cost and keep as companion.
ReplyDelete