"Behind the scenes in a 240-year-old chocolate factory A few times a year, Pietro Romanengo Fu Stefano (in the confectionary business in Genoa since 1780!) opens up its "factory" doors to small tours. If you happen to be in town during one of these days, you must go. After a brief explanation of the history of chocolate, how it made its way to Italy (and to Genoa more specifically), and how it is made today into bars and truffles and Easter eggs, head behind the scenes into the rooms where the magic actually happens. Learn firsthand from the original family how a chocolatier stays in business for 240 years, and sample a scrumptious spread of their delicious treats!"

"The Incredible Machines of Leonardo DaVinci exhibit Through the end of June, the Museo di Sant'Agostino hosts a fascinating exhibit on the Machines of Leonardo DaVinci - including his bicycle, the air screw, and a massive interpretation of one of his earliest gliders. Housing in a converted monastery, the building itself is also a lovely space to visit the 16th and 17th century paintings and sculptures on permanent display."

"Shop for Genovese food (and handmade art) in one place This lovely boutique, placed on the ground floor of one of the historic Palazzo di Strada Nuova, sells traditional artisan Genovese food products alongside gorgeous handmade pottery, textiles, and papers. Enjoy the knitted scarves, grab a jar of Salsa di Noci (the Genovese pasta sauce made with walnuts) to go with your corzetti pasta, and snag a bottle of local wine to enjoy with the rest of your meal."

"Take an afternoon stroll through Campopisano An oasis from the bustle of the highly trafficked alleys of ancient Genoa , Campopisano rests near the ocean's edge of town. Towering 15th-century homes (originally built as outposts to watch for potential invaders approaching by sea) shade a small cobblestoned square. With a few restaurants, and some gorgeous alleys, this neighborhood often hosts outdoor theater events and art exhibits."

"Margaritas in Italy! Cocktails are not a huge part of the Italian culture, especially not those involving tequila. But at Bar Les Rouges, the three brothers who own the bar mix up one amazing margarita (They even come to your table asking you to sample which salt you want on the rim. Go for the smoked one, it's perfection!). Housed in a dimly lit and slightly crumbling 16th-century palace, this is one of the most romantic spots in town—a perfect date night out."

"Walk the Corso Italia to Boccadasse If you have a gorgeously sunny afternoon, walk the Corso Italia to the small fishing village of Boccadasse, still considered to be part of Genoa . About an hour's walk from central town, this seaside stroll will take you past black stone beaches, children's parks, and countless bars and restaurants enjoying the beautiful sea views. When you arrive, make sure to roll up your pants and step in the water, as the sea spray alone is said to have healing properties."

"National Gallery in beautifully restored palace Tucked deep in the heart of the ancient city, this is an easy Palazzo to miss—but don't miss it. My favorite of the Genovese museums, five floors of this massive palace are dedicated to the history and splendor of Genoa—the first three being the restored palace of the Spinola family, and the top two serving as the National Gallery. Explore beautiful frescoes, ceramics from the 1700s, actual clothing from the 15th century, and a massive original Rubens, among the many other varied treasures."

"View the sketches first in the National Gallery If you visit the National Gallery in Palazzo Spinola (the home of Ansaldo Pallavicino), you can see three small sketches that were given as 'mock-ups' to Sr Pallavicino by the artist who would eventually go on to paint these frescoes in this beautiful church, La Chiesa di San Siro. One of the wealthiest aristocratic families of the time, Sr Pallavicino pulled many strings in this stunning space, including choosing the artistic embellishments. Originally dating back to the Benedictines of the 6th century, this is one of the largest churches today in Genoa , and certainly one of the most ornate (being rebuilt and redecorated in the Baroque style of the 16th and 17th centuries)."

"Sunset hike (or elevator ride!) and evening picnic Pack a few slices of focaccia (and a half bottle of prosecco) and head up to Castelletto at sunset for a beautiful view of the lights coming on over the harbor. If you want to walk it (I warn you, it is steep!), take the staircase at the end of Via Garibaldi and just keep heading up. You will eventually come to the Piazza di Castelletto and its sweeping views. If you prefer the elevator for a quick ride, catch it in the Piazza del Portello."

"Dinner (and harbor lights) at Il Marin There are but few 'grocery stores' that live up to the title 'eatery'. Eataly, the Italian food market concept (headed up by Oscar Farinetti and Slow Food founder Carlo Petrini), certainly deserves all accolades poured upon it. With outposts throughout Italy, and now in Japan, the United States, and even Dubai , one can find delicious Italian delicacies in one's own back yard. But journey to the Eataly in Genoa , and enjoy a beautiful meal at the gourmet seafood restaurant Il Marin tucked within. With some of the most stunning views of the ancient Genovese harbor, and plates of innovative and impassioned food, you will leave impressed."

"Watch the catch come into market Plan a trip to Santa Margherita Ligure, to enjoy the day walking the gorgeous 'passagiata' along the ocean, eating lunch in a small trattoria directly on the water, and then meandering down to the dock across from the fish market at quarter to four (you will know where to stand - just look for the gathering crowd of locals). Very slowly, the fishing boats will start to pull into port, unloading their fresh catch, and hauling them into the market across the street for immediate sale. Octopus, bright red shrimp, and big-eyed mupa are always stacked in their wooden crates, along with any special finds of the day. If you are staying in your own apartment, this is a great opportunity to purchase your dinner! If not, just enjoy the daily community ritual that has been going on for hundreds of years now."

"Hike from Camogli to San Fruttuoso Grabbing the trail at the very end of the public parking lot on the east side of the little town of Camogli, begin the very steep 900-stair ascent up to the Church of San Rocco. After a break to enjoy the gorgeous view, head back down the other side of the mountain en route to San Fruttuoso. You have two trail choices at this point—the inland route is the easier option, but the coastal trail offers truly amazing views, plus the chance to explore the remains of WWII bunkers. Whatever you choose, the trails are very well marked, so you should have no problems getting there. Just remember to bring water, as sometimes it is quite far from one pump to the next. When you reach San Fruttuoso you have three options: hike back the way you came, catch the boat back to Camogli, or continue around the peninsula all the way to Portofino, and then bring the bus/train back into town from there."