Discover the real Genoa by walking in the footsteps of one of its most famous sons: Christopher Columbus. The Columbus Trail is a circular urban hike designed for those who want to enjoy a cultural, historical, and food-and-wine experience in one of Italy's most fascinating cities.
Designed by Tigullio Trekking and BioTigullio5Terre, this guided route is approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) long and winds through the narrow alleyways, squares, noble palaces, and iconic sites of Genoa's historic centre. Although symbolically divided into two stages, the Trail is a single, comprehensive experience, designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace and with a sense of curiosity, like an urban wayfarer.
The first part of the route starts at Columbus' House, near Porta Soprana, and winds its way along Via di Ravecca, a street rich in history, shops, and artisans. At number 51/r, you will find BioTigullio5Terre, the starting and finishing point of the experience: here, you will receive the Camino legend booklet with the official stamp and will have the opportunity to meet our guides.
The itinerary continues, taking in important sites: Piazza Sarzano, the Oratory of Sant’Antonio Abate, the Faculty of Architecture, and then Via Mura delle Grazie, San Giacomo della Marina, the Church of San Cosimo, and numerous votive shrines set into the walls. We pass through the heart of the Old Port, admire the majestic Palazzo San Giorgio, and pass by the entrance to the Aquarium of Genoa.
The walk continues along Via del Campo, a street made famous by Fabrizio De André, and leads us to Piazza Don Gallo and the birthplace of Giuseppe Mazzini. Then begins a short but steep climb that takes us to the Spianata di Castelletto, one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city, where the view encompasses the whole of Genoa, from the sea to the hinterland.
The second part of the loop begins with a descent on the picturesque Castelletto Funicular, mentioned by the poet Giorgio Caproni. Back in the lower part of the city, we cross Piazza Fontane Marose, turn onto Via Garibaldi (a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic buildings), climb Via XXV Aprile, and arrive at the spectacular Piazza De Ferrari, the heart of modern Genoa.
The trail concludes with a return to Porta Soprana, passing by the Doge's Palace, the Carlo Felice Theatre, and the Stock Exchange Palace, forming a perfect loop between the past and the present.
At the end of the experience, you can relax at BioTigullio5Terre for an optional tasting session: Genoese focaccia, mortar-ground pesto, artisanal cured meats and cheeses, and local wines.
Your guides will be staff members of Tigullio Trekking and BioTigullio5Terre – local experts, professionals, and enthusiasts of Liguria, its culture, its environment, and its excellent food.
The Cammino di Colombo is the perfect opportunity to rediscover Genoa away from the most crowded tourist routes, through the eyes of those who experience the city on a daily basis.
View the route on the interactive map https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=10dNdP1b1W3DitQF515*mfzlydeayI4Y
