Panoramic Tour across the “creuze” with a storyteller

If you’re on the hunt for a different way to experience Genoa, this Panoramic Tour across the “creuze” with a storyteller might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a three-hour journey that combines gentle walks through narrow, historic paths with engaging stories, tunes, and stunning views—an experience that feels both intimate and uniquely Genoese.

What sets this tour apart? First, the personal touch of a lively storyteller who weaves tales and original songs into the walk. Second, the spectacular panoramic vistas from high vantage points that let you soak in the city’s charm from above. That said, it’s not a tour for anyone with mobility issues, given the walking and some uphill paths involved. Still, if you enjoy a mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this could be a real highlight of your Genoa trip.

We especially appreciate the authentic storytelling approach—it’s a lively, engaging way to learn about Genoa that feels more personal than standard city tours. On the flip side, the price of around $41.80 per person, which includes all public transport, feels fair considering the guided storytelling, views, and access to some of Genoa’s lesser-visited spots.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy walking, local stories, and panoramic sights—and it’s a fantastic pick if you want to see Genoa beyond its main tourist spots without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Now, let’s get into what makes this tour tick, step by step.

Key Points

• Personal storytelling and original songs make the experience memorable and engaging.
• Stunning panoramic views from high vantage points offer unique photo opportunities.
• The itinerary covers hidden, historic paths (“creuze”) exclusive to Liguria and Genoa.
• All public transportation is included, making the walk manageable without worrying about logistics.
• The tour is moderate in difficulty, requiring some walking and uphill sections.
• The intimate group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere.

The Charm of the “Creuze” and the Tour’s Route

One of the coolest parts of this experience is walking along Genoa’s “creuze”—small, picturesque paths that link the sea with the hills behind the city. These aren’t your standard tourist routes; they’re the kind of quiet alleyways and tiny staircases that reveal the city’s soul, away from the crowded main streets. We loved the way these paths connect diverse parts of Genoa, each with its own character and stories.

Stop 1: Spianata Castelletto

The adventure begins at Piazza Portello, where you’ll hop into a public lift to reach the scenic Spianata Castelletto. Here, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Genoa sprawling below, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the city’s skyline. The guide will point out notable buildings and share stories about the area—an excellent way to set the tone for the rest of the tour.

Take a moment to enjoy a granita or ice cream before heading down into the old paths. It’s a simple pleasure that makes the start of the tour feel special and relaxed. As one reviewer noted, “We recognized the historical buildings and the stories related to them,” which is a nice validation of how well the guide weaves history into the landscape.

Stop 2: Medieval Carmine and Its Tales

From the panoramic overlook, you’ll walk along charming paths to reach Carmine, a medieval village tucked into Genoa’s folds. This part of the tour is where the storytelling really kicks in, with the guide singing and sharing tales about the city. It’s a cozy, intimate setting that makes you feel like you’re discovering a secret side of Genoa.

The reviewer bpoore described it as “a very different experience,” highlighting how this side of Genoa isn’t often on typical tourist routes. The stories, paired with the scenic backdrop, bring the history alive in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

Stop 3: Righi and the Historic Funicular

Next, you’ll hop aboard the Funicolare Zecca – Righi, an old-fashioned funicular that whisks you up to the highest point of the tour. The ride itself is charming, offering sweeping views of the city and the Ligurian coast. Once at the top, you’ll walk down some “creuze” like Salita Cavallo—narrow, winding paths that give a true sense of Genoa’s hillside life.

Here, the storyteller shares the second story, adding layers of local flavor and history to the visuals. The journey uphill and downhill showcases Genoa’s hilly terrain, which is both scenic and historically significant.

Stop 4: Santuario della Madonnetta and the Final Tale

The last part of the tour takes you down “Salita a porta delle Chiappe”—a beautifully preserved path—and stops at a panoramic viewpoint. The guide sings the final story here, capping off the experience on a high note (literally and figuratively). Then, you visit the Madonnetta Sanctuary, home to a stunning “risseu”—a beautiful pebble mosaic that’s worth a moment of admiration.

The reviews mention that the views and storytelling make this part particularly memorable, and the scenic mosaic adds a peaceful, artistic touch to the end of your walk.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The main value here is the guided storytelling, complemented by public transportation that takes you between the different parts of the tour. This setup means you won’t have to worry about navigating or paying extra for tickets; everything is included in the price.

The tour lasts about three hours, which is a manageable time for most travelers, especially with some walking involved. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, making it an intimate experience where you can ask questions and get more personal insights.

Note: You should have moderate physical fitness—some uphill walking and descending paths are part of the journey. The tour’s pace is relaxed, but it isn’t suitable for those with significant mobility issues or disabilities.

The Cost and Value

At roughly $41.80 per person, this experience offers good value considering the personalized storytelling, scenic stops, and included transportation. Reviewers appreciated the “authentic, personal” touch, which elevates it above standard city walks. If you’re someone who loves stories, music, and discovering lesser-known parts of a city, this tour is a clever mix of all three.

It’s more than just sightseeing—it’s about feeling connected to Genoa’s streets, hills, and history through the guide’s tales and songs. Many reviews praised the guide’s engaging and knowledgeable manner, which makes the experience feel both educational and fun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous walkers who enjoy history told in a lively way. It suits those interested in local stories, panoramic views, and authentic hidden paths. While not tailored for small children or those with mobility issues, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a unique, cultural experience that offers more than just visual sightseeing.

If you’re intrigued by Genoa’s hillside neighborhoods and want to learn about them from someone who brings the stories to life, this is a memorable way to spend a few hours. It’s also a great option for couples or small groups who want a relaxed, intimate experience that feels more like exploring with a friend than a formal tour.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Panoramic Tour across the “creuze” with a storyteller provides a distinctive way of experiencing Genoa. It combines scenic vistas with engaging stories and local songs, making it a creative alternative to traditional city tours. The small group size, friendly guide, and inclusion of public transportation make it practical and personalized.

While it demands some walking and uphill sections, those who enjoy discovering quiet, historic pathways will find this tour rewarding. The storytelling element adds a cultural richness that you won’t get from merely walking around on your own. If you’re after a memorable, authentic slice of Genoa, this tour is a strong candidate.

Overall, it offers a genuine, heartfelt exploration of a lesser-known side of the city—one that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left the hills behind.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who cannot walk well?
This tour involves walking and some uphill paths, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. It may not be ideal for travelers with mobility impairments.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks are not included, but you can enjoy a granita or ice cream at the first stop, which is recommended and included in the initial part of the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
While not explicitly stated, the storytelling and songs are likely in Italian, but it’s common for guides to speak some English or accommodate English-speaking travelers—checking with the provider beforehand is a good idea.

How long is the tour?
Approximately three hours, which makes it a good half-day activity. It’s relaxed and not overly strenuous.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 27 days ahead, and booking early is recommended to secure your spot.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor walking tour, poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving some flexibility.

If you’re after a local, scenic, and storytelling-packed exploration of Genoa, this tour offers an experience that’s both charming and genuinely different. It’s a chance to see the city’s hidden corners and hear stories that bring the streets to life—definitely worth considering if it matches your travel style.