Family-Friendly Adventures in Serravalle, Italy!

Serravalle Designer Outlet

Why Visit?

Embark on an exciting shopping spree and fun-filled family day at the Serravalle Designer Outlet, Italy"s largest outlet center. Located just an hour away from Milan, it"s accessible by a direct shuttle bus that departs from Milan"s Foro Bonaparte, making transportation a breeze for a family adventure.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early to make the most of it. Upon arrival, grab a center map at the guest services to plan your route around the outlet. With over 240 shops featuring top brands at discounts of 30-70%, there’s something for everyone, from fashion-forward teens to style-conscious parents.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to one of the outlet’s many eateries. Choose from a variety of options, be it a quick sandwich at "La Piadineria" or a sit-down meal at "Rossosapore" for some authentic Italian pizza. There"s also a playground nearby to keep younger kids entertained while parents relax.

Afternoon: More Shopping and Fun

Post-lunch, explore the new sections of the outlet or revisit your favorite stores. Don’t miss the interactive play area designed for children—a great spot for kids to engage while parents take turns to shop. Check out the Animation Park, which often hosts events and activities, providing a lively break from shopping.

Evening: Wind Down

As the day winds down, grab a gelato from "Gelateria Stickhouse", a perfect treat to enjoy while you stroll through the beautifully styled Italian village-themed outlet. Before you leave, make sure to snap some family photos against the picturesque backdrop of the outlet"s architecture, inspired by the classic Italian palazzos.

Departure

Head back to the shuttle bus by 7 PM, filled with bags and happy memories. This hassle-free return trip will allow you to reflect on a joyful day spent at one of Italy’s premiere shopping destinations.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Genoa, a vibrant city where history and modernity blend seamlessly! A must-visit attraction here is the Genoa Cathedral, or Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, an architectural marvel that"s perfect for families interested in culture and history.

Morning: Visit Genoa Cathedral

Start your day at the Genoa Cathedral, located in the heart of the city"s historic center. This stunning Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, easily accessible by metro (get off at San Giorgio station) or bus, is known for its striking black-and-white striped façade and magnificent interior. The cathedral opens at 7:30 AM, so getting there early helps avoid the crowds.

*Interesting Fact:* The cathedral is said to house the ashes of John the Baptist in its treasury, a significant site for many pilgrims.

Explore the Cathedral"s Interior and Treasury

Inside, marvel at the detailed artwork, the grandiose nave, and the beautiful stained glass windows. Don"t miss the Museo del Tesoro (Treasury Museum), which houses an array of religious artifacts, including the Sacro Catino, allegedly used at the Last Supper.

Lunch Break

Around noon, step outside to one of the local eateries around Via San Lorenzo, where you can enjoy Genoese specialties like focaccia or pesto pasta.

Afternoon: Explore Piazza de Ferrari and Via Garibaldi

After lunch, take a 10-minute walk to Piazza de Ferrari, renowned for its stunning fountain and beautiful buildings. From there, head to Via Garibaldi, lined with impressive palazzos now housing museums like Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco. These sites provide a fascinating glimpse into Genoa’s rich artistic heritage.

Finish Your Day at the Old Port (Porto Antico)

Conclude your tour with a stroll to Genoa’s Old Port, about 15 minutes from Via Garibaldi. Here, families can enjoy attractions like the Aquarium, perfect for captivating both young and old alike.

This itinerary blends cultural exploration with leisure, making for a memorable family day out in Genoa!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Piazza de Ferrari

Why Visit?

Piazza De Ferrari, the bustling heart of Genoa, Italy, is an ideal start for a family-friendly tour. This iconic square is easily accessible by public transport, with the De Ferrari metro station right beneath it, making it a convenient rendezvous point.

Begin your adventure at the splendid Fountain of Piazza De Ferrari, a symbol of Genoa’s modernity and elegance. This fountain, especially striking at night when it"s beautifully illuminated, is a great spot for family photos.

Just a short walk from the fountain, visit the Teatro Carlo Felice. With its impressive neoclassical façade, it"s one of Italy’s major opera houses. Check their schedule in advance; they sometimes offer tours or family-friendly performances which can be a thrilling experience for the kids.

Next, head to the nearby Galleria Mazzini, a 19th-century glass-covered shopping arcade. It"s a wonderful example of period architecture and a great place for a leisurely stroll. There are cafes where you can enjoy a gelato or a quick espresso while the kids marvel at the intricate designs.

Only a five-minute walk away is the Palazzo Ducale, a historic palace and museum with varied exhibitions that often include interactive and child-friendly installations. Their workshops are particularly engaging for young minds keen on arts and crafts.

End your day back at the square or explore the surrounding streets which are full of eateries offering local Ligurian cuisine. Try some focaccia, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Every site mentioned is within walking distance, making your tour relaxing and manageable with children. This circuit not only dives deep into the cultural heart of Genoa but also keeps all ages entertained throughout the day.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Boccadasse

Why Visit?

Embark on a delightful family journey to Boccadasse, a charming fishing village tucked away in the eastern part of Genoa, Italy. This picturesque enclave is perfect for families seeking a blend of cultural immersion and relaxation.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by catching a bus or driving to Boccadasse from Genoa"s city center. As you approach, you"ll be welcomed by the colorful houses and the serene pebble beach, ideal for a leisurely stroll. The village is compact, so it’s perfect for exploring on foot.

Explore the Village

Begin with a walk around the quaint streets. The narrow alleys and traditional architecture offer a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Don"t miss the lovely Church of Sant"Antonio di Padova, where you can introduce your children to local history and art.

Lunch by the Sea

For lunch, choose one of the seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood. Try the local specialty, "fritto misto," a mix of fried seafood, perfect for sharing. Dining by the water, you can enjoy the view and maybe even spot fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

Afternoon Relaxation and Activities

Spend your afternoon on the pebble beach where kids can play and collect colorful stones. For a bit of adventure, rent a paddle boat to explore the coastline at your own pace. The clear waters here are inviting for a refreshing swim.

Sunset and Gelato

As the day winds down, grab a gelato from a local gelateria and find a spot along the shoreline to watch the sunset. The changing colors over the Mediterranean are a magical way to end your day.

Getting Back

Head back to Genoa by bus or car, filled with memorable experiences and beautiful photos, concluding your picturesque family day out in Boccadasse.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Basilica of Santa Maria di Castello (Basilica di Santa Maria di Castello)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Basilica di Santa Maria di Castello, Genoa

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by taking a bus or walking from Genoa’s city center to the Basilica of Santa Maria di Castello. Nestled on a hillside, this historic church offers both spiritual serenity and stunning views of the city.

Exploring the Basilica

Upon arrival, take in the impressive façade of the Basilica, which dates back to the 12th century. As you step inside, be captivated by the blend of art and architecture. The interior features magnificent frescoes and artworks perfect for sparking the curiosity of children and adults alike. Don"t miss the chance to see the famous fresco by Barnaba da Modena.

Interactive Learning

Engage with the church’s history through a guided tour available in multiple languages. These tours often include access to the cloisters and the small museum, which houses religious artifacts and paintings, making the history come alive for children.

Lunch Break

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the adjacent garden or visit a nearby café to taste some local Ligurian cuisine. This is a great moment to relax and discuss the morning"s discoveries.

Afternoon Stroll and Playtime

Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Visit the nearby playgrounds or explore other local sights like the Museo del Risorgimento. This museum, housed in a historic building, offers a glimpse into Italy’s unification and is just a short walk from the Basilica.

Evening Wrap-up

Conclude your day by walking back towards the city center. Grab an ice cream from one of Genoa’s famous gelaterias, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

By following this itinerary, your family will experience a blend of culture, history, and fun, all while exploring one of Genoa’s treasured landmarks.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.