In preparation for this trip we took a bike ride to Cisalfa Sport to load up on winter gear. Thankfully, we found that the whole store was 40-50% off - we needed a lot of stuff as you'll see once we get to Switzerland, and as always, it was quite the adventure hauling it all home on our bikes.
We mapped a route that would include a series of train trips north and then a flight home from Zurich to Firenze, and a final train to Lucca.
First leg, Lucca to Genoa. An easy 2.5 hours. We left early and spent one night in Genoa. We were able to see quite a lot in that first day. Enough to know that as beautiful as it is in January, with Spring and warmer weather it would be easy place to relax for a few days. Located right along the Mediterranean, Genoa is Italy's largest seaport, and very obviously a fishing village (of 1.5 million people). The sights and smells remind you of that.
So who would you expect to come from this nautical center? Why navigator and explorer Christopher Columbus of course. Born here in Genoa in 1451.
Genoa boasts the largest aquarium in Italy, and ranks as one of the largest in Europe. Living just a short drive from Monterey for most of their lives, my kids know a bit about aquariums, but we were still able to spend a few hours enjoying the many creatures and exhibits here.
Another great find for kids on a cold day in Genoa (Genova for locals) is Città dei Bambini. It is a cool place for hands on exploration and science and located a short walk from the aquarium. Activities include an ant farm, bubbles, rock wall, nautical center, mirrors, magnets, and so much more!
We also spent time exploring the cool, blustery outside. We couldn't hide away all day! We found local fruit stands, churches, art and architecture that make this coastal city a real gem.
Arya had a lot of fun taking photos, and Ashley spotted a tower that reminded us of home!
No comments:
Post a Comment