The Italian Riviera, also known as the Ligurian Coast, is a piece of heaven on earth. This stunning coastal region stretches along the Ligurian Sea in northwestern Italy and is famous for its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, culinary delights and historical treasures. In this article, we invite you to take a fascinating journey along the Italian Riviera to discover the highlights of this region.
Discover the beauty of the coastal towns
Ventimiglia: A touch of France in Italy Our journey begins in Ventimiglia, the first town on the Riviera to be reached from the French border. Italian charm and French flair merge here in a wonderful way. The Friday market in Ventimiglia is a must. Stroll through the alleys of the old town, taste local delicacies and admire the medieval architecture.
Camporosso: A hidden gem Just a few kilometers from Ventimiglia is Camporosso, a picturesque village that stretches out on a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The narrow streets and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place for a relaxing stroll.
Dolceacqua: In Monet’s footsteps Dolceacqua is not only known for its medieval architecture, but also for the charming Ponte Vecchio bridge, immortalized in a painting by Claude Monet. The village is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards and offers a romantic setting for a walk.
Vallecrosia: Pure beach life Vallecrosia is a lively seaside resort with a long seafront promenade, numerous restaurants and bars. Here you can enjoy the Italian beach life to the fullest and bask in the sun.
Apricale: A Medieval Masterpiece Apricale, one of the most beautiful villages in Liguria, enchants with its narrow streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Lose yourself in this fairytale setting.
Bordighera: elegance and history Bordighera is an elegant seaside resort with a rich history. Visiting the Botanical Garden and Villa Regina Margherita is a plunge into the splendor of yesteryear.
Seborga: A principality on your own The tiny principality of Seborga surprises with its own currency and government. The unique atmosphere makes it a popular destination for curious travelers.
Ospedaletti: relaxation on the beach Ospedaletti is another charming seaside resort on the Riviera, known for its floral promenade. Spend relaxing days on the beach and enjoy the excellent restaurants in the evening.
Sanremo: The Queen of the Riviera of Flowers Sanremo is one of the most famous cities on the Italian Riviera and is famous for its casino and the annual Sanremo Festival. Explore the old town of La Pigna with its narrow streets and picturesque squares.
Arma di Taggia: Water sports paradise Arma Di Taggia attracts water sports enthusiasts from all over the world, including windsurfers and kitesurfers. Try fresh fish in the city’s excellent restaurants.
Taggia: Historic charm Taggia is a medieval town with a fascinating historic old town. Particularly impressive are the numerous churches and chapels that bear witness to the rich history of the region.
Riva Liguria: A beach paradise Riva Liguria is another enchanting seaside resort with a magnificent sandy beach and many leisure opportunities. Take a walk along the seafront promenade and enjoy the beautiful views of the sea.
Our reading tip:
“Elegant and carefully elaborated texts, inspired by the travel literature of the late 19th century, characterize the more than two hundred and fifty pages of “The Italian Riviera. From Ventimiglia to Arenzano. An artistic, historical and gastronomic guide. 2023”, a work that aims to bring the reader closer to the soul of the places on the Ligurian coast and selected inland villages, shedding new light on their history, nature, monuments, traditions and typical products.
As an arched land between the coolness of the mountains and the warmth of the sea, the western Liguria – the northernmost of the Mediterranean countries – eternally illuminated by the sun, which brings to life one of the richest wildflowers in Italy and Europe, a succession of colourful coastal villages lapped by the waves and small mountain villages that present themselves amidst luminous olive groves and stone walls.
An ancient region whose unspoiled nature, healthy climate and wonderful views captured the hearts of the British aristocracy at the end of the 19th century is now being rediscovered in its incomparable richness of colours, tastes and scents.”
Explore the hinterland
Santo Stefano al Mare: A fishing village with flair Santo Stefano al Mare is a small fishing village with a picturesque harbour and a pretty old town. Be sure to try fresh fish at the local restaurants.
San Lorenzo al Mare: Explore by bike San Lorenzo al Mare is characterized by a long sandy beach and offers a relaxed atmosphere. The special feature is the cycle path, which runs along a former railway line and explores the coast.
Dolcedo: Idyll in the hinterland Dolcedo, a charming village in the hinterland of Imperia, is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The picturesque surroundings are typical of this region and invite you to take walks.
Imperia: history and olive oil Imperia is a larger city on the Italian Riviera and offers a wide range of activities. Visit the Olive Oil Museum and explore the historic center to learn about the history of the city.
Exploring the Coastal Pearls
Diano Marina: beach life to the fullest Diano Marina is a popular tourist destination with a long sandy beach and many restaurants and bars. Here you can enjoy the Italian beach life extensively.
Diano Castello: Above the rooftops of Diano Marina Diano Castello is a picturesque village in the hills above Diano Marina. The view from up here is breathtaking, and the narrow streets invite you to take a relaxing stroll.
San Bartolomeo al Mare: Family-friendly seaside resort San Bartolomeo al Mare is another pretty seaside resort on the Riviera. The beach is great for families, and the town has a relaxed vibe.
Cervo: music and history united Cervo is famous for its music festival, which takes place every summer. The Old Town is a charming place with narrow streets and historic buildings that allow you to travel back in time.
Discover more pearls
Andora: sun, beach and fun Andora is a lively seaside resort with a wide sandy beach and many water sports facilities. Here you can enjoy the sun, sea and fun to the fullest.
Laigueglia: A fishing village with character Laigueglia is a picturesque fishing village with a long history. The colorful buildings and sandy beach make it a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the authenticity of Liguria.
Alassio: Spa architecture and beach life Alassio is a lively seaside resort with a wide range of leisure activities. The town is also known for its spa architecture and the long sandy beach, which invites you to take long walks.
Albenga: Ancient Treasures Albenga, an ancient city with Roman origins, has a fascinating archaeological museum and an impressive cathedral. Immerse yourself in the past of this historic city.
Cogoleto: nature and relaxation Cogoleto is a place that delights nature lovers. The coastal region offers numerous hiking and cycling trails that lead through untouched nature.
Arenzano: A paradise for garden lovers Arenzano is known for its beautiful botanical garden, which is home to an impressive variety of plants from all over the world. Take a walk through the green oasis and enjoy the peace and quiet.
The journey continues
Spotorno: Elegance by the sea Spotorno is another delightful seaside resort with a relaxed atmosphere. The elegant buildings along the seafront give the city a touch of elegance.
Bergeggi: An island to dream about Bergeggi, a picturesque island off the coast, is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The crystal clear waters offer a fascinating underwater world.
Vado Ligure: A port of history Vado Ligure is an important port on the Riviera and offers insights into the maritime history of the region. Stroll along the harbour and enjoy fresh fish in the restaurants.
Savona: history and culture combined Savona is a city with a rich history and cultural treasures. Visit the Priamar Fort and explore the charming old town.
Albissola Marina and Albisola Superiore: art and ceramics The two coastal towns of Albissola Marina and Albisola Superiore are known for their ceramic art. Visit the workshops and galleries to pick up unique souvenirs.
Celle Ligure: An insider tip Celle Ligure is a quiet seaside resort perfect for a relaxing beach holiday away from the tourist crowds. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the picturesque surroundings.
Varazze: Active holidays on the Riviera Varazze is a popular destination for active vacationers. Here you can go hiking, climbing, cycling and enjoy water sports. The nature of the surrounding area is breathtaking.
The finale by the sea
Cogoleto: A fishing village with flair Cogoleto is a pretty fishing village with a lively atmosphere. Stroll along the coastal promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants.
Arenzano: For garden lovers Arenzano is known for its enchanting botanical garden, which houses an impressive collection of plants from all over the world. A walk through this green oasis is a real treat.
Conclusion: A paradise on the Ligurian coast
The Italian Riviera is a true paradise for travelers who long for sun, sea, culture and culinary delights. From the charming coastal towns to the dreamy mountain villages and the historic towns, there’s plenty to explore in this region. The Italian Riviera is a place where the beauty of nature meets the fascination of history and where the Mediterranean way of life shines in all its splendor. Set off and experience for yourself the wonders of this magical coastal region that will be etched in the memory of every traveler.
