10-Day Italian Riviera Road Trip: Unique Itinerary For Liguria

This Italian Riviera road trip itinerary is going to blow your mind! We’ve had the best time driving along Liguria’s coast, and I promise, it’s not your typical Riviera itinerary. 

Sure, I’ve included some of the top spots, but I’m also taking you to northwest Liguria – the Riveria dei Fiori. I wanted to share some of our favourite stops, some of which you might have never heard of, ‘cause believe me, the Italian Rivera is more than Cinque Terre and Portofino.

We spent over two weeks exploring the towns and villages along the coast and in the hills. If you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience, this is the itinerary for you! I’ve selected the best of the best and narrowed it down to a perfect 10-day itinerary. 

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About This 10-Day Italian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

As I mentioned, Jack and I spent over two weeks along the Italian Riviera. However, we spent a total of eight weeks in Italy, exploring Piedmont, Tuscany, and Liguria. I loved it all, but the Rivera was something special. 

We visited Cinque Terre earlier in the trip and then circled Tuscany before driving back towards France along the coast. It was an incredible experience, and if you’re still uncertain if an Italian Riviera road trip is for you, I’m here to tell you it is!

This particular itinerary encompasses some of the must-visit sites, such as Cinque Terre and Portofino, both well-known and loved for their beauty and elegance. But to make this itinerary unique and provide different ideas on where to visit, I’ve also included more authentic, less-touristy locations, such as Imperia, Pigna and Dolceacqua.

To keep your trip enjoyable, you’ll find a combination of cities and villages, a number of which are hidden gems and honestly beautiful. Since we love nature and hiking, I’ve also mentioned a couple of our favourite hikes.

Finally, at the bottom of this itinerary, I’ve also made some suggestions towards alternative destinations. Keep in mind that this itinerary can be easily reversed. However, the order is linear and follows the entirety of the Italian Riviera; this is a proper road trip itinerary for proper road trippers!

Are 10 Days Enough?

Interestingly, we didn’t explore much of Savona province (evident in this itinerary), but ten days are enough for the locations I’ve listed, with the exception of Genoa. I’ve dedicated one day to it so you get to experience it, although Genoa would be perfect for a weekend getaway.

Ten days are enough to explore the best of the Italian Riviera, and this road trip itinerary allows enough time to experience the beauty and authenticity of Liguria’s coast without feeling rushed. 

Can You Do This Itineary Without A Car? 

Ultimately, this road trip itinerary is aimed at those of you with campervans or other types of vehicles. However, if you’re happy to use public transport, there is a fantastic train network, with a line running along the entire Italian Riviera. 

Please keep in mind that the villages in the hills require buses to reach. You could choose to do this itinerary by train (with the help of a few buses). However, I will always suggest hiring a vehicle for the best experience if you want to visit the Italian Riviera.

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Italian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary Map & Route

⭐ Pro tip >> What is an Area Sosta? You’ll hear me referring to “Area Sosta” a lot throughout this guide. In case you aren’t sure, an Area Sosta is a designated parking area in Italy where campers and motorhomes can park overnight. These areas usually have basic facilities such as toilets, showers, and waste disposal facilities. Some Area Sostas may also have water and electricity hookup points, but this is not always the case. 

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Cinque Terre (2 Days Itinerary)

The first or last stop (depending on how you visit Italy) is Cinque Terre. If I’m honest, I have mixed feelings about Cinque Terre. On one hand, it is a truly stunning location with postcard-ready villages and breathtaking vistas. On the other hand, it’s very crowded, expensive, and touristy; if you’re looking for authentic Itay, you won’t find it here.

However, I appreciate that Cinque Terre is on most “Italy bucket lists”, and I feel like it deserves a visit because, as I said, it really is a beautiful place, but don’t spend your whole trip here. 

I’ve dedicated two days; overall, I would suggest a maximum of three. You’ll need one day to explore the villages and another for hiking. The best part of Cinque Terre was the hike from Riomaggiore to Portovenere along the mountain High Path.

Against popular belief, I also don’t recommend visiting all five villages. We found them repetitive and similar in architecture and atmosphere. We’ve written a review of Cinque Terre, in which I explain the reasons why in more detail.

Must-Visit Attractions

There are many top attractions in Cinque Terre. I recommend the hike to Portovenere, which will take you a full day. During this hike, you want to explore Riomaggiore in the morning and Portovenere in the afternoon. 

My favourite villages were Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, and Manarola. While exploring the villages, consider hiking part of the blue trail and using the train to travel between the rest. 

In Monterosso al Mare, there is a lovely beach – Spiaggia di Fegina – (Google Maps), the Convent of the Capuchin Friars (Google Maps) and Parrocchia di S. Giovanni Battista (Google Maps) is worth climbing to, and the old town is filled with souvenir shops and cafes. 

Corniglia is located on top of the cliff and requires some effort to reach, making it the least popular of the five villages. Manarola is stunning and the easiest village to grab those Instagram-worthy shots; head to Manarola Overlook Viewpoint (Google Maps).

I recommend spending some time in Portovenere. It’s often overlooked, but honestly, we enjoyed this port town more than the 5 Terre. Stroll along the old town to Chiesa di San Pietro (Google Maps), San Lorenzo Church (Google Maps) and visit Doria Castle (Google Maps). Then, catch the ferry back to your hotel for views of the villages from the water.

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Portofino Peninsula (2 Days Itinerary)

A popular destination along the Italian Riviera, the Portofino Peninsula is well-known for its charm and sophistication, attracting an affluent crowd. The top place is Portofino, a small village on the southeastern tip. This is where the wealthy come to play, and you’ll find magnificent superyachts moored in bays, nightclubs, beaches and designer shopping.

There are several small fishing villages, coves, and hikes around the peninsula. The towns of San Rocco, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Rapallo are also good choices. 

If you’re looking for an authentic, picturesque village on the same peninsula, Camogli is worth a visit. Although its presence is growing, it’s still not as well-known as Portofino, so it witnesses fewer crowds. 

Both Portofino and Camogli are charming, perfect-postcard destinations that will add a touch of elegance to your road trip. I’ve allocated a day for each, but you could visit both in one day if you are a little strapped for time. 

Must-Visit Attractions

The peninsula is filled with exciting attractions and plenty of hiking routes. In Portofino, you’ll arrive at Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, nicknamed the “little square of Portofino” (Google Maps). This is an excellent spot to admire the views. Next, head to the historic centre and visit the Church of San Martino (Google Maps). Explore the narrow lanes, shops, and old buildings and take in the scenery at Portofino Harbour (Google Maps). 

On the peninsula, get your hiking boats out and visit Castello Brown (Google Maps), Faro di Portofino (Google Maps) and Abbazia di San Fruttuoso (Google Maps). You can also catch a boat if you’re not up for the hike!

Camogli has the Via Giuseppe Garibaldi (Google Maps), a lovely waterfront promenade filled with cafes and restaurants. This is a great place to watch the sunset. At the end of the peninsula is Castello della Dragone (Google Maps), a 13th-century castle built to defend against pirates. Then, head to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Google Maps) at the end of Camogli Beach (Google Maps).

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Italian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary: Genoa (1 Day) 

Next, I’m taking you to Genoa. As the capital of Liguria and the fourth-biggest city in Italy, a day here isn’t really going to be enough; however, it’s plenty to get a real feel for the city.

If you’re in a campervan, I recommend catching the train from the peninsula instead of looking for overnight parking in the city. This will save you time, money, and stress. Otherwise, there is a closer Area Sosta (Google Maps).

Once you’re in Genoa, you can explore the city’s heritage by visiting important cultural landmarks. There are tons of attractions and things to do, but make sure you take time to stroll along the narrow streets of the old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Genoa is known for its delicious cuisine, including pesto, focaccia, and seafood dishes. If you’re a foodie, a lover of history and energetic cities, you’ll love a day trip here. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone travelling through the Italian Riviera on a road trip. 

Must-Visit Attractions

Since Genoa is pretty big, there’s no way you’ll be able to see it all in a day; however, the best sites not to be missed include the 12th century Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo (Google Maps), the Old Port (Google Maps) which is filled with shops, restaurants and bars (boat tours are popular form here) and the Palazzi dei Rolli (Google Maps), a UNESCO World Heritage open for tours.

If you love architecture, head to Piazza de Ferrari (Google Maps). Impressive buildings surround the main square. From there, don’t miss a stroll Via Garibaldi (Google Maps), Genoa’s iconic street lined with some of the city’s most impressive palaces, museums, and galleries.

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Imperia (2 Day Itinerary)

Imperia was a brilliant surprise, and in truth, we didn’t spend long enough in this city. We spent one day, but I’ve allocated two days as Imperia is split into two districts, and a day for each is best.

The city is a combination of two smaller fishing towns, Ongelia and Porto Maurizio. Although Imperia was created to bring these two rival towns together, the divide is still apparent. 

Nevertheless, both Oneglia and Porto Maurizio feature excellent historical centres, fishing ports and religious sites worth visiting. Ongelia, in particular, is perfect for shopping and is overflowing with boutique shops, locally made crafts and its speciality: olive oil products. 

On the other hand, Porto Maurizio is considered the prettier part of the city. Its charming old town is located on a hill overlooking the Italian Rivera. 

Considering Imperia is the capital of Imperia Province, it’s still relatively unknown to overseas tourists. This has helped it maintain an authentic vibe, and you won’t find huge international crowds spoiling your experience. 

What did we like about Imperia? The historic centres and shopping. We found that it was a lively place, filled with locals, and great if you’re looking for somewhere with an upbeat evening vibe.

Must-Visit Attractions

If you visit Imperia over two days, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the sites. Some notable attractions include the Museo dell’Olvio (Google Maps), Villa Grock (Google Maps) and Calata Cuneo, the old fishing port in Oneglia (Google Maps). 

In Porto Maurizio, head to the historic centre Borgo Parasio (Google Maps) and admire the views over the Riviera. The Cathedral dei San Maurizio e Compagni Martiri (Google Maps) and Logge of Santa Chiara (Google Maps) are also must-visits. 

If you’re travelling with children, the Naval and Planetarium Museum (Google Maps)  is a family-friendly attraction, and there are also a number of city beaches along the waterfront.

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Sanremo Itinerary (1 Day)

Sanremo is a must-visit location along the Italian Riviera, and this road trip itinerary wouldn’t be complete without stopping. It’s more popular than Imperia but still doesn’t experience crowds like Cinque Terre or Portofino; again, it’s a superb location if you’re looking for authenticity.

We found the perfect parking spot a little outside the city (I’ve noted it below), which provided stunning views along the coast. I recommend parking there. The walk into Sanremo took us forty minutes, and when you arrive, you’ll notice a bustling hub of cafes and restaurants along the waterfront. 

However, Sanremo’s most striking attraction is La Pigna—the old town. It was the first time we’d experienced an old town with such unique architecture. As we explored more of northwest Liguria, this construction style became more prominent.

La Pigna is a labyrinth of lanes and narrow alleyways with buildings towering overhead on every side – houses built on top of each other to protect the city. Built in the medieval age, it’s the oldest part of the city and is a truly unique experience.

Must-Visit Attractions

La Pigna (Google Maps) is definitely a highlight of Sanremo and not to be missed. Other attractions include the Santuario Diocesano Nostra Signora Assunta (Google Maps) and Regina Elena Gardens (Google Maps). The famous Sanremo Casino (Google Maps) and the misplaced Russian Orthodox Church (Google Maps), with its exquisite domed roofs, are worth visiting. 

Along the seafront, the old fishing port and Fort di Santa Tecla (Google Maps) are also interesting spots. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, head to Piazza Sardi (Google Maps), which is filled with cafes and restaurants set amongst colourful classical buildings. 

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Pigna (1 Day)

After spending the last few days in Liguria’s most traditional cities, you should be feeling energised. Hopefully, by now, you’re ready to unwind in more rural locations. I hope so because these last two destinations were some of our favourites.

Pigna is a charming village. It’s a hidden gem that rarely appears on itineraries, so if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, this is it! Unless, of course, you’re visiting during one of the region’s festivals, it’s unlikely you’ll see many tourists. In November, when we visited, it was pretty much empty. 

Pigna felt like a world apart. However, it’s not too far from the coast and surprisingly easy to get to. The medieval village features an old town, but unlike Imperia and Sanremo, it dominates the village with endless alleys and tunnels meandering upwards to the town square. 

It has an eerie and gloomy feel, accompanied by the half-crumbling buildings. Pigna is a fascinating place; both charming and quaint, it’s perfect for enjoying the surrounding nature. It is small, and unless you’re taking to the hills along endless nature trails, you won’t need more than a day. 

Must-Visit Attractions

The Carugi (old town) is not to be missed, but Pigna has other attractions. The Piazza XX Settembre (Google Maps) is perfect for grabbing a meal overlooking the valley. If you walk from the town centre to La Grotta della Madonna di Lourdes (Google Maps), you’ll follow a circular route to the original San Bernardo Church (Google Maps) and cemetery.

If you prefer to stay longer in Pigna, there is a swimming hole (Google Maps) a short walk from the centre. We didn’t visit, but from the images, it looks like a lovely spot to cool down during hot summers. The Passoscio Shrine (Google Maps) and the museum Cibo dell’Alta Val Nervia (Google Maps) are also nearby. Let’s not forget the magnificent waterfall which falls through the middle of Piazza XX Settembre.

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Italian Riviera Road Trip: Dolceacqua (1 Day Itinerary)

What more can I say about Dolceacqua other than WOW! This treasure trove of a town can’t be missed and is the epitome of Italian charm. You’ll most likely pass it on your way to Pigna and notice its crowning glory, Ponte Vecchio, but don’t stop and wait until you return. 

Ponte Vecchio is the beautiful stone bridge famously painted by Claude Monet. It is the top attraction alongside Castle Doria and Tera—Dolceacqua’s old town. It’s a lovely village nestled over the River Nervia and surrounded by pine forests and vineyards. 

Interestingly, the Rossese di Dolceacqua, a rare red wine from the Ligurian region, is cultivated in the surrounding countryside. Wine aside, Dolceacqua is a more popular location than Pigna, but it’s still peaceful and endearing. 

Must-Visit Attractions

It’s impossible to visit Dolceacqua without admiring “Monet’s Bridge” (Google Maps), but there are other attractions. Tera (Google Maps), which I noted above, is the original medieval village constructed in lanes crisscrossing and meandering upwards towards the top of the hill where Castle Doria (Google Maps) stands overlooking the valley. Unlike the other two destinations, Tera is well-maintained and restored to its former glory. 

Inside Tera, there are numerous art shops. In truth, the town is a beautiful spot for artistic souls, with Monet’s visits inspiring the current residents. There are also cellars, cafes, restaurants, and a number of wineries to discover. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to the hills and visit one of the vineyards. Back in town, the church of Saint Anthony Abbott (Google Maps) is worth visiting with its stunning baroque facade. Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi (Google Maps) has numerous restaurants where you can grab refreshments.

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Alternative/Additional Stops: 10+ Days In Tuscany

If you have additional time during your road trip, consider adding these beautiful towns to your itinerary; they offer excellent opportunities to explore more of the Italian Riviera with a great mix of coastal charm, history, and culture. 

They’re also excellent bases for exploring the surrounding area, including Portofino and the nearby Cinque Terre. 

⭐ Pro tip >> Since we didn’t visit, check out this article on the best places to visit in Savona Province, Italy. Consider adding a destination or two to your Italian Riviera road trip itinerary!

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Tips For Driving On The Italian Riviera, Italy

• Always carry your driver’s license, and if you’re in a campervan, always make sure you arrange international breakdown cover before you leave home. 

• Be aware of the speed limits. In Italy, the speed limit on motorways is 130 km/h, on dual carriageways 110 km/h, on urban roads 50 km/h, and rural roads 90 km/h. 

• We found the road signs and some of the junctions confusing at times. The most important thing to know is that a big red circle on a white background means no access. Sometimes, a specific vehicle is inside, which means no access to that vehicle. With the above in mind, I recommend brushing up on your Italian road signs before visiting.

• Keep your eyes open for the limited traffic zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato), which means you can’t enter. These generally affect cities like Genoa and tourist towns like Cinque Terre.

• Italian drivers can be impatient. If you’re making a turn or waiting for a space, they’ll either honk or try to swerve behind you. When we were trying to turn, a car did this, and we almost wiped him out as he zoomed behind us, so just be careful.

• Finally, the roads are narrow! We couldn’t get down some, and we aborted a few routes. Keep an eye on the bridges, too, as some are too low to pass under. We had to back up on a traffic-blocked road in Imperia cause’ we missed the sign; it wasn’t fun. 

FAQs: Italian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

How many days do you need on the Italian Riviera?
Overall, You’ll need at least 5 days to enjoy the best of the Italian Riviera; however, I suggest 10 days for a well-rounded itinerary. Keep in mind the Riviera covers a large area, including picturesque villages, bustling cities, national parks, beaches and vineyards. Consider your budget and interests and use this to work out how many days to spend on the Italian Riviera. 

What is the most beautiful part of the Italian Riviera?
The Italian Riviera runs along the entirety of the Liguria coast, and there are many beautiful parts worth seeing. Cinque Terre and Portofino are famous for their elegance and beauty. However, I highly recommend lesser-known coastal towns like Sanremo and Camogli, both just as stunning with fewer crowds and affordable prices. For a unique experience, visit Dolceacqua, a hidden treasure in the Ligurian hills.

Is the Italian Riviera the same as Cinque Terre?
Cinque Terre is part of the Italian Rivera, but they are not the same. The Italian Rivera is the name given to the Ligurian Coastline from the province of La Spezia to the province of Imperia, ending at the French border. Cinque Terre is an area along the Italian Riviera made up of five picturesque villages. 

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In Summary: Italian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

Let’s round up this itinerary with my final thoughts about exploring the Italian Riviera on a road trip. Firstly, let me just say that I absolutely believe the Rivera is best visited by road trip and is 100% worth doing. 

Having a vehicle to explore provides so much freedom not only to discover the coastline but also a few more remote locations within the hills. That said, you can also complete this itinerary using the train network, which runs along the coast. For the last two locations, you’ll need to catch a bus.

We enjoyed all the destinations on this 10-day itinerary; however, there are plenty more places worth visiting, and you could easily spend weeks exploring the Riviera. For this guide, I’ve included a variety of locations to ensure you experience the best of Liguria.