15 Charming Italian Riviera Towns To Visit: Vist Offbeat Liguria!

Have you heard about the charming towns to visit on the Italian Riviera? It’s the most picturesque region of Italy, hugging the Mediterranean shore and bubbling with pretty towns and villages.

We were lucky to drive along the Ligurian Coast (alias the Italian Riviera) during our eight-week road trip, and we explored the best coastal gems northwest Italy has to offer. It was an exciting experience – two weeks driving around narrow roads, going up and down hills and along winding lanes.

It wasn’t ideal for our campervan, but the Italian Riviera was a breathtaking place. It’s perfect for nature, history and inquisitive souls. And, if you’re looking to visit, we stopped by some of the most unique and charming towns on the Italian Riviera, which we’re sharing with you!

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Uncover The Most Charming Towns On The Italian Riviera To Visit On Your Next Trip To The Enchanting Ligurian Coast

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Summary: 15 Best Italian Riviera Towns to Visit

• The best towns of North Liguria: San Remo, Dolce Aqua, Pigna, Imperia
• The best towns of Central Liguria: Genoa, Camogoli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino
• The best towns of South Liguria: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Porto Venere, La Spezia

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West Liguria: Charming Italian Riviera Towns to Visit

West Liguria adjoins the French border at Alpes-Maritmes, and from what we noticed, it was much quieter than the towns in the south. It was our favourite part of Liguria, and we even ventured into the mountains to visit a few smaller villages. 

1. Sanremo

I loved Sanremo and recommend it to anyone interested in visiting the western coast of Liguria. It’s slightly different from your typical Italian Riviera village since it’s a city and not built into cliffs. Nevertheless, it’s a captivating place which we enjoyed. 

Since we were travelling around Italy in a campervan, we parked a little out of town along Str. Tre Ponti (Google Maps). The forty-minute walk into Sanremo, lined with palm trees and along the shoreline, was a pleasant surprise.

We passed the huge marina, full of glistening super yachts, before reaching the city beach and heading into the centre. Sanremo is a good base if you want to explore the western coast of Liguria.

Sanremo has a number of attractions, such as the 12th-century twelve-belled tower of San Siro Cathedral with a giant crucifix above its altar. The long-established Casinò di Sanremo can be found just off the waterfront promenade in an elegant art nouveau building, and nearby, the Russian Orthodox Church has five domes and gorgeous artwork.

Finally, the most exciting part of Sanremo is La Pigna di Sanremo or the old town. It’s not a beautiful place, rather dirty in a way, but it was so interesting it’s somewhere not to be missed. Complete with twisted streets, hanging bed sheets and small shops and restaurants, it’s fantastic to explore. However, be prepared for lots of steps and uphill walks.

At the very top is the Santuario Diocesano Nostra Signora Assunta – Madonna della Costa. From there, enjoy panoramic views over Sanremo.

⭐ Pro tip >> Want the ultimate day excursion from Sanremo? Join this private day trip and explore the region’s top sites in the Italian Riviera, French Riviera & Monaco.

2. Dolceacqua

Dolceacqua is a must-visit destination in Liguria, about fifteen minutes from the coast. It’s nestled on the River Nervia, making it a charming riverside town in the Italian Riviera to visit. It was a last-minute addition to our itinerary and the final place we saw on our road trip before heading to France.

It was, by far, the best spot to end our trip!

⭐ Pro tip >>I’ve found this day trip departing from Dolceacqua, which visits Ventimiglia, Menton and Monaco. It sounds like a fantastic day when you visit both the Casino of Monte Carlo and the Prince’s Palace of Monaco!

Dolce Acqua was beautiful. The idyllic town sits on the river, with an old town featuring tiny alleyways endlessly weaving between one another. Explore every nook and cranny and get lost in these alleys, admiring the stonework. Slowly make your way to the top of the hill; there, you’ll find the Castello di Dolceacqua. 

To access the old town, you need to cross the river. There is a magnificent stone bridge, famously painted by Claude Monet, and totally Instagram-worthy.

On the roadside, Dolceacqua features a number of attractive restaurants, but there is a particularly good pizzeria. Stop by La Dolcevita Bar Pizzeria and catch the last of the sun rays over the Piazza Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Explore further into town, take in the atmosphere and visit Tornatore Ivo (Google Maps) to stock up on olive oil and local wine from the Dolceacqua vineyards.

3. Pigna

The half-abandoned, crumbling mountain village of Pigna isn’t technically on the Italian Riviera, but it is in Liguira and very close to the coast. It’s a place you have to visit while exploring northwest Linguria, as it’s only a short thirty-minute drive from the coastal town of Ventimiglia.

It’s an adorable village, lost in the mountains and soon to be reclaimed by the forest.

Quaint and sleepy, this hidden gem features an enchanting waterfall in the middle of town, stone buildings perched high on the mountain’s edge and surrounded by thick forest. It’s a dream for hikers, with numerous trails leading into the unknown. 

It’s easy to get to; just continue north past Dolceacqua. The drive is beautiful. Alongside the Valsesia Valley and the Tuscan Hills, this drive through the mountains was one of our favourite parts of our Italy road trip.

4. Imperia

The first town we stopped at in western Liguria, we headed to Imperia to visit an olive oil museum and renowned Fratelli Carli flagship store. 

It’s another charming town on the Italian Riviera with a small marina backed by yellow and pink buildings with burnt orange rooftops that tumble along the shoreline.

Imperia has a lovely harbour. Lined with bars and restaurants tucked into the porticos of historical buildings, it’s worth a visit at sunset.

It’s perfect for wandering around the streets. Discover unique wine shops, the Church of Saint Giovanni Baptist and I Gelati di Fe for the most delicious ice cream.

The cherry on top is the Fratelli Carli Emporio – perfect for gifts, olive produce, condiments and tastings – and the Olive Oil Museum.

Although small, the museum is quite interesting, and the audio guide is excellent! If anything, there is too much information. However, more than less is better in this instance, and we easily skipped a few sections. The only thing missing is how olive oil is made, but details are provided on how olives were cultivated and their many uses throughout history.

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Central Liguria: Captivating Italian Riviera Towns to Visit

Central Liguria is the part of the Italian Riviera reserved for the rich and famous. The most popular part is the Portofino Peninsula, which is loaded with super yachts and designer stores. It’s home to Liguria’s capital – Genoa – a vibrant, bustling port city with incredible architecture. 

5. Genoa

Genoa was a shock for us and totally unexpected. We drove through the city after a very relaxing two weeks in Piedmont and were not prepared for the energetic vibe. Teeming with tourists and locals alike, Genoa is the perfect city to visit on the Italian Riviera if you want an upbeat atmosphere.

The city boasts stunning architecture blending history and charm. Expect to find superb medieval structures, grand Renaissance palaces, and lovely Baroque churches. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases narrow alleys and picturesque squares.

Imagine walking along the waterfront, where bright buildings glimmer in the sunlight. These colourful structures stand out, especially when compared to the elegant Renaissance mansions nearby. The contrast is quite something, adding to the overall appeal.

Visit the iconic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, a breathtaking example of Gothic beauty. The sturdy Palazzo Ducale was once a mighty fortress. The Rolli Palaces, a collection of splendid residences, showcase Renaissance opulence and the Church of Santa Maria di Castello for its Baroque magnificence.

⭐ Pro tip >> This highly-rated tour leads you through the top sites, secluded squares, and hidden spots in Genoa. You’ll try local Prosecco, coffee, pesto, and focaccia with an expert guide.

6. Camogli

Visit Camogli, the gateway to the Portofino Peninsula and a charming Italian Rivera town. With its pastel-coloured buildings hugging the coastline, Camogli offers a stunning seaside escape. The picturesque harbour, dotted with fishing boats, creates a lovely romantic atmosphere. 

The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, a fantastic church with its Baroque facade, sits right on the water, and the medieval Castello della Dragonara is perched on a hill next to it. 

If you’re seeking tranquillity, the long, pebbly beach offers a superb spot to relax, and the short walk to Il Faro viewpoint (Google Maps) offers the best view of the port and buildings along the Ligurian coast.

⭐ Pro tip >> Make the most of your time and visit three of the best charming towns on the Italian Riviera from Genoa on this guided tour: Portofino, Santa Margherita and Camogli.

7. Santa Margherita Ligure

Although we didn’t stop in Santa Margherita Ligure, we did drive through, and it’s somewhere we thought, “We’d like to come back here”. 

From what we saw, it’s a picturesque town with a lively atmosphere and bustling piazzas; we heard they have a market, too, every Friday along Corso Matteotti. 

Due to its location, it would also make an ideal base for exploring the Italian Riviera. Nestled halfway between Genoa and Cinque Terre, the rest of the coastal highlights can be reached within an hour; plus, it has a train station.

Santa Margherita Ligure’s appeal extends beyond its lively streets. The iconic Castello di Santa Margherita, a 16th-century fortress, stands proudly overlooking the Ligurian Sea, offering panoramic views that would surely leave a lasting memory. 

With its pastel-coloured buildings lining the waterfront and the inviting beaches, it looked like a charming town to visit on the Italian Riviera. Even our brief drive-through hinted at the town’s magnetic pull, leaving us with a sense of Santa Margherita Ligure’s undeniable charm.

8. Portofino

We stayed for two nights near Portofino and parked up near Bau Bau Beach. We had to walk into Portofino as the road became too narrow for us to drive along. There were buses the same size making the journey, but after a near collision with the overhanging cliff, we aborted!

Parked between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, we enjoyed a dip in the ocean, which was almost empty after the summer sun. 

The peninsula is a captivating coastal experience, and Portofino is a mesmerising coastal gem nestled along the Italian Riviera.

Visit the iconic Piazzetta, a charming square surrounded by vibrant shops and cafes. Head to the historic Castello Brown, perched on the hill, which offers panoramic views of the harbour and admire Portofino’s colourful waterfront, lined with pastel buildings.

Beyond the harbour, visit the Church of Saint Giorgio. With a blend of natural beauty, history, and an exclusive atmosphere, Portofino was one of the best destinations along the Ligurian coast.

⭐ Pro tip >> Join this three-hour guided walking tour and visit the Church of Saint Giorgio for panoramic views and join a pesto-making class.

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South Liguria: Enchanting Italian Riviera Towns to Visit

The best of south Liguria is often considered to be Cinque Terre, and for sure, they are beautiful towns, but there are a few more places on this part of the Italian Riviera worth visiting that are just as stunning and less crowded! 

However, let’s start with the five villages of Cinque Terre:

Further Reading: We spent three days in Cinque Terre and thought it was a stunning location, but is it really worth the hype? Find out the truth about Cinque Terre, here.

9. Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare is by far the biggest of the 5 Terre villages and one of my favourites. It’s a good base if you want to stay within the Cinque Terre UNESCO complex, with a number of hotels. (Hotels are few and far between in Cinque Terre; you’ll most likely be staying in Airbnbs, which are plentiful).

Compared to the other four, it’s got slightly more of a resort-style feel, but it’s still a great place to visit. It’s the only village with a decent beach and a waterfront promenade. It’s split between two areas; you have the “old town” and the “new town”, also known as Fegina. 

Since Monterosso al Mare is larger than the other four, it has more amenities and is more accessible, making it a good choice if you have accessibility issues. There are a few attractions worth seeking out, like the Church of S. Giovanni Battista and the Convent of the Capuchin Friars. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the alleys of the old town.

10. Vernazza

Vernazza is sometimes thought of as the prettiest village in Cinque Terre and on the Italian Riviera; however, we found it to be too busy. It was the most crowded place we visited, and during our stop, we were left unimpressed. Its beauty was ruined by the hordes of tourists.

Nevertheless, it is considered one of the best towns on the Liguria Coast, and if you visit later in the day, you’ll be able to appreciate it the most.

Vernazza is overflowing with wonderful architecture showcasing the ingenuity of Italian engineering. The houses tumbling down the cliff face in shades of pastel oranges, pinks, and yellows are spectacular. With its natural harbour sheltering turquoise water, it’s a dream for many travellers.

Vernazza is best enjoyed in the evening, sitting at a hilltop restaurant with a glass of local wine and watching the sunset reflect off the buildings. 

⭐ Pro tip >> This vineyard tour is a popular option, offering a short hike and wine tasting with stunning panoramic views from Vernazza.

11. Corniglia

Corniglia was another of my favourite villages in Cinque Terre and another great place to stop by in the evening after the crowds have dispersed. It’s also a good spot for a late-morning visit. 

Corniglia is the least visited of the villages due to the 383 steps it takes to reach it. This climb puts many visitors off, but not us! With my platform sandals and flared trousers, Jack and I set forth to reach Corginlia in the scorching heat. It was a sweaty climb (I suggest more appropriate clothing), but the climb was well worth it.

Sitting atop the hill overlooking the coast, Corniglia is by far one of the most charming towns on the Italian Riviera to visit. It’s more or less one long, winding, narrow alley filled with artesian stores, cafes, restaurants and gelaterias. 

The stone buildings, towering churches and panoramic viewpoints are simply stunning.

12. Manarola

Manarola is one of my top three favourite villages to visit in Cinque Terre. We enjoyed strolling around the town, browsing the souvenirs and stopping for a refreshing cocktail. There is a short walk along the fringes of the cliff to one of the best viewpoints in the area. 

If you’re searching for a spot to grab that epic shot of the charming Italian Riviera towns, Manarola Overlook Viewpoint is the place (Google Maps).

Like much of the Ligurian Coast, Manarola features colourful buildings built deep into the cliffs. It’s also surrounded by vineyards that produce some of the region’s best wines. There are two varieties: the dry white Cinque Terre DOC and the sweet Sciacchetrà DOC.

⭐ Pro tip >> Enjoy a sensory wine-tasting experience in Manarola by joining this tour. Try delicious wines and stroll through the vineyards.

13. Riomaggiore

It’s the last town of the five Cinque Terre Villages and is another good place for a base within the heart of the UNESCO complex. 

Although we didn’t spend too much time in Riomaggiore, when we arrived in the afternoon after a full day’s hike, it seemed like a captivating place. We were knackered, so we headed back to our campervan, but if you’re looking for charming towns on the Italian Riviera, visit Riomaggiore.

There is a short hike from the town that will provide some of the best views over the Ligurian shoreline. It’s about 3.5 km and includes a steep climb up rocky steps passing vineyards. Your aim is the 11th-century Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero Church (Google Maps).

Just outside of the Cinque Terre villages, there are two more towns on the south end of the Italian Riviera, which we think are worth visiting. They are just as pretty, more affordable and less crowded. 

14. Portovenere

Enter Portovenere, a town nestled on the very tip of the peninsula and a fantastic place to go if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to Cinque Terre. 

I loved Portovenere. We arrived from the High Mountain Path, coming down from the trail to Castle Doria, an imposing clifftop fortress with views of the Gulf of Poets. The views are insanely beautiful, and if you enjoy hiking, I recommend doing this hike. 

As for Portovenere, it has all the charm of the five Cinque Terre villages but with fewer people. It has a lovely old town that winds up to the Gothic-style church of St. Peter, which sits at the rocky headland and offers incredible views over the Ligurian Coast.

Opposite is the Regional Natural Park of Portovenere on Palmaria Island, a protected area with trails and dive sites. Although we didn’t get time to visit, I’ve read it’s a stunning place perfect for nature enthusiasts. 

I highly recommend visiting this charming town on the Italian Riviera!

15. La Spezia

⭐ Pro tip >> Uncover the villages of Cinque Terre starting from La Spezia and make stops to explore Vernazza, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore with this guided tour. Plus, a shot of limoncino!

Lastly, La Spezia is another charming city along the Italian Riviera. We didn’t stop in La Spezia; instead, we decided to drive through to Tuscany, but we still witnessed the bustling marketplaces and lively squares, creating an energetic atmosphere.

La Spezia would be another ideal location for a base if you want to explore Cinque Terre. It’s much more affordable and has excellent transport links. It serves the 5 Terre Express and national lines. 

Its historical richness is evident in landmarks like the Castle of San Giorgio, a medieval fortress offering a glimpse into the town’s past and the Naval Technical Museum, which adds an interesting maritime touch. 

La Spezia’s blend of history, local life, and accessibility to nearby wonders makes it a superb destination on the Italian Riviera.

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Where Is The Italian Riviera?

The most charming towns on the Italian Riviera are all located along the coast of the Liguria region in northwest Italy. Liguria borders the French region of Alpes-Maritmes and is a picturesque part of Italy with spectacular architecture, colourful buildings, azure waters and delicious cuisine.

Map: Towns Of The Italian Riviera

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Why Do We Call It “The Italian Riviera?”

Interestingly, the word “Riviera” comes from the Latin word “rīpa” and was later adapted through Ligurian language to become “rivêa”, which means “coastline” in Italian. It’s defined as an area of coast, seaside or lakeside region composed of multiple towns and beaches. The Italian “Riviera Ligure”, as it was known, was then shortened in English to “Italian Riviera”.

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Planning Your Visit To: Italian Riviera Towns

Are you getting ready to book your trip? I’ve gathered loads of practical information to help you get started. Details on when to visit and for how long, the best way to get to and how to get around the Italian Riviera towns. Plus, some suggested day tours if you’re only planning a day trip!

The Best Time To Visit The Ligurian Coast

Most will agree that the ideal time to visit the Ligurian region of Italy is during the summer. Known as the peak season, summer runs from June to August and brings with it sunshine, warm temperatures and bright days. It’s also the busiest and most expensive time. So, is it the best time?

If you ask us, the best time to visit the charming towns on the Italian Riviera is in late spring and early autumn. Known as shoulder months, these periods offer a more relaxed vibe, fewer crowds and balmy weather.

⭐ Pro tip >> Liguria is known for its mild climate throughout the year, and in May, September and October, the temperatures remain above 20°C/68°F.

How Long Do You Need

It ultimately depends on where you’re going and the type of trip you have in mind. 

Most towns along the Riviera will only require a day or two, and even the larger cities such as Genoa wouldn’t need more than a weekend. The majority of people who visit the Italian Riviera base themselves in one of these charming towns and then make day trips to nearby places. 

We spent two weeks in total in Liguria, although we split the trip in two. First, we went to central and south Liguria, then Tuscany and then west Liguria on the way home. For us, two weeks was perfect. We got to visit a lot of places and never felt rushed, generally spending a day in each town before hopping along to the next.

⭐ Pro tip >> For you to realise how long you need in Liguria, first work out which location you want to visit and then the number of towns you want to see in that location. Give yourself a day in each village and add another one or two days in for some flexibility, and this will give you an idea of how long you need. 

Suggested Day Trips

To help you with your planning stage, I’ve selected a handful of the best day trips to the Italian Riviera. I’ve considered ratings, length of trip and overall practicality to help you find the ideal excursion. 

• From Pisa: Explore Riomaggiore to Manarola on this guided small group tour that visits all the villages (except Corniglia) and includes a boat ride along the Ligurian coast.

How To Get To The Italian Riviera

Let’s quickly go over the best transport options for getting to the Ligurian Coast and how to get around the Italian Riviera once you’ve arrived.

PLANE

The main international airport in Liguria is Genoa Airport (GOA), known as the Christopher Columbus Airport. It has regular scheduled flights with a number of low-cost airlines serving Europe. 

If you’re coming from outside Europe, you’ll likely need to transfer through a connecting city, such as Rome or Amsterdam. Genoa serves central and west Liguria best, as well as the south.

Alternatively, you can fly into Pisa (or Florence, although travel time is a little longer) to access south Liguria. Both airports have regular scheduled flights with a number of low-cost airlines serving Europe. 

Again, if you’re travelling from outside Europe, a connecting flight will be necessary; these usually transfer through larger cities like Paris, Zurich or Rome. 

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’ve had any problems with your flights, contact AirHelp and see if you can get any money back! Delayed and cancelled flights allow for compensation.

After you’ve arrived in Italy, you’ll need to get to your hotel. There are four ways: Private Transfer, Train, Rentals and Bus (although I don’t recommend a bus at this stage unless you’re travelling on a budget).

PRIVATE TRANSFER/HOTEL SHUTTLE

The most convenient way to reach your hotel from the airport is to arrange a private transfer. Alternatively, you can contact your hotel and enquire about their shuttle service. 

⭐ Pro tip >> Save time and have transportation already waiting for you. I’ve found this private transfer to your hotel, apartment or airport in Genoa.

TRAIN

Italy has an excellent rail network which serves the Ligurian Coast. In fact, I would recommend using the train service, overall. If you’re visiting the Italian Riviera, most towns have a station. 

From Genoa, the closest train station to the airport is Genova Sestri Ponente-Aeroporto, which connects both west and south Liguria. Travel times depend on your destination, but trains run frequently and are cost-effective.

The Genova Sestri Ponente-Aeroporto station is connected to the airport by an AIRLINK bus service. It operates with frequent departures every day between 6.00 am and 10.00 pm.

⭐ Pro tip >> We use Trainline to purchase train travel. You can save money if you pre-book. Check prices and routes on Trainline today to start planning your trip.

RENTAL CAR/CAMPERVAN

As you know, we visited Italy in our Campervan and had a blast; however, the Italian Riviera isn’t the most campervan-friendly region of Italy, and road access was restricted. Nonetheless, if you’re considering a road trip, I highly recommend doing it. 

We had an unbelievable time!

The only thing I will say is that it will require a little more planning, roadside parking is limited, and campsites are expensive. But, if you plan and budget accordingly, you will have a great time.

Second to that, I suggest renting a car to travel around the Italian Riviera’s charming towns. It’s the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the region. If you are planning to rent a car, I suggest a small vehicle; why not go for Italy’s flagship Fiat 500?

As I’ve mentioned, the roads are incredibly narrow, particularly around the peninsulas. There is no need for a large vehicle. You will have a better time in a small car whizzing around the sites; manoeuvring and parking will be easier, trust me! 

BUS

Once you’ve reached your destination, for example, the Portofino Peninsula, there is a bus service running between the towns. Although we didn’t use them, this would be another great way to explore between the villages.

The leading bus network which serves Liguria is AMT. I like to use Google Maps (and, interestingly, the AMT website takes you to Google Maps after a search) to check travel routes. You can switch between driving, public transport, and walking routes.

WALK

Finally, there’s no better way to explore the charming towns on the Italian Riviera than on foot. The region has multiple walking trails and paths where you can spend the day lost in nature. Hike to spectacular viewpoints, wander around old cities and uncover hidden gems.

For example, Cinque Terre is the perfect place to hike. There are two main trails. The Blue Trail is the most popular, but the less famous High Mountain Pass is a winner in my books! Other areas like the Portofino Peninsula offer fantastic hiking, too, and when you’re in the cities, the only way to explore is to stroll the streets haphazardly.

FAQs: Charming Italian Riviera Towns To Visit

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In Summary: Charming Italian Riviera Towns To Visit

As always, I like to finish these guides with my final thoughts about visiting the most charming towns on the Italian Riviera. With the above locations in mind, you should have no issues planning a trip to one of Itay’s most revered regions. 

We absolutely loved our time exploring the best of the Ligurian Coast. It’s a part of Italy that I would happily return to. The beautiful thing about the Italian Riviera is its uniqueness; the colourful buildings, historical richness and warm waters are genuinely appealing. 

But don’t forget to travel into the mountains of Liguria as well. Combine a day of mountain travel to mix up your coastal experience. I guarantee you’ll have the ultimate holiday on the Italian Riviera.