Nestled along Italy’s northwestern coastline, Liguria—commonly called the Italian Riviera—draws visitors with its sun-drenched beaches, colorful coastal villages and rich culinary traditions. The region is roughly divided by Genoa into two stretches: the Riviera di Ponente to the west, and the more celebrated Riviera di Levante to the east, home to glamorous destinations such as Portofino and Santa Margherita and within easy reach of the Cinque Terre.
A well-rounded visit to the Italian Riviera blends luxury and local charm. Start in Portofino, a former fishing village known for its postcard-perfect harbor and long history as a playground for celebrities. Upscale hotels line the bay; pick a base that suits you and take the opportunity to experience the area’s refined dining and relaxed seaside lifestyle.
For a classic Portofino experience, consider staying at the hilltop Belmond Hotel Splendido, famed for its views and elegant atmosphere. Enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace and sample regional dishes made with seasonal ingredients, including fresh pasta and ripe tomatoes. For evening cocktails beneath the stars, the Splendido Mare and its waterfront restaurants offer a convivial scene and inventive drinks.
Portofino offers many ways to explore its coastline and hinterland. Concierge services at local hotels can arrange guided kayak tours to see the lighthouse by night, paddle to secluded coves, or visit an 18th-century Ligurian mill where you can relax over a leisurely lunch. If you prefer to stay on land, guided cycling tours take you through olive groves and pine-scented hills, with options that climb Mount Portofino or follow scenic coastal roads.
Portofino at night © UNKNOWN1861 | DREAMSTIME
For a hands-on maritime experience, join a local fishing boat to learn traditional techniques, swim in crystal waters known as the Blue Mile, and enjoy a meal prepared from the day’s catch. The area’s small museums, like the Fishing Museum in Punta Chiappa, preserve the region’s seafaring heritage and offer insight into everyday life on the coast.
Underwater, the bronze statue known as Christ of the Abyss is a unique sight: a submerged sculpture depicting Christ with open arms, placed as a symbol of protection for fishermen and divers and dedicated to the memory of an early Italian diver. The statue’s serene silhouette is a popular subject for underwater photography and guided scuba excursions.
Romance is part of Portofino’s allure: charter a private yacht for a sunset cruise around the bay, sip Spumante as the town lights appear, and take in the coastline from the sea for an unforgettable perspective.
Genoa, a short distance away, offers a contrasting experience—bustling streets lined with historic shops, traditional eateries and small museums. Wander the medieval lanes, sample regional sweets and, if you’re curious about marine life, visit the Aquarium of Genoa where special experiences such as penguin feedings and guided behind-the-scenes visits are sometimes available.
Monterosso al Mare, Cinque Terre, view of the bay with bronze sculpture of a monk © FREESURF69 | DREAMSTIME
Further along the coast, the Cinque Terre—literally “five lands”—are a cluster of villages clinging to steep cliffs and connected by dramatic hiking trails. While trains run frequently along the coast, many visitors prefer to base themselves in a single village and hike between them, taking in terraced vineyards, lemon groves and breathtaking sea views along the way.
Vernazza, once heavily affected by floods, has recovered and retains its timeless charm. Stay within the pedestrian center to enjoy mornings in the colorful square, sip cappuccino and watch daily life unfold. The waterfront and tiny fishing boats remain at the heart of local life, and family-run establishments—some occupying historic towers—serve regional dishes with panoramic views of the sea. Popular restaurants fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.
Before hiking between towns, check trail conditions and purchase the Cinque Terre hiking pass at a visitor center. Trails vary in difficulty and can be completed in stages, with trains available to shorten or simplify transfers. Riomaggiore offers a gentler paved start for those easing into the hikes, while La Via dell’Amore, the iconic coastal path to Manarola, may be partially closed for repairs at times—verify access beforehand.
Monterosso al Mare beach © ROMAN RODIONOV | DREAMSTIME
In Manarola, climb through terraced vineyards to a trattoria for freshly made trofie pasta tossed with local pesto—a classic Ligurian pairing. Corniglia, perched above the sea, rewards visitors with sweeping views and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for a restorative pause during a longer trek.
As the day ends, either return to Vernazza or continue to Monterosso al Mare, the largest village, to relax on its broad sandy stretch and enjoy a lemon granita while reflecting on the coastal scenery you’ve discovered.
Wherever you travel along the Italian Riviera, common threads link the experience: dramatic sea views, vibrantly painted houses spilling down green hillsides, handmade pasta and fragrant Ligurian pesto, and warm locals eager to share their traditions. Although the Riviera is well known, its combination of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a destination worth revisiting.
Italian Riviera Info to Go
Genoa Airport serves the Liguria region with connections to other European and domestic destinations. Nearby airports such as Pisa, Milan Linate and Milan Malpensa can offer alternative routing and competitive fares. Pisa International Airport has convenient rail links that connect to the Cinque Terre with one or two train changes. From Milan, trains depart from Milano Centrale to many Riviera towns, and airport buses or direct trains link the city to both Linate and Malpensa. Seasonal bus services also connect Malpensa to Genoa.
Where to Stay in the Italian Riviera
BELMOND HOTEL SPLENDIDO A restored 16th-century monastery offering classic Italian glamour on Portofino’s hillside. Salita Baratta 16, Portofino
GRAND HOTEL MIRAMARE A Belle Époque landmark built in 1903, long favored by international visitors. Via Milite Ignoto 30, Santa Margherita Ligure
LA MALÀ An antique Ligurian house converted into comfortable rooms with sweeping views from a natural stone terrace. Via San Giovanni Battista 29, Vernazza
Restaurants in the Italian Riviera
RISTORANTE BELFORTE Perched in a medieval tower with spectacular sea views and refined local cuisine. Via Guidoni 42, Vernazza
RISTORANTE PUNY A traditional, intimate spot on the marina in Portofino, known for well-executed pasta dishes. Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta 5, Portofino
TRATTORIA DAL BILLY Family-run trattoria in Manarola serving fresh trofie with pesto and regional wines alongside terraced vineyard views. Via Rollandi 122, Manarola