Best Places to Visit in Liguria | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Liguria Travel Guide
Quick overview of Liguria with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Liguria, Italy! Nestled along the picturesque coastline of the Italian Riviera, Liguria is a region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and delectable cuisine. Known for its colorful fishing villages, such as Cinque Terre and Portofino, Liguria is a haven for those seeking a tranquil escape. With its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming cobblestone streets, this region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Whether you're hiking along the scenic trails of Cinque Terre National Park, indulging in fresh seafood at a local trattoria, or exploring the medieval architecture of Genoa, Liguria promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Liguria Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Liguria
1. Genoa: As the capital of Liguria, Genoa is a must-visit city for its rich history and stunning architecture. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its narrow medieval streets. Don't miss the Palazzo Ducale, a magnificent palace that showcases the city's past glory. Genoa is also known for its vibrant food scene, so be sure to indulge in some delicious pesto and fresh seafood.
2. Portofino: This picturesque fishing village is a true gem of Liguria. With its colorful houses, luxury yachts, and crystal-clear waters, Portofino is a favorite destination for the rich and famous. Take a stroll along the harbor and admire the pastel-colored buildings that line the waterfront. For a breathtaking view, hike up to Castello Brown, a fortress that overlooks the village and offers panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea.
3. Cinque Terre: Comprised of five charming coastal villages, the Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination in Liguria. Each village, including Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare, offers its own unique charm and breathtaking views. Hike along the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) that connects the villages, or simply relax on the pebbly beaches and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
4. Sanremo: Known as the "City of Flowers," Sanremo is famous for its annual flower festival and its beautiful gardens. Explore the Old Town with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, and visit the Sanremo Casino, a historic landmark that has been attracting visitors since the 19th century. Don't forget to try your luck at the Italian Riviera's oldest casino.
5. La Spezia: Located at the head of the Gulf of La Spezia, this vibrant city is a great base for exploring the Cinque Terre and the surrounding area. Visit the Naval Museum to learn about the city's maritime history, and take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the beautiful views of the harbor. La Spezia is also known for its delicious seafood dishes, so be sure to try some local specialties.
6. Santa Margherita Ligure: This charming seaside town is known for its elegant villas, beautiful gardens, and sandy beaches. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade and admire the colorful buildings that line the waterfront. Visit the Villa Durazzo and its stunning gardens, or take a boat trip to the nearby Abbey of San Fruttuoso, a hidden gem nestled in a picturesque bay.
7. Sestri Levante: With its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, Sestri Levante is a popular destination for beach lovers. The town is divided into two parts: the Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fairy Tales) and the Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence). Both bays offer stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the charming old town with its colorful houses and narrow streets, and indulge in some delicious Ligurian cuisine at the local restaurants.
8. Camogli: This quaint fishing village is known for its colorful houses, picturesque harbor, and delicious seafood. Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the views of the Golfo Paradiso. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful church that dates back to the 12th century, and explore the Castello della Dragonara, a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the village and the sea.
9. Lerici: Situated on the eastern coast of the Gulf of La Spezia, Lerici is a charming town with a rich maritime history. Explore the Lerici Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the town and offers stunning views of the Gulf. Relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Lerici is also a great starting point for boat trips to the nearby Palmaria Island and the Cinque Terre.
10. Alassio: Located on the western coast of Liguria, Alassio is known for its long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the views of the Ligurian Sea. Visit the Budello, a charming pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Alassio is also famous for its Muretto di Alassio, a wall covered in ceramic tiles signed by celebrities who have visited the town.
Hotels Map Of Liguria
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Tours And Activities In Liguria
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Food & Drinks To Try In Liguria
1. Pesto: Liguria is famous for its pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It is traditionally served with pasta, but can also be used as a spread or dip.
2. Focaccia: Liguria is the birthplace of focaccia, a delicious flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes other ingredients like rosemary or olives. It is a popular snack or accompaniment to meals in the region.
3. Trofie al Pesto: This is a traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta, which is a short, twisted pasta shape, and tossed in the region's famous pesto sauce. It is a must-try for pasta lovers.
4. Farinata: Farinata is a savory pancake made from chickpea flour, olive oil, water, and salt. It has a crispy exterior and a soft, custard-like interior. It is often enjoyed as a street food snack in Liguria.
5. Cima: Cima is a unique Ligurian dish made from a deboned veal or pork roast stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, eggs, cheese, and herbs. It is then braised and served sliced. It is a traditional dish often enjoyed during special occasions or holidays.
6. Acciughe al Verde: This is a traditional Ligurian dish consisting of fresh anchovies marinated in a green sauce made from parsley, garlic, capers, and olive oil. It is a flavorful and tangy appetizer or antipasto.
7. Ligurian Seafood: Being a coastal region, Liguria offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes. From grilled fish to seafood risotto, there are plenty of options to satisfy seafood lovers.
8. Ligurian Wines: Liguria is known for its production of high-quality wines. The region produces both white and red wines, with Vermentino and Pigato being popular white wine varieties, and Rossese being a well-known red wine variety. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local wines while in Liguria.
9. Limoncino: Liguria is also famous for its Limoncino, a lemon liqueur made from the region's abundant lemons. It is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is often enjoyed as a digestif or used in cocktails.
10. Ligurian Olive Oil: Liguria is renowned for its production of high-quality olive oil. The region's olive oil has a delicate and fruity flavor, making it perfect for drizzling over salads, bread, or using in various dishes. Be sure to try some of the local olive oil while in Liguria.
Best Time To Visit Liguria
The best time to visit Liguria, Italy is during the spring and fall seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the region's coastal towns and hiking trails. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded, as many tourists flock to the area to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. Winter in Liguria can be rainy and chilly, with some areas experiencing snowfall in the higher elevations. However, if you don't mind the cooler temperatures, visiting during the off-peak season can offer a more peaceful and authentic experience, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
Flight Calendar For Liguria
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Transportation To Liguria
There are several transportation options to Liguria, Italy.
1. By Air: The region is served by several airports, including Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, which is the main international airport in Liguria. There are also smaller airports in Savona and La Spezia. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to your destination in Liguria.
2. By Train: Liguria has a well-connected railway network, and you can reach the region by train from major Italian cities such as Milan, Turin, and Rome. The main train stations in Liguria are Genoa, La Spezia, and Savona. Once you arrive at the train station, you can continue your journey by local buses or taxis.
3. By Car: Liguria is easily accessible by car, and there are several highways that connect the region to other parts of Italy. The A10 highway runs along the Ligurian coast, connecting Genoa to the French border. The A12 highway connects Genoa to La Spezia and continues towards Tuscany. It is important to note that parking can be limited and expensive in some areas, especially in the coastal towns.
4. By Ferry: Liguria has several ports that are served by ferry services. The main ports are Genoa, La Spezia, and Savona. Ferries connect Liguria to other Italian regions, such as Sardinia and Sicily, as well as to international destinations like Corsica and Tunisia.
Once you are in Liguria, you can use public transportation, such as buses and trains, to explore the region and reach different towns and attractions.