The Italian Riviera is a beautiful stretch of coastline that runs along the border with France and Tuscany. It is dotted with charming small towns and villages that offer incredible scenery of the Ligurian Sea, hiking trails, stunning swimming spots, and great culinary delights. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 15 most beautiful small towns and villages on the Italian Riviera. So grab your bags, and let's get started!
1. Portofino
Portofino is a picturesque fishing village located on the Italian Riviera. It is known for its stunning harbor, colorful buildings, and luxury yachts. This quaint village is surrounded by lush green hills, and the sea stretches out as far as the eye can see. The harbor is the heart of the village, and it is a great place to relax and people-watch. Portofino is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the region, so be sure to indulge in some of the local delicacies.
2. Vernazza
Vernazza is a small fishing village that forms part of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful buildings and stunning views of the sea. The village is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, and it is a great place to explore the local culture and cuisine. Be sure to take a hike to Vernazza Castle, which offers panoramic views of the village and the sea.
3. Manarola
Manarola is another small fishing village that is part of the Cinque Terre. It is known for its colorful houses and beautiful waterfront. The village is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, and it is a great place to relax and soak up the local culture. Don't miss the chance to taste the local wine and olive oil, which are some of the best in the region.
4. Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming seaside town that is located on the eastern coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its palm-lined promenade, beautiful harbor, and elegant villas. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the sea.
5. Portovenere
Portovenere is a stunning seaside village that offers breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. It is located on the western coast of the Italian Riviera and is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and medieval castle. The village is surrounded by cliffs and rocky beaches, and it is a great place to explore the local hiking trails. Be sure to visit the Church of San Lorenzo, which offers panoramic views of the village and the sea.
6. Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre. It is known for its long, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The village is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Don't miss the chance to taste the local wine and olive oil, which are some of the best in the region.
7. Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante is a charming seaside town that is located on the eastern coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and bustling town center. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Bay of Silence, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
8. Camogli
Camogli is a charming fishing village that is located on the western coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its colorful houses, beautiful harbor, and stunning views of the sea. The village is surrounded by cliffs and rocky beaches, and it is a great place to explore the local hiking trails. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, which offers panoramic views of the village and the sea.
9. Alassio
Alassio is a charming seaside town that is located on the eastern coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its long sandy beaches, beautiful promenade, and elegant villas. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Church of Santa Croce, which is one of the most beautiful churches in the region.
10. San Fruttuoso
San Fruttuoso is a small fishing village that is located on the western coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful abbey, which is located on a small beach surrounded by cliffs. The village is only accessible by boat or hiking trail, which makes it a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Be sure to visit the abbey, which is one of the most beautiful monuments in the region.
11. Zoagli
Zoagli is a charming seaside town that is located on the eastern coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Church of San Martino, which is one of the most beautiful churches in the region.
12. Bonassola
Bonassola is a small seaside town that is located on the eastern coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Church of Santa Caterina, which is one of the most beautiful churches in the region.
13. Cervo
Cervo is a charming medieval town that is located on the western coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful harbor, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, which is one of the most beautiful churches in the region.
14. Lerici
Lerici is a charming seaside town that is located on the western coast of the Italian Riviera. It is known for its beautiful beaches, colorful houses, and stunning views of the sea. The town is surrounded by hills covered in olive groves and vineyards, and it is a great place to explore the local countryside. Be sure to visit the Castle of Lerici, which offers panoramic views of the town and the sea.
15. Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is a small fishing village that is part of the Cinque Terre. It is known for its colorful houses and beautiful waterfront. The village is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, and it is a great place to relax and soak up the local culture. Don't miss the chance to taste the local wine and olive oil, which are some of the best in the region.
In conclusion, the Italian Riviera is a stunning region that is home to some of the most beautiful small towns and villages in Europe. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous hiking trip, this region has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the best small towns and villages on the Italian Riviera!