BEST PLACES IN LIGURIA TO VISIT AND SEE
Liguria is just spectacular! In Liguria, you’ll find some of Italy’s most stunning coastal scenery in the northwestern part of Italy. From the colorful seaside villages in Cinque Terre to the vibrant city of Genoa – there’s plenty to explore here.
Whether you’re a fan of the small shops and restaurants in the towns or seeking an adventure among the mountains, Liguria is sure to deliver! And with plenty of world-class beaches along its coast, there’s no better place for some relaxing downtime. S
o, if you’re looking for a bit of sun, sea, and delicious food – head to Liguria! It’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.
In this post, you will find out about the best places to visit in Liguria!
TRAVEL TIPS FOR LIGURIA
Liguria is home to many popular attractions, including the world-famous Cinque Terre, which gets quite crowded at times. But there are a lot of equally beautiful, if not more so, places to visit. Before talking about these places, here are some quick travel tips.
What is the Italian Riviera?
First of all: What exactly is the Italian Riviera? It is a stretch of coastline located in the northwest of Italy, and it is known for its pristine lakes, beautiful scenery, hiking opportunities, and colorful towns and villages found throughout the region.
It stretches along the Ligurian Sea, from the French/Italian border to the Tuscan border, with its capital in Genoa.
World-renowned for places like Portofino and Cinque Terre, these lovely locations are nonetheless bustling. However, there are more stunning spots to see along this coastline if you look. This post will help you find some of the most beautiful places to visit on the Italian Riviera.
How to Get Around Liguria
- CAR: The streets and roads are – overall – well paved, and the freeways are good. Driving in Liguria is not as challenging as in other parts of Italy. However, the roads are narrow and Italian drivers can be… a little crazy. Also, Italy has expensive tolls and petrol.
- PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Liguria’s public transportation is generally good. The trains are cheap and efficient and an excellent alternative to driving. You can, with some planning, get around to lesser-known places in Liguria by boat, bus, and train (or car).
- BOAT: It is also possible to visit many of the places by boat – e.g., you can easily get to Portofino from Santa Margherita by boat. Whenever you have the chance I would opt for this mode of transport.
MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN LIGURIA / THE ITALIAN RIVIERA
Okay, here is the list of the most beautiful places in Liguria to visit.
Genoa
You’ll absolutely adore Genoa, the enchanting capital of Liguria, boasting an authentic Italian charm. Bask in awe at its architectural wonders, from the stunning palazzos and churches to the delightful squares and piazzas and hidden waterfalls just in the city!
Get lost in its lovely narrow streets, and take a moment to appreciate the scenic harbor. Trust me, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for a truly memorable trip!
I actually go as far as to say, that Genoa is the best city to visit in Liguria.
Porto Venere
Welcome to the wonderful Porto Venere, a charming seaside town in Liguria that’s just waiting for you to explore!
Stroll along its vibrant promenade and wander through centuries of history as you navigate the narrow streets of Old Town – I guarantee your time here will be an unforgettable experience because it is one of the best towns to visit in Liguria.
Looking for amazing sights? Make your way up to the historic Doria Castle, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery from the 12th century. Don’t miss San Lorenzo Church for an awe-inspiring blend of history, architecture, and beauty – a treat for your eyes inside and out!
- To find out more about this gorgeous gem, check out my blog post on Porto Venere.
Portofino
Ready to add a touch of glamour to your Liguria adventure? Don’t miss out on Portofino, a chic destination that’s a favorite among the rich and famous!
If you’re like me and prefer the charm of Porto Venere, fret not! You can easily combine a fabulous half-day trip to Portofino with a visit to Santa Margherita for the ultimate Mediterranean experience.
Enjoy a stroll around the charming harbor of Portofino with its lively colors and picturesque houses. Make your way up to Castello Brown for incredible views or take in the beauty of San Giorgio Church, one of Italy’s top destinations on the Riviera!
With such amazing sights all within a small village, it’s no wonder why visitors love strolling through this delightful spot.
- Curious about Portofino? Then check out my quick Portofino guide.
Riomaggiore
Discover the enchanting Riomaggiore, a picturesque gem nestled within the renowned Cinque Terre. As the first village following La Spezia, Riomaggiore is celebrated for its vibrant, colorful promenade along the sea, captivating visitors from around the globe.
Feast your eyes on the awe-inspiring scenery of the sublime Ligurian hamlet, making it an irresistible top destination for travelers seeking beauty beyond compare.
Nestled within a charming valley, an exhilarating hike awaits you. As you ascend to greater heights, a spectacular panoramic view of the entire village unfolds before your eyes. Trust me, it’s worth every step!
And once you’ve soaked up the scenery, the adventure continues – head on over to Manarola, the next enchanting village in Cinque Terre.
Manarola
Discover the enchanting town of Manarola, renowned as one of Liguria’s shining gems. Wander through its quaint network of steep, slender lanes, be charmed by its vibrant, picturesque dwellings, and breathe in the sea breeze at its petite harbor. Allow Manarola to steal your heart!
Manarola is a Lugirian gem on the Italian Riviera, boasting picturesque promenades, and jaw-dropping clifftop views. Don’t forget to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shots! Afterward, treat yourself to a delightful meal at one of the charming cafes or restaurants perched high above the village.
Corniglia
Discover the charm and authenticity of Corniglia, a gem nestled along the Italian Riviera. Indulge in its untouched beauty, experience the warmth of its people, and immerse yourself in its rich history. Unraveling the magic of this Cinque Terre village will be an unforgettable adventure with fewer tourists to compete with!
The village of Liguria is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains, requiring more than 300 steps to reach. However, it’s an incredible sight – made even better by its unique stone houses and architecture that can’t be seen anywhere else! Take your time exploring this little-known destination for yourself – you won’t regret it!
Vernazza
Get ready to be enchanted by Vernazza, the captivating fourth village in the picturesque Cinque Terre. To fully appreciate its charm, make your way from Manarola and watch as the breathtaking views unfold before your eyes. You’ll soon see why it’s become such a beloved destination!
Get ready to be captivated by the enchanting beauty of Vernazza! Stroll through the historic piazza and marvel at the Santa Margherita d’Antiochia Church, straight from the 14th-century storybook.
Wander along the delightful promenade, and don’t miss the awe-inspiring Doria Castle, boasting an impressive tower. This fairytale town is a treasure trove for your Instagram feed, making it one of Liguria’s most photogenic gems.
Santa Margherita
Discover Santa Margherita, a charming and vibrant village in Liguria that stands out from the rest. You’ll be captivated by its distinctive, colorful houses and impeccable cleanliness, creating that perfect postcard-worthy scene you’ve been looking for. Trust me, it won’t disappoint!
Santa Margherita has so much to offer visitors! You can explore the beauty of Basilica di Santa Margherita, discover unique finds at its fantastic shopping street and soak in breathtaking views from 17th-century Villa Durazzo and across the Ligurian coast. There’s something for everyone here!
While this town is underrated, it is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Liguria.
Lerici
You’re in for a visual treat at Lerici – it’s easily in the top three of the most stunning villages at the Italian Riviera you’ll come across! Despite being slightly larger than the others, it remains cozy and full of delightful sights to explore.
If you want to take in the picturesque beauty of Liguria, then a trip along the seaside promenade is an absolute must! But if that isn’t enough for your wanderlust soul, hike up to Lerici castle where unforgettable sights await.
This charming little town offers hours’ worth of exploring and will surely be one experience you won’t forget anytime soon.
Tellaro
If you are looking for a peaceful, undiscovered paradise on the Italian Riviera, then Tellaro is your spot! This charming village offers gorgeous views and quiet serenity that can’t be found in other towns. You’ll enjoy picturesque rainbow-colored homes perched atop cliffs–a perfect example of coastal beauty without the bustling crowds.
Discovering Tellaro may take a bit of effort, but trust me, it’s worth it! Frequent buses and the option to drive make this hidden gem accessible, and you can even pair it with a lovely day trip to nearby Lerici.
As you wander through its charming streets, away from the bustling crowds, you’ll quickly realize why Tellaro is a must-see destination in the enchanting region of Liguria.
Monterosso
Monterosso boasts one of the most picturesque seaside escapes in all of Italy. With its beautiful landscapes, lush hilltops, and sparkling coastlines – it’s no wonder this Ligurian village is a top destination for visitors looking to explore the Italian Riviera.
The crystal clear waters make snorkeling an absolute delight! And with traditional vineyards producing some delicious local wines you can indulge your senses even further at this charming coastal getaway.
Just be warned: In the summer months, this beach offers anything but a tranquil beach vacation.
PIN ME FOR LATER – BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN LIGURIA
Liguria offers something truly magical for everyone. From quaint villages like Vernazza, Manarola, and Tellaro to bustling seaside towns such as Monterosso and Lerici – these are just some of the best places to visit in Liguria, Italy.
Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views, unique shops, or traditional wineries, Liguria has it all! So take the time to explore this beautiful region and discover some unforgettable places along the way.
SAVE THIS PIN FOR LATER.
