Tucked away in the northwest corner of Italy lies the enchanting region of Liguria, a treasure trove of stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and rich history. As we delve into the world of this lesser-known destination, get ready to uncover the secrets that make Liguria a must-visit destination for any traveler.
A Brief History of Liguria
Liguria’s strategic location on the Mediterranean coast made it an attractive hub for trade and commerce in ancient times. The region was ruled by various empires, including the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Genoese, each leaving their mark on the local culture and architecture. This rich history is still palpable today, as we explore the charming towns and villages that dot the landscape.
Exploring Liguria’s Coastal Towns
Liguria’s coastline is dotted with picturesque fishing villages, each boasting its own unique charm and character. Here are some of our top picks for coastal towns to visit:
Moneglia (Genova)
This charming town on the Genoa coast is steeped in history and natural beauty. Take a stroll along the waterfront, admiring the stunning views of the sea and surrounding hills. Visit the Santa Croce Church, which boasts an impressive exterior wall adorned with golden balls – a gift from Genoa to Moneglia.
Things to See and Do
- Explore the historic center, featuring narrow streets, quaint shops, and local restaurants
- Visit the nearby Monleone Fortress for breathtaking views of the coast
- Take a day trip to the city of Chiavari, located just 25 minutes away
Borgio Verezzi (Savona)
Located on the shores of Lake Savore, Borgio Verezzi is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. This charming town boasts stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Things to See and Do
- Take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shoreline
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Varese Ligure (La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Varese Ligure is a bustling town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Take a day trip to the famous Cinque Terre towns
Noli (Savona)
Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Noli is a peaceful retreat from the crowds. This charming town boasts stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Things to See and Do
- Take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shoreline
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Tellaro (La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Tellaro is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Take a day trip to the famous Cinque Terre towns
Cervo (Imperia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Cervo is a bustling town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Ospedaletti (Imperia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Ospedaletti is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Brugnato (La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Brugnato is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Apricale (Imperia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Apricale is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Dolceacqua (Imperia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Dolceacqua is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Campo Ligure (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Campo Ligure is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Portofino (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Portofino is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
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Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Santa Margherita Ligure (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Camogli (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Camogli is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Rapallo (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Rapallo is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Sestri Levante (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, Sestri Levante is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Porto Venere (La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Porto Venere is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Laigueglia (Savona)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Laigueglia is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Lerici (La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, Lerici is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
San Fruttuoso (Genova)
Located on the Genoa coast, San Fruttuoso is a charming town that boasts stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Monterosso, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola (Cinque Terre, La Spezia)
Located on the Ligurian coast, these five towns are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the nearby beaches, or explore the historic center.
Things to See and Do
- Visit the medieval fortress, featuring impressive stone walls and towers
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce and handicrafts
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Getting Around
The best way to get around is on foot or by bike. The towns are small and easy to navigate, and the scenic views make it a pleasure to walk or cycle.
Accommodation
There are many accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Tips and Tricks
- Try some of the local specialties, such as farinata (a flatbread made with chickpeas) and focaccia
- Visit the local markets to sample fresh produce and handicrafts
- Take a scenic hike along the coastline for breathtaking views
- Explore the historic centers, featuring narrow streets and quaint shops
Conclusion
The Ligurian coast offers some of the most beautiful and charming towns in Italy, each with its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, food, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone on this stunning coastline.
Additional Resources
- The Liguria Tourist Board: A great resource for information on accommodations, activities, and events.
- The Italian National Tourist Board: Offers a wealth of information on Italy as a whole, including travel tips and recommendations.
- The Cinque Terre National Park Authority: A must-visit destination for any traveler, offering stunning views and unique experiences.
Insider Tips
- Try some of the local wine, such as Sciacchetrà
- Visit the medieval fortress in Moneglia to enjoy breathtaking views of the coast
- Take a day trip to the nearby city of Genoa to explore its historic center
By following these insider tips and exploring the hidden gems of Liguria, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, culture, or adventure, this stunning region has something for everyone.
