Liguria is a region in northern Italy that hosts landscapes, coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage from the dazzling Italian Riviera to hidden gems tucked away in the mountains.
- Cinque Terre: Start your Ligurian adventure by visiting the world-renowned Cinque Terre, a collection of five colourful fishing scenic villages perched on the cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
- Portofino: Experience the glitz and glamour of Portofino, a fishing village famous for its luxury yachts, pastel-coloured buildings, and natural harbour.
- Sanremo: Discover the elegant charm of Sanremo, known for its beautiful Belle Époque architecture, flower market, and the renowned Sanremo Music Festival.
- Genoa’s Old Town: Lose yourself in the narrow alleys of Genoa’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its medieval architecture, palaces, and lively street markets.
- Camogli: Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of Camogli, a quaint fishing village with colourful buildings, a harbour, and a pebble beach.
- Santa Margherita Ligure: Relax in the upscale resort town of Santa Margherita Ligure, known for its palm-lined promenade, comfortable villas, and scenic views of the Ligurian coastline.
- Porto Venere: Admire the beauty of Porto Venere, a hidden gem with its medieval buildings, a fortified castle, and views of the rugged coastline.
- Boccadasse: Take a stroll through the neighbourhood of Boccadasse, a former fishing village that enchants visitors with its pastel-coloured houses and a small pebble beach.
- Hanbury Botanical Gardens: Explore the Hanbury Botanical Gardens in Ventimiglia, a oasis filled with exotic plants, terraced gardens, and coastal views.
- Cervo: Step back in time in the medieval town of Cervo, home to narrow streets, stone buildings, and the majestic Church of St. John the Baptist.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems:
- Cinque Terre Hiking Trails: Escape the crowds and discover the hidden corners of Cinque Terre by hiking along the less-trodden trails, where you can enjoy coastal views and secluded coves.
- Laigueglia: Experience the charm of Laigueglia, a lesser-known coastal town with a beautiful beach, colourful houses, and a peaceful ambiance away from the tourist crowds.
- Varigotti: Visit Varigotti, a hidden gem renowned for its beach, crystal-clear waters, and the medieval Saracen Tower that stands as a testament to its past.
- Noli: Explore the quiet town of Noli, hosting a medieval centre, a beach, and a castle with panoramic views of the coastline.
- Albenga: Discover the ancient Roman ruins and medieval architecture of Albenga, a hidden town famous for its Romanesque cathedral, squares, and well-preserved city walls.
- Villa Durazzo-Pallavicini: Wander through the enchanting gardens of Villa Durazzo-Pallavicini in Genoa, where you can find hidden grottoes, waterfalls, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
- Triora: Venture into the mystical village of Triora, infamous for its association with witchcraft during the Middle Ages, and explore its narrow streets and atmospheric medieval buildings.
- Toirano Caves: Delve into the underground world of the Toirano Caves, where you can admire ancient stalactite formations and discover prehistoric artifacts.
- Finalborgo: Lose yourself in the medieval atmosphere of Finalborgo, a well-preserved walled town with streets, fortified gates, and cozy cafes.
- Varese Ligure: Visit Varese Ligure, a small village known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, eco-friendly initiatives, and its well-preserved medieval architecture.