Travel Guide: Italian Riviera (Ligurian Coast: Rapallo, Santa Margherita, Cinque Terre and Portofino)

Picture this: the warm Mediterranean sun kissing your skin, the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore, and the aroma of fresh Italian cuisine wafting through the air. Welcome to the Italian Riviera, also known as the Ligurian Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline that promises an unforgettable adventure. As an avid traveler and self-proclaimed expert in all things Italian, I’m thrilled to share my journey through this picturesque paradise.

The Ligurian Coast is a treasure trove of charming towns, each offering its unique charm and beauty. To truly soak in the magic of this region, I recommend choosing a base town and exploring the neighboring gems at your own pace. During my stay, Rapallo served as my home base, and from there, I ventured to Santa Margherita, Cinque Terre, and Portofino. Renting a car is the way to go, providing the freedom to hop between towns effortlessly. Buckle up as I take you through the best places to stay, eat, shop, and explore along the Ligurian Coast.

Where to Stay on the Ligurian Coast

Finding the perfect accommodation is key to a memorable trip. Here’s a curated list of some fantastic hotels in Portovenere, Rapallo, Portofino, and the surrounding areas.

Portovenere

• Grand Hotel Portovenere

  • Perks: Overlooking the picturesque harbor, this hotel offers stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. The rooms are elegantly furnished, and the service is impeccable. This is an excellent hotel for proximity to visit Cinque Terre.

  • Proximity to the beach: Just a short walk to the beach, providing easy access to sun and sand.

Portofino-Area

• Eight Hotel Portofino

  • Perks: Nestled in the heart of Portofino, this boutique hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and classic Italian charm. Enjoy the lush gardens and the tranquil spa.

  • Proximity to the beach: A stroll to the Portofino harbor and its beaches.

• Splendido Belmond

  • Perks: Splendido is one of the most enchanting hotels in Portofino. Perched in the mountain side, expect views of the sparkling bay below. Belmond has partnered with the renowned beach club Bagni Fiore, granting guests access to the Parragi bay with lounge sun chairs and luxury service on the emerald bay. In 2024, Christian Dior has partnered with Bagni Fiore to deck out the chairs, umbrellas and furnishing with a custom Dior print.

  • Proximity to the water: a short drive down the hill to Parragi bay Bagni Fiore Beach club.

• Splendido Mare Belmond

  • Perks: Tucked into the curve of Portofino harbour is the stylish Splendido Mare. The charming guest-house is located in Portofino's main piazzetta, where you’ll have the Portofino social scene right at your feet. Portofino’s glamorous village spirit flows through our doors. Inside, you’ll discover an alluring haven, chic in design and playful in nature.
    

Rapallo

• Hotel Excelsior Palace (where we stayed on our recent trip*)

  • Perks: Located in nearby Rapallo, this hotel boasts panoramic sea views, a private beach, and two outdoor pools. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed. While we loved the location and the amenities of this property, the hotel is somewhat outdated and not our favorite.

  • Proximity to the beach: Direct access to the private beach area. Short drive to Portofino and Santa Margherita.

Santa Margherita

• Santa Margherita Palace

  • Perks: This modern hotel in Santa Margherita Ligure offers chic, contemporary rooms and a relaxing spa. It’s perfect for those seeking a stylish retreat.

  • Proximity to the beach: A short walk to the beach and the town center.
    

What to Do

• Explore the Cinque Terre

  • The Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprises five enchanting villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village has its own unique charm, from Monterosso's sandy beaches to Vernazza's vibrant harbor. Hiking trails connect the villages, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

  • We recommend taking the train into Monterosso and then taking the ferry to visit each of the towns by sea. It is the most beautiful way to get view of each town and you can hop off the ferry in whichever towns you want to explore further.

• Stroll Through Portofino

  • Portofino is the epitome of Italian glamour. Wander through the charming streets, visit the historic Castello Brown, and take in the views from the lighthouse. Don't forget to snap a photo at the famous Piazzetta!

• Relax in Rapallo

  • Rapallo is a delightful town with a relaxed atmosphere. Visit the ancient castle, stroll along the promenade, or take a cable car to the sanctuary of Montallegro for panoramic views.

• Discover Santa Margherita Ligure

  • Santa Margherita Ligure is a blend of elegance and seaside charm. Spend your day lounging on the beaches, exploring the lush gardens of Villa Durazzo, or sipping a cappuccino at a café.

Where to Eat and Drink

• UGiancu (Rapallo): family owned and operated, this charming and playful restaurant is bright in both it's maximalist decor and vibrant recipes. The menu is curated packed with delicious pastas and local delicacies, all sourced from the garden on the proeprty or local farms.

• Armida 1905 (Rapallo): located in the heart of Rapallo, enjoy fresh local seafood and excellent service at this special indoor/outdoor restaurant.

• da I Gemelli (Portofino): owned by 2 brothers, come for a dining experience merely feet from the Portofino harbor. Paolo and Matteo offer quality and innovation in delivering the essence of Ligurian cuisine.

• La Terrazza (Portofino): dine with stunning views of the bay and enjoy local and seasonable cuisine in this romantic setting.

• Ristorante Puny (Portofino): A favorite among celebrities, this restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Try the pesto pasta – it's heavenly!

• Ristorante Le Cupole (Rapallo): Perched on a hill, this restaurant offers stunning views of the bay. The menu features a mix of traditional Ligurian dishes and modern creations.

• La Cambusa (Santa Margherita Ligure): Located near the harbor, this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and friendly service. The spaghetti alle vongole is a must-try!

• Enoteca Winterose (Cinque Terre): In Manarola, this wine bar offers a fantastic selection of local wines and delicious snacks. It's the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.

Where to Shop

• Boutiques in Portofino: Portofino is home to numerous high-end boutiques. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover luxury brands, designer clothing, and unique accessories.

• Market in Rapallo: Visit the local market in Rapallo for fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• Artisan Shops in Cinque Terre: Each village in the Cinque Terre has its own collection of artisan shops. From handmade ceramics to local wines, there's plenty to explore and take home as a reminder of your trip.

• Galleria d'Arte Portovenere: This gallery features works by local artists and is a great place to find unique pieces of art to bring home. It’s a wonderful way to support local talent and take a piece of the Italian Riviera with you.

• Shopping in Santa Margherita Ligure: Santa Margherita Ligure offers a mix of upscale boutiques and charming local shops. Whether you're looking for designer fashion or unique gifts, you'll find plenty to explore.

The Italian Riviera is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. From the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre to the glamorous charm of Portofino, there’s something for everyone. By choosing a base town like Rapallo and renting a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover the hidden gems of this breathtaking region. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, savoring local delicacies, or shopping for unique treasures, the Ligurian Coast promises an unforgettable adventure. Pack your bags and get ready for a journey filled with beauty, culture, and unforgettable memories!