Liguria
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Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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Colourful Liguria is a coastal region in northwestern Italy, bordered by the Ligurian Sea to the south and west. It is home to approximately 1.5 million people.
Renowned for its dramatic coastline, picturesque seaside villages like Cinque Terre and Portofino, and vibrant capital city, Genoa. Liguria is famous for its delectable cuisine, featuring fresh seafood dishes like pesto Genovese and focaccia bread. Visitors can explore charming towns, hike along scenic coastal trails. |
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Liguria: the Italian region of colour
Located along the rugged coastline of northwest Italy, Liguria captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery, charming seaside villages, and rich maritime history. Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprises five picturesque towns clinging to the cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. These colorful villages, connected by scenic hiking trails, offer stunning views of the Mediterranean and are renowned for their fresh seafood and local wines.
Genoa, the regional capital, boasts a fascinating historic center with narrow alleyways, grand palaces, and vibrant piazzas. The city's maritime heritage is celebrated in its renowned Aquarium and the historic harbor, while the Strade Nuove (New Streets) offer a glimpse into its wealthy past.
Portofino, a luxurious resort town, exudes glamour with its chic boutiques, yacht-filled harbor, and pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront. Nearby Santa Margherita Ligure charms visitors with its elegant promenade, beautiful gardens, and historic landmarks.
Liguria's natural beauty extends beyond its coastline to the rugged Apennine Mountains, where the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre are surrounded by terraced vineyards and olive groves.
The region's hiking trails offer unparalleled vistas of the azure sea and lush landscapes, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. With its unique blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and seaside splendor, Liguria promises an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
Genoa, the regional capital, boasts a fascinating historic center with narrow alleyways, grand palaces, and vibrant piazzas. The city's maritime heritage is celebrated in its renowned Aquarium and the historic harbor, while the Strade Nuove (New Streets) offer a glimpse into its wealthy past.
Portofino, a luxurious resort town, exudes glamour with its chic boutiques, yacht-filled harbor, and pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront. Nearby Santa Margherita Ligure charms visitors with its elegant promenade, beautiful gardens, and historic landmarks.
Liguria's natural beauty extends beyond its coastline to the rugged Apennine Mountains, where the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre are surrounded by terraced vineyards and olive groves.
The region's hiking trails offer unparalleled vistas of the azure sea and lush landscapes, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. With its unique blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and seaside splendor, Liguria promises an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
Regione Liguria
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Regional capital: Genoa
Population: 1,507,636 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 5,422 km² Provinces: 4 Highlights: Cinque Terre, Sestri Levante, Portofino, Portovenere |
What are the most popular tours and activities in Liguria?
- Cinque Terre Hiking Tour: Embark on a guided hiking tour through the scenic trails of the Cinque Terre National Park, exploring picturesque coastal villages, terraced vineyards, and stunning seaside cliffs while enjoying breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea.
- Portofino Boat Tour: Experience the beauty of the Ligurian coast with a boat tour of Portofino and its surrounding marine reserve. Visitors can cruise along the coastline, admiring colorful fishing villages, hidden coves, and rugged cliffs, while snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing in crystal-clear waters.
- Genoa Food and Wine Tour: Indulge in the culinary delights of Genoa with a guided food and wine tour through the city's historic streets and local markets. Visitors can sample Ligurian specialties such as focaccia, pesto, and fresh seafood, as well as regional wines and artisanal products, while learning about the city's gastronomic traditions and culinary history.
- Camogli and San Fruttuoso Excursion: Explore the charming seaside towns of Camogli and San Fruttuoso with a guided excursion along the Ligurian coast. Visitors can stroll along colorful promenades, visit historic churches and maritime museums, and relax on sandy beaches or rocky shores, with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring underwater marine reserves.
- Portovenere and Palmaria Island Tour: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Portovenere and the pristine natural beauty of Palmaria Island with a guided tour. Visitors can explore medieval fortresses, ancient churches, and scenic viewpoints in Portovenere, before taking a ferry to Palmaria Island for hiking, swimming, and enjoying panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline.
- Cultural Visits to Genoa's Historic Centre: Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Genoa with guided tours of its historic center. Visitors can explore medieval alleys, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque churches, as well as visit museums and art galleries showcasing the city's artistic legacy and maritime heritage.
What are the best restaurants in Liguria?
- Ristorante Miky - Monterosso al Mare: A renowned seafood restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the Ligurian Sea, known for its fresh fish dishes and creative presentations.
- Da Vittorio - La Spezia: A family-run trattoria serving traditional Ligurian cuisine, including specialties like trofie al pesto and stuffed vegetables, in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Antica Osteria Il Cantiere - Portovenere: Situated in the charming seaside village of Portovenere, this restaurant offers stunning views of the harbor and serves delicious Ligurian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Trattoria Rosa - Genoa: A hidden gem located in the historic center of Genoa, Trattoria Rosa is known for its authentic Ligurian recipes, including hearty soups, fresh seafood, and homemade pasta.
- Il Marin - Camogli: Set in a picturesque fishing village, Il Marin offers panoramic views of the coastline and serves exquisite seafood dishes prepared with a creative twist.
- La Cucina di Nonna Nina - Cinque Terre: A cozy family-run restaurant in the heart of the Cinque Terre, known for its warm hospitality and traditional Ligurian recipes passed down through generations.
- Locanda Lorena - Portofino: Nestled in the hills above Portofino, Locanda Lorena offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and specializes in seafood dishes inspired by local traditions.
- Ristorante Belforte - Vernazza: Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, Ristorante Belforte offers breathtaking views and serves classic Ligurian cuisine with a modern twist.
- La Tavernetta - Noli: A charming trattoria in the medieval town of Noli, La Tavernetta is known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious homemade pasta dishes.
- Da U Batti - Sanremo: A family-run restaurant in the heart of Sanremo, Da U Batti offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and serves traditional Ligurian dishes made with the freshest local ingredients.
Liguria Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Liguria?
- Belmond Hotel Splendido - Portofino: A luxurious five-star hotel set in a converted 16th-century monastery overlooking the Portofino harbor, offering elegant rooms, a saltwater swimming pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Grand Hotel Miramare - Santa Margherita Ligure: A historic hotel located on the waterfront promenade, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, and panoramic views of the Gulf of Tigullio.
- Villa della Pergola - Alassio: A beautiful villa surrounded by lush gardens, offering luxurious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, and a gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
- Hotel Punta Est - Finale Ligure: A charming hotel located on the seafront, offering comfortable rooms with sea views, a private beach, and a restaurant serving Ligurian specialties.
- Agriturismo Ca' di Nonni - Levanto: A peaceful agriturismo nestled in the Ligurian countryside, offering cozy rooms, a swimming pool, and homemade meals made with local produce.
- Hotel Metropole - Santa Margherita Ligure: A boutique hotel set in a historic villa, offering elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood dishes.
- Hotel Byron - Forte dei Marmi: A luxurious hotel located near the beach, offering stylish rooms, a swimming pool, and a gourmet restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
- Agriturismo Le Pale - Monterosso al Mare: A charming agriturismo nestled in the Cinque Terre National Park, offering cozy rooms, organic produce grown on-site, and breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Villa Rosmarino - Levanto: A cozy bed and breakfast housed in a historic villa, offering beautifully decorated rooms, a garden with a swimming pool, and a homemade breakfast served on the terrace.
- Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa - Rapallo: A luxurious hotel located on the waterfront promenade, offering spacious rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, and a wellness center with sea views.
Liguria travel advice
- Regional Trains (Trenitalia): Trenitalia operates regional and Intercity train services connecting Liguria's major cities and towns.
- Bus Services: Liguria has an extensive network of local and regional bus services, providing connections between smaller towns and villages.
- Car Rental: Renting a car gives you flexibility to explore Liguria's coastal towns, mountain villages, and scenic countryside.
- Ferry Services: Ferries operate along the Ligurian coast, connecting coastal towns and providing access to islands like Portofino and Cinque Terre.
Which airports serve Liguria?
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA):
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Milan Linate Airport (LIN):
- Genoa Airport is the main airport serving Liguria.
- Located near Genoa, it offers domestic and international flights.
- From the airport, you can easily access various towns and cities in Liguria via ground transportation.
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- While not in Liguria, Pisa Airport is relatively close and offers international flights.
- It serves as an alternative option for travelers heading to Liguria, especially those visiting the western part of the region.
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Milan Linate Airport (LIN):
- Both airports are located in Milan and offer domestic and international flights.
- While not in Liguria, they can be used as entry points for travelers coming from further destinations.
What are the main train stations in Liguria?
Genoa Piazza Principe and Genoa Brignole:
La Spezia Centrale:
Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino:
- Genoa has two major train stations, Piazza Principe and Brignole, which offer domestic and international train services.
- These stations serve as vital transportation hubs for accessing various destinations within Liguria and beyond.
La Spezia Centrale:
- La Spezia is another important railway station in Liguria, located near the famous Cinque Terre.
- It offers connections to major cities in Italy and serves as a gateway to the Cinque Terre National Park.
Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino:
- These stations serve the eastern part of Liguria, including popular coastal towns like Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure.
- They provide access to the picturesque Ligurian Riviera and its charming seaside villages.
Driving to Liguria
Driving Directions:
- If you're driving from Milan, take the A7 highway (Autostrada dei Fiori) towards Genoa.
- From Genoa, you can continue on the A10 highway (Autostrada dei Fiori) to reach other destinations along the Ligurian coast.
- Alternatively, if you're coming from Pisa or Florence, take the A12 highway (Autostrada Azzurra) towards La Spezia and then continue along the coast to reach other parts of Liguria.
What private transfer options are there for Liguria?
A private transfer from Genoa to Portofino takes around X hour X minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Liguria?
- Genoa: As the capital city of Liguria, Genoa offers numerous car rental options, including international chains and local providers. You can find rental agencies at Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport and within the city center.
- La Spezia: This coastal city is another popular location for car rental in Liguria, especially for those planning to visit the nearby Cinque Terre villages.
- Savona: Located on the western coast of Liguria, Savona is another city where you can find car rental agencies to explore the region.
- Imperia: This city, situated between Genoa and the French border, also offers car rental services for visitors exploring the Ligurian coastline.
- Sanremo: Known for its beautiful beaches and gardens, Sanremo has car rental options available for travelers who want to explore the surrounding area.
- Ventimiglia: Located near the border with France, Ventimiglia is another town in Liguria where you can find car rental agencies.
