Driving along the stunning Ligurian coastline has been one of my most memorable travel experiences. This 7-day road trip takes you through colorful fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters that make the Italian Riviera so special.
A week-long drive through Liguria offers the perfect balance of iconic destinations like Cinque Terre and hidden gems such as Camogli. All these are connected by scenic coastal roads.
I still remember the thrill of winding down those seaside roads, stopping to explore charming towns like Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and the five famous villages of Cinque Terre: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each place has its character and charm, from bustling harbors to quiet hilltop sanctuaries.
My Ligurian adventure combined relaxing beach time, hiking beautiful coastal trails, and enjoying some of Italy’s best seafood and pesto. This 7-day itinerary lets you experience the region at a comfortable pace, with enough time to both see the major sights and discover local secrets that most tourists miss.
Pre-Trip Preparations
Planning a road trip along Liguria’s stunning coastline requires some preparation to ensure a smooth journey. The right timing, vehicle, and packing strategy can make all the difference in your Italian Riviera adventure.
Best Time to Visit Liguria
I’ve found spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) to be the ideal times for a Ligurian road trip. During these months, temperatures hover pleasantly between 65-75°F (18-24°C), and the summer crowds have thinned out considerably.
July and August bring beautiful beach weather but also peak tourist crowds and prices. Many Italians vacation in August, making coastal towns extremely busy. If you can only travel in summer, book accommodations at least 3-4 months in advance.
Winter visits (November to March) offer the benefit of almost empty roads and lower prices. However, some coastal restaurants and attractions operate on reduced hours or close entirely. The weather remains mild compared to northern Europe, typically around 50-60°F (10-15°C).
Car Rental Tips
When renting a car in Liguria, I recommend choosing a compact vehicle. The narrow, winding coastal roads and limited parking in small towns make smaller cars much easier to manage.
Most rental agencies are located at major airports (Genoa, Pisa) and train stations. I suggest booking online in advance for better rates, especially during the high season.
Make sure to get an International Driving Permit if you have a non-EU license. You’ll also need full insurance coverage since the roads can be challenging. A GPS navigation or reliable offline maps will help you get around, and you should also familiarize yourself with Italian road signs.
Be aware that many historic towns have ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) where only authorized vehicles can enter. Heavy fines apply if you drive in these restricted areas.
Packing Essentials for the Road
Beyond your regular travel items, I’ve compiled a specialized packing list for a Ligurian road trip:
Driving Necessities:
- Driver’s license and International Driving Permit
- Paper maps (backup for GPS failures)
- Sunglasses (coastal glare can be intense)
- Small change for parking meters and tolls
Outdoor Exploration:
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Hiking shoes if planning to explore Cinque Terre trails
- Swimwear and quick-dry towel for spontaneous beach stops
- Reusable water bottle
A light jacket is essential even in summer, as evening sea breezes can be cool. I also pack a small daypack for daily excursions when we leave the car behind to explore towns on foot.
Day 1: Starting in Genoa
Begin your Ligurian adventure in Genoa, a historic port city with stunning architecture and amazing food. This first day sets the tone for your journey along the Italian Riviera with a perfect blend of culture and culinary delights.
Historical Highlights
I recommend starting your morning with a stroll through Genoa’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow medieval alleyways called “caruggi” create a fascinating maze worth getting lost in.
Don’t miss the Palazzi dei Rolli, magnificent Renaissance and Baroque palaces that once hosted visiting dignitaries. Via Garibaldi (also known as Strada Nuova) houses the most impressive of these palaces.
The imposing Porta Soprana gates and the house where Christopher Columbus allegedly lived make for essential photo stops.
For a breathtaking panorama of the city and harbor, I took the historic funicular to Spianata Castelletto. The view alone is worth your time, especially in the golden afternoon light.
Genoa’s Culinary Scene
Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, and trying authentic pesto alla Genovese should top your food list. I found the best version at traditional trattorias in the old town, served with trofie or trenette pasta.
For lunch, grab a slice of farinata (chickpea flatbread) or focaccia genovese from a local bakery. These street foods are perfect for a quick bite between sightseeing stops.
The Mercato Orientale food market offers an authentic taste of local life. You can sample regional specialties like:
- Fresh pesto
- Local cheeses
- Cured meats
- Seasonal produce
For dinner, head to the Porto Antico (Old Port) area. This revitalized waterfront, redesigned by architect Renzo Piano, features excellent seafood restaurants where I enjoyed fresh anchovies and the catch of the day.
Day 2: The Charm of Cinque Terre
Waking up to the gentle Mediterranean breeze, today I’ll explore the five picturesque villages that makeup Cinque Terre. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers colorful houses clinging to cliffs, pristine waters, and hiking paths connecting these centuries-old fishing communities.
Exploring the Five Villages
I started my day in Monterosso al Mare, the northernmost village with the best beaches. Its relaxed atmosphere made it perfect for a morning coffee along the promenade.
Next came Vernazza, perhaps the most photogenic of all five villages. Its natural harbor is framed by colorful buildings and topped by the remains of a medieval castle.
Corniglia sits perched 100 meters above sea level. Unlike its siblings, it doesn’t directly touch the water, offering unique hilltop views. Be prepared for the famous 382 steps up from the train station!
Manarola greeted me with its rainbow of houses stacked upon rocky outcrops. This is where I found some of the best local seafood at a small family-run trattoria.
Riomaggiore, with its single main street cascading down to the water, completed my village-hopping adventure. Its vibrant buildings create the perfect sunset backdrop.
Hiking Trails and Coastal Views
The famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five villages. Though some portions were closed for maintenance, the open sections rewarded me with breathtaking coastline panoramas.
The Vernazza to Monterosso trail is the most challenging but offers the most spectacular views. I recommend starting early to avoid both heat and crowds. Proper footwear is essential—these aren’t casual strolls!
For those seeking easier walks, the Via dell’Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola is relatively flat and paved. Check ahead for openings as this trail sometimes closes for repairs.
Between hikes, I stopped at scenic viewpoints for photos. The vista above Manarola looking toward Corniglia might be the most iconic view in all of Cinque Terre.
Remember to carry water, wear sun protection, and check trail conditions at local information centers before setting out.
Day 3 & 4: Portofino and Surrounds
The next leg of our Ligurian adventure takes us to the glamorous Portofino peninsula, where celebrity yachts dock alongside charming fishing boats and pastel-colored buildings create a picture-perfect backdrop.
Luxury in Portofino
Portofino is the jewel of the Italian Riviera, a tiny harbor village that somehow manages to pack in more glamour per square foot than almost anywhere else in Italy. I arrived mid-morning when the light hit the colorful buildings just right, creating a photographer’s dream.
The heart of Portofino is its small Piazzetta overlooking the harbor. Here, I sipped an €8 espresso (worth every cent for the view) while watching luxury yachts dock nearby.
Don’t miss the climb up to Castello Brown for panoramic views that justify the uphill walk. The 16th-century fortress offers the best vantage point to capture the entire bay.
For dinner, I recommend splurging at least once. Puny restaurant serves incredible seafood right by the water. Make reservations well in advance!
Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli
Just a short drive from Portofino lies Santa Margherita Ligure, a more authentic and less crowded gem. The seafront promenade lined with palm trees makes for a delightful morning stroll. I found the perfect cappuccino at one of the many waterfront cafés.
The town’s baroque basilica with its ornate interior deserves a quick visit. Afterward, the local market offers a chance to pick up some regional specialties like focaccia and pesto.
Further along the coast, don’t skip Camogli. This fishing village remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. Its colorful façades rise dramatically from the sea, creating a stunning visual impact when you first arrive.
The pebbly beach in Camogli provides a perfect spot to relax. I spent a couple of hours here before enjoying the town’s specialty: fresh-caught fish served in local trattorias at half Portofino’s prices.
Day 5: Beaches and Culture in Alassio
Alassio offers the perfect blend of relaxation and culture on the Ligurian coast. Today you’ll experience both the town’s gorgeous beaches and its rich historical charm.
Relaxing on the Beach
I started my day with a peaceful morning walk along Alassio Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the Riviera. The golden shore extends for nearly three kilometers, making it perfect for long strolls.
By mid-morning, I had settled in a comfortable spot to soak up the sun. Unlike many Italian beaches, parts of Alassio’s shore are free to access, though many visitors opt for the well-equipped private beach clubs.
For lunch, I enjoyed fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants. The local specialty, fritto misto (mixed fried seafood), paired perfectly with a chilled glass of Vermentino wine.
The afternoon was ideal for swimming in the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea. The water here is typically calm and shallow near the shore, making it great for families too.
Alassio’s Old Town Exploration
After beach time, I headed to Alassio’s charming old town with its narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings. The main shopping street, Budello di Alassio, is lined with boutiques and artisan shops.
A true highlight was visiting La Cappelletta, a historical monument perched above the town. The climb was worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views of the coast.
I discovered Alassio’s famous Muretto (little wall), covered with ceramic tiles signed by celebrities who’ve visited over the decades. It’s become a unique open-air gallery and symbol of the town.
For dinner, I tried a traditional Ligurian restaurant away from the tourist areas. The pesto here, made with local Ligurian basil, was simply unforgettable.
Day 6 & 7: Sanremo and the French Border
As our Ligurian journey nears its end, we’ll explore the glamorous city of Sanremo and the beautiful border region where Italy meets France. These western reaches of the Italian Riviera offer a perfect blend of casino excitement, flower-filled promenades, and charming border towns.
The Glamour of Sanremo
Sanremo captivated me with its palm-lined streets and Belle Époque architecture. Often called the “City of Flowers,” its mild climate makes it perfect for year-round blooms that add splashes of color throughout town.
The iconic Casino di Sanremo stands as the city’s most recognizable landmark. This Art Nouveau masterpiece isn’t just for gambling—it’s a cultural institution hosting concerts and events.
I spent hours wandering through La Pigna, the medieval old town with narrow, winding streets that climb up the hillside. The Russian Orthodox Church is another must-see with its striking blue domes reminiscent of Moscow.
For dinner, I enjoyed fresh seafood at one of the restaurants along the yacht-filled marina. The local specialty, sardenaira (Ligurian pizza), paired perfectly with a glass of Vermentino wine.
Ventimiglia to France: The Grand Finale
My final day began in Ventimiglia, just 7 km from the French border. The Friday market here is legendary. French visitors cross over to hunt for Italian bargains on everything from cheese to leather goods.
The Hanbury Botanical Gardens, located between Ventimiglia and the border, showcases an impressive collection of exotic plants from around the world. The terraced gardens offer stunning sea views that I’ll never forget.
Crossing into Menton, France feels like the perfect conclusion to this road trip. This charming French town features pastel-colored buildings and a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere.
I celebrated the end of my journey with lunch at a seaside restaurant. I savored the unique blend of Italian and French influences in the local cuisine. The fresh fish with herbs and citrus perfectly captured the essence of the Riviera.
