The Ultimate Liguria Guide: Activities, Restaurants & Bars from Portofino to Sestri Levante

• Walk the Riviera Coast: Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino: Yes, you can drive or take the bus—but the 45-minute seaside walk is one of the most beautiful (and flat!) strolls you’ll ever do. The road winds along the coast with breathtaking sea views and colorful Genovese villas. Along the way, you can stop for a swim or rent a kayak or SUP to explore the surrounding coves. Insider tip: For avid hikers, check out the incredible hike from Camogli to Portofino!

• Ferry to San Fruttuoso: Accessible only by boat or a moderate hike, San Fruttuoso is a magical cove where a centuries-old abbey meets the sea. Ferries run from Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Lavagna, and Sestri Levante. The moment you arrive, you’ll see why jaws drop here. Swim in turquoise waters, then enjoy lunch at one of the two beachside trattorias.

• Hire a private boat: There’s no better way to experience the Gulf of Tigullio than on a private boat. Sip top-notch local wine, snack on focaccia and pesto, and learn about the coastline from a local skipper. For something extra special, book a sunset cruise with a private dinner aboard.

• Spend the day at a beach club: For a quintessential Italian Riviera experience, head to Bagni Fiore in Paraggi Bay. This iconic, old-school beach club is effortlessly chic—choose a lounger by the water or splurge on the exclusive Portofino Terrace, where Dior umbrellas and chairs set the scene. Insider tip: You can only book loungers one month in advance, and they go fast—be ready!

• Ride the funicular to Montallegro: From Rapallo, take the funicular up to Santuario Basilica Nostra Signora di Montallegro, a hilltop sanctuary with breathtaking views. Stay for a leisurely lunch at the rustic trattoria just steps from the church.

• Learn the art of pesto: Since pesto was born here in Liguria, there’s no better place to learn how to make it. Take a hands-on class in a cozy trattoria along cobblestoned streets—or bring a private chef to your villa for a truly personal experience.

• Vineyard Apericena in Sestri Levante: Discover the secrets of Ligurian wines on a vineyard tour and tasting, then linger for an apericena (think aperitivo, but with enough food to count as dinner). A private table tucked among the vines, paired with local wines and seasonal dishes, makes for an unforgettable evening.

• Catamaran along the coast: From Sestri Levante, set sail on a catamaran for a half-day, full-day, or sunset trip—choose between a small-group experience or a private charter. You’ll cruise past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, stopping for swims in crystal-clear waters only accessible by boat.

• SUP and snorkel adventures: For a more active day, join a SUP and snorkel tour from Santa Margherita Ligure or Sestri Levante. Paddle along the coast, dive into pristine waters, and explore secret spots that most visitors never see.

• Hit up the swimming spots in Zoagli: Zoagli is a small village made up of a square and houses scattered along the hills. This charming beach town has incredible swimming spots reachable just by taking the stairs down to the promenade—or even a pool with sun loungers and umbrellas tucked into the rocks. Insider tip: Must book in advance for the pool.

• Visit an agriturismo: While Liguria is known for its sparkling coast, the hills just behind the sea are dotted with agriturismos—farm to table meets bed and breakfast, where food and hospitality are at the heart of the experience. You can stay overnight or simply visit for the day to unwind in nature, enjoy meals made with ingredients straight from the garden, and even join a cooking class for a hands-on taste of Ligurian life.

Eat

• U Giancu: For a farm-to-table experience with a joyful owner who literally wears many hats (you’ll see what I mean) and a romantic atmosphere up in the hills of Rapallo. Insider tip: Ask for a table in the garden to enjoy a romantic dinner lit by string lights.

• Langosteria Paraggi: To complete your day at the iconic beach club Bagni Fiore, head next door to this chic seafood restaurant, featured in the 2025 Michelin Guide.

• Trattoria La Brinca: This upscale, family-owned trattoria is hidden in the hills of Ne (behind Chiavari) and is a wine lover’s paradise. You’ll need a car or taxi to get here, but it’s worth the trip and a local favorite. They have won countless awards for food, wine, and service; one of the brothers was even awarded Best Sommelier in Italy by the Michelin guide in 2021, with an extensive wine list and knowledge to match.

• Luchin: A traditional Ligurian osteria tucked away in the side streets of Chiavari. They serve up local dishes at great prices. Insider tip: Two words: fried anchovies.

• Aria: Located in the hills of Santa Giulia at the marvelous Villa Riviera, this restaurant offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with impeccable service, fresh ingredients, creative presentation, and breathtaking coastal views. Insider tip: Go all out—it will be worth it.

• Articiocca: A charming eatery and bottega in Sestri Levante. The chef crafts ever-changing menus with Italian classics given a creative twist. Truly unique—you’ll want to return again and again.

• Due Forni: Some of the best pizza you’ll ever have, served from a wood-fired oven. Watch the pizzas being made right in front of you. Insider tip: Try the focaccia al formaggio (cheese focaccia) and schiacciata con lardo (pizza-like dough with lard that melts on top).

Drink

• Capitan Mugugno: Take a taxi boat to this "beach" bar tucked away in the rocks somewhere between Camogli and Portofino for a unique aperitivo experience. Enjoy a spritz and a generous aperitivo plate while taking in breathtaking views of the water and coastline.

• Caligo Cocktail Bar: A seductive cocktail bar just off the main walking street of Chiavari. The bartender and owner has a passion for mixology, and each carefully crafted cocktail is a testament to that.

• Marina di Levante: If you want your feet in the sand with a classic spritz in hand, run (don’t walk) to this beachfront bar in the Bay of Silence, Sestri Levante. There’s something magical about this bay at sunset while sipping your spritz and soaking in the Riviera vibes.