The uniqueness of Liguria starts from the hightest heights. The peaks of the Maritime Alps and the Apennines provide a protective backbone for this arc of south-facing land, retaining the warm breezes that blow in from the sea.

The mountain chains explain Liguria’s exceptionally mild weather year-round, and why, despite the uneven terrain, it is home to lush flora like the Mediterranean maquis shrubs, gorse, myrtle, strawberry trees and holm oaks, oleaster (Eastern wild olive trees), maritime and rare Aleppo pines, as well as wild aromatic plants such as thyme, laurel and rosemary. The rich native flora is joined by cultivars that have been introduced over the centuries. Man has conquered Liguria’s dizzyingly steep slopes, planting vines, olives, fruit and citrus trees, plus the flowers that gave the famous Riviera its name.

From the main city of Genoa to the popular Cinque Terre, Liguria is the perfect destination for a relaxing break, especially in the spring. The land plunges to the coast from high, rocky cliffs in the Riviera di Levante, and gently slopes to the sandy or pebbled shores in the Riviera di Ponente.

An Easter break in Liguria, from east to west

The Easter holidays are the perfect time to experience of Liguria's beautiful scenery, whether a quick weekend away or a longer stay.

Cinque Terre and Golfo dei Poeti

Starting from the east, the entry into Liguria could hardly be more stunning - the Cinque Terre. 

Five historic villages nestled on the rocky coastline overlooking the sea: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, an area that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997.

Each town can be reached on foot along the famous «Via dell'Amore» trail, and hikers can also explore less crowded paths criss-crossing all around the National Park. The most exhilarating way to reach the Cinque Terre is certainly from the sea, so consider taking a boat trip from Levanto, Portovenere, Lerici or La Spezia. 

It would be a pity to miss other beautiful spots in this exceptional area like the Golfo dei Poeti. The narrow inlet from Lerici to Portovenere, where the two headlands cradle the mesmerizing seascape, enchanted Shelley, Byron, Petrarch and Montale. You too will be spellbound by its natural splendour and charming coastal villages such as Fiascherino and Tellaro.

From Portofino to Genoa

Proceeding eastwards, we suggest stopping at the famed antiques market held in Chiavari beneath the porticoes of the main square, and then pressing ahead to Portofino, the most famous town of the Tigullio gulf. Once again, the best approach is from the sea. Embark at Santa Margherita, but only after taking a guided tour around the Abbazia della Cervara where you can enjoy the serenity of its gardens and cloisters.

Arriving in Portofino, make sure you have time to explore the natural park and panoramic trails winding high above the sea. You can also book a boat trip to the beautiful cove of San Fruttuoso with its stunning abbey restored by the Italian Environmental Fund (FAI). Take the ferry to Camogli, and leave plenty of time to stroll through its pretty little streets flanked by houses in bright colors.

A stop in Recco is a must for gourmands. Recco is famous for its focaccia with cheese, a mouthwatering delicacy to be eaten while hot, ideally whist gazing out to sea.

The eastern Riviera comes to an end at its capital city, Genoa. Here you can visit the spectacular Aquarium, lose yourself in Genoa’s maze of twisted streets and porticoes, experience lively cultural events, and enjoy the shoreline in the old mariners' district of Boccadasse.

Riviera di Ponente and Riviera dei Fiori

The Riviera di Ponente is ideal for visitors seeking sea, sun and entertainment for the kids. Long sandy beaches with all the amenities and children’s recreational facilities run from Varazze to Alassio - there's almost too much choice! Shopaholics will love Alassio for its exclusive stores in the historic centre or "budello," and young adults will appreciate the fast-paced and varied nightlife. Alassio saw its boom in the 50s and 60s when VIPs and celebrities flocked to Caffè Roma. Stop in for a coffee or an aperitivo and peruse the photographs adorning its walls. For the seafaring types, Alassio also offers recreational fishing year-round.

While in Liguria, why not try a delicious swordfish steak alla Ligure with anchovies, olives, tomatoes, pine nuts and basil in one of the seafront restaurants?

The Imperia province embraces the sea along the famous Riviera dei Fiori. Don't miss a trip to the spectacular Botanical Gardens at Villa Hanbury, which overlook the Mortola headland in the Ventimiglia district just a few miles from the French border.

We also recommend a jaunt inland to visit Imperia’s ancient villages such as legendary Triora, “the village of the witches”, Bussana, with its artists' workshops, and Dolceacqua and its historic bridge which Monet deemed "a delicate jewel”.

Choose an agriturismo in Liguria