The Liguria region—also known as the Italian Riviera—is dotted with colorful seaside towns, dramatic cliffs, historic ports, and some of the best food in Italy. While many travelers flock straight to the Cinque Terre, there are countless other charming towns that deserve just as much attention.

From elegant coastal promenades to quiet fishing villages and lively regional capitals, here are the 8 most beautiful towns to visit in Liguria, Italy—each offering something unique and unforgettable.

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1. La Spezia: The Gateway to the Riviera

La Spezia is often treated as a simple launching pad to the Cinque Terre, but it’s a destination worth exploring on its own. With its wide palm-lined promenade, bright yellow buildings, and relaxed harbor, La Spezia blends city convenience with coastal beauty.

Stroll the Passeggiata Costantino Morin, explore the charming old town, and enjoy the vibrant food markets. It’s also the most convenient base for visiting coastal gems, thanks to easy train and ferry connections.

La Spezia is a wonderful place to visit during the Christmas season, transforming into a beautifully decorated seaside city full of warmth and holiday charm. Twinkling lights drape across the narrow streets, festive displays brighten the piazzas, and cheerful Christmas music fills the air as you stroll past shops and cafés. At night, the city feels especially magical—the waterfront and historic center glow with illuminated garlands and sparkling decor, creating a cozy, romantic atmosphere perfect for winter exploring.

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2. Riomaggiore (Cinque Terre)

You can choose any Cinque Terre town, but Riomaggiore offers one of the most iconic views.

Riomaggiore is the easternmost village of the Cinque Terre and one of its most romantic. Colorful houses cascade down steep cliffs, boats bob in the tiny harbor, and narrow alleys lead to breathtaking viewpoints.

Explore the marina at sunset, grab focaccia from a local bakery, or wander the terraced vineyards. It’s everything travelers dream of when imagining the Italian Riviera—picturesque, vibrant, and unforgettable.

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3. Chiavari: A True Slice of Local Life

Chiavari is one of the Riviera’s best-kept secrets. With medieval arcades, artisan shops, and one of the region’s best weekly markets, it feels authentic and lived-in—yet still stunning.

Spend time shopping under the historic portici, unwinding on its long sandy beach, or visiting the elegant garden-filled Villa Rocca. If you want a town that’s lively but not touristy, Chiavari is the perfect stop.

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4. Rapallo: A Classic Riviera Beauty

Rapallo is a vibrant seaside town with a bit of everything—beaches, a long palm-lined promenade, historical charm, and great food. The waterfront castle, perched right along the sea, makes the town instantly recognizable.

Take the cable car up to the Santuario di Montallegro for panoramic views, wander the lively old town, and enjoy fresh pesto (Rapallo is especially known for it). It’s a fantastic base for exploring the entire Riviera.

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5. Santa Margherita Ligure: Colorful, Elegant, and Relaxed

Santa Margherita Ligure is one of the most charming towns in Liguria—bright, lively, and perfectly walkable. Pastel-colored buildings, palm trees, and a beautiful marina give this town a cheerful, upscale feel.

Visit Villa Durazzo, walk the scenic coastal path to Portofino, relax on the beach, or simply wander the streets lined with bakeries, gelaterias, and stylish cafés. It’s the ideal blend of beauty and authenticity.

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6. Recco: The Home of Focaccia di Recco

Recco may look like a simple coastal town at first glance, but it’s a culinary powerhouse known across Italy for its famous Focaccia di Recco—a thin, crispy, cheese-filled focaccia that’s unlike anything else in Liguria. It has a protected IGP status, meaning this town is the real deal.

Enjoy a slice fresh from the oven, explore the small pebble beaches, or take coastal walks connecting Recco to nearby towns. Food lovers should not skip this stop.

With all the towns we visited in the Liguria region, Recco was the most welcoming and friendly which made us go back again!

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7. Camogli: A Dreamy Fishing Village

Camogli is often described as one of the prettiest towns in all of Italy—and for good reason. Its tall candy-colored buildings, long pebble beach, and working fishing harbor give it a postcard-perfect charm.

Wander the waterfront promenade, grab a cone of freshly fried seafood, and visit the lighthouse at the end of the pier. Camogli feels both peaceful and enchanting, making it a favorite for families and couples.

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8. Genoa: A Grand, Historic Maritime City

Genoa (Genova) is the capital of Liguria and one of Italy’s most underrated cities. With its dramatic hills, historic port, ornate palaces, and maze-like medieval alleys, it’s full of character and surprises.

Visit the stunning Palazzi dei Rolli, stroll along the ancient streets of the old town, and enjoy some of the region’s best pesto and seafood. Genoa is gritty, beautiful, and culturally rich—perfect for travelers who love history and authenticity.

Final Thoughts

Liguria is far more than just the Cinque Terre. From tiny fishing villages to elegant Riviera towns and bustling historic cities, this region offers endless beauty, incredible food, and an authentic slice of coastal Italy.

No matter where your journey takes you, exploring these eight towns will give you a deeper, richer experience of Liguria. So take your time, wander the narrow streets, savor the food, and soak in the views. This region rewards everyone who slows down long enough to enjoy it.

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• How to Spend 2 Days in Genoa, Italy
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