The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Your Perfect Italian Riviera Itinerary

Stretching like a sun-drenched ribbon along the Ligurian Sea, the Italian Riviera is a destination of dreams. It’s a place where colorful villages cling to dramatic cliffs, the scent of basil and saltwater mingles in the air, and life moves to the gentle rhythm of the waves. But with a coastline divided into two distinct sections—the chic, western Riviera di Ponente and the rugged, eastern Riviera di Levante—planning your journey can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin? This guide is designed to be your ultimate travel companion, offering tailored route recommendations that ensure you experience the very essence of this magnificent coastline, whether you have a weekend or two weeks to spare.

Understanding the Lay of the Land: Ponente vs. Levante

Before we dive into the routes, let's get our bearings. The Italian Riviera is broadly split, with Genoa—the bustling capital of the Liguria region—acting as the unofficial divider.

The Riviera di Ponente (Setting Sun), running west from Genoa towards the French border, is known for its elegant resort towns, grand old hotels, and long, sandy beaches. Think glamorous Portofino and the historic allure of Sanremo. It’s polished, sophisticated, and perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and refined culture.

The Riviera di Levante (Rising Sun), stretching east from Genoa, is the poster child for the Riviera of most people's imaginations. It’s home to the iconic cliff-top villages of the Cinque Terre, the dramatic fishing port of Portovenere, and the legendary pathway that connects them all. It’s more rugged, dramatically scenic, and ideal for avid hikers and photographers.

The best travel routes along the Italian Riviera often involve exploring one of these sections in depth, or for a grand tour, connecting them via Genoa.

Route 1: The Cinque Terre & Beyond Immersion (4-5 Days)

This is the quintessential Italian Riviera hiking and village-hopping experience, perfect for the active traveler who wants to immerse themselves in the region's most famous landscapes.

• Day 1: Arrival in Levanto or La Spezia. Use either of these larger towns as your base. They are well-connected by train, offer more accommodation options, and are less crowded than the Cinque Terre villages themselves. Settle in, rent a kayak in Levanto, or explore the naval history at La Spezia's Technical Naval Museum.
• Day 2: The Northern Cinque Terre Trail. Start early from Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five villages. Enjoy its beautiful beach before tackling the most challenging part of the coastal trail towards Vernazza. This path offers the most breathtaking, panoramic views of the vineyards and sea. In Vernazza, reward yourself with a slice of focaccia and swim in its iconic harbor. Continue the scenic walk to Corniglia, the only village perched high on a cliff, accessible by a stunning staircase.
• Day 3: The Southern Villages & A Boat Tour. Take the train to Manarola, famous for its picture-perfect harbor and vibrant buildings. Walk the easy, paved path to Riomaggiore, the southernmost village, known for its steep, characterful streets. In the afternoon, the best way to appreciate the Cinque Terre from a different angle is by taking a classic Cinque Terre boat tour. Seeing the villages stacked against the cliffs from the water is an unforgettable experience and a great way to find the best spots for sunset photography in Cinque Terre.
• Day 4: Portovenere & Palmaria Island. Venture beyond the Cinque Terre to the stunning Portovenere. Often called the "sixth village," it boasts a magnificent church, Byron's Grotto, and a formidable castle. From here, take a short boat to Palmaria Island for hiking, swimming in secluded coves, and a peaceful escape from the crowds.
• Day 5: A Cooking Class or Departure. Before you leave, dive deeper into Ligurian culture with a pesto-making class. Learn the secrets of the region's most famous sauce, using fresh local basil, and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor for lunch.

Route 2: The Glamorous Riviera di Ponente (3-4 Days)

For those drawn to elegance, history, and a more leisurely pace, this route along the western Riviera is a perfect choice for a luxury Italian Riviera getaway.

• Day 1: The Timeless Allure of Sanremo. Begin in Sanremo, the "City of Flowers." Stroll through the old town, La Pigna, a labyrinth of narrow alleys, and try your luck at the ornate Sanremo Casino. In the evening, walk along the elegant promenade and soak in the old-world atmosphere. This is a fantastic base for exploring the Riviera dei Fiori, known for its vast flower gardens and greenhouses.
• Day 2: The Hilltop Magic of Dolceacqua & Balzi Rossi. Take a short trip inland to Dolceacqua, a stunning medieval village bisected by a Roman bridge and dominated by a Doria castle. It’s a hidden gem perfect for wine lovers, being the home of the Rossese di Dolceacqua wine. In the afternoon, visit the Balzi Rossi archaeological museum and caves to see prehistoric remains right on the coast.
• Day 3: The Jet-Set Charm of Portofino. Travel east towards the Portofino Promontory. While Portofino itself is tiny and can be crowded, its harbor filled with superyachts is a sight to behold. Enjoy a decadent aperitivo in the main piazza. For a more authentic experience, hike the stunning coastal path through the Portofino Regional Park from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino. This is one of the most rewarding coastal walks on the Italian Riviera.
• Day 4: Genoa's Historic Heart. On your way out, dedicate a day to exploring Genoa. This is not just a transit city; it's a historic port with a fascinating, gritty charm. Explore the largest medieval city center in Europe, visit the magnificent Palazzi dei Rolli (UNESCO sites), and be amazed by the treasures in the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Route 3: The Grand Tour - From France to Tuscany (7-10 Days)

For the traveler with more time, this comprehensive itinerary offers the complete Italian Riviera experience, connecting the highlights of both coasts for an unforgettable road and rail trip.

• Leg 1: The French Flair to Italian Glamour (2 days). Start in Menton, France, and make your way to Sanremo and Bordighera. This allows you to experience the subtle cultural shift.
• Leg 2: The Genoa Interlude (1-2 days). Spend a night or two in Genoa, using it as a pivot point. Dive deep into its maritime history at the Galata Maritime Museum and sample street food in the old port.
• Leg 3: The Riviera di Levante Deep Dive (4-5 days). This is where you execute the "Cinque Terre & Beyond Immersion" route detailed above, taking your time to fully appreciate the hiking, the villages, and the coastal beauty.
• Tip: For this grand tour, consider a combination of train travel (highly efficient for the Cinque Terre) and renting a car for the Riviera di Ponente, which gives you the freedom to discover hidden coves and inland villages like the spectacular Noli and Finale Ligure.

Practical Tips for a Seamless Italian Riviera Adventure

No matter which route you choose, these tips will enhance your journey:

• Getting Around: The train is your best friend, especially in the Cinque Terre. The regional line connects all the major towns efficiently and affordably. For the Cinque Terre, the Cinque Terre Trekking Card or the combined Train and Trekking Card is essential for using the trails and trains. For exploring the Ponente and hidden spots, a rental car offers unparalleled freedom.
• When to Go: The sweet spots are late April-May and September-October. The weather is ideal for hiking, the water is warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are thinner, making it the best time to visit the Italian Riviera for good weather.
• What to Eat: You cannot leave without trying trofie al pesto (the local pasta with the famous sauce), focaccia col formaggio in Recco, fresh anchovies (acciughe), and a slice of castagnaccio (chestnut cake).
• Where to Stay: For a relaxed Italian Riviera coastal itinerary, base yourself in one or two towns to avoid constant repacking. Levanto, Santa Margherita Ligure, or Camogli are excellent, well-connected hubs.

The Italian Riviera is a tapestry of unforgettable moments—a sunset in Manarola, a hike through vineyard terraces, a taste of freshly made pesto, or a glimpse of a superyacht in Portofino. By choosing the route that aligns with your travel style, you’re not just planning a trip; you’re crafting a lifetime of memories along one of the world’s most enchanting coastlines.