Best Towns to Stay in Italy’s Riviera, Liguria and Cinque Terre

Nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the rugged Alps, Liguria is a crescent-shaped region that captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, colorful villages, and rich cultural heritage. As you plan your Italian getaway, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference. Let’s embark on a journey through Liguria’s most enchanting towns and uncover the best places to stay for every type of traveler.

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The Top 5 Best Towns to Stay in Liguria

1. Cinque Terre: A UNESCO World Heritage Marvel

The Cinque Terre, a string of five picturesque fishing villages, is arguably Liguria’s crown jewel. These cliffside hamlets offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and Italian charm.

The best places to stay in Cinque Terre:

1. Solo Travel: Casa Capellini (Manarola). Perched high in Manarola, Casa Capellini offers breathtaking sea views and a peaceful atmosphere. Its central location makes it ideal for solo explorers wanting to immerse themselves in the Cinque Terre experience.
2. Budget-Friendly: Ostello Tramonti (Biassa). Located in the nearby village of Biassa, Ostello Tramonti provides affordable dormitory-style accommodations with easy access to the Cinque Terre. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers and backpackers.
3. Couples Escape: La Torretta Lodge (Manarola). This adults-only boutique hotel offers romantic rooms with stunning sea views. Its rooftop terrace is the perfect spot for couples to enjoy a sunset aperitivo.
4. Family-Friendly: Park Hotel Argento (Levanto). Situated in nearby Levanto, this hotel features spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and easy train access to the Cinque Terre villages, making it ideal for families.
5. Luxury: Belmond Hotel Splendido (Portofino). While technically in Portofino, this iconic luxury hotel is worth the short trip from Cinque Terre. It offers unparalleled elegance and breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast.

2. Portofino: Glamour on the Italian Riviera

Portofino, with its yacht-filled harbor and designer boutiques, is synonymous with Italian Riviera glamour.

The best places to stay in Portofino:

1. Solo Travel: Hotel Piccolo Portofino. This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, perfect for solo travelers looking to experience Portofino’s elegance without breaking the bank.
2. Couples Escape: Belmond Hotel Splendido Mare. The waterfront sister property to the Belmond Hotel Splendido, this intimate hotel offers romantic rooms right in the heart of Portofino’s famous piazzetta.
3. Luxury: Eight Hotel Portofino. This boutique luxury hotel combines modern design with traditional Italian hospitality, offering a serene retreat just steps from Portofino’s bustling center.

3. Genoa: A City of History and Culture

Genoa, Liguria’s capital, is a bustling port city with a rich maritime history and stunning architecture.

The best places to stay in Genoa:

1. Budget-Friendly: B&B Hotel Genova. Located near the main train station, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices, making it perfect for budget travelers exploring the city.
2. Family-Friendly: Best Western Plus City Hotel. Centrally located, this hotel offers spacious family rooms and is within walking distance of many of Genoa’s main attractions, including the aquarium.
3. Luxury: Grand Hotel Savoia. This historic 5-star hotel offers opulent rooms and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city and port.

4. Santa Margherita Ligure: Coastal Elegance

This elegant seaside town offers a perfect balance of relaxation and activity, with easy access to both Portofino and Cinque Terre.

The best places to stay in Santa Margherita Ligure:

1. Group Travel: Hotel Continental. With its spacious rooms and central location, Hotel Continental is ideal for groups wanting to explore the Ligurian coast together.
2. Couples Escape: Blu di Te House. This intimate boutique hotel offers romantic rooms with sea views, perfect for couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

5. Sestri Levante: The Bay of Silence

Known for its beautiful beaches, including the famous Bay of Silence, Sestri Levante is a charming alternative to the more crowded Cinque Terre.

The best places to stay in Sestri Levante:

1. Family-Friendly: Grande Albergo. This beachfront hotel offers family rooms, a private beach, and a kids’ club, making it perfect for a family beach vacation.
2. Budget-Friendly: Hotel Miramare. Offering simple, comfortable rooms with stunning sea views, Hotel Miramare is perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting to enjoy Sestri Levante’s beaches.

Two Towns to Avoid Staying

While Liguria is generally a wonderful place to visit, there are a couple of towns you might want to skip:

1. Voltri: This industrial suburb of Genoa lacks the charm of other Ligurian towns and doesn’t offer much for tourists.
2. Ventimiglia: While it has some interesting Roman ruins, Ventimiglia can feel a bit run-down and is often overcrowded due to its proximity to the French border.

Conclusion

Liguria offers a diverse array of experiences, from the colorful villages of Cinque Terre to the glamorous harbor of Portofino and the historic streets of Genoa. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo exploration, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in this enchanting region of Italy.

Remember to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the peak summer season. With its stunning coastlines, delicious cuisine, and warm Italian hospitality, Liguria is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to experience the magic of the Italian Riviera!

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