Discover Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy
Introduction
Santa Margherita Ligure is the perfect introduction to Italy’s seaside Liguria region. An upscale oasis for celebrities and jet-setters, Portofino stands out among the many desirable places to visit on the Italian Riviera. However, Golfo Paradiso, a tiny stretch of Ligurian coastline in northern Italy, is home to several less famous yet equally character-rich gems. Travelers have been flocking to the nearby town of Santa Margherita Ligure for decades to enjoy its sun-splashed Mediterranean ambiance and all the delicious food, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality that a vacation here entails—without any fuss or fanfare.
The former fishing village wins hearts today with its enchanting architecture, beaches, shopping, and dining. Therefore, Santa Margherita Ligure is not only picturesque but also serves as a great base for exploring the greater region, including the popular Cinque Terre.
Getting There
Santa Margherita Ligure is located about 22 miles southeast of Genoa. Depending on your travel plans, it’s advisable to fly into Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport and then take a taxi or bus. Alternatively, you can hop on a direct train from major Italian cities such as Rome, Florence, and Naples to Genova Piazza Principe, transferring to the regional service that takes you straight to Santa Margherita Ligure station.
Best Time to Visit
The Italian Riviera comes alive in the summer, with locals and tourists sunning on the sand, enjoying the warm water, and dining alfresco. It’s also the peak season with ferries operating frequently between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, as well as the lesser-known villages of Camogli and San Fruttuoso. Consequently, this is both the busiest and most expensive period in Liguria. If you would prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting in late spring or early fall when the weather remains pleasant, yet the peak-season vacationers have departed.
Best Things to Do
Santa Margherita Ligure dates back to the Roman era, and it became a popular holiday destination for European nobility in the latter half of the 1800s. Today, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a delightful cross-section of what makes Liguria so wonderful.
- Enjoy sandy beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun.
- Visit local beach clubs, such as Bagni Vicini, just steps from the ocean.
- Explore the picturesque Chiesa di Santa Margherita, which towers over the plaza where daily markets are held.
- History buffs should not miss Villa Durazzo, featuring manicured gardens and a 17th-century mansion-turned-museum.
- Tour Cervara Abbey and check out Santa Margherita Ligure Castle as well.
Moreover, access to the glamorous beaches of Paraggi and Portofino enhances the appeal of staying in Santa Margherita Ligure. It’s also convenient to take a boat to nearby Camogli and San Fruttuoso, or enjoy a day trip to the breathtaking Cinque Terre.
Best Places to Stay
Santa Margherita Ligure boasts several hotels, providing adequate accommodations for its visitors. One of the grandest options in the area is the art nouveau Grand Hotel Miramare, known for its elegant rooms and resort-style amenities, including a curved seawater pool, refined restaurant, spa, and beach club.
Another excellent choice is the Hotel Sant’Andrea, a restored villa that offers airy rooms with luxurious four-poster beds and a relaxing garden patio.
On the modern side, Blu di Te House features individually designed rooms, a hidden spa sanctuary, and a rooftop terrace with a pool overlooking the shimmering Gulf of Tigullio.
Best Places to Eat and Drink
Liguria, famed as the birthplace of pesto, offers an array of culinary delights. Santa Margherita Ligure is an ideal destination to sample local flavors.
Top restaurants include Trattoria da Pezzi and Angolo 48, which serve traditional Ligurian dishes at reasonable prices. More popular options feature Ristorante Antonio, DuCoq, and Pizzeria Il Delfino. For elevated, prix-fixe meals, Zi’ Ninella Ristorante stands out. Furthermore, a host of casual al fresco eateries stretch along the seaside boulevard, while local bistros and aperitivo bars can be found just a few blocks off the main thoroughfare.
