The Italian Riviera hits its stride in mid-August. Coastal towns pulse with energy, and that Mediterranean sun pulls everyone to beaches, trails, and busy harbors. This week’s weather is pretty much ideal for exploring famous villages, trying local food, and soaking up both culture and natural beauty.
You’ll have plenty of choices—hiking cliffside trails, snorkeling in clear water, or just lingering over a seaside meal. From Cinque Terre’s bright houses to Portofino’s fancy harbor, there’s something for every mood. August brings festivals, fresh seafood, and perfect conditions for boat tours along the rugged coast.
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1) Explore the colorful villages of Cinque Terre by hiking the scenic coastal trails
The five villages of Cinque Terre have some of Italy’s best hiking. You’ll wander through Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso on ancient cliffside paths.
The trail network is huge—48 trails, over 120 kilometers. The Blue Trail links all five, making it the obvious pick if you want to see them all.
For a solid day, try the 10.5-kilometer hike from Vernazza to Manarola. It’s a bit of a workout, with steady ups and downs, but doable for most.
You’ll pass through vineyards, olive groves, and dramatic cliffs. The sea views from above are something else.
Check trail status before heading out—weather or maintenance sometimes closes sections last minute. Bring water and sturdy shoes; the rocks can be rough.
Trails drop you right into village centers, so you can grab a bite or hop the train back when you’re done.
2) Visit the exclusive harbor and waterfront in Portofino
Portofino’s harbor is that picture-perfect Riviera scene you see everywhere. Colorful buildings shimmer on the water—it looks just like the postcards.
Luxury yachts and old fishing boats share the small harbor, showing off Portofino’s mix of glam and tradition.
Stroll the waterfront to see pastel houses above the sparkling bay. Cafes and boutiques line the promenade, with plenty of spots to sit and watch the world go by.
It can get packed in summer, especially midday. If you want quieter photos or just a less crowded vibe, aim for early morning or late afternoon.
Pick up a gelato from a waterfront shop and watch the boats. Cobblestone streets twist up from the harbor to little squares with outdoor seating.
Prices here are steep—no surprise, given the setting. But honestly, for the views and atmosphere, a splurge feels worth it.
3) Swim or snorkel in the clear waters of Baia di San Fruttuoso
San Fruttuoso hides in a cove between steep cliffs, reachable only by boat or footpath. The Mediterranean water here is crystal-clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
You can snorkel safely in the marine reserve around the bay. Visibility’s usually great, and there’s plenty of marine life around the rocks.
Several companies offer guided snorkeling trips with gear included. They run about 2-3 hours and welcome both newbies and seasoned snorkelers.
August water temps hover around 22-25°C, so you can stay in as long as you like. The rocky shore near the monastery gives you natural shade when you need a break.
If you’ve got your own mask and snorkel, feel free to explore on your own. The bay has marked swimming zones away from boat traffic.
Ferries run from Camogli, Portofino, and Santa Margherita Ligure through summer. Just double-check the last return—usually around 5:30 PM.
Water shoes help on the rocky beach by the old monastery.
4) Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside trattoria in Camogli
Camogli sits on the Ligurian coast, where fishing boats still bring in the day’s catch. The town’s waterfront trattorias serve up seafood just hours out of the water.
On Via del Porto, restaurants set up outdoor tables right by the harbor. Menus change with the season, but you’ll almost always find anchovies, sea bass, and octopus.
Don’t miss focaccia col formaggio, a cheesy flatbread you pretty much only get here. Pair it with local Vermentino wine—it’s crisp and goes perfectly with seafood.
Camogli feels like a hidden gem compared to Portofino or Cinque Terre. Prices are fair, and the vibe is relaxed.
Most places start dinner service at 7 PM. In August, book ahead if you can—Italian families flock here for summer holidays. The evening light on those painted houses is just magic.
After dinner, take a stroll along the pebble beach. With the sea breeze, good wine, and just-caught fish, it’s the kind of night you’ll remember.
5) Take a boat tour along the Riviera coastline
To really see the coast, you need to get out on the water. Boat tours show you hidden coves and give you sea-level views of villages clinging to the cliffs—places you just can’t reach by car.
Most boat tours leave from Monterosso, La Spezia, or Portofino. Half-day trips usually cost 40-80 euros, depending on the route and the boat.
You’ll probably stop at Cinque Terre villages, Portofino, or the Gulf of Poets. Swimming spots in protected areas mean clear, calm water.
August brings perfect conditions—hardly any wind, smooth seas. If you’re after cooler temps or softer light for photos, book a morning tour before the crowds hit.
Private charters cost more, but you get to pick your stops and timing. Group tours run on a set schedule and usually include some local history and geology.
Book at least a day in advance—summer tours fill up fast. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water—shade is rare on these boats.
6) Relax on the beaches of Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare has the longest sandy beach in Cinque Terre. There are two main stretches, split by a rocky point.
The newer Fegina beach runs along the resort area, filled with beach clubs and umbrellas. You’ll find changing rooms, showers, and restaurants right on the sand.
The old town beach is smaller and tucked in a sheltered cove. It’s easy to reach from the historic center, just steps from shops and places to eat.
Both beaches mix sand and small pebbles—don’t expect powdery white sand. The bay keeps the water calm, so it’s great for swimming.
Beach clubs rent umbrellas and loungers for 15-25 euros a day. There are also free spots at both ends if you’d rather bring your own towel.
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Mid-August water temps hit 24-26°C, so you can swim all day. The beaches face south, so you’ll get sun from morning to evening.
Monterosso is really the only Cinque Terre village with a true sandy beach. If you’re after a classic beach day, this is the place.
7) Tour the medieval Castello Brown in Portovenere
Castello Brown stands high above Portofino’s harbor, not Portovenere (easy mix-up). This old fortress has killer views of the Riviera coastline.
The site goes all the way back to Roman times, starting as a watchtower. Genoa’s forces built the current structure in the Middle Ages to guard the gulf.
Montague Yeats Brown, an English consul, owned it from 1867 to 1905. He turned it into a home and famously planted two palm trees on the terrace for his wedding.
You can see the whole place in about twenty minutes. Inside, there’s a photo exhibit of celebrities who visited in the ‘60s.
The castle’s perch is unbeatable for photos of Portofino’s harbor and pastel buildings. With this week’s clear skies, you’ll get some of your best shots here.
8) Sample Ligurian pesto and focaccia in a local market
Markets are where you’ll really taste Liguria. Vendors sell focaccia hot from the oven, and you can smell the difference.
The Fish Market in Santa Margherita Ligure is a great starting point. Try Genovese focaccia with local cheeses and other snacks.
Traditional pesto here is the real deal—basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil, often made in marble mortars right at the stall.
Focaccia changes from town to town. Some have olives or herbs, others just olive oil and salt. You’ll find the widest variety in Genoa’s markets.
You can watch bakers shaping dough in the mornings. Food stands usually offer samples, so you can try before buying.
Expect to pay 3-8 euros for a hearty slice. Go early for the freshest picks. Most vendors speak enough English to help you out, and they’re usually happy to chat.
9) Attend a summer festival or open-air concert in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure comes alive with festivals and events in mid-August. Concerts, art shows, and music pop up all over the piazzas and waterfront.
The lineup is a mix of tradition and modern acts. Some nights it’s classic Italian songs, other times pop or jazz.
Check the main piazza or the harbor for temporary stages. Events in Santa Margherita Ligure can be spontaneous—just strolling through town in the evening, you’ll probably stumble onto something.
Street performers and small bands show up along the promenade after sunset. No tickets needed, just wander and enjoy the atmosphere.
Festivals here usually run from 8 PM to midnight. Arrive early if you want a good spot—locals and tourists both fill up the outdoor spaces fast.
10) Discover the vibrant underwater marine life at the Aquarium of Genoa
The Aquarium of Genoa stands as Europe’s second-largest aquarium, home to over 15,000 marine creatures in 71 themed tanks. You’ll wander through underwater tunnels, with sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish gliding right above your head—honestly, it’s a little surreal.
Spanning 9,700 square meters in Genoa’s historic Porto Antico, the aquarium lets you watch dolphins during feeding time and see penguins waddle through their icy, Antarctic-inspired habitat. Kids (and, let’s be real, adults) can even touch starfish and sea urchins in the interactive pools. There’s a wild range of marine life here—tiny seahorses, enormous groupers, and more than 500 different species, so there’s always something you didn’t expect.
Give yourself at least three hours if you want to see everything without rushing. The aquarium’s right in the city center, so it’s easy to tack on a stroll through Genoa’s winding medieval streets afterward.
Tickets run about €29 for adults during the busy summer months. You can (and probably should) buy tickets online in advance to dodge those long entrance lines—August especially gets packed with Italian families.
The place offers guided tours and educational programs in several languages. Kids seem to go wild for the jellyfish displays and the colorful, bustling coral reef tanks.
Travel Tips for the Italian Riviera in August
August on the Riviera? Expect temperatures around 28-30°C at midday, and a festival-packed calendar. Trains between the coastal towns run often, but crowds swell during peak season—be ready for it.
Weather and What to Pack
By midday, it’s usually pushing 30°C, then dropping to a breezier 20°C after dark. The sun is pretty relentless from 11 AM to 4 PM; shade is your best friend during those hours.
Pack light—think cotton or linen, nothing synthetic that’ll stick to you. Here’s a quick list:
- Sun protection: SPF 30+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses
- Comfy walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and steep paths are everywhere
- Light layers: A thin cardigan for those cooler coastal evenings
- Quick-dry swimwear: You’ll want to jump in the sea at least once
Rain is rare in August (less than 30mm usually), and the sea’s a perfect 24°C—basically begging you to swim.
After sunset, it cools off by 8-10 degrees. Most restaurants have outdoor seating, so you’ll catch those evening breezes.
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Navigating Local Transportation
Trenitalia trains link the main Riviera towns every 30 minutes or so during the day. The line runs from Ventimiglia to La Spezia, covering all the major stops.
Regional train tickets cost €3-8 for short hops. Buy them before you get on, or risk a €50 fine if the conductor catches you without one.
Buses go to the hillside villages where the trains don’t reach. RIVIERA TRASPORTI runs routes up to places like Dolceacqua and Apricale.
| Transportation | Best For | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Regional trains | Town-to-town travel | €3-8 |
| Local buses | Inland villages | €2-4 |
| Taxi | Beach to hotel | €15-25 |
| Ferry | Coastal sightseeing | €10-20 |
Parking is a headache in every coastal town in August. Arrive before 9 AM if you want a spot, or use park-and-ride lots just outside the center.
Walking is honestly the easiest way to get around each town. Cinque Terre villages don’t allow cars at all, so it’s trains or boats only.
Cultural Events and Festivals This Week
The Feast of San Lorenzo peaks on August 10th all over Liguria. Local churches organize evening processions, complete with centuries-old statues.
Night markets pop up in Sanremo and Alassio from August 12-15. You’ll find pesto, focaccia, and local wines after 7 PM—plenty of snacks and souvenirs.
Camogli hosts its traditional fishing boat races on August 14th. The regata storica brings out restored wooden boats in a real throwback competition.
Outdoor concerts fill the piazzas every night. In Imperia, there’s jazz in Piazza Dante at 9 PM—worth checking out if you’re around.
Food festivals are everywhere in the smaller towns. Cervo’s medieval festival runs August 13-16, with historical reenactments and local cuisine.
Beach clubs start their evening aperitivo events at 6 PM. It’s a mix of local wine, classic antipasti, and a sunset that pretty much does the entertaining for you.
Dining and Nightlife Experiences
The Italian Riviera in August? It’s all about fresh seafood, Ligurian classics, and lively beach clubs that keep the evenings buzzing.
Seasonal Italian Riviera Cuisine
August is peak seafood season here. Local restaurants serve up anchovies, sea bass, and branzino, freshly caught by Liguria’s fishing boats.
Pesto is at its best this month—local basil is in top form. Genoa and Cinque Terre restaurants make pesto pasta the old-school way, with marble mortars and pine nuts from the region.
You can’t skip focaccia col formaggio in Recco. This thin, cheesy flatbread only works with the local Stracchino cheese and a lot of practice.
| Traditional Dish | Best Location | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Farinata | Genoa old town | €3-5 |
| Trofie al pesto | Cinque Terre | €12-18 |
| Focaccia col formaggio | Recco | €15-25 |
Local white wines like Vermentino and Pigato, grown on terraced hillsides, pair perfectly with seafood.
Best Practices for Dining Out in Summer
If you want a table for dinner in August, reserve by 10 AM. The best spots fill up fast, especially in Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Genoa’s old town.
Lunch usually runs from 12:30 to 2:30 PM. Dinner kicks off at 7:30 PM for tourists, but locals start later—after 8:30 PM.
Restaurants often close one day a week, usually Tuesday or Wednesday. Always double-check before making the trip.
Dress codes shift by location. Beachside trattorias are casual, but fancier places in Portofino expect long pants and closed shoes for men.
Tipping isn’t a big deal in Italy. Just round up the bill or leave a couple of euros if service was really great.
Small places often prefer cash, so keep some euros handy even if bigger restaurants take cards.
Unique Nightlife Hotspots
Beach clubs rule the nightlife along the Italian Riviera in August. Bagni Fiore in Santa Margherita serves cocktails with sea views until midnight—honestly, it’s hard to beat that vibe.
Genoa’s Via del Campo district is packed with wine bars and live music spots. Locals tend to show up late, so things really get going after 10 PM on weekends.
Monterosso al Mare stands out for its buzzing nightlife among the Cinque Terre villages. Beach bars pour Aperol spritz and local wines well past midnight in August. It’s lively, a bit chaotic, and just what you’d want on vacation.
The Italian Riviera’s nightlife scene mixes seaside venues for both tourists and locals. Most places feel friendly and unpretentious, which is refreshing.
Portofino’s Hotel Splendido bar draws a fancier crowd. Cocktails run €18-25—not cheap, but with those harbor views, maybe that’s fair enough.
August brings weekly summer festivals. Towns throw evening concerts, food markets, and cultural events, letting the nightlife spill out beyond just bars and clubs.
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About the Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre Travel Guide
Cuisine of the Italian Riviera
Genoa Travel Guide
Italian Riviera Landmarks
Riviera di Levante Travel Guide
Riviera di Ponente Travel Guide
