The Italian Riviera feels alive during the first week of August. Coastal towns buzz with summer energy, but there’s still plenty of genuine local flavor if you know where to look. This week’s weather is just right for outdoor adventures, cultural happenings, and long meals by the sea along Liguria’s coastline. You’ll wander from medieval castles to wild natural parks while the temperatures stay pleasant—perfect for a hike or a lazy day on the sand.
August’s calendar is loaded with open-air concerts and festivals, so you can soak up the region’s culture. The days ahead invite you to get lost in Genoa’s old alleys, hop on scenic trains between seaside villages, and maybe hop a boat to see those dramatic cliffs and tucked-away coves from the water.
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1) Explore the colorful harbor and shops in Portofino
The Portofino harbor looks like it was painted for a travel magazine—peach, yellow, and coral buildings mirrored in calm blue water. Luxury yachts bob alongside old fishing boats, and the whole place feels a bit unreal.
Stroll the harbor walkway (it’s a short loop, maybe 10 minutes if you’re not in a rush) and peek into the boutiques selling designer clothes, ceramics, and all sorts of nautical trinkets. It’s not cheap—an espresso can run €4 or €5, and the shops definitely cater to the luxury crowd.
Boutique shops and souvenir stores fill the ground floors of those pastel buildings. If you’re after Italian leather, handmade jewelry, or quirky maritime art, you’ll find it here.
Aim for early morning or late afternoon if you want to dodge the crowds. Day-trippers flood in most weekends, and it gets packed fast.
Bring your camera. Every angle has a postcard view, with cypress-dotted hills framing the harbor and boats drifting in and out.
2) Hike the scenic trails of Portofino Natural Park
Portofino Regional Natural Park lays out 80 kilometers of marked trails that wind through Mediterranean woods, olive groves, and along the coast. The paths connect Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Portofino, with plenty of sea views along the way.
Pick your challenge. The Camogli to San Fruttuoso hike is a moderate 5.4 km and usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re feeling ambitious, the Portofino Park Loop from Camogli throws in 4,245 feet of elevation. The San Fruttuoso to Portofino leg climbs 3,244 feet—so, yeah, it’s a workout.
Many trails follow ancient paved routes once used to reach hilltop churches. You’ll pass through pine forests with sweeping sea views and plenty of classic Mediterranean plants.
Founded in 1935, the park stretches across 1,500 hectares and three towns. Trail options suit both experienced hikers and casual walkers, so you don’t have to be a pro.
Even the easy routes have some ups and downs. In August, start early and bring more water than you think you’ll need.
3) Visit the historic Castello della Dragonara in Camogli
The 13th-century Castello della Dragonara clings to the cliffs above Camogli’s harbor. This fortress sits right on the rocks, with the sea crashing below.
Locals named it after a dragon-shaped rock at its base. Fishermen once used the castle as a lookout for threats on the horizon.
You’ll get there by walking along Via Isola near the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. The short climb pays off with sweeping views of Golfo Paradiso and Camogli’s candy-colored houses.
Inside, the castle has worn many hats: fortress, meeting hall, even an aquarium. These days, it mainly draws visitors for the history and the scenery.
Opening hours shift with the season, so double-check before you go. Entry costs a few euros, which helps keep the place standing.
Give yourself about 45 minutes here. The lookout points are perfect for photos of fishing boats and the rugged coast stretching toward Portofino.
4) Take a train ride from Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure
The train from Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 3-minute trip covering just over a mile of scenic coastline. It’s a quick and easy way to bounce between two classic Riviera towns.
Trains run all day, with 27 connections daily starting before dawn and the last one close to midnight. You’ve got plenty of flexibility.
Tickets are cheap—$2.36 to $8.72, or about $3 if you buy the day of travel (here’s where to get them). No need to book ahead unless you’re feeling extra organized.
On the ride, you’ll catch glimpses of the Mediterranean and roll right into Santa Margherita’s palm-lined waterfront. Both stations are a short walk from their town centers, so you can hit the ground running.
5) Relax on the beaches of Monterosso al Mare in Cinque Terre
Monterosso al Mare boasts the longest, sandiest beach in all of Cinque Terre. The main stretch runs through the newer Fegina area, and unlike other villages, you actually get sand instead of rocks underfoot.
There are two main beach zones. The free public beach by the old town costs nothing but fills up fast. Private beach clubs charge entry, but you get an umbrella, a chair, and access to bathrooms—sometimes that’s worth every euro.
Even in August, the sea stays cool (about 72-75°F), and the bay keeps things calm for swimmers.
Beach clubs open around 9 AM and close at sunset. If you want a prime spot, show up before 10 AM. Between 11 and 4, the place is packed with day-trippers.
Vendors wander the sand selling snacks and drinks. Beachfront restaurants dish up seafood and cold drinks all day.
The sandy beach is what sets Monterosso apart, making it a favorite for families. Trains run between the Cinque Terre villages, so you can easily hop around if you get restless.
6) Tour the Benedictine Abbey in Santa Maria di Finalpia
The Benedictine abbey of Santa Maria di Finalpia sits tucked away in Finale Ligure, offering a peaceful escape from the busy coast. The 15th-century church was founded by Olivetan monks and officially recognized by Pope Sixtus IV in 1476.
Finalpia grew up around this abbey, which actually dates back to the 12th century but got a big facelift in the 1700s. The old 14th-century bell tower still stands.
This monastery is a major religious landmark in Liguria, both artistically and spiritually. Its architecture blends Gothic and Baroque touches, showing off centuries of change.
You’ll find the abbey on via Santuario, right by the Sciusa stream. The herbalist shop run by monks sells traditional remedies and products made on site—worth a browse.
It’s about 16 miles from Savona, easy to reach by train or car along the main Genoa-Ventimiglia line.
7) Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant in Camogli
Camogli’s restaurants serve up some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere on the Riviera, thanks to local fishermen who bring in their catch every morning. The village sits about 25 minutes south of Genoa and still feels like a real working port.
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Drop by the Camogli Fish Market near the harbor to check out the day’s haul before you eat. It’s a slice of local life, with the fishing tradition front and center.
La Camogliese is a favorite for seaside dining—good food, friendly staff, and a view of the waves. The place gets solid reviews for both the seafood and the service.
Most Camogli restaurants focus on local ingredients and seafood, and many are tucked into old buildings right by the water.
Order a glass of Pigato or Vermentino, two crisp Ligurian whites that go perfectly with the food.
If you’re planning to eat out in August, book ahead. The village is popular with Italian families and travelers looking for a real Riviera meal.
8) Wander through the old streets of Genoa’s historic center
Genoa’s old town is a maze of narrow medieval alleys—the caruggi—that make up one of Europe’s biggest historic centers. The web of ancient streets runs between city gates and oozes centuries of seafaring history.
You’ll see Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings squeezed together, with tall houses on both sides that create cool shade even on hot afternoons.
The Palazzi dei Rolli are the stars—42 palaces once used to host visiting VIPs, now listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. They’re a reminder of Genoa’s days as a trading powerhouse.
Shops, cafes, and restaurants fill the ground floors of these old buildings. Grab some focaccia or a coffee as you wander the tangled lanes connecting the different quarters.
The crowds peak around midday; early morning or late afternoon walks are much more pleasant. Wear comfy shoes—the ancient stones can be uneven and, honestly, a bit slippery.
Give yourself at least a couple of hours to see the highlights, but if you’re the curious sort, you could easily lose half a day exploring all the nooks and quirky details.
9) Attend an open-air concert or festival in coastal towns
The Italian Riviera turns into a stage once the sun goes down. Towns along the coast fill their old squares and amphitheaters with music during summer nights.
Cinque Terre villages sometimes host small classical concerts in their main squares—usually at sunset, running for a couple of hours.
Sanremo puts on bigger shows at its waterfront venues, with solid sound and lighting.
Portofino’s piazzetta occasionally hosts chamber music on select evenings. It’s cozy, so show up early if you want a decent spot.
Summer music festivals in Italian villages pop up all over, blending live performances with historic settings for nights you’ll remember.
Local tourist offices have the latest on dates and times. Some smaller venues don’t bother advertising until just before the event.
Evenings can get chilly by the sea, so bring a light jacket. Most concerts are free, though a few charge a small fee if you want a reserved seat.
10) Boat tour along the Ligurian coast for panoramic views
You really don’t get the full picture of the Ligurian coastline until you’re out on the water. From there, clifftop villages and secret coves pop into view—places you’d never spot from land. Dramatic rock formations, too. It’s a completely different perspective.
Boat tours start from 12 EUR and run pretty often in August. Santa Margherita Ligure, Monterosso, and Levanto are the usual jumping-off points.
Most tours follow the stretch between Cinque Terre and Portofino, gliding past those wild, colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and tiny beaches you can only reach by sea.
If you want to see all five Cinque Terre villages, the three-hour tours from Monterosso are a solid bet. There are also shorter, two-hour options if you just want to focus on one part, like Portofino to San Fruttuoso.
August usually means calm seas and crystal-clear visibility. If you’re after good photos—and cooler air—go for a morning departure.
Some boats stop off in coastal villages so you can poke around a bit. The Portofino stop gives you about half an hour to wander the harbor.
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Expert local captains like to share stories about the region’s maritime past and will point out interesting geologic features. They’ve got a knack for finding the best spots for marine life and underwater caves, too.
Stick with established operators for safety gear and real local know-how.
Best Times to Experience the Italian Riviera in August
Early August is when summer really hits its stride—plenty of sun, warm days, and a busy calendar of festivals and events that bring a bit of extra energy to the coast.
Typical Weather in Early August
Daytime temperatures usually hit 28-30°C (82-86°F) in early August. Those coastal breezes are a lifesaver, especially around Portofino and Cinque Terre.
If you’re up for hiking, mornings (7-10 AM) are the best bet for cooler air and gentler sun. It’s much more pleasant before things heat up.
The sea gets pretty warm, too—24-26°C (75-79°F)—which is just about perfect for swimming or any water activity. This is the warmest the Mediterranean gets all year.
Rainfall stays low—less than 25mm for the whole month. Most days are clear, though, now and then, an afternoon thunderstorm might roll in further inland.
Humidity isn’t bad, thanks to the sea breeze. Evenings cool down to 20-22°C (68-72°F), so dinner outdoors or a walk along the water feels just right.
Seasonal Local Events
Ferragosto lands on August 15th and pretty much every Riviera town gets in on the action. Think fireworks, outdoor concerts, and beach parties that go late into the night.
Early August is also sagra season—local food festivals. Monterosso is famous for its anchovy celebrations, while some inland villages throw parties for basil and pesto.
Summer music festivals pop up in historic settings all over the region. The Italian Riviera hosts plenty of cultural events that mix local traditions with international acts.
You’ll catch religious processions in coastal towns, especially for the Feast of San Lorenzo on August 10th. There’s something special about seeing these old maritime traditions still alive.
Many restaurants spill out onto the streets and offer special summer menus. Expect lots of fresh seafood, local veggies, and regional wines—this is peak season for eating well.
Travel Tips for Exploring the Italian Riviera
Getting around the Riviera in August takes a bit of planning. Trains connect most towns quickly, and boats give you those killer coastal views between stops.
Recommended Transportation Options
The Cinque Terre Express train runs often between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping at all five villages. For €5, you get unlimited daily travel in the park zone—just buy your pass at the station before you hop on.
Regional trains link up bigger cities like Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Ventimiglia. In August, trains fill up fast, so booking a seat ahead saves you from standing the whole way. First-class upgrades cost €3-5 and guarantee a spot—worth it if you don’t love crowds.
Ferries connect Portofino, Santa Margherita, and Cinque Terre from April to October. If you’re into road trips, the 10-day Italian Riviera itinerary hits seven stops from La Spezia to Imperia.
Honestly, only rent a car if you’re heading to inland villages like Dolceacqua or Pigna. Parking on the coast is pricey (€2-4 per hour) and spots disappear by 10 AM. Plus, those ZTL zones in historic centers can be a headache.
Navigating the Coastline
Grab the Trenitalia app for live train times and mobile tickets. Summer storms sometimes mess with schedules, so check before you leave.
Boat timetables shift with the weather. Mornings are usually smoother and better for photos. By afternoon, winds can pick up and make things bumpy, especially on smaller boats.
If you’re walking between towns, good shoes and water are a must. The hiking trails in Cinque Terre and Portofino range from easy strolls to tough cliff hikes. Cinque Terre National Park charges a trail fee.
Beach access really depends on where you are. Private clubs charge €15-25 for an umbrella and chair, but you can find public beaches with fewer amenities if you look around.
Packing Essentials for Summer
Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing—neutrals work best and blend in anywhere. Coastal towns mean you’ll end up walking on uneven stones, maybe even tackling steep stairs that seem to go on forever. Trust me, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes with real grip—those marina walkways get slippery, even if it hasn’t rained.
Don’t even think about skipping sunscreen. Go for SPF 30+ or higher. The sun bounces off the water and those blinding white buildings, so you burn fast. I’ve learned the hard way: reapply every couple of hours, and don’t slack off during boat rides.
| Essential Items | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Portable phone charger | Long days exploring drain batteries |
| Water bottle (1L) | Refill at public fountains |
| Light rain jacket | Afternoon thunderstorms |
| Cash (€50-100) | Small vendors don’t accept cards |
A waterproof bag for electronics isn’t just a nice-to-have. Sea spray finds its way to everyone, even when the water looks calm. Medications? Keep them in your carry-on. Pharmacies tend to close for lunch and Sundays—just when you need them, right?
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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
