The Italian Riviera really comes alive in late June—warm enough for swimming, but not yet jam-packed with summer tourists. The coastline mixes beach lounging, local culture, and outdoor adventure in a way that’s tough to resist. Water temperatures hover around 22-24°C (72-75°F), which is just right for swimming, sailing, or trying out water sports in those protected bays and beaches.
From the pastel fishing village of Camogli to the dramatic cliffs of Cinque Terre, this week’s a sweet spot for festivals, seasonal food, and poking around little-known corners of Liguria. Trains connect most towns, so you can hop between them without stressing about parking or traffic.
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1) Explore the colorful villages of Cinque Terre by train
The five coastal villages of Cinque Terre make for a classic day trip. Thanks to the regional train line, you can bounce between these UNESCO-protected spots without breaking a sweat.
Start in Monterosso, the biggest of the bunch, where sandy beaches and seafood joints set the tone. The train station’s right in the new town, so you’re practically on the sand when you step off.
Next, hop over to Vernazza and its natural harbor—ten minutes’ walk from the station and you’re in the heart of things, surrounded by medieval stonework and the smell of focaccia. Here’s a quick route to the harbor.
Manarola’s up next, with those iconic houses stacked on the cliffs. It’s one of Italy’s most photogenic spots—bring your camera or, honestly, just your phone.
Grab a Cinque Terre Train Card for unlimited rides. Trains run every half hour or so during the day, and you can see all five villages in a single day. Still, spending a few hours in each is a better way to soak it all in.
2) Hike scenic trails in Portofino Natural Park
Portofino Natural Park’s got over 70km of trails, so whether you’re up for a gentle stroll or a sweaty climb, you’ll find your groove. The Mediterranean woods and olive groves offer some shade, which is a blessing in June.
This week’s weather is just about perfect for hiking—mid-70s°F, not too muggy. The sea views from the crags are unreal, especially if you set out early when the air’s clear.
Try the high trail through vineyards and old stone houses for panoramic vistas. You’ll want sturdy shoes—these paths can get steep.
For a dash of history, walk the ancient paved routes locals once took to reach churches. The trail to San Fruttuoso Monastery is a favorite, blending sea views with a bit of culture.
There are a few refreshment stops tucked along the way. Get an early start (before 9 AM) to dodge both heat and crowds. The visitor center at the park entrance hands out free trail maps and posts updates on trail conditions.
3) Visit the Galata Museo del Mare in Genoa
The Galata Museo del Mare stands as the biggest maritime museum in the Med, right next to Genoa’s famous Aquarium. If you’re even mildly curious about ships and sea lore, you’ll want to carve out a few hours here.
Doors open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, so there’s no need to rush. The museum’s collection sprawls across several floors, packed with interactive exhibits and full-scale ship reconstructions.
The galley ship display is a standout—it’s easy to imagine the grind sailors went through centuries ago. Details like the cramped sleeping quarters and rows of oars make it all feel real.
Don’t skip the Nazario Sauro submarine docked outside. Climbing through the hatch, you get a taste of what life was like underwater—let’s just say, not for the claustrophobic.
You’ll find the museum at Calata de Mari 1 in Genoa. It’s a straightforward walk from the city center along Via Gramsci, or you can hop on public transit.
If you hate waiting in lines (who doesn’t?), grab tickets online ahead of time—summer brings plenty of visitors.
4) Take a boat tour from Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure’s harbor bustles with boats, and it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring the Ligurian coast by sea. Every day, tours head out to hidden coves and postcard-perfect villages.
You’ve got options: Private boat tours of the Portofino Riviera run about 4 hours and let you get up close to spots you’d never reach on foot.
For something a bit magical, try a sunset cruise with local snacks and drinks. The coastline glows gold in the evening, and it’s hard not to fall in love with the view.
Many tours stop in Portofino—a quick 20-minute ride, but seeing that famous harbor from the water just hits different.
Prices are all over the map. Basic cruises start at €65, while private charters can climb past €300.
Summer’s busy, so book ahead if you can. Most operators have online booking, but you can also walk up to the harbor kiosks if you’re feeling spontaneous.
5) Stroll through the fishing village of Camogli
Camogli, just half an hour from Portofino, is a fishing village that feels a world away from the crowds. The stacked, colorful houses along the shore are pure eye candy.
Start at the harbor and watch fishermen prepping their boats or untangling nets. The busy port gives you a window into real coastal life.
Wander the narrow cobblestone lanes climbing up from the sea. You’ll stumble on tiny shops and eateries, plus random viewpoints that catch you off guard.
The Dragonara Castle’s worth a look. The aquarium’s moved to Genoa, but the castle itself still has bits of local history and, if you’re lucky, you might spot whales from the ramparts. Whale watching info here.
This week, they’re lighting up the harbor in the evenings. Grab a seafood dinner at a café and watch the boats glide back in as the sun sets—simple, but honestly, that’s the magic.
6) Discover the Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria di Finalpia
Hidden in Finale Ligure, the Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria di Finalpia offers a peaceful break from the coast’s buzz.
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The site’s history stretches back to 1170, when the first church dedicated to the Madonna appeared in the valley. Pope Sixtus IV recognized the abbey officially in 1476.
Today, the abbey is still a key monastic center, both for faith and for local art. The 15th-century church and its stone bell tower (from the 13th century!) make it a landmark you can spot from afar.
Step inside for a moment of quiet. The Olivetan monks have cultivated a calming atmosphere, and the architecture—plus religious artwork—tells stories you won’t find in the guidebooks.
From the abbey, you can wander on to the Torre di Capo San Donato, an old watchtower built to keep pirates at bay. It’s a neat detour if you’re in the area.
7) Relax on the beaches of Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare has the only real sand beach in Cinque Terre. Spiaggia Fegina stretches out wide, making it a go-to for escaping the summer heat.
The sand’s mixed with pebbles in places (it’s the Ligurian coast, after all), but the water stays cool and clear—just what you want in late June.
You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for €15-25 a day, depending on where you set up and what extras you want.
Cafés line the beach, serving cold drinks and light food, so you can plant yourself for hours. Grab a lemon granita between dips in the sea—trust me, it hits the spot.
Early mornings (before 10am) are the calmest. By early afternoon, day-trippers fill up the sand.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, check out the smaller beaches near the old town. They’re quieter, though you’ll give up some amenities.
8) Sample Ligurian cuisine in local trattorias
The Italian Riviera’s food scene goes way beyond pesto (though you should definitely try it). Trattorias and osterias serve authentic Ligurian dishes that you won’t find in big tourist restaurants.
This week, swing by Santa Margherita Ligure and grab a table at Capo Nord for sea views and classic plates under the stars. The seafood’s as fresh as it gets, especially with a glass of local white wine.
If you spot testaroli on the menu, order it—it’s the ancestor of pasta and a specialty from the La Spezia area. The flavors here blend influences from neighboring Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.
June’s a prime month for produce and seafood, so menus brim with whatever’s just been caught or picked. Daily catches pop up in seaside trattorias all along the coast.
For the best meals, duck into alleyway spots run by local families. These low-key places often serve recipes passed down for generations, with ingredients straight from the market. Sometimes the service is a little slow, but honestly, that’s all part of the charm.
9) Shop for artisanal goods in Rapallo
Rapallo’s a great place to poke around for unique souvenirs and locally made things. You’ll find gift and specialty shops scattered through the town, with boutiques run by both locals and a few expats. The mix keeps things interesting—there’s always something you haven’t seen before.
If you’re in the area, swing by San Camillo. Locals always mention Guido and his team—apparently, chatting with them is half the fun. They really make you feel welcome, and it’s one of those places where you can actually learn a bit about what you’re buying.
For jewelry, there’s a shop run by Miri, an American expat. She’s patient with customers and has a bunch of handmade pieces—honestly, it’s hard not to walk out with something. Her stuff makes for solid keepsakes from your time on the Riviera.
Don’t skip the seaside promenade. As you walk along the waterfront, you’ll spot vendors and little shops selling crafts that really capture the region’s artistic vibe. It’s a good way to soak in the scenery and maybe find something special.
Shops usually open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but many close for a few hours in the afternoon (usually 1:00 to 3:30 PM). Bring some cash, since smaller places sometimes don’t take cards.
10) Attend a local festival or event in Genoa
Genoa’s cultural scene is buzzing this week. The 27° Suq Festival – Teatro del Dialogo runs until June 22, 2025, and it’s a big deal in town—think food, markets, music, and performances all rolled into one. It’s lively, and you’ll get a real taste of local and international culture mixing together.
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If you miss the Suq Festival, don’t stress. Genoa always has something going on. There’s “Gli Eredi dei Macchiaioli,” an art exhibition with works from Silvestro Lega to Plinio Nomellini, running until July 13. Art lovers, take note.
History buffs should check out “Genova celebra l’Ottocento,” continuing through October 21. It’s a deep dive into 19th-century Genoa, with exhibits at the Lanterna, Galata, and MEI museums. You get a real sense of how the city evolved.
The city’s got that classic European buzz: old meets new, and it somehow works. Most events kick off in the evening, which is perfect once the heat dies down.
If you’re heading to a festival, get there early if you want a good spot. Most events have food stalls where you can try Ligurian classics while you watch the action.
Weather and Travel Tips for the Italian Riviera in Late June
Late June is pretty much prime time on the Italian Riviera—warm, mostly sunny, and everything’s in full swing. It does get busy, though, so expect some crowds.
Best Ways to Get Around
Getting around’s not too tricky. Trains run often between the main towns—Genoa, Rapallo, Santa Margherita, and all through the Cinque Terre. Tickets are cheap, usually €2-8, depending on how far you’re going.
Ferries are a fun option if you want to see the coast from the water. The Portofino-Santa Margherita ferry (€8) leaves every half hour, and honestly, the views beat sitting in traffic.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter (€40-60/day). It gives you freedom to explore the hills and smaller villages, though parking in the popular spots is a pain. For really short hops in places like Portofino or Camogli, just walk—the streets are tiny and parking’s basically a myth.
Buses cover the smaller villages that don’t have train stops, but after 8pm, don’t count on them running often.
What to Pack for Coastal Adventures
Temperatures hover between 18-25°C (65-77°F) in late June, though it can spike higher. Here’s what you’ll want:
Clothing:
- Breathable, lightweight stuff
- A sweater or light jacket for evenings on the water
- Two swimsuits (one’s always drying)
- Comfy walking shoes with grip for the trails
- A hat that won’t blow off (it gets windy)
Protection:
- SPF 30+ sunscreen (the sun is no joke)
- Polarized sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle (tap water’s good, and refill stations are easy to find)
A packable day bag is a lifesaver for beach days. Most places you stay will lend you towels, but a quick-dry travel towel is handy. Beach chairs rent for about €10-15/day, but every town has a few public spots if you’d rather throw down your own towel.
Cultural Events and Festivals in June
June’s packed with everything from time-honored festivals to modern concerts. The towns really come alive—piazzas turn into dance floors, beaches host open-air shows, and you’ll find yourself swept up in the energy whether you planned for it or not.
Local Customs and Etiquette During Summer Celebrations
At festivals, Italians manage to look sharp even when it’s hot. Go for light, stylish clothes—no need to overdress, but don’t show up sloppy, either. If you’re invited to someone’s home, a bottle of good wine or pastries from a real bakery is always appreciated.
For religious processions like the Feast of St. John (June 24th), it’s best to:
- Stand as the procession goes by
- Keep your voice down
- Watch what locals do and follow their lead
- Dress a bit more modestly if you’re heading into a church
People are usually fine with photos at public events, but it’s polite to ask before snapping pics of people—especially older folks or kids.
Advice for Enjoying Italian Riviera Nightlife
Nightlife along the Riviera doesn’t really get going until late—locals usually don’t even show up at bars or clubs before 10:30 PM. Dinner’s a drawn-out affair, starting around 8:00, and people love to stroll the streets afterward, soaking in that passeggiata vibe before heading anywhere else.
If you’re eyeing the swankier spots in Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, you’ll want to dress up a bit. Guys, toss on a collared shirt; ladies, a stylish dress or nice pants will do. Nothing too stuffy, but definitely not flip-flops.
Beach clubs are a whole scene of their own. Around sunset, they fill up for aperitivo—think Spritz, maybe a glass of local Vermentino, and plenty of people-watching. It’s a relaxed way to mingle with locals and ease into the night.
Most nightclubs charge a cover (usually €10-20), but hey, at least you get a drink out of it. Tipping isn’t a big deal here, but if you round up your bill by a couple of euros, bartenders notice and appreciate it.
If you’re heading home late, especially if your hotel’s tucked away up in the hills, it’s smart to grab an official taxi. Wandering the winding roads after a long night? Probably not the best idea.
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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
