Summer’s finally here on the Italian Riviera—think warm breezes, endless blue water, and a buzz you just can’t fake. The first week of July is when the coast really wakes up, and suddenly every evening feels like a festival. Early July in Liguria is when you see locals and visitors making the most of those long Mediterranean days, blending lazy afternoons with lively celebrations in the prettiest towns you’ve ever seen.
You’ll wander from Cinque Terre’s candy-colored houses to Portofino’s glamorous harbor, stumbling onto everything from open-air concerts to trails that drop your jaw at every turn. There’s food, too—oh, is there food. Seafood, basil pesto, wine, and whatever the catch of the day is. Whether you’re all about chilling or chasing adventure, this week’s got a little magic for everyone who lands on this stretch of coast.
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1) Hike the Cinque Terre coastline trails
Cinque Terre National Park is basically a dream for anyone who loves a good coastal hike. You get a handful of cliff-hugging villages, all strung together by footpaths that have been around forever.
The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) is the classic route, connecting all five villages. Some sections might be closed for repairs, so definitely double-check before lacing up your boots.
If you’re new to hiking or just want to take it easy, pick a shorter stretch—say, Monterosso to Vernazza. It’s only a couple hours, but honestly, the views make it feel like a movie. Just be ready for some ups and downs; the trail isn’t exactly flat.
You’ll need a Cinque Terre Trekking Card (about €7.50) for the main paid sections. Grab one before you start, especially on the popular bits between Monterosso, Vernazza, and Corniglia.
July gets hot—sometimes up to 30°C (86°F)—so mornings are your friend. Good shoes, plenty of water, and a hat will save you. If you’re feeling ambitious, the whole thing is around 14 km (8.6 miles), but honestly, don’t rush. Inland trails are quieter and give you a different taste of the vineyards and old stone terraces—worth considering if you’re crowd-averse.
2) Visit the Aquarium of Genoa
The Aquarium of Genoa is huge and, honestly, kind of mesmerizing. You’ll find it in Porto Antico, and it’s packed with every kind of sea creature you can imagine.
This week, they’re running special tours where you get up close with penguins—not your average aquarium experience. These sessions are led by guides who actually know their stuff, and you’ll learn about penguin quirks you’d never pick up just wandering around.
Inside, you’ll see everything from sharks to dolphins to turtles. The interactive exhibits are surprisingly fun, and you might even walk away thinking a little more about ocean conservation.
Give yourself at least a couple hours here. There are food spots inside—some better than others—so you can make a day of it if you want. Honestly, driving in Genoa is a headache, so just take the train or metro and save yourself the trouble.
3) Explore charming Boccadasse village
On Genoa’s east side, Boccadasse is this little pocket of pastel houses and fishing boats. It’s the kind of place you almost can’t believe is real until you’re standing there, toes in the pebbles.
You can hop on a guided walking tour through the tangled alleys and hear stories about the old fishing days. Tours leave at 10am and 4pm, and they’ve got English options all week.
After, grab gelato at Amedeo. Locals rave about flavors like basil or olive oil, and the pistachio is basically legendary. If it’s hot (and it probably will be), you can cool off with a swim—just bring water shoes because the beach is all pebbles.
Evenings are fantastic here. The crowds thin out, the sun drops, and the restaurants along the bay roll out their best seafood. Outdoor tables fill up fast, but if you snag one, you’ll feel like you’ve lucked out.
Getting here is easy—bus 31 from Genoa’s center runs every 15 minutes, or you could just stroll the scenic 3km from Corso Italia.
4) Take scenic rail tours along the coast
If you love a good train ride, the Italian Riviera delivers. Trains skim the coastline, windows wide open, villages rolling past. This week, special rail tours run between Genoa and Civitavecchia—perfect if you want to see the sea without fighting for parking.
Most towns are linked by local trains, so you can hop off, wander, and jump back on without breaking a sweat. It’s not like the Amalfi Coast, where you’re stuck on winding buses; here it’s smooth and easy.
The direct trip from Genoa to Civitavecchia is under five hours, but the fun’s in the stops. Rapallo to Camogli? Ten minutes. Santa Margherita Ligure is just three. Monterosso al Mare in Cinque Terre is about 40 minutes from Rapallo.
Rail tours are especially great in early summer—less heat, better views, and honestly, fewer cranky fellow travelers. Early morning trains are usually quieter and the light’s perfect for photos.
5) Enjoy Ligurian cuisine tastings
If you come to the Riviera and don’t eat your way through it, you’re missing out. This week, restaurants in Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure are hosting tasting events—focaccia, pesto, seafood, the works.
Portofino’s Wednesday market is a must, with stalls offering up free samples of local specialties. Try the pesto alla genovese—there’s nothing quite like it when it’s made with fresh Ligurian basil and pine nuts.
Down in Camogli, waterfront spots are doing special anchovy menus. For €25, you get five different versions, plus local wine. Not a bad deal at all.
Food tours are a smart way to taste a bunch of things at once, but book ahead—summer slots go fast.
Craving a hands-on experience? Cooking classes in Genoa teach you to make trofie pasta with pesto, and you’ll eat what you make (with wine, of course). Classes run about three hours and cost €65.
A lot of towns have seafood tastings, too—simple, unfussy dishes that let the daily catch shine. If you’re a food lover, you’ll be in heaven.
6) Walk the natural park trails near Portofino
The Portofino Regional Nature Park is a hiker’s playground, with roughly 80 kilometers of trails weaving through forest, cliffs, and old villages. Early July mornings are perfect—cool enough to really enjoy the walk.
You’ll find everything from easy strolls to tough climbs. The Portofino Park Loop is a beast, but if you’re up for it, the views up top are unbeatable.
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For something a bit less intense, try the trail from San Fruttuoso to Portofino via Santa Margherita Ligure. It’s still a workout, but you get those classic Mediterranean views and pass through some pretty wild greenery.
You’ll also cross old paved paths that once led to tiny churches or shrines, linking villages like Camogli and Santa Margherita Ligure. There’s history underfoot, even if you’re just out for the exercise.
Start early (before 9 AM) to beat the heat. Bring a map, at least 1.5 liters of water, and sunscreen. The park’s info center in Portofino hands out trail maps if you need one.
7) Relax on the beaches of Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure’s beaches are just right for a lazy summer day. Unlike Rapallo’s mostly pebbly stretches, you’ll find some sandy spots here—much easier on the feet.
Bagni Sirena is the social heart of the beach scene. People come for the drinks and the vibe as much as the sun. If you like meeting new folks, this is the spot.
The weather’s basically perfect this week—around 82°F (28°C), with enough humidity to remind you you’re on vacation. Mornings are a bit cooler if you’re not into baking.
You’ll find both free sections and private clubs offering loungers and umbrellas. The private ones usually have food and drinks at arm’s reach, so you can camp out all day if that’s your style.
Don’t forget to wander the marina for photos of the bright boats, or just grab a coffee at a waterfront café. It’s a good mix of chill and people-watching.
8) Visit medieval castles in Dolceacqua
Dolceacqua is a medieval village tucked just inland from the coast—totally worth the short trip if you’re craving a bit of history. The Castello dei Doria looms over the rooftops, and you can’t really miss it.
On your way in, you’ll cross the old humpback bridge (Ponte Vecchio) that Monet painted back in 1884. It’s one of those views that feels oddly familiar, even if you’ve never seen it before.
To get up to the castle, you’ll wind through the Terra district, all narrow alleys and stone arches. It’s a bit of a climb, but the higher you go, the better the views.
The castle itself is partly restored and offers sweeping looks out over the Nervia Valley. Entry’s affordable, and there are English tours a few times a day.
When you’re done exploring, pop into one of the artisan shops or grab a glass of Rossese di Dolceacqua, the local red wine. If you’re driving, parking’s at Piazza Giardino near the soccer fields.
9) Sail along the Italian Riviera coastline
The Italian Riviera has some of the most jaw-dropping coastal views in the Mediterranean—honestly, you see it best from the water. June and July? Pretty much perfect for sailing. Temperatures hover around 18-25°C (65-77°F), and the sea usually stays calm enough for both seasoned sailors and total newbies.
You can hop on a day trip from towns like Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, or Lavagna. Some operators even run 7-day sailing itineraries, so you get to see a bunch of places without hauling your suitcase everywhere.
Not up for a whole week? Plenty of half-day trips are available, and they almost always stop for a swim in those secret coves you’d never find on foot. Most tours hand out basic refreshments—sometimes lunch, sometimes not, so double-check before you book.
The coastal towns are easy to reach by train, so you can start your sailing day wherever’s convenient. Camogli and Sestri Levante are especially popular for departures, and you’ll find a few reputable charter companies there.
Don’t forget: sunblock, a light jacket in case the breeze kicks up, and something waterproof for your stuff. Boats range from classic wooden beauties to sleek modern yachts—naturally, prices swing a lot depending on what you want.
10) Spot Trompe-l’oeil murals in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure, sometimes called the grande dame of the Riviera di Levante, hides some wild artistic surprises on its buildings. If you wander through this elegant seaside town, you’ll spot trompe-l’oeil murals that mess with your eyes in the best way.
Locals have really nailed the sgraffito technique, painting on details that look like intricate stone carvings—but it’s all illusion. If you’re not paying attention, you might swear the buildings are carved, not painted.
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Honestly, the best time to catch these murals is in the morning when the light brings out the 3D effect. Start at the waterfront and meander into the old center—some of the most impressive ones are tucked away on centuries-old facades.
Bring your camera. These murals make for some pretty great photos and give the town a unique vibe. It’s a practical art form, too—why pay for fancy stonework when you can just paint it on?
Essential Travel Tips for the Italian Riviera
Getting ready for the Italian Riviera? You’ll want to wrap your head around the local trains, buses, and the whole Mediterranean weather scene. A bit of planning goes a long way here.
Navigating Local Transportation
Trains are your best bet—they link all the coastal towns from Ventimiglia to La Spezia. If you’re hitting the Cinque Terre, grab a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train rides and trail access.
Buses fill in the gaps, especially for those hilltop villages the trains skip. Buy your ticket ahead of time at a tabacchi (look for a “T” sign); it’s cheaper and just easier.
Between April and October, ferries run along the coast and connect spots like Portofino, Santa Margherita, and the Cinque Terre. The views are something else from the water.
Thinking about a scooter? Could be fun, but those roads get narrow and twisty. Parking in the busy towns is a pain and pricey, so public transit usually wins.
Weather Expectations and Packing Advice
Summer (June-August) brings temps around 75-85°F (24-29°C) and sticky humidity. If you can, plan your outings for early morning or late evening—no one loves the midday heat here.
Pack smart:
- Light, breathable clothes
- A sweater for those cool sea breezes at night
- Walking shoes with grip (cobblestones are everywhere)
- Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel
- Sun protection—hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Water bottle (tap water’s fine)
Lots of beaches are rocky, not sandy, so water shoes are worth considering if you want to swim comfortably. If you’re visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees—locals care about that.
Spring and fall get the odd rain shower, so toss in a packable rain jacket. Honestly, those seasons are underrated: fewer crowds, nice temps, and you can still do most outdoor stuff.
Cultural Highlights During Late June and Early July
Late June and early July on the Riviera? The place comes alive with local festivals and food traditions that go way back. You get this mix of old-school rituals and modern parties, all set against those classic Mediterranean views.
Notable Local Festivals and Events
The Festa di San Pietro e Paolo (June 29) lights up towns like Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. Fishing boats decked out in lights float through the harbor, honoring the patron saints of fishermen.
Genoa hosts the Palio Marinaro (July 1-2), a rowing showdown where neighborhood teams race traditional wooden boats. It’s loud, crowded, and honestly a blast to watch from the harbor.
Early July brings Notte Bianca (White Night) festivals to several towns. Shops, museums, and restaurants stay open all night, and the streets fill with music, art, and impromptu performances.
If you’re into classical music or architecture, the Venice Architectural Biennale runs through November—totally doable as a day trip from the eastern Riviera. This year’s theme? “Natural. Artificial. Collective.” Kind of intriguing, right?
Unique Culinary Experiences
The Festival della Focaccia di Recco (July 3-5) is all about that famous cheese-filled flatbread. Locals and visitors crowd around for cooking demos, tastings, and a bit of friendly competition—everyone swears their version is best.
Weekly evening food markets in Sanremo and Alassio are a treat if you’re into seasonal produce. Think Ligurian artichokes, pesto being smashed up right in front of you, and generous pours of local wine. Best to swing by between 6 and 10pm, when things really come alive.
The Sagra del Pesce (Fish Festival) in Camogli is a spectacle. Chefs haul out a frying pan the size of a small car and fry up mountains of fish right on the beach promenade. It’s loud, messy, and honestly, that’s part of the charm.
If you want something quieter, a few old olive oil mills open their doors for summer pressing tours during these weeks. You’ll get to taste oils from both the coast and the hills, and maybe pick up a trick or two about how they’re made the old-fashioned way.
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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
