You arrive in the Italian Riviera at a calm moment between winter and spring. Early March means cool air, clearer trails, and towns that slip back into their everyday rhythm after the quiet months. It’s a good time for coastal walks, fishing villages, historic centers, and sampling local food—without the stress of high-season crowds.
Here’s a list of where to hike, eat, explore, and just slow down along the Riviera from March 1–7, 2026. There’s a mix of outdoor routes, cultural sites, coastal views, and practical tips, all shaped by what’s actually open and appealing in early March.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
1) Hike the Sentiero Azzurro trail in Cinque Terre
Spend a day walking the Sentiero Azzurro Blue Trail in Cinque Terre. This coastal path links Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso, with wide Ligurian Sea views.
The full route is about 12 kilometers, but you don’t have to do it all. Most people pick a section or two and use the train between towns—it’s easy, and trains run often in early March.
Expect uneven stone steps and some steady climbs, especially between Vernazza and Monterosso. Sometimes, sections close for weather or repairs, so check before you go. You’ll need a Cinque Terre Card for the paid parts.
March is cooler and less crowded than summer, but you still want sturdy shoes and water. Start early for quiet trails and that sharp morning light over the terraces and sea.
2) Explore the harbor and village of Portofino
Reach Portofino in about 20 minutes by boat from Santa Margherita Ligure or by bus from Rapallo. Go early or late to dodge the midday crowds—cruise passengers and day-trippers still show up, even in March.
Take a stroll around the harbor first. The pastel buildings and fishing boats are exactly what you see in every guide to things to do in Portofino, Italy. The waterfront cafés are lovely, but prices are steep compared to nearby towns.
Don’t just stick to the main square. Head uphill to Castello Brown for open coastline views. The paths are quiet in March, and you’ll catch more local life away from the shops.
If you want a no-fuss plan, follow this Portofino travel guide for a short walking loop. Two or three hours is plenty—enough to explore, then move on.
3) Visit the Abbey of San Fruttuoso by boat
You can only reach the Abbey of San Fruttuoso by boat or on foot, keeping things peaceful even in busier months. In early March, ferries run from Camogli and the trip takes about 30 minutes. Schedules can shift, so check this Abbey of San Fruttuoso in Camogli travel guide before you go.
The boat ride gives you big views of the Portofino promontory and those steep cliffs that block road access. You’ll step right into the bay—a lot easier than hiking two hours in.
The abbey, built in the 10th century, sits just steps from the water. You can look around the cloister, the Doria family tombs, and the little beach. For details and what to expect, check this guide to visiting San Fruttuoso Abbey.
Facilities are basic, especially outside summer. Bring water, wear good shoes, and keep an eye on return boat times—service slows down if the sea’s rough.
4) Take a coastal bike ride along the Riviera
Explore the Riviera at your own pace on a bike. Early March means cool air and lighter traffic, so it’s a lot more comfortable than midsummer.
Try the old railway path along the western coast—the Riviera dei Fiori cycling path runs about 24 kilometers between Ospedaletti and San Lorenzo al Mare. It’s paved, mostly flat, with sea views and plenty of stops for coffee.
If you’re closer to Lavagna or Chiavari, check out the Ciclovia dell’Ardesia bike path. This one follows the Entella River through gardens and small villages—a quieter, more local feel than the coast.
You’ll find standard or e-bikes for rent in bigger towns. Bring a light jacket, check the wind, and start before noon if you want emptier paths.
5) Sample fresh seafood at Monterosso’s seafront restaurants
Monterosso al Mare serves up some of the Riviera’s best seafood. Fishing boats still supply local kitchens, and menus change based on what’s caught that day.
Head for the strip along the beach in Fegina or the old town’s small harbor. For current picks, scan this list of the best seafood restaurants in Monterosso al Mare.
Try the anchovies—they’re a local classic, served fried, marinated, or stuffed. Grilled calamari or mixed fried seafood are simple, fresh, and don’t drown in sauce.
Book ahead, especially on weekends. You can compare ratings and locations with this top restaurants in Monterosso al Mare guide.
Waterfront tables cost more, but you’re right by the sea, with those views and that salty air—it’s hard to complain.
6) Enjoy wine tasting at vineyards near La Spezia
Several small vineyards sit within 20–30 minutes of La Spezia by car or taxi. Most perch on steep hills, looking out over the Ligurian coast and islands. Roads are narrow, and you’ll walk uphill a bit to reach the cellars.
Producers focus on Vermentino, Cinque Terre DOC, and Colli di Luni wines. Tastings usually last about 90 minutes—four wines, plus local cheese or focaccia, like the options in these La Spezia wine tours and tastings.
Prices range from €25 to €85 per person, averaging around €55, based on current wine tastings in La Spezia. Book ahead, weekends fill up even in March.
Elegant resorts, charming apartments, and vacation rentals with immediate confirmation. From Portofino to Cinque Terre, discover the most beautiful coastal towns of Liguria!
See Available Properties
Some wineries require a bit of a walk on uneven ground. Wear sturdy shoes, and sort out your ride if you’re not up for driving after tasting.
7) Discover the historic old town of Santa Margherita Ligure
Wander into Santa Margherita Ligure’s old center, and you leave the marina crowds behind. Narrow streets snake past small shops, bakeries, and apartment buildings where locals actually live.
Start near the palm-lined harbor and head inland. You’ll spot Liberty-style villas, painted facades, and quiet corners that feel a world away from glitzy Portofino. The town mixes a bit of elegance with everyday life—this Santa Margherita Ligure travel guide covers the vibe well.
Step inside the 17th-century Basilica di Santa Margherita for its baroque interior and dome, then walk to the 16th-century castle by the water—once a pirate lookout, now a tiny cultural venue. Tripadvisor points out these as top attractions in Santa Margherita Ligure.
Go for an early evening stroll. Shops close for riposo in the afternoon, and weekends bring in day-trippers from Genoa and Milan.
8) Relax on the beaches of Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante is about an hour by train from Genoa, and you step right into one of the Riviera’s most practical beach towns. The town sits between two bays, so you can pick depending on wind or crowds.
Baia del Silenzio is the postcard spot. Check out this Sestri Levante travel guide for more on the setting. It’s calm, sandy, and small—arrive early because it fills up fast on sunny March days.
Baia delle Favole, on the other side, is longer and less cozy, but there’s more space to walk or just sit without bumping elbows.
If you want more than just sand, browse this list of things to do in Sestri Levante. Maybe mix a few hours by the sea with a simple lunch in the old town, then hop back along the coast.
9) Tour the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa
Step into Genoa’s heart at the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa, just off Piazza De Ferrari. This was home to the Doge from 1339 and still anchors the city’s historic core.
Walk through big courtyards, grand stairs, and formal halls—there’s plenty of Genoa’s old maritime swagger, but it doesn’t feel stuffy. Signs are clear, so you can wander without a guide.
Now the palace is a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions and events all year, as this Palazzo Ducale visitor information details. In early March, you’ll probably find an art or photography show plus access to the historic rooms.
Plan for an hour or so if you focus on the main halls and one exhibit. It’s easy to combine with a walk through the Old Town, since the city’s main streets start right outside.
Entry fees change with each exhibit—worth checking the program before you go.
10) Join a guided kayak tour around the coastline
Honestly, the Riviera looks its best from the water. A guided kayak tour lets you paddle past cliffs, beaches, and hidden coves you just can’t reach on foot.
Several local outfits run half-day trips for beginners. Seaview Kayak Tours keeps groups small and gives basic instruction—handy if you’re new to kayaking. You’ll get a safety briefing and a stable sea kayak.
March means cooler air and fewer people. You might need a wetsuit—guides often provide one. Always check sea conditions the day before; wind can cancel trips.
For a bigger adventure, look at multi-day options like those on AE Adventures’ guided kayaking trips. Most aren’t in Italy, but you’ll get a sense of what’s possible.
Easy booking across stunning accommodations from historic hotels to modern retreats. Pastel-colored buildings and crystal waters create the perfect Mediterranean escape!
Secure Your Italian Getaway
Plan for two to three hours on the water. Bring water, sunblock, and a dry bag. You’ll come back with a new feel for the coastline, not just a bunch of shore photos.
Planning Your Trip to the Italian Riviera in Early March
Early March brings mild temperatures, smaller crowds, and some seasonal limits. You’ll want flexible plans, layered clothes, and a clear idea of how you’ll get between towns.
Weather Expectations and Packing Tips
March nudges winter out and lets early spring sneak in along the Ligurian coast. Most days hover around 12–16°C (54–61°F), but once the sun dips, it’s more like 8–10°C (46–50°F).
Rain? Yeah, it’s there—usually quick bursts, not all-day washouts. If you’re planning to hit those Cinque Terre trails or wander the coast, peek at the forecast a few days ahead and stay flexible.
Packing’s all about layers:
- Light waterproof jacket
- Sweater or fleece
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Walking shoes with decent grip
- Compact umbrella
- Sunglasses for when the sky actually shows up blue
Unless you’re a fan of icy dips, swimming’s just not happening. Most beach clubs won’t open yet, but the towns themselves don’t really hibernate.
Curious about how March stacks up across Italy? There’s a handy Italy in March weather and travel tips guide for that.
Transport Options Between Riviera Towns
Most folks get around by regional trains. The Genoa–La Spezia line ties together the big stops: Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Monterosso, Riomaggiore. Trains roll through every 30–60 minutes, and in March, you’ll usually find a seat—no elbow wars required. Remember to validate those paper tickets.
Driving’s tempting if you love flexibility, but old towns don’t make it easy. Portofino, for instance, pretty much says “no thanks” to cars, and garages charge plenty.
Buses can get you to the smaller hillside villages, but don’t expect a robust Sunday schedule. Ferries? They start picking up later in spring, and if the sea’s moody, sailings get canceled.
Want the full logistics rundown? Check out this Italian Riviera travel planning guide.
Local Culture and Seasonal Events
Early March has a different vibe—fewer tourists, more of the everyday local beat. You might stumble into a seasonal event or tradition that feels more authentic than the big summer crowds.
Spring Festivals and Traditions
You’re arriving right as towns shake off winter. Some villages put on Carnevale parades that spill into early March, especially if Easter’s coming late. Nothing too flashy—just homegrown processions, kids in costumes, and stalls dishing out focaccia, farinata, local sweets. Want something bigger? Coastal hubs list their events here: Italian Riviera events on Tripadvisor. But honestly, the small-town stuff feels more inviting.
Markets start to change too. You’ll spot early artichokes, wild asparagus, and the fresh herbs that make pesto sing. If you wander through the weekly markets in places like Chiavari or Ventimiglia, you’ll see how locals actually shop and cook.
Bring a bit of cash for snacks, and if you want the good stuff, get there before noon. Even the tiniest festivals can pull a crowd on Sundays.
Art Exhibitions and Live Performances
March is a pretty great time to wander museums and galleries—you won’t be stuck in endless summer lines. To see what’s on, check guides like Things to Do in the Italian Riviera for up-to-date exhibition listings. Sometimes it’s tricky to know what’ll actually be open, so it’s worth double-checking before you get your hopes up.
Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale tends to put on a mix of art and photography shows that change pretty regularly. Over in Santa Margherita Ligure and other smaller towns, you’ll stumble on galleries with local painters and artwork inspired by the sea or Ligurian history—sometimes it’s hit or miss, but that’s half the fun.
At night, you can usually catch concerts in theaters or even tucked-away churches. The lineups lean toward chamber music, solo piano, or smaller community orchestras—don’t expect huge touring acts, but you might find something surprisingly moving.
It’s a good idea to grab tickets online ahead of time, especially if you’re aiming for a weekend show. And watch out—lots of venues randomly close one day a week, so always give the schedule a quick look before making plans.
From seaside palazzos to hillside villas, find your perfect stay along this stunning stretch of Mediterranean coastline. Instant booking with best price guarantee!
Browse Accommodations Now
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
