The Italian Riviera wakes up in late May—perfect weather, not too many people, and a coastline that feels both lively and relaxed. Liguria’s stretch of land hugs the sea, mixing old-world fishing villages with a dash of modern flair. This week’s the sweet spot for exploring big-name spots like the Aquarium of Genoa or ducking into one of those hidden harbors where the locals hang out.
If you’re after sun-soaked beaches or you’d rather wander medieval lanes, there’s something here for every mood. Portofino’s all about quiet glamour, Cinque Terre brings rugged cliffs and pastel houses, and a handful of festivals keep things buzzing. It’s a good week to just see what you stumble across.
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1) Hike the Cinque Terre coastline trails
The trails linking the five Cinque Terre villages serve up some of Italy’s best sea views, and late May usually means sunshine and temperatures around 22°C (72°F). Not too hot, not too cold.
Grab a Cinque Terre Trekking Card for €7.50 a day—it keeps the paths open and the park protected.
The classic hike runs from Monterosso to Vernazza and takes about two hours. Along the way, you’ll spot vineyards, lemon trees, and endless blue water.
Want fewer crowds? The higher path from Corniglia to Manarola is quieter and swings through olive groves with sweeping views.
The trails aren’t always easy—think rocky, uneven steps—so sturdy shoes and at least a liter of water are a must. Weather can flip quickly, and sometimes trails close with little warning, so check in at the local tourism office before heading out.
2) Explore colorful fishing villages in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre—literally “Five Lands”—packs five little villages onto the cliffs, each with its own quirks. They’re close enough to hop between, and every one feels like a new discovery.
Start in Monterosso, the biggest, with its sandy beaches and winding medieval alleys. A coffee by the sea here just hits differently.
Vernazza is the postcard star, all pastel houses wrapped around a tiny harbor. The Monterosso – Vernazza trail links the two with jaw-dropping scenery.
Manarola’s famous for its vineyards and that cliffside rainbow of houses. It’s a magnet for photographers (and honestly, you’ll end up taking more pictures than you planned).
Corniglia sits on a hill—382 steps up from the train station, but the views and the quieter vibe are worth it.
Riomaggiore is all narrow buildings and boats bobbing in the harbor. The seafood here? Straight from the boats, and you can taste it.
You can walk or take the train between the villages. A Cinque Terre Card covers both trails and unlimited train rides.
3) Take a scenic rail tour between Genoa and La Spezia
The train ride between Genoa and La Spezia is pure Italian Riviera—windows full of sea cliffs, villages, and that bright Ligurian light.
Trains run often and the trip’s about 1.5 hours each way. The Genoa-Casella historic railway is a quirky detour with vintage cars and old-school charm.
A day pass lets you jump off at places like Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Sestri Levante. Honestly, you’ll want to linger in at least one.
For the best sea views, sit on the right side going south from Genoa. The stretch between Sestri Levante and Monterosso is especially stunning.
Early trains mean softer light—better for photos and usually fewer people. From La Spezia, you can hop to local trains into Cinque Terre National Park, stretching your trip even further along the coast.
4) Visit the Aquarium of Genoa
Italy’s largest aquarium sits right in Genoa’s historic port, packed with more than 12,000 animals. If you’re even a little curious about sea life, it’s worth a few hours.
The Aquarium of Genoa claims the title of Europe’s biggest. Expect everything from Mediterranean tanks to tropical rainforests, all under one roof.
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours—there’s a dolphin pool, a shark tunnel, and coral reefs that’ll keep you lingering.
Lines can get long, especially midday, so book ahead if you can (tickets online here). Weekday mornings are usually calmer.
Afterward, wander the Porto Antico area. The Biosphere nearby is a glass bubble full of tropical plants, and the Bigo elevator lifts you up for 360° views of the city.
Accessibility is good—ramps and elevators are everywhere.
5) Walk the natural park trails around Portofino
If hiking’s your thing, the Portofino Regional Nature Park is a dream. There are 42 trails, ranging from gentle strolls to steep climbs, all with sea breezes and wildflowers in May.
Try the coastal paths between Santa Margherita and Portofino for that classic Riviera look—blue water on one side, green hills on the other.
Most walks take 4-6 hours including stops. Good shoes, sunscreen, and water are a must; some sections get steep, even for regular hikers.
You’ll find plenty of picnic spots with views over the sea and villages. Grab a trail map at the visitor center in Portofino or Santa Margherita and start early if you want to avoid the midday sun.
6) Dine on authentic Ligurian cuisine in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure nails classic Ligurian food. It’s a seaside town where the seafood is impossibly fresh and the recipes haven’t changed much in generations.
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Don’t leave without trying the local purple shrimp—they’re sweet and barely need anything but a squeeze of lemon.
Genovese focaccia is everywhere, salty and olive-oil rich, with a crispy outside and soft middle.
Pasta fans, look for trofie al pesto or pansoti in walnut sauce—classic Ligurian dishes that are simple but packed with flavor.
You’ll find everything from casual trattorias to fancier spots, and even some hotel restaurants have killer sea views.
7) Relax on beaches at Finale Ligure and Alassio
Finale Ligure and Alassio both offer wide, sandy beaches and, in late May, you won’t be fighting for a spot. Temperatures should hover around 24°C (75°F)—pretty much perfect.
Finale Ligure’s main beach is long, with mountains as a backdrop. Bagni Ondina gets good reviews for being clean and well-run (see for yourself).
Alassio’s vibe is a bit different—flat, sandy, easy to stroll, and the views of the hills behind are gorgeous.
It’s quieter than Cinque Terre or Portofino; Alassio stays pretty mellow even in the busy season. This week, there’s room to spread out.
Expect to pay €15-20 for a beach chair at most clubs, but both towns have free sections if you don’t mind going without the extras. Early mornings are the best for peace and quiet.
8) Cruise along the coastline to view Cinque Terre villages
May’s calm seas make it prime time for a boat trip along the Riviera. Seeing the Cinque Terre villages from the water? It’s a whole new perspective—the cliffs, the colors, the way the buildings cling to rock.
Boats leave daily from Monterosso. A three-hour tour runs about €50-80, depending on what’s included.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can charter a private yacht for the day—swim in hidden coves, eat lunch on deck, and skip the crowds onshore.
From the sea, Vernazza’s harbor, Manarola’s bright houses, and Riomaggiore’s dramatic cliffs stand out even more. Morning cruises usually mean smoother water and better light for photos. Even in May, the breeze can be chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Planning ahead? Some cruise companies are already taking 2025 bookings, and you might snag a deal if you book early.
9) Discover medieval castles near the Riviera coast
The Italian Riviera’s got a handful of medieval castles that are as fascinating as they are scenic. If you’re up for a bit of exploring, check out the Castello di Lerici. It stands tall over one of the region’s prettiest harbors—honestly, it’s hard not to stop and stare.
For a day trip that really sticks with you, head to Castello Doria. This old fortress sits right above the sea. The views are stellar, and the place has plenty of stories about the coast’s past defenses.
If you want something easy to reach, Castello di Rapallo is a solid pick. Built back in the 16th century to fend off pirates (how’s that for drama?), it now displays a quirky collection of maritime artifacts. This week, they’ve even extended their visiting hours.
Prefer somewhere a bit quieter? Castello di Chiavari doesn’t pull big crowds, so you can actually take your time with the local history and architecture. It’s a nice break from the busier spots.
And if Cinque Terre’s on your radar, squeeze in a stop at Castello di Riomaggiore. It’s smaller, sure, but you’ll get a sense of how these cliffside villages kept themselves safe through the centuries.
10) Spot trompe-l’oeil murals in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure, the grande dame of the Riviera di Levante, hides some real artistic surprises on its facades. Wandering the town, you’ll spot trompe-l’oeil murals—those painted illusions that might just trick your eyes if you’re not paying attention.
Look for the fake windows, doors, and bits of decoration that blend right into the real thing. This Ligurian tradition goes way back, and you’ll see it all over the historic center.
Start your search along the waterfront promenade—there are a few gems right there. The best murals tend to show up on the grander villas and old buildings scattered around town.
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Villa Durazzo, built in 1678 and easily the top attraction, has some of the finest examples. Poke around the surrounding streets for even more facades worth a closer look.
You don’t need anything fancy—just keep your eyes open and don’t rush. Morning light usually works best, since the shadows make those illusions pop.
Understanding the Charm of the Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera wraps together wild coastal scenery and centuries of tradition. There’s just something about the way the land and the sea meet here that makes the place feel special. Late May? Pretty much perfect for getting out and seeing what all the fuss is about.
Geography and Local Culture
Running from the French border to Tuscany, Liguria’s coastline curves like a crescent. The land gets squeezed between the sea and the mountains, so you end up with dramatic cliffs and villages that look like they’re clinging to the rocks.
People usually split the Riviera into two: Ponente (west) and Levante (east). The east is where you’ll find the famous Cinque Terre, those five fishing villages all strung together by hiking trails.
Life here revolves around the sea and what comes from it. You’ll see (and taste) Ligurian specialties like pesto (born in Genoa), focaccia, and all sorts of seafood. The food’s a real window into the region’s soul.
Genoa, the capital, has a historic center that’s basically a maze of narrow alleyways—Europe’s biggest medieval quarter, apparently. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s half the fun.
Typical Weather in Late May
Late May really hits the sweet spot. Daytime highs usually land between 18-24°C (65-75°F), so you can wander around or even hit the beach without melting.
Rain? Not much. Maybe four or five days with showers all month, and you’ll get a good 7-8 hours of sunshine most days.
The sea warms up to about 19-20°C (66-68°F) by afternoon, so if you’re brave, swimming’s on the table.
Pack layers, though. Evenings can dip to 15-17°C (59-63°F), especially near the mountains. You’ll want something to throw on once the sun drops.
Winds stay pretty mild this time of year. It’s a great moment for boat trips—places like Portofino really show off when you approach from the water.
Travel Tips for Visiting May 25-31, 2025
Late May on the Italian Riviera means great weather and lighter crowds, but you’ll still want to plan ahead and be considerate of the locals.
What to Pack for the Riviera in May
Temperatures swing from 15-24°C (59-75°F), with the occasional cool breeze in the evenings. Pack light layers you can shuffle on and off as needed.
Essentials:
- Lightweight shirts and pants
- A sweater or light jacket for after dark
- Good walking shoes (cobblestones everywhere)
- Swimwear (the sea’s chilly, but doable)
- Sun protection—hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle
Most restaurants do the smart-casual thing. Guys don’t need jackets, but shorts are a no-go at the fancier spots.
Bring a small umbrella—May can still surprise you with a quick shower. Shops tend to close up for riposo (1-4pm), so keep a few essentials with you if you’re out and about then.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
The Italian Riviera’s popularity brings some real environmental headaches, but travelers can actually help out just by making a few smarter choices.
Transportation options:
- Hop on the regional trains that link up the coastal towns
- Grab an e-bike if you’re just going a short way
- Try a guided walking tour instead of hiring a private car
When it comes to where you stay, go for places that have some kind of environmental certification. Lots of family-run hotels take water conservation seriously and buy food from local farmers—it’s not always fancy, but it’s real.
If you want to give back to the local economy, buy crafts from actual artisans and eat at those tiny family restaurants serving up regional dishes. Keep an eye out for “km0″—that means the ingredients didn’t travel far at all.
Stick to the marked trails when you’re hiking in Cinque Terre or anywhere else. Oh, and during busy stretches, some coastal spots limit the number of visitors—worth checking ahead so you don’t get caught out.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in the Italian Riviera! Look for deals here:
Italian Riviera Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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
