The Italian Riviera wakes up in early June—warm days, lighter crowds, and a coastline that just begs to be explored. This place has everything: hidden beaches, cliffside villages, and that classic blend of natural beauty and old-world charm. Honestly, if you want to dodge the tourist crush of July and August, now’s the time to go.
This week, there’s a buzz in the air with local festivals, outdoor adventures, and fresh seafood on every corner. Temperatures usually hover between 18-25°C (65-77°F), so you can relax by the sea or wander inland without breaking a sweat. Picking the right spots? That’s what makes a trip here really stick in your memory.
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1) Hike the Cinque Terre coastal trails
Cinque Terre National Park has over 120 km of coastal trails, linking five vibrant villages that seem to tumble down the cliffs. The Mediterranean views are something else—honestly, you’ll want to stop every few steps for a photo.
Grab a Cinque Terre Card for access to the main trails, especially the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail). That card covers entry to 48 marked paths, so it’s pretty much a must.
Trail difficulty varies. The walks between Monterosso and Vernazza, and Vernazza to Corniglia, are moderately challenging. Decent hiking shoes are a good idea—some stretches have loose rocks and uneven bits.
June’s weather is just right for hiking. If you start early, you’ll beat both the sun and the crowds.
Walking between villages usually takes 1-2 hours, but you’ll want to linger for those dramatic coastline views. Each village has its own vibe, from Riomaggiore’s pretty harbor to Manarola’s terraced vineyards.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and maybe a snack. The Cinque Terre hiking trails are 100% worth the effort for the scenery and the atmosphere.
2) Explore the colorful villages of Cinque Terre
The five villages of Cinque Terre are a classic day out on the Italian Riviera. “Cinque Terre” just means “Five Lands,” and each one—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Monterosso—has its own personality.
Kick off in Riomaggiore, where pastel houses spill down to a tiny harbor. Morning light here is something special—bring your camera.
Next up, Manarola. It’s probably the most photogenic, with those stacked, rainbow-colored buildings you’ve seen in every travel mag.
Corniglia sits high above the sea, not right on the water like the others. It’s a bit of a climb—about 400 steps—but the view from the top? Totally worth it.
Vernazza’s got a natural harbor, a little beach, and a main square that’s perfect for a seafood lunch.
Monterosso is the biggest, and it’s where you’ll find the best beaches. Grab a swim or chill with a glass of local wine as the sun dips.
3) Visit the Aquarium of Genoa
The Aquarium of Genoa is open every day, so it’s an easy addition to your plans. Right in the Old Port, the place has around 12,000 sea creatures and 600 species from all over.
You’ll wander through 70+ exhibit spaces. It’s actually Europe’s largest biodiversity showcase, so there’s a lot to see.
Try to visit on a weekday between 10 am and 8 pm—weekends get busier, though hours stretch from 9 am to 8 pm. The last entry is at 6 pm, no matter the day.
If you’re into penguins, the “Face to Face with Penguins” tour is a 90-minute deep dive into their world, led by experts.
After your visit, there are plenty of things to see nearby. The Old Port is packed with good spots to eat and unwind.
4) Take a scenic train ride along the Riviera
The Italian Riviera’s train line hugs the coast, serving up sea views you’d never see from a car. Trains run often between the towns, so you can hop on and off without much hassle.
From Genoa down to Civitavecchia, local trains cover the whole coastline in under five hours—but honestly, you’ll want to stop along the way and soak up each town’s unique feel.
The railway through Cinque Terre is especially dramatic. Cliffs, turquoise water, and villages clinging to the rocks—classic Italy.
Train travel here is straightforward. Unlike the Amalfi Coast’s slow buses, most towns have stations right in the center. For example, Rapallo to Santa Margherita Ligure takes just three minutes; Camogli is only eight.
If you’re planning lots of stops, a day pass will save you some cash. Trains are air-conditioned and comfy, but they can get crowded at rush hour.
5) Walk through the seaside town of Portofino
Portofino is a little fishing village that feels like a movie set—colorful houses, a sparkling waterfront, and just enough glamour. This week’s weather is perfect for wandering its lanes and watching yachts drift in and out.
Start at Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta, the main square by the harbor. It’s a great place to people-watch over a coffee.
Head up to Castello Brown, a fortress on the hill with knockout views over the sea.
The Church of San Giorgio stands on the promontory and offers another lovely vantage point.
If you’re up for it, walk out to the Portofino Lighthouse—about ten minutes from Castello Brown. From there, you’ll see the Tigullio Gulf spread out below.
You might spot remnants of ancient Roman walls in the gardens along your walk. These little historical touches add to Portofino’s charm.
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6) Enjoy Ligurian cuisine specialties
The food in Liguria really stands out. This week, you’ll find all the classics at their best.
Pesto is the big one—made with local basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano, and olive oil. Genoa restaurants are hosting pesto workshops June 9-11 if you’re keen to learn the real way to make it.
Focaccia here is thin, crisp-edged, and soaked in olive oil. Try some at the weekend market in Santa Margherita Ligure—it’s hard to stop at one piece.
Seafood is everywhere. Monterosso anchovies are a highlight, served five different ways at the harborside festival through June 12.
Farinata, a chickpea pancake, comes hot from wood-fired ovens. Camogli’s old town bakeries do a killer version.
Wine lovers should check out Vermentino and Pigato whites—they pair perfectly with seafood. Some Cinque Terre vineyards are offering tastings with sea views this week.
7) Discover Trompe-l’œil murals in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure is famous for its trompe-l’œil murals—paintings that trick your eye into seeing 3D effects. You’ll spot them all over town, especially along the promenade and in the historic center.
The murals show fake windows, extra columns, and little scenes from daily life, blending right into the buildings. Some go back centuries, but local artists are still adding new ones.
A self-guided walk takes about 90 minutes. Start at the harbor and wind through the narrow streets—some of the best murals are tucked away.
This week, local guides are running special tours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings (€15 per person, starting at 10:00 AM from the main square). They’ll point out hidden details you’d probably miss on your own.
8) Relax at the beaches near La Spezia
June is just right for hitting La Spezia’s coastline. There’s a mix of beaches and coves—some lively, some more private.
Monterosso and Baia Blu are two of the top spots. Weekdays are quieter, so you’ll have more space to yourself.
You’ll find both sandy and pebble beaches—18 sandy ones if you’re picky about sand. Some are easy to reach, others need a short hike (but it’s worth it for the peace and quiet).
If you’re not just here to sunbathe, a few beaches are great for SUP boarding. Water shoes help with rocky spots, and some places have limited facilities, so plan ahead.
Even if you’re not swimming, La Spezia’s waterfront is a lovely place for a stroll. Early mornings or late afternoons are best to dodge the heat and crowds.
9) Cruise the Cinque Terre villages by boat
Seeing Cinque Terre from the water is a whole different experience. You can visit all five villages in a day, skipping the crowded trails and busy trains.
Most tours leave from Monterosso. Private three-hour cruises include wine, snacks, and snorkeling gear—pretty tempting if you want something special.
On a budget? The Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Vernazza cruise runs about eight hours and still covers the highlights.
From the sea, you’ll spot hidden coves and dramatic cliffs you’d never notice on land. Boats usually stop in calm spots for a swim in clear water.
For something really memorable, book a sunset cruise with aperitif. The villages light up in golden colors as the sun drops behind the mountains.
Most tours have free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. English-speaking guides are the norm, so you’ll get the backstory on each village as you go.
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10) Visit medieval castles along the coast
The Italian Riviera’s coastline is scattered with medieval castles, each with its own story from centuries past. June is a sweet spot—warm weather, not too many tourists, and the sea breeze makes castle-hopping genuinely enjoyable.
Lerici Castle is probably the easiest to reach this week. For just 2 euros, you get to wander through its old stone corridors and soak in those wide-open views of the Gulf of Poets. The walk from Lerici’s town center takes about 20 minutes and hugs the coast—honestly, half the fun is just getting there.
Castles in the Italian Riviera come in all shapes: some perfectly preserved, others just moody ruins with wildflowers growing through the cracks. A lot of them tuck little museums inside, where you can poke around displays about the region’s seafaring history and the old defenses.
Several medieval castles along the Riviera di Levante are kicking off special summer exhibits right now, which adds a nice twist if you’ve already seen a castle or two elsewhere in Italy.
Unlike the ones you find inland, these coastal fortresses dish up jaw-dropping sea views. Bring comfy shoes, water, and a camera—you’ll want to remember these spots.
Essential Travel Tips for the Italian Riviera in June
June is a fantastic time to explore the Italian Riviera, but a little planning goes a long way. What you pack and how you get around can make or break your trip.
Weather and Packing Essentials
Early June feels just right—days hover between 18-25°C (65-77°F), but evenings can surprise you with a chill, especially when the breeze picks up.
Bring light, breathable clothes for daytime, but don’t forget:
- A light jacket or sweater for when the sun dips
- Comfortable shoes (the cobblestones are no joke)
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel for those impulsive beach stops
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen
- A small umbrella, just in case a rain shower sneaks up
The sea sits at a refreshing 21°C (70°F) in early June—maybe a little brisk, but most folks find it pleasant. Hiking trails are in great shape right now, so pack shoes that can handle a bit of dirt if you’re tempted by the scenic coastal paths.
Navigating Local Transportation
Getting around is surprisingly easy. The trains connect all the main towns along the coast, and tickets won’t break the bank.
Regional trains make stops in nearly every coastal town—way more convenient than relying on buses, which is the case in other parts of Italy. From Rapallo, you can be in Camogli in under 10 minutes or hit Monterosso al Mare (the first Cinque Terre village) in about 40 minutes.
If you’re planning to hop around Cinque Terre, grab the Cinque Terre Card—it covers unlimited train rides between the villages and entry to the hiking paths. Ferries are a fun option too, especially between places like Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. You get both a ride and a view.
Making the Most of Your Italian Riviera Experience
There’s more to the Riviera than just scenery. Getting a feel for local habits and treating the place with care makes your trip a lot more meaningful.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs
A simple “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” goes a long way—Ligurians notice and appreciate even the smallest effort to speak Italian.
Meals have their own rhythm here. Lunch usually runs from 12:30-2:00 PM, and dinner doesn’t really get going until after 7:30 PM. Order a cappuccino in the afternoon and you’ll get a funny look; stick to espresso if you need a caffeine fix later in the day.
When you step into churches or religious sites, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. This is especially true during festivals and special events.
Shops in smaller towns still take a riposo—a midday break—usually closing from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Plan your errands around that, or you might find yourself peering through locked doors.
Sustainable Tourism Practices
The Italian Riviera’s no stranger to tourism pressure, especially in hotspots like Cinque Terre. If you can, try checking out quieter places—Camogli or Sestri Levante, for example. It takes the edge off the crowds and gives you a different vibe.
Hop on the regional trains—they’re surprisingly good here. These trains link up most of the coast, so you don’t really need a rental car. Less traffic, less hassle, and you’re doing the planet a favor.
Whenever possible, back the local businesses:
- Grab souvenirs from family-run shops, not big chains
- Eat where they serve real Ligurian food (you’ll taste the difference)
- Buy fresh stuff straight from local markets or producers
Water’s a big deal here—it’s scarce thanks to the Mediterranean climate. Most towns have public fountains, so just refill your bottle instead of buying another plastic one. Simple, but it helps.
If you’re swimming or boating, keep in mind the protected marine areas. There are a few marine reserves with their own rules to preserve underwater ecosystems. Might seem strict, but it’s worth it.
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
