The Italian Riviera really comes alive in early July. Sunlight lingers late, the sea’s warm, and every village along this Ligurian coastline seems to buzz with energy. From historic Genoa to the iconic Cinque Terre, you’ll find a blend of culture, adventure, and those “how is this real?” moments. Expect temperatures hovering between 75-85°F (24-29°C), with long days that practically demand you get out and explore.
Between July 6-12, there’s no shortage of ways to dive into real Italian coastal life. Local festivals, outdoor concerts, and seaside dinners set the scene for unforgettable evenings. Mornings are perfect for hiking ancient trails, and afternoons call for a swim in the Mediterranean. Medieval towns and artisan workshops are waiting if you’re up for a little culture between beach visits.
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1) Explore the colorful villages of Cinque Terre by hiking the Sentiero Azzurro trail
The Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Trail, is hands-down the best way to see all five Cinque Terre villages in a single sweep. This famous path links Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, winding along the sea.
You’ll get jaw-dropping views of vineyards, cliffs, and that endless blue water. Some stretches are tougher than others, but most folks with a bit of fitness can manage at least a portion.
Parts of the trail sometimes close for repairs, so swing by the park office or check online before you lace up. The Monterosso to Vernazza section is almost always open and honestly, it’s a highlight.
Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Grab a Cinque Terre Card (€7.50/day) for trail access—it’s required and helps keep the paths in shape.
Early morning hikes are cooler and the light’s perfect for those classic village shots. If you’re ambitious, allow 5-6 hours to walk the open sections and linger in each town.
Every village has its own vibe and treats. In Vernazza, the anchovies are a local specialty, while Corniglia’s gelato is worth every step of the climb.
2) Enjoy a boat tour from Portofino to San Fruttuoso Abbey
A boat tour between Portofino and San Fruttuoso is a must if you want to see the Riviera from the water. These 1.5-hour trips come with guides (Italian and English) who bring the region’s history to life.
You’ll cruise past the Portofino Promontory, catch sight of the old lighthouse, and finally arrive at the hidden cove of San Fruttuoso—reachable only by boat or a long hike.
San Fruttuoso’s medieval abbey sits tucked between pine forests and the sea. It’s the sort of spot that feels like a secret, and the photos practically take themselves.
Many tours let you swim or snorkel near the Christ of the Abyss, a bronze statue resting underwater in the bay. Visibility is usually fantastic in July.
Small group tours often pause in Portofino village, so you can poke around the pastel buildings and maybe splurge in a boutique or two. Some boats even dock for lunch at a seafood place right on the water.
Boats leave all day from Portofino’s harbor, but July gets busy—book ahead if you can.
3) Dine on fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant in Monterosso al Mare
If you’re craving seafood, Monterosso al Mare is the place to be. The town’s seafood restaurants are legendary for freshness and view. There’s something about eating octopus or stuffed calamari while the sun sets over the Ligurian Sea that just feels right.
Try Lapo’s³ Restaurant for their mixed seafood platters, or wander until you spot a menu that speaks to you.
Most places in the old town offer vegetarian and gluten-free options too—think fresh salads, pesto pasta, and grilled veggies.
Sunset is prime time, so reserve a table if you want those golden hour views. Everything’s within strolling distance of the beach, so you can go straight from the sea to your seat.
Pair your meal with a crisp Ligurian white wine. It’s light, refreshing, and honestly, it just works with seafood.
4) Visit Genoa’s historic old town and its UNESCO World Heritage palaces
Genoa’s old town is a labyrinth of “caruggi”—those narrow alleyways that twist between tall, weathered buildings. It’s one of Europe’s largest historic centers, and it’s easy to get lost in the best way.
The real stars are the Palazzi dei Rolli, Renaissance and Baroque palaces that once hosted VIPs and now show off Genoa’s merchant glory. They’re UNESCO-listed for good reason.
This week, a few palaces like Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco stay open later into the evening. Fewer crowds, cooler air, and a chance to see art collections without the midday rush.
Walking tours leave daily at 10am and 4pm from Piazza de Ferrari. Give yourself about three hours if you want to soak it all in.
If you’re hoping to dodge the worst of the heat and crowds, go early or wait until evening.
5) Relax on the beaches of the Riviera di Ponente near Sanremo
Looking for a break from the hustle? The Riviera di Ponente is your spot. This western stretch feels a bit more laid-back than the touristy east, but the water’s just as clear.
Sanremo, called the City of Flowers, has beaches for every mood. You’ll find both public and private options—rent a chair and umbrella, or just toss down a towel.
Right in town, several beaches are close to restaurants and shops. The shallow entries are great for families.
Prefer quiet? Wander a bit outside Sanremo for smaller, less crowded beaches. They’re more local, and sometimes you’ll have nearly the whole place to yourself.
July’s water is perfect for swimming, usually 23-25°C (73-77°F). Mornings are calmest, but sometimes a breeze kicks up in the afternoon.
Some beaches have pebbles, so water shoes are handy but not essential. Most spots have showers and changing rooms, so you can clean up before heading back to town.
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6) Take a guided wine tasting tour in the hills around Dolceacqua
Dolceacqua isn’t just a pretty medieval village—it’s the heart of Rossese di Dolceacqua, a local wine you’ve got to try.
Guides lead tours through the Nervia Valley vineyards, where you’ll see how families have grown grapes here for generations. The sea breeze helps the grapes thrive, and you’ll taste the difference.
You’ll sample several wines, usually with olive tapenade, bread, and other Ligurian bites. Most tours are run in English, Italian, and French, so you’ll actually understand what you’re drinking.
The scenery alone is worth the trip—rolling hills, vines everywhere, and glimpses of the coast. Tours last about 3-4 hours, and mornings are cooler if you want to beat the heat.
July is peak season, so book ahead. Expect to pay €45-75 per person, which covers transport from nearby towns, tastings, and some snacks.
7) Discover local art at the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa
The Palazzo Ducale is one of Genoa’s most striking buildings. Once the Doges’ palace, it’s now a cultural hub with a steady rotation of art shows.
This week, the palace hosts a contemporary Ligurian art exhibit—perfect for seeing what local artists are up to. The grand main hall, with its Renaissance bones, makes a dramatic backdrop for modern work.
You’ll find the palace right in the historic center, so it’s easy to add to your Genoa wanderings. The exhibit runs daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with English tours at 11 AM and 3 PM.
Tickets are €12 (covers both the special show and permanent collection). On Wednesdays after 4 PM, you’ll get in for €8.
Palazzo Ducale’s exhibitions are always worth checking out. When you’re done, grab a coffee or glass of wine in the courtyard—sometimes there’s live music, which is a nice touch.
8) Attend a summer festival or outdoor concert along the coast
July’s music scene on the Italian Riviera is hard to beat. The Portofino Summer Nights festival runs July 7-10, with jazz and classical music filling the main piazza as the sun dips behind the harbor.
Santa Margherita Ligure hosts the Riviera Sound Series on July 8, where contemporary Italian musicians perform on a stage right by the sea. Tickets start at €25—grab them early, they go fast.
In Camogli, the free Sunset Melodies series happens nightly on the beach. Bring a blanket, maybe a bottle of wine, and enjoy local musicians as the sky turns pink.
If you’re into classical, the Rapallo Symphony Orchestra plays outdoors in the castle gardens on July 11. Expect Italian composers and some Mediterranean-inspired pieces.
Most shows kick off around 8:30 PM, once it cools off. If seats sell out, you can still catch the music from standing areas or nearby cafes—sometimes that’s even better for soaking up the atmosphere.
9) Go kayaking along the Mediterranean coast near Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante’s coastline feels made for kayaking. You’ll glide over clear Mediterranean water, ducking into hidden coves and along dramatic cliffs you just can’t reach on foot.
Plenty of local operators in Sestri Levante run kayaking tours, and they’re pretty welcoming whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler. They’ll set you up with a kayak, life vest, waterproof container, and a bit of instruction if you need it.
The stretch from Sestri Levante to Framura is a personal favorite—craggy rocks, quiet beaches, and those postcard villages sliding by as you paddle. It’s honestly hard not to stop and stare.
If you want to mix things up, check out a guided kayak excursion that throws in a few snorkeling breaks. Most tours run 2-3 hours and start around €65 per person, but it varies depending on your route.
Mornings are usually best—the water’s calmer, visibility’s better, and you might spot some marine life below. Some guides pull up at little beaches for a swim or a breather, which just feels right.
Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a hat—shade is rare out there. If you’ve got a waterproof camera, bring it; the views from the water are something else.
10) Explore the botanical gardens at Hanbury Gardens in Ventimiglia
The Hanbury Botanical Gardens sprawl across 18 hectares on the Mortola promontory, just a few kilometers from the French border. Honestly, this week’s weather is perfect for wandering through one of Europe’s most renowned botanical gardens.
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You’ll come across nearly 6,000 cataloged plant species, most with tropical or subtropical roots. The place balances scientific curiosity and natural beauty, and it’s even earned UNESCO recognition for its scientific importance.
As you stroll, you’ll see how the gardens hug the promontory, with sweeping Mediterranean views just beyond the rare plants. Some areas are formal, others feel wild, with plants from Mediterranean climates all over the world.
Sir Thomas Hanbury, a British entrepreneur and botanist, started the gardens in the 19th century. His vision still shapes the place—a blend of botanical science and natural beauty.
Hours run from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM every day this week. Wear comfortable shoes; the paths wind up and down, and there’s a lot to see.
Understanding the Unique Charm of the Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera is a mix of dramatic coastlines and centuries-old culture—there’s just something about it. Colorful fishing villages, swanky resort towns, and the ever-present blue of the Mediterranean all blend together here.
Climate and Seasonal Highlights in July
July brings warmth you can count on, with temperatures usually hovering between 75-85°F (24-29°C). Mornings are pleasant for exploring, but afternoons can get toasty, especially if you wander inland.
The sea warms up to a balmy 75°F (24°C), so swimming or paddling around is a no-brainer. You’ll get about 10-11 hours of sunshine each day, and rain’s pretty rare. Outdoor dinners and evening walks? Absolutely.
Mid-July is when the coast really comes alive—everyone’s out, and a gentle sea breeze takes the edge off the heat. Nights cool down just enough, which is a relief after a day in the sun.
Pack light, breathable clothes, sun protection, and maybe a sweater for evenings. Trust me, comfortable shoes are a must for those steep village paths.
Local Events and Cultural Traditions
In July, the Italian Riviera turns into a festival hotspot. Each town seems to throw its own sagra (food festival), from anchovies in Monterosso to—you guessed it—lemons in Monterosso.
Religious processions fill the harbors with decorated boats honoring local saints. You’ll also find:
- Evening music in old piazzas
- Open-air movies projected against ancient walls
- Markets full of local crafts
There’s a real charm to the everyday stuff, too. If you’re up early, you’ll spot fishermen hauling in the day’s catch, which is probably what you’ll eat later.
Shops close for riposo (afternoon rest), then open again for the evening. It’s a slower pace—try leaning into it: mornings for exploring, afternoons to relax, and evenings out with the locals.
Travel Tips for a Memorable Visit
The Italian Riviera rewards a bit of planning and a dash of local know-how. Getting around and understanding how things work can make your trip a whole lot smoother.
Navigating Transportation Along the Coast
Trains are your best bet for getting around—the main Genoa-La Spezia line links most of the hot spots. If you’re focused on the five famous villages, grab a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train rides and hiking access.
Buses fill in the gaps, especially for hillside towns. Use the Trenitalia app for schedules—Google Maps isn’t always up to date, and summer timetables can be a moving target.
Ferries give you those epic coastal views you just can’t get from the road. Summer routes connect Portofino, Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, and the Cinque Terre. Go early—afternoon trips sometimes get canceled if the wind picks up.
Renting a scooter sounds fun and gives you freedom, but parking is tough in July, especially in popular spots. And don’t forget to validate your train ticket before you hop on, or you might get fined.
Dining Etiquette and Must-Try Dishes
Restaurants here keep later hours than you might expect. Most locals won’t even think about dinner before 8:00 PM. If you’re eyeing a table at a seaside spot—especially in July—you’ll want to book ahead.
Trofie al pesto is the region’s calling card. It’s a short, twisted pasta tossed with Ligurian pesto—fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, all that good stuff. You really haven’t tasted pesto until you’ve eaten it here in its home. Check out the authentic experience.
Seafood rules the coast. Go for anchovies marinated in lemon (acciughe al limone) or stuffed mussels (cozze ripiene) if you spot them. For a quick bite, grab some farinata—a crispy chickpea pancake that’s cheap and surprisingly addictive.
Coffee’s a whole ritual. Order cappuccino only in the morning unless you want some raised eyebrows. Espresso? That’s fair game any time. And when you ask for water, be clear: “naturale” for still, “frizzante” for sparkling. Tap water isn’t usually on offer.
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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
