Where to go on the Italian Riviera for a luxury coastal escape

With Europe’s heatwave in full swing, a trip to the coast is just what is needed to keep cool as temperatures continue to soar. And few destinations combine Mediterranean elegance and crystal-clear waters quite like the Italian Riviera.

Online searches for “Italian Riviera towns” have surged by more than 5,000% over the past month, according to data released by tour operator Citalia, while interest in “things to do in Cinque Terre” has doubled in the past weeks.

Stretching from the French border to northern Tuscany, Liguria combines colourful fishing villages, glamorous resorts, UNESCO-listed heritage and more Blue Flag beaches than any other Italian region.

According to the operator’s experts, here’s where to visit on the Italian Riviera for a luxury coastal escape in 2026.

Sanremo

Long regarded as one of the Riviera’s most elegant resorts, Sanremo is famed for its palm-lined promenades, grand Belle Époque architecture and historic casino. Days are spent wandering along Corso Imperatrice, lingering over seafood lunches at the marina or exploring the maze of medieval streets in La Pigna.

“Sanremo feels effortlessly sophisticated,” says Heather Green, Head of Product at Citalia. “One of my favourite things to do is venture into La Pigna in the early evening, where you’ll discover panoramic viewpoints and tucked-away local restaurants that many visitors miss entirely.”

Genoa

The regional capital offers a different perspective on the Riviera, combining grand Renaissance palaces with one of Italy’s most important historic ports. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Via Garibaldi, browse bustling piazzas and sample authentic pesto in the city where the famous sauce originated.

Green suggests stepping beyond the main squares into Genoa’s narrow “caruggi” alleyways, home to hidden bakeries, traditional wine bars and characterful trattorias that reveal the city’s authentic side.

Rapallo and Portofino

Rapallo provides an ideal base for discovering the glamorous coastline around Portofino, where luxury yachts, designer boutiques and pastel-coloured waterfront buildings have made the harbour one of Italy’s most recognisable destinations.

Portofino’s cinematic scenery has even appeared in “The Wolf of Wall Street”, reinforcing its reputation as one of Europe’s most exclusive seaside escapes. Green recommends arriving by boat to fully appreciate the dramatic approach into the harbour.

Santa Margherita and Camogli

With elegant seafront villas, Blue Flag beaches and scenic walking trails leading towards Portofino, Santa Margherita is one of Liguria’s most romantic destinations.

For a quieter evening, Green recommends taking the short train ride to nearby Camogli, a traditional fishing village whose colourful waterfront and maritime history make it one of the Riviera’s most atmospheric dinner spots after sunset.

Portovenere

Often overlooked in favour of neighbouring Cinque Terre, Portovenere rewards visitors with dramatic cliffs, pastel-coloured harbour houses and sweeping views across the Gulf of Poets.

Explore the Church of St Peter, visit Doria Castle or take a boat trip along the UNESCO-protected coastline. Green suggests climbing towards the castle in the late afternoon when the coastline is bathed in golden light.

Cinque Terre

Made up of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre remains one of Europe’s most photographed coastal landscapes. The colourful villages also inspired Pixar’s “Luca”, introducing the region’s nostalgic seaside charm to a global audience.

Despite its popularity, Green says the best way to experience Cinque Terre is to slow down. Staying into the evening, after day-trippers have departed, allows visitors to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.