Tucked away along the Ligurian coastline, beyond the postcard charm of Cinque Terre, lies a string of breathtaking towns where colourful houses cling to cliffs, fishing boats bob along harborfronts, and hidden coves invite quiet introspection. The Italian Riviera is more than just its famous five villages—it’s a treasure of lesser-known destinations that remain delightfully under the radar. Here, you can relish sun-drenched afternoons, centuries-old history, and remarkably fresh seafood—all while sidestepping the heavier tourist crowds. If you’re seeking an authentic Riviera experience without the bustle, this guide is your key to discovering the hidden gems that await just beyond Cinque Terre.
What to see
Camogli: a postcard-perfect fishing village
Nestled along the Golfo Paradiso, Camogli is a lesser-known gem that lives up to its name. With its tall pastel buildings facing a pebble beach and clear turquoise water, the town’s scenery is picture-perfect.
- Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, a baroque church perched dramatically on the rocky promontory.
- Stroll along the harbor to see traditional Ligurian fishing boats and sample street food served from converted fishing huts.
- Catch panoramic views from Castello della Dragonara, a fortress that protects the bay and dates back centuries.
Sestri Levante: the town of two bays
Sestri Levante is uniquely situated between the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fables. It charms visitors with its dual beaches and a historic center brimming with soul.
- Explore Baia del Silenzio, a tranquil beach framed by colorful houses and calm waters.
- Visit Palazzo Fascie Rossi, home to the town’s archaeological museum and civic library.
- Wander the narrow alleys of the old town and discover artisan boutiques and elegant cafes.
Santa Margherita Ligure: elegance by the sea
This charming resort town combines elegant villas, palm-lined promenades, and a working harbor. It’s also the gateway to the even more famous Portofino.
- Admire Villa Durazzo, a 17th-century estate with botanical gardens and majestic sea views.
- Take a walk along the Lungomare, where seafood restaurants and gelaterie overlook the marina.
- Don’t miss the Baroque Church of San Giacomo, glowing with golden frescoes.
Lerici and Tellaro: poetic corners of the gulf
South of Cinque Terre, facing the Gulf of Poets, Lerici and its nearby neighbor Tellaro have inspired travelers and writers for centuries.
- Explore Castello di Lerici, a seaside fortress offering dramatic views of the bay.
- Wander through Tellaro, a tiny fishing village framed by crashing waves and bougainvillea-covered steps.
- Visit the sandy Venere Azzurra beach for a relaxing swim away from the crowds.
What to do
Hike coastal trails off the mainstream path
Beyond the famous Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, the Riviera offers a range of scenic hikes:
- Camogli to San Fruttuoso: An enchanting trail through Mediterranean forest whitewashed cliffs and ending at an abbey only accessible by foot or boat.
- Sestri Levante’s Punta Manara: A manageable hike with sweeping coastal views, ideal for sunrise or sunset.
- Lerici to Montemarcello: Offering forested serenity and glimpses of the Tyrrhenian Sea around every bend.
Join a boat tour or rent a kayak
The Riviera’s rugged coastlines and hidden inlets are best admired from the water.
- In Santa Margherita Ligure, join a boat tour that includes snorkeling stops in secluded bays.
- Rent a kayak in Sestri Levante and paddle out to unspoiled coves accessible only by sea.
- From Lerici, take a ferry to Palmaria Island, perfect for swimming and light hiking.
Enjoy local markets and artisanal shops
Coastal towns host vibrant markets where fresh produce, cheeses, and souvenirs await.
- Sestri Levante’s Tuesday market is ideal for locally made pesto, olive oil, and ceramics.
- In Camogli, shop for handmade fishing nets turned into intricate household decor.
- Visit Santa Margherita’s old-town shops that mix international labels with Ligurian handicrafts.
Itineraries
3-day itinerary: a bite-sized escape
- Day 1: Camogli & San Fruttuoso
Explore Camogli’s port, hike to San Fruttuoso Abbey, and return by boat. Sunset dinner overlooking the beach is a must. - Day 2: Santa Margherita & Portofino
Stroll Santa Margherita’s promenade, then ferry to Portofino for a chic afternoon. Wrap up with aperitivo at Paraggi beach. - Day 3: Sestri Levante
Spend the day between the two bays. Walk up to Punta Manara, then laze on the Bay of Silence. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the shore.
5-day itinerary: deeper into the Ligurian life
- Day 1: Arrive in Lerici and explore its castle and evening harbor walk.
- Day 2: Visit Tellaro, followed by beach time at Venere Azzurra.
- Day 3: Transfer to Sestri Levante for a hike and beach afternoon.
- Day 4: Spend your day hiking or boating from Camogli.
- Day 5: Santa Margherita for final market strolls and coastal farewells.
Each town is well connected by train or ferry, making transitions smooth and scenic.
Local cuisine
Ligurian flavors and must-try dishes
The Italian Riviera thrives on simple, local ingredients elevated by tradition and technique.
- Focaccia: Ligurian focaccia is fluffier than its counterparts. Don’t miss the cheese-filled version in Recco, near Camogli.
- Pesto alla Genovese: Often considered the birthplace of pesto, the region serves it with trofie or trenette pasta and local potatoes.
- Farinata: A thin, savory chickpea pancake, often baked in stone ovens and served hot.
- Seafood: Salt-crusted fish, stuffed mussels, and anchovies marinated with lemon and herbs feature on many menus.
Best places to dine
- Osteria dei Cavalieri (Sestri Levante): A cozy trattoria blending seafood classics with seasonal produce.
- Trattoria Daa Laura (Camogli): Renowned for their pasta and terrace views.
- Il Delfino (Lerici): Seafood served steps from the sea, with friendly service and local wines.
Sweet treats worth seeking
Finish your meals with local sweets like canestrelli (shortbread cookies), or a scoop of pine nut gelato from a small family-run gelateria. Most towns offer their own take on Ligurian desserts, often passed down through generations.
Budget tips
Travel smarter without sacrificing experience
Traveling the Italian Riviera can be surprisingly affordable with a few smart choices.
- Visit in shoulder seasons: May, June, and September offer great weather and fewer tourists compared to peak summer.
- Use regional trains: Towns are easily connected via Trenitalia’s regional lines, offering panoramic rides for a few euros.
- Stay in lesser-known towns: Avoid Portofino’s steep prices by staying in nearby Santa Margherita, Lerici, or Sestri Levante.
Save on meals and attractions
- Eat where the locals eat: Try harbor-side bakeries for focaccia lunches or dine in trattorias off major piazzas.
- Free attractions: Hikes, beaches, and historic churches often come without entry fees but offer rich experiences.
- Local passes: Look into regional transport cards or attraction bundles when available—they can cut costs significantly.
The Italian Riviera offers outstanding value for those willing to skip the most iconic stops in favor of equally stunning alternatives.
Final thoughts
Exploring beyond Cinque Terre opens the doors to timeless harbor towns, scenic hikes, and genuine local culture. Each village offers something unique—be it Camogli’s
