11 Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure

Think you've seen the best of coastal Italy? Hold onto your gelato. With our unapologetically candid travel guide to Santa Margherita Ligure, we're dealing out 11 reasons this town deserves a top spot on your Italian bucket list. Brace yourself: we’re diving deep into historic haunts, serene shorelines, and those little corners where nature's drama meets Italian flair.

Jump To

• Where is Santa Margherita Ligure?
• A Brief History of Santa Margherita
• Best Time to Visit 
• 11 Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure
• 1. Shop at Seghezzo
• 2. Tour the Villa Durazzo
• 3. Visit (or get married in!) Chiesa Di San Giacomo Di Corte
• 4. Visit, Hike & Photograph Ente Parco di Portofino
• 5. Relax on Spiaggia Minaglia Beach
• 6. Hike (and Kiss!) along the Passeggiata dei Baci
• 7. Baia di Paraggi
• 8. Spiaggia Regina Elena
• 9. Visit Chiesa di San Lorenzo della Costa
• 10. Abbazia di San Girolamo al Monte di Portofino - Complesso Monumentale La Cervara
• 11. Visit Santuario della Madonna del Carmine
• Where to Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure?
• The Best Restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure
• How to Get to Santa Margherita Ligure: 
• FAQs

Portofino might be the glitzy, flashbulb-popping darling of the Italian Riviera — where celebrities and the "too-cool-for-school" crowd anchor their mega yachts. But sneak a bit down the coastline, and you'll stumble on the Golfo Paradiso.

Here, nestled amidst this slice of Ligurian magic, is Santa Margherita Ligure. It's like the chill, slightly nerdy sibling of Portofino who, once you get to know, ends up being ten times cooler.

Italians — who've arguably got the best taste in, well, everything — and the occasional savvy international traveler, have been sidestepping the Portofino fanfare, opting instead for Santa Margherita Ligure's laid-back charm.

Think sun-kissed Mediterranean vibes minus the paparazzi and an uptick in genuine smiles. It's got all the bells and whistles: delicious food that hasn’t been over-Instagrammed, beaches without the VIP ropes, and locals who still have time for a genuine "buongiorno."

This ex-fishing village, which probably has more stories than your grandma (and she has a LOT), welcomes visitors with its beautifully aging architecture and streets that seem to whisper tales of old.

And shopping?

Let's just say you're more likely to find that unique, handcrafted souvenir here than in the bigger, glitzier locales.

Plus, with Genoa just a short jaunt away, and a train station ready to whisk you off to the ever-popular Cinque Terre, Santa Margherita Ligure is like that friend with epic connections, ensuring you get the full Italian experience.

Where is Santa Margherita Ligure?

Looking to swap the whirlwind of Genoa for a breezier Italian Riviera vibe? Just 22 miles southeast of Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure awaits, offering a chill escape that makes the journey totally worth it.

Now, if you're jet-setting in from afar, the Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport might be your gateway. And sure, while you could summon a posh taxi, why not channel your inner budget-savvy globetrotter and opt for a local bus?

If you're already gallivanting through Italy, hitting up the classics like Rome, Florence, and Naples, you're in luck. A direct train can catapult you straight to Genova Piazza Principe. From there, it's just a short, scenic hop on a regional service and you'll be disembarking at Santa Margherita Ligure station.

In essence? Ditch the tedious routes and give yourself the chance to brush shoulders with locals (metaphorically, of course — space can be a luxury on Italian trains). Plus, isn’t sidestepping the travel mainstream and embracing a dash of adventure what it’s all about?

A Brief History of Santa Margherita

At first glance, you might think it's the Italy straight from a postcard. But, as the steadfast turrets of Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure can attest, this place has seen more drama than a prime-time soap opera.

Let's rewind: Picture the Ligurian coastline under siege. Barbary pirates – not the fun kind, the swashbuckling ones from North Africa – making unwanted visits. The Republic of Genoa, basically the Manhattan of the medieval world, was a prime target for everyone.

Venice, ever the rival, often dropped by, and not for a friendly cappuccino. Fast forward and here comes Napoleon I putting his stamp, but not for long. In 1861, in a twist, Santa Margherita gets a starring role in a newly unified Italy. And its real celebrity moment? When the Genoa to Pisa express line swung by.

Suddenly, the Gulf of Tigullio was the "it" place. It was so hot that even Friedrich Nietzche, presumably taking a break from being philosophical, took a vacay here. Throw in stars like Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, and you've got the Hollywood of Italy.

Now, you might peg Santa Margherita as just another pretty pitstop while hustling between the iconic Cinque Terre and the swanky Ponente Riviera. But you'd be missing the plot. Think of it as Camogli's cooler, younger sibling – authentic, charming, and not just a fancy façade for vacation brochures.

The true spirit? Look past the occasional celebrity sighting, and you'll find a town where the waves and whispers of history meet. Many of the old fishing moguls have traded in their nets for the tourism game.

But Santa Margherita still has the sea in its DNA. If you're lucky enough to swing by in early May, you'll witness the Gulf of Tigullio's version of the Olympics, complete with sails and rowing oars galore.

Peel back its flashy exterior, and the town's soul is in the quiet sanctuaries and churches. Yet even here, there's a touch of Riviera glam in the baroque architecture, especially in the show-stopping Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia.

Best Time to Visit 

Looking to vacation in Santa Margherita Ligure without dealing with cliché travel pitfalls? Well, pay attention:

Weather Junkies:

• Prime Time: May 14th to September 30th. Swap your parka for some sunscreen.
• Hottest Gossip: July, August, and June sizzle with temps teasing around 82.4°F (28°C) in early August. And yeah, it's not just the temp—it’s how it feels, thanks to the ever-present humidity and the occasional cool breeze.

Rain Chasers and Snow Bunnies:

• Stay Dry: July, April, and October. Leave the umbrella, take the cannoli.
• White Wonderland: February is your month for a touch of snow, but don’t expect a blizzard.

For Wind Enthusiasts and Humidity Haters:

• Sweaty Times: June might leave you a bit dewy.
• Blow Away: November. Expect winds to pick up with an average of 6 knots. Maybe leave the hat at home.

Tourism Traffic Report:

• Peak Hour: July. Brace for a bit of crowd surfing.
• Quiet Alleys: October. Less selfie sticks to dodge.

Seasonal Snapshot:

• Spring (March to May): Mild weather, minimal rain, and it’s a tourist sweet spot. Prices? Expect them to reflect the demand.
• Summer (June to August): Pleasant temps with some wet surprises. Tourism’s at its 2nd highest, so blend in, or at least try to.
• Fall (September to November): Cooler days, fewer tourists, cheaper beds. It’s a win-win-win.
• Winter (December to February): Not freezing, but not beach weather either. Occasional rain or snow. If quiet introspection (with wine) is your thing, this is your season.

Pro Tip:

Don't wing it. Book your spot early, especially during the times when everyone and their Italian grandma wants to visit. Remember: early bird gets the best cannoli... or something like that.

11 Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure

1. Shop at Seghezzo

Looking for a foodie's dreamland that's dripping with history and authentic flavor? Enter Drogheria Seghezzo, Santa Margherita Ligure's gastronomic holy grail. It's like the Coachella of food, minus the flower crowns and way more cheese.

Step into this ancient grocery store, and you're instantly teleported to 1900. The shelves burst with the crème de la crème of Italian and international gourmet delights. And trust us, this isn't your average grocery store trip. Think of it as a culinary journey led by the most passionate (and possibly the most Ligurian-authentic) guides around.

Craving some iconic Ligurian dishes? This place has you covered. Whether it's the Cima alla Genovese that tickles your fancy, lasagne dripping in rich pesto, or ravioli that’ll have you declaring, “Mamma mia!” in no time, Drogheria Seghezzo has it all.

Plus, for those with a sweet tooth (or two), there's an array of decadent desserts to dive into. And yes, the wine list is just as impressive. We're talking about a curated selection of the best Italian and international vinos.

But the real kicker? Amidst the vast ocean of meats, cheeses, and wines, every product screams authenticity, backed by a lineage that's been preserved since the early 1900s. It's not just about selling items; it's about celebrating the Ligurian tradition, mixed with a sprinkle of joy and a dash of friendliness.

So, if you're in Santa Margherita Ligure and find yourself yearning for a taste explosion that's been decades in the making, look no further. And as you sample the flavors, remember: it's not just food, it's a slice of Ligurian history.

2. Tour the Villa Durazzo

Picture it: Santa Margherita, 1678. A square-based villa, perhaps inspired by some grand Alessian design, springs up as the Durazzo family's summer escape. Now, just for clarity, this isn’t your average summer beach shack. This is pure opulence in bricks and mortar.

Fast forward to 1821, the Centurione princes snag the villa. And what do rich folks do when they buy a new old place? Remodel, of course. The XIX century saw the villa's glam level turned up to eleven, complete with ritzy fountains and statues that scream “neoclassical chic”.

But 1892? That’s where it gets wild. For the Columbian Celebrations, the villa took on a new avatar as the Grand Hotel. This wasn't some no-star motel off a highway. We're talking royalty – like the Queen of Italy. Bet she didn't snag that reservation on a discount site.

Then, enter Alfredo Chierichetti in 1919. This guy knew a thing or two about gardens. Cobblestone paths? Check. Statues that probably demanded better lighting? Absolutely. Exotic plants? You bet. Fast forward again, and in 1973, after the Chierichetti heirs had their fill, the town council scooped up the place.

And here's the best bit: you can actually visit the "Apartments of the Main Floor". Walking through, you'll swear you're in some aristocrat's living room. The period furniture, the art - oh, the art! Paintings from the Genoese bigwigs of the XVII and XVIII centuries hang with pride. Names like Domenico Piola and Giovanni Battista Paggi, amongst others, grace the walls.

So, if you're itching for a dive into some real riviera history - with a side of architectural glam and a hint of scandal - the Villa Durazzo is your ticket. And trust us, it’s a ride worth taking.

3. Visit (or get married in!) Chiesa Di San Giacomo Di Corte

Venture just a hop, skip, and a jump from the center, and you're in for a visual treat: The Church of S. Giacomo di Corte. This isn't some corner chapel; think of it as a panoramic penthouse of worship overlooking the Tigullio Bay and Santa Margherita. Position? Top-notch. Views? Postcard-worthy.

Nestled close to the Villa Durazzo (yeah, that swanky joint where they host bougie banquets and oh-so-civilized ceremonies), this church is the ultimate queen bee of the serene hamlet of Corte. And if you thought the vistas were the main draw, wait till you step inside.

Imagine if Michelangelo had a modern counterpart named Nicolò Barabino, who decided to turn the church’s interior into his Sistine Chapel. Wall-to-wall frescoes that are more dramatic than a reality TV showdown. These aren't just ceiling doodles; these frescoes practically cascade from the rafters down to the altar.

Looking to host a wedding? Or maybe just want to show off to a bunch of friends? With seating for 100-150, it's intimate but not too snug. Perfect for when you want to feel cozy but still maintain that “I booked a church with a view” bragging right.

So, for those itching for some art, history, and a hint of religious drama - S. Giacomo di Corte awaits. And trust us, it's the sort of place that'll have you saying, “Amen” to both the divine and the design.

4. Visit, Hike & Photograph Ente Parco di Portofino

Think the western Mediterranean is all about sun, sand, and Aperol Spritz? Toss that thought into the Mediterranean Sea, and let's take a trip to the Promontory of Portofino - arguably the West Med's eco-VIP lounge.

Boasting landscapes and vistas that could make even a jaded travel influencer drop their selfie stick in awe, this place is more than just its good looks. Built on what's essentially geologic lasagna (conglomerate deposits atop marly limestone layers, if you want to get technical), Portofino serves up a natural variety show.

One minute you're wandering through cool northern forests, and the next, you're getting a tan on cliffs that have the best Mediterranean views.

Cultural transition? Just as swift. Experience the shift from chestnut cultivation vibes to the age-old olive groves, hopping from hearty peasant traditions to the fish tales of the sea.

Now, if you’re a flora and fauna nerd (we mean that lovingly), hold onto your binoculars. The park, which has been the cool, protected kid on the block since 1935, flaunts some of the Mediterranean's finest green ensembles. Think of it as nature's botanical runway. Bird watchers and bug lovers? You'll be in critter heaven.

But wait, there's more (infomercial voice)! You like historical gems? How about the abbeys of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte and San Gerolamo della Cervara? Yes, they sound fancy, and trust us, they are.

For those itching to stretch their legs, over 80 km of trails await. Whether you're a casual stroller or a hardcore hiker, these paths cater to every whim and fitness level.

So, if you're in for an environment that mashes up natural wonders with just a sprinkle of historical glam, and you're not afraid of a little snark along the way, the Portofino Promontory is your ticket to fun. Pack those hiking boots and a good sense of humor.

5. Relax on Spiaggia Minaglia Beach

Nestled in the ever-so-touristy lap of Santa Margherita Ligure, Minaglia Beach isn't just another patch of sand; it's more like the Ibiza of the Ligurian coast, minus the wild clubbing (or is there?).

Every summer, this beach magnetically pulls in an avalanche of sun-worshippers: youth seeking the sun-tan glam and families hunting for a kid-friendly haven. Got needs? Minaglia's got you. From a restaurant that feels like you're on a ship's prow staring at the ocean to a menu that's a gastronomic high-five to Ligurian tradition, your taste buds are in for a party.

And wine? Let’s just say there's a good chance you'll be whispering sweet nothings to bottles from local elite wineries.

Now, the beach bar is its own brand of cool. Picture this: sipping on a chic aperitif as the sun flirts with the horizon. Or just grabbing a chilled drink because the sun's turned the thermostat up. And before you bid adieu, those wooden cabins aren't just for show – they've got hot showers. Talk about beach luxury!

Getting to Minaglia Beach on foot or by bicycle, from Santa Margherita Ligure, it’s a breeze – and trust us, it’s a scenic one. Especially if you fancy a nod to Santa Margherita Ligure’s monument.

But if you’re kickstarting your beach day from neighboring spots like Chiavari or Rapallo, just follow the ocean's lead or jump on public transport. Either way, you're just minutes away from sinking your toes into Minaglia's sandy embrace

6. Hike (and Kiss!) along the Passeggiata dei Baci

When you think of a place that seems like Mother Nature's own plot for a rom-com, the Passeggiata dei Baci in Santa Margherita might just top that list. It's not every day you find a walkway with a name that quite literally translates to "Walk of Kisses." If that isn’t a wink from Italy, I don’t know what is.

Tucked into the landscape of Santa Margherita, this promenade is every bit the old-world charm you'd expect, with a hint of wry humor. You could almost imagine the town's elders naming it, half-chuckling, "Let's see if this gets the lovebirds flocking."

The setting? The cinematic backdrop of the sea juxtaposed with Santa Margherita's quintessential charm. The vibe? Pure, unadulterated romance, minus the cheese. Couples saunter, sometimes stealing a peck or two, or simply basking in the views that could melt even the most cynical heart.

So, if your idea of a trip involves breezy walks, sunsets that look suspiciously like a painted backdrop, and perhaps a tad of that dry, Taibbian skepticism about overtly touristy spots, the Passeggiata dei Baci should be penciled into your itinerary. Remember, while it's Italy's little joke, the romance here is 100% genuine.

7. Baia di Paraggi

Hugging the Italian Riviera between the chic outposts of Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino lies the Baia di Paraggi – a spot that seems almost like nature’s own version of an upscale, hidden lounge, purpose-built for the discerning wanderer. Its waters, with their striking hue of turquoise, mirror the sky, offering a clarity that’s textbook Liguria. And the sands? A rare luxury in a region otherwise marked by rugged terrains.

You'd expect such a place to be secluded from human touch, but Baia di Paraggi is no stranger to the hum of life. Its embrace cradles both opulent villas reminiscent of old-world luxury and locals, who treat the bay like their backyard pool.

The scene here isn't about quiet admiration from a distance – it's interactive. Cafes and restaurants lace the outskirts, offering plates that taste as Italian as a Fellini film feels.

Now, if you're a savvy traveler who takes the phrase "When in Rome" to heart, be prepared to be slightly scandalized by the audacious prices. Some establishments charge for beachside luxury. But here's an insider's scoop with a sprinkle of irreverence: you can do it the way locals do, and arguably better.

Embark on a walk from Santa Margherita Ligure. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a visual feast with every step echoing the Riviera's allure. As you close in on Baia, you'll witness the younger locals, diving fearlessly off cliffs, capturing the essence of a carefree Italian summer.

Don’t just watch - be a part of it. Lay out your towel, jump into the pristine waters, and let the bay work its magic. And as you float, with the sun on your face, remember – this slice of paradise didn't come with a premium price tag. Sometimes, the best luxuries are, indeed, free.

8. Spiaggia Regina Elena

Tucked away like a well-guarded secret of the Italian Riviera and resting confidently before the grandeur of Hotel Regina Elena, the Spiaggia Regina Elena beach is less of a sandy getaway and more of a refined oceanic lounge.

With its rock-steady base, this isn't your run-of-the-mill, sand-between-your-toes kind of beach. Instead, think rows of well-arranged loungers and umbrellas, waiting like loyal subjects before their ocean queen.

Access to the azure waters? A breeze, courtesy of a sturdy pier and no-nonsense ladders that seem to say, "Why dawdle when you can dive?" And if you're here with family, the kids won't be building sandcastles but they'll be off on their own little adventures at the play park, making the day just as memorable for them as it is for the adults.

But, just when you think the beach has bared all its cards, the on-site restaurant, under the meticulous watch of the Ciana clan and the hotel, deals a royal flush. It's not just about the food, which in itself is a culinary journey, but also about the service that wraps you in an embrace of warmth and authenticity.

Now, here’s where a touch of the absurd finds its way in: the entrance fee to this little slice of paradise is not only reasonable but also includes the promise of a shaded spot.

And with the closing time generously set at 7 pm, there's ample time to play out your beach fantasies and perhaps, pen a snarky postcard to a friend, bragging about your spot under the Italian sun.

9. Visit Chiesa di San Lorenzo della Costa

Set atop a hill with the kind of panoramic views you might expect to find on a postcard, the Chiesa di San Lorenzo della Costa is more than just another pitstop on the European church circuit. From the outside, one might dismiss it as modest or even drab. But like a hidden speakeasy in a New York back alley, this church hides its secrets well.

Step inside, and you're immediately thrown into a Baroque dreamscape. Angels, seemingly borrowed from a Caravaggio canvas, seem to defy gravity, floating everywhere, even outside. Their stony gazes seem to say, "Yeah, we’ve seen the outside too. Now, aren’t you glad you came in?"

Though its façade might be a relative newbie from the 20th century, the church's innards tell tales from the 1600s. Your art-hunting senses might tingle as you encounter the "Trittico di Sant'Andrea" - and they should. This 1499 masterpiece isn't just another church painting. It’s a conversation piece by Flemish masters.

As for that ceiling - it doesn't just feature art; it's a symphony of intricate design. It's like someone decided the Sistine Chapel was just a draft and decided to add a few extra layers of awesome. It's the kind of place where neck cramps from gazing upwards become a badge of honor.

And as you’re navigating Santa Margherita in the thick of summer, dripping sweat from pores you didn’t know existed, the church offers another gift: cool, stone-clad respite. It's an oasis of calm, beauty, and history, wrapped up in a deceivingly simple package.

The Chiesa di San Lorenzo della Costa isn’t just another checkpoint on your travel list; it's an experience, one that might leave you a touch more cynical about judging a book – or a church – by its cover.

10. Abbazia di San Girolamo al Monte di Portofino - Complesso Monumentale La Cervara

Nestled in a corner of Italy that seems to capture every cinematic dream we've ever had of the Riviera, stands the Abbazia di San Girolamo al Monte di Portofino - Complesso Monumentale La Cervara. But this isn't just another monument to add to your “been there, done that” checklist. This is the kind of place you discover and wonder: "Why isn't everyone talking about this?"

Walking through its meticulously maintained spaces feels less like you’re in a monument and more like stepping into the private residence of some long-gone Italian noble who had impeccable taste.

The kind of place where every stone, every carefully manicured hedge, every choice of fabric in restoration screams, "We cared." And let’s talk about that bougainvillea: It’s not merely planted, it's showcased, popping in vibrant colors and demanding your camera’s attention.

"I giardini"

The gardens alone are worth a trip. Come June, and you're in for a visual buffet that rivals the finest feasts of Tuscany. And that view? Imagine the world's best painter deciding to paint the ocean, the coast, and the sky, and then somehow making it real. That's what looking out from here feels like.

But here's the kicker: they only throw open their doors on the first and third Sunday of each month. It's like being in on a secret club.

Yes, getting to the top is a bit of a trek. The path’s stones might've seen better days and that descent can be daunting. But reaching the summit? It’s pure, unadulterated Italian magic. And on the way, those charming little shops aren't just selling trinkets. They’re offering bits of tradition, with treasures like handcrafted lace beckoning the discerning traveler.

So, whether Portofino is your main destination or just a detour, a visit to La Cervara isn’t just recommended. It's almost an obligation for anyone seeking the genuine, sometimes offbeat, heartbeat of the Riviera.

11. Visit Santuario della Madonna del Carmine

Tucked between the famous stops of Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, in the lesser-known hamlet of Nozarego, you'll stumble upon the Santuario della Madonna del Carmine. It's like finding a deep-cut track from a rock legend’s classic album – not the most popular, but for some, the absolute best. This isn't just some recent addition to the region's cultural playlist, either; its foundations stretch back almost a millennia.

While the sanctuary initially paid its architectural respects to the Assumption, the early 1600s saw it undergo a sort of rebranding, thanks to the Carmelites. But the parish? Old habits die hard, so it remains dedicated to the Assumption.

The real sell isn't just the history or architecture – it’s the location. Perched with a view that seems to have been designed for the cover of a glossy travel magazine, the sanctuary serves up the Gulf on a platter.

Your way up? Take a pick. There's a picturesque trail starting from an equally charming church, if you fancy a short uphill trek. But if you're not in the mood for a cardio workout and prefer a bird’s-eye view, hitch a ride on the Rapallo funicular. And for the real mavericks out there, you can pound the footpath, embracing nature’s raw beauty.

Once there, don’t just do the touristy “snap and leave”. The surrounding landscape calls you for a wander, perhaps taking the popular loop around the neighboring church. It's a kind of Mediterranean detox – leaving behind the honking cars and, instead, listening to the whispers of history and the gentle rustle of olive trees. Welcome to the Riviera's deep track. It’s waiting for you to press play.

Where to Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure?

These are some of Savoring Italy's favorite places to stay in Santa Margherita Ligure:

Villa Gelsomino Exclusive House

At the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure stands Villa Gelsomino, an establishment where Renaissance aesthetics crash into the 21st century. With a curated selection of rooms that seem to have leaped straight out of a history book, each bears stunning frescoes and exquisite mosaic tiles that feel like a cheeky nod to Italy's opulent past.

The staff, a blend of traditional hospitality and savvy know-how, becomes the bridge between the villa's two worlds. Georgia, as the local grapevine suggests, is somewhat of a culinary rock star, making mornings memorable with her soulful breakfasts and heartwarming home-cooked delicacies.

Let’s talk logistics: This villa, perhaps throwing a wink to the modern traveler, sits conveniently near the train station. A quaint staircase spirals down, urging guests into the pulsating heart of town.

You see, Villa Gelsomino dances gracefully between epochs. Yes, it flaunts its historical feathers with pride — the frescoes and tilework are like silent narrators of bygone tales. But then, you have the sleek modern bathrooms and those nifty Bluetooth speakers that hum today's tunes.

Imagine sipping on some fine wine, previously ordered and now waiting in your room, as you drink in the mesmerizing views. That car park? It's there, making sure your modern chariot has its resting spot and what emerges is Villa Gelsomino — a place where time’s boundaries blur, where historical elegance romances modern comforts, crafting an Italian narrative you won't easily forget.

Villa 1900

Nestled amidst the heartbeat of the Ligurian coast, Villa 1900 is an oasis where old-world charm collides head-on with modern-day comforts. Just a hop, skip, and a jaunt from tantalizing restaurants and the intoxicating embrace of the ocean, this villa beckons travelers to indulge in its luxurious rooms, each furnished with plush beds perfect for post-adventure crashing.

Now, for those intrepid explorers seeking the town center, the pristine beach, or that ever-convenient train station, be forewarned: the journey does involve conquering some steps. But, hey, isn’t a little legwork part of the adventure?

Breakfast here is not just a meal, but an event. A spread that might make you question if you're still dreaming, it's clear that Villa 1900 doesn’t skimp on the morning fare.

But the real gems? The unparalleled hospitality power-duo, Paola and Dante. Fluent in the universal language of kindness (and, fortunately for many, English), they're the villa's secret weapon, doling out restaurant and sightseeing tips like Ligurian wizards.

Grand Hotel Miramare

In the luminescent realm of the Italian coast, Grand Hotel Miramare doesn’t just stand; it regally presides, effusing a potent cocktail of elegance and aged charm that might make you rethink reality.

With a nod to luxury that feels almost illicit in its decadence, guests find themselves enveloped in rooms that aren’t just rooms but personal terraces to paradise. Picture it: a pool that’s nothing short of an aqua-hued dream and a restaurant terrace that might just steal your appetite with its beauty alone.

Oh, and lest we forget the beach club and those breakfasts – sumptuous feasts that might make you question every morning meal that follows.

Situated tantalizingly near Portofino and arrogantly perched upon the water’s edge, this hotel doesn’t just offer views; it lavishes its visitors with visual symphonies, twinning with architecture that plays a sweet serenade to yesteryears gone by.

And the spa, ah! It’s a sanctuary where master therapists, like the applauded Samira, conjure a zen that’s palpable.

The Best Restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure

The following are some of Savoring Italy's favorite places to eat in Santa Margherita Ligure:

Ducoq

Imagine, for a moment, you're stepping into a French dream, only it’s not nestled in the alleyways of Nice or by the glitzy beaches of Cannes. Instead, you find it, inconspicuously yet confidently, in Santa Margherita – welcome to DuCoq.

One might cheekily say that while there's no Promenade des Anglais outside, you're graced by the captivating Lungomare di Santa Margherita. A leisurely stroll, and the silhouette of Portofino beckons. Historical footnote: Didn’t Santa Margherita once don the title, Porto Napoleone? A brief but significant claim to glory, I’d argue.

Drawing a comparison with Cannes might seem audacious to some, even blasphemous to others. But delve a bit deeper into DuCoq’s narrative. They’ve not merely reproduced a French bistro; they've resurrected an ambiance, an era.

The careful curating of last-century blue tiles and slates, the painstaking restoration of antique marbles, the scavenging for mercury mirrors, and the artisanal crafting of chestnut tables – it's an authentic French escapade.

And that garden? Abundantly flush with lemons, radiating a zest that’s not just sensory but profoundly... invigorating.

Boldly Serving Culinary Excellence

Now, let’s dive deep, literally, into the waters of DuCoq’s pride – oysters. Not just any, but an olympiad of oysters sourced from the zenith of oyster farms worldwide. Go ahead, challenge their mettle, compare them to the finest in Brittany or anywhere else.

The gauntlet has been thrown. They're not just serving excellence; they're boldly exclaiming it, daring you to experience it, and perhaps, with a wink and a nudge, enticing you to declare: “I savored the finest oysters of my life at DuCoq.” A statement so elegantly elite, it’s the foodie equivalent of dropping the mic.

Yet, amid all its grandeur, DuCoq retains a soul, a heart that beats passionately with ambition but is anchored with humility. It aspires not to be an exclusive enclave but a space where gastronomy is celebrated in its most pure, unpretentious form. Where every dish, from oysters to coquillage, is an ensemble of visual and gustatory delight. It invites you not just to dine, but to revel, to immerse, to feel at home.

Zi'Ninella Ristorante

Winding my way through the enchanting streets of Santa Margherita Ligure, the savory wafts from Zi'Ninella Restaurant seductively call to me, beckoning a culinary adventure I’m powerless to resist. Ah, Zi'Ninella - a not-so-secret treasure hidden in plain sight among the gastronomic landscape.

Each step into its intimate, gracefully appointed space is a gentle journey away from the typical tourist traps and a welcoming embrace into an authentic Italian epicurean embrace.

Bathed in a cozy atmosphere that subtly blurs the line between refined elegance and homelike warmth, I find it impossible to not be instantly enamoured.

Whether whispering sweet nothings across the table on a romantic date or raucously reminiscing with old friends, the environment here is undeniably a haven for genuine connections over truly spectacular cuisine.

A Tranquil Culinary Symphony

The limited seating – a deliberate choice – cocoons diners into a serene dining bubble, undisturbed by the hustle and bustle often found elsewhere. Such tranquility is not just a mere happenstance but a thoughtfully curated experience, ensuring every bite can be enjoyed with true peace and presence.

And ah, those bites! High-quality ingredients, those that speak the true, unadulterated language of Italian cuisine, weave through my palate in an orchestrated symphony of flavors and textures, each dish a narrative lovingly told by the masterful chef-owner and his equally talented wife.

There's an undeniable chorus of experience and innovation in each dish that sings through every morsel, showcasing a melody of tradition and modernity.

I dare say, for those echoing the pursuit of unparalleled dining experiences, your quest might very well find a pause at Zi'Ninella, if only for an evening of delightful indulgence that promises to linger far beyond the last bite.

So here, amidst a symphony of flavors, I raise my glass, toasting to Zi' Ninella – the epitome of culinary elegance in Santa Margherita Ligure.

Rêve Contemporary Osteria

Navigating through the lively pulse of Santa Margherita Ligure, I serendipitously discovered a sanctuary of flavors, dubbed Rêve Contemporary Osteria. Tucked away, just a stone's throw from the caressing sea waves and ensconced in a serenely private street, it stands as a peaceful refuge amidst the energetic summer zest encapsulating the town.

Every dish, a narrative of culinary precision – I found myself particularly entranced by the beef cheek, a symphony of textures and flavors, garnering its own mini fan base among patrons.

The ambiance effortlessly waltzes between simple and sumptuously chic, creating a backdrop that’s both unpretentious and elegantly inviting.

As I sank into the characteristic setting, the owner, a paragon of genuine hospitality, along with a staff that marries knowledge with courtesy, orchestrated an immaculate culinary journey.

Be it a vibrant breakfast symposium with friends or a solitary journey through gourmet landscapes, Rêve Contemporary Osteria revealed itself as not merely a dining spot but a chapter in my Italian escapade.

Celebrating not only exquisite meals but also authentic atmospheres and genuine value for money, it etches itself as an unmissable vignette in the tapestry of Santa Margherita.

How to Get to Santa Margherita Ligure: 

The following are some of the most popular ways to get to Santa Margherita:

Getting to Santa Margherita Ligure by car:

From the A12 motorway, take the Rapallo exit which is just 5km away from Santa Margherita Ligure. Upon exiting the toll, head straight at the roundabout towards Santa Margherita Ligure. Proceed into the city and at the next small roundabout, turn right, following signs.

Cross the Boate stream bridge, and at the Aurelia intersection, make a right, immediately followed by a left onto Corso Cristoforo Columbus. Continue towards the port, then move uphill via San Michele, traveling from San Michele di Pagana to Santa Margherita Ligure along the coastline.

Getting to Santa Margherita Ligure by train:

The Genoa-La Spezia train line offers a hassle-free way to reach Santa Margherita Ligure, with the station situated just 150 meters from Ghiaia beach.

Get to Santa Margherita Ligure by boat

Opt for a scenic boat trip with Tigullio Maritime Service to reach Santa Margherita Ligure. Direct connections are available from Rapallo, Chiavari, Lavagna, Sestri Levante, Portovenere, and Monterosso.

The routes include:

1: Rapallo - Santa Margherita Ligure - Portofino - San Fruttuoso

2: Santa Margherita Ligure linking to Rapallo, Chiavari, Lavagna, Sestri Levante, Portovenere, and Cinque Terre

3: Santa Margherita Ligure to Rapallo, with an extended route to Cinque Terre.

FAQs

More Italian Travel Guides