Nestled between the Ligurian Alps and the picturesque Tyrrhenian Sea, you will find relaxation from the hustle and bustle of life. The villages and small towns in the Ligurian hinterland (5 to 20 km from the sea) stick to the hills and mountains, or directly by the sea, like swallow nests. And most of them belong to the Italian category: “Borghi più belli d'Italia” - these are often medieval villages, very authentic and original as they were more than a hundred years ago.
Many of the villages in Liguria are still inhabited by fishermen. The structures of the villages in Liguria are often medieval, so that they have been able to retain their traditional Mediterranean charm to this day. In addition, tradition meets modernity here: in noble boutiques and galleries, which can also be found in the villages of Liguria, things are more chic. No matter which style you prefer: Liguria has the right place for every requirement. Here we introduce you to some of the most beautiful villages in Liguria.
The centrally located Rapallo
Rapallo is actually not that small: with around 30.000 inhabitants, it is more of a small town than a village. But the place has retained its village charm and can therefore be included in a list of the most beautiful villages in Liguria in any case. The historic old town of Rapallo is winding and full of inviting cafés that will bring you the Italian Dolce Vita closer to you. Many an artist has moved his workplace out into the alleys and set up his easel here: Just look over the shoulder of the painters as they work!
If you take a close look at the facades of the houses, you will notice that the stucco, the bay windows, flower boxes and shutters often do not actually exist, but are painted on. This is one of the special features of the houses in some of the villages in Liguria. The place is also known for the lace made here, which you can buy in the form of lace blankets or curtains in many small shops. The Museo del Pizzo a Tombolo also shows the most beautiful top works of art from Rapallo.
The picturesque Portofino
Portofino is significantly less populous, with just under 400 inhabitants: Now you have really landed in one of the picturesque villages of Liguria. Nevertheless - or perhaps because of this - Portofino is very much appreciated by many tourists who visit Liguria. The former fishing village has blossomed into one of the most visited villages in Liguria. Portofino still has an enchanting natural harbor where many a luxury yacht moored. Portofino is one of the villages in Liguria where the rich and famous meet.
Stroll through the alleys of the village and marvel at the many brightly painted narrow houses of Portofino. In between there are pine, cypress and olive trees along the way. Visit the Romanesque church of San Giorgio, which is located near the port. Also worth seeing is the Castello Brown, which sits enthroned above the village and is surrounded by an idyllic park. Formerly a military fortress, the premises of the Castello Brown are now used as a museum. Changing art exhibitions are offered. From here you have a breathtaking view down over the town and out over the sea.
Another highlight is the Portofino lighthouse. If you are interested in the diverse flora and fauna of the region, take a hike from the center of the village along the tip of the peninsula of the village of Portofino. This is also called Punta Chiappa. On your way you pass a grotto with a bay and a magical beach.
The most famous villages in Liguria: the Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre are probably the most famous villages in Liguria. Together, the five villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia and Riomaggiore, which make up the Cinque Terre, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They also have in common the spectacular location in front of a section of rock along the coast. One of the villages, Corniglia, is perched on a rock high above the sea. The other four are right by the sea, in narrow sections of the valley. The typical small and box-like houses are brightly painted in all of the five villages. These five villages in Liguria are connected by a well-marked hiking trail with a total length of around nine kilometers.
The section between the villages of Monterosso and Vernazza is rocky and karst with steep sections and is therefore difficult to walk. All other sections are easy to moderate and can also be easily mastered by children or older family members. It is often worth stopping en route to marvel at the unique panorama. Water lovers can explore the Cinque Terre region, which is a national park, by kayak or, better still, by boat. Obtain a day ticket for the ferry boats, which allows you to hop on and hop off at will along the entire coast.
Climb the fortress of Vernazza, one of the most distinctive villages in Liguria, whose fortress was built on a rocky promontory above the sea. You can relax in the small pubs in the villages, from where you can watch the fishermen on their fishing boats and enjoy the deliciously prepared fresh catch.
The stone Colletta di Castelbianco
One of the very picturesque villages in Liguria is the place Colletta di Castelbianco. In this medieval village, which was founded in the 13th century, stone houses with arcades and a multitude of staircases are lined up. The streets are narrowly paved and are called caruggi. The dark gray stone facades have all recently been restored and the window frames freshly painted with bright white paint.
In addition, Colletta di Castelbianco is one of the villages in Liguria with the steepest rock faces all around, which is why many visitors indulge in climbing here. Many hiking and mountain bike trails also start from here. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the town's well-known cherry jam, which has gained some fame.
The most beautiful villages in Italy
After this list, it can be said that the villages of Liguria must be the most beautiful in all of Italy. The locals, as well as many tourists, are definitely convinced of it. No other region offers such a multitude of small, idyllic seaside villages that are embedded in such a beautiful landscape as Liguria. You can take endless walks, hike, mountain bike around the villages of Liguria and at the same time enjoy Dolce Vita in the cafes of the narrow medieval streets of the places. The nearest beach is only a stone's throw away.
