Things To Do
in Bordighera
Bordighera is a sun-drenched Ligurian town perched on the Italian Riviera, famed for its palm-lined promenades and elegant historic villas. The town blends seaside charm with a relaxed pace and a gentle cultural pulse, making it ideal for strolling, gelato, and day trips to nearby Sanremo and Dolceacqua. Its old town, pastel-colored houses and the Pallanca Exotic Garden reveal layers of history and nature just a short walk from the waterfront.
Visitors enjoy fresh Ligurian cuisine, scenic viewpoints, and a network of scenic trails that invite slow discovery along the coast and into the hinterland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Bordighera, take some time to settle into your accommodation and embrace the stunning coastal views. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and Italian coffee. Stroll along the promenade to feel the gentle sea breeze and soak in the relaxed ambiance of the town.
After lunch, explore the historic old town of Bordighera, where you can visit charming shops and art galleries. Don’t miss the Church of Saint Mary Magdalen, known for its beautiful architecture. Explore the nearby Botanical Gardens, filled with exotic plants and serene walking paths.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy authentic Ligurian cuisine. Sample local seafood dishes while listening to the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. End your evening with a romantic walk along the beach, with the moonlight reflecting on the sea.
Start your day with a visit to the Museo della Resistenza, which provides insight into Italy's history during World War II. The museum is small but impactful, offering a poignant look at the local resistance movement. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing coffee in the town square, immersing yourself in the local culture.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to discover Bordighera's fascinating murals and street art. Each piece tells a story and contributes to the town's unique character. Explore the coastal cliffs and indulge in stunning views as you hike towards Capo Mortola.
Dine at a restaurant with a view of the Mediterranean Sea, taking in the picturesque sunset as you enjoy a leisurely meal. Try the local olive oil and wine, pairing it with fresh pasta dishes. After dinner, enjoy a gelato from a nearby gelateria for the perfect sweet ending to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and a relaxed ambiance
- Easy day trips to Sanremo, Dolceacqua, and the hinterland
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Can be busy in peak summer months and on weekends
- "Ciao" - Hello/Bye
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Bordighera
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastel facades, balconies, and narrow lanes captured against warm Mediterranean light.
Palm-lined seafront with sea views and sunset backdrops.
Terraced gardens with exotic plants and sweeping views of the town and coastline.
Medieval village with iconic stone bridges and hillside views perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Bordighera
Bordighera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil; best enjoyed with trofie or trenette pasta.
Must-Try!
Pasta bundles filled with ricotta and herbs, served with a rich walnut sauce.
Thin, cheese-filled focaccia from nearby Recco—a Ligurian specialty often found in local eateries.
Cheesy Ligurian focaccia, a popular snack or accompaniment with meals.
Seafood dishes featuring fresh local catches prepared with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, olives, cheese, olive oil, and local specialties. A great place to sample street-style bites and shop for ingredients.
Focaccia, farinata, and panissa stalls along the promenade make for quick, tasty snacks while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' goes a long way; greet shopkeepers and waiters with a smile and a brief hello.
Respectful attire is expected in churches and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Italian is preferred; English is common in tourist areas but greeting in Italian is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Bordighera
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included in some bills; if not, a small tip (5-10%) is customary for good service. Rounding up in casual cafes is appreciated but not required.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Keep some cash for markets and small shops that may prefer it.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with busy beaches and longer daylight hours; plan early starts for outdoor activities and seek shade and seaside breezes.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for city exploring and vineyard visits in nearby valleys.
Cool but mild coastal winters; occasional rain—great for museum visits, cinema, and tranquil seaside strolls.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; perfect for hiking, markets, and terrace cafes.
Bordighera at Night
Hiking in Bordighera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal walk with sea views along the Riviera dei Fiori.
Green hills behind Bordighera with olive groves and panoramic vantage points.
Day trip to the medieval village of Apricale featuring a forested loop and village viewpoints.
Hills and vineyards between Bordighera and Dolceacqua offering scenic overlooks and wine country atmosphere.
Airports
How to reach Bordighera by plane.
Main international gateway for Bordighera; roughly 1–2 hours by road/train, with cross-border access via Monaco and Ligurian towns.
Major northern Italian hub; about 1.5–2 hours by car or train.
Another option for longer trips; typically a 2.5–3 hour journey by car/train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A stable community with a slower pace and emphasis on tradition.
Peak in summer with families and day-trippers seeking beaches and scenic hikes.
Some expatriates drawn to climate, language-friendly locales, and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Riviera’s calm waters are ideal for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Coastal roads and hillside routes attract cyclists of all levels.
A common pastime; enjoy local matches in nearby towns during season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bordighera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include pesto pasta, tomato-based sauces, grilled vegetables, farinata, and focaccia; communicate dietary needs in Italian (e.g., 'Sono vegetariano/a' and 'Prendo solo verdure/formaggio').