Things To Do
in Chiavari
Chiavari is a charming Ligurian town on the Tigullio Gulf, famed for its broad, palm-lined promenade and inviting beaches. Its historic center unfolds through pastel-painted palazzi, narrow stairways, and a venerable cathedral that anchors a lively market scene. The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring the Ligurian Riviera, including easy access to Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and the Beigua Geopark.
Visitors come for seaside strolls, seafood, and a welcoming, slower pace that still offers culture and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café in the historic center of Chiavari. Afterward, wander through the narrow cobbled streets adorned with colorful frescoed buildings and charming shops. Don't miss the chance to visit the stunning Basilica of St. John Battista, a beautiful example of Ligurian architecture.
For lunch, savor traditional Ligurian pesto pasta at a local trattoria, where you'll experience authentic flavors of the region. Spend your afternoon strolling along the picturesque seafront promenade, taking in the views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding hills. Stop by the local market to browse fresh produce and artisanal goods, a perfect way to immerse yourself in local culture.
As evening falls, make your way to the marina, where you can enjoy an aperitivo with a view of the sunset over the water. Dine at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh seafood dishes, embracing the culinary delights of Chiavari. End the night with a gelato while taking a peaceful walk along the beach.
After a hearty breakfast, take a short train ride to the charming town of Rapallo, known for its lovely waterfront and historic sites. Spend your morning exploring the picturesque harbor and the medieval Castello sul Mare, which offers fantastic photo opportunities. The vibrant market in the town square is also worth a visit, showcasing local crafts and fresh produce.
Indulge in a seafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the water, enjoying the pleasant sea breeze. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or rent a bike to explore the coastal paths nearby. You can also visit the beautiful Santa Maria di Fico Church, known for its stunning views.
Return to Chiavari in the late afternoon and take time to relax at your accommodation. In the evening, walk to a local pizzeria to taste authentic Italian pizza paired with a local wine. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll around the historic center, soaking in the enchanting ambiance of Chiavari at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍝Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or espresso | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center and scenic promenade
- Excellent access to Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Beigua Geopark
- Fresh seafood, pesto-based dishes, and Ligurian ambiance
- Touristy in peak season, with crowds and higher prices
- Parking can be challenging; some streets are hilly and cobbled
- nightlife is low-key compared to bigger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me / sorry
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Chiavari
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide palm-lined seafront with sea views, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography along the water.
Elegant church façade and surrounding pastel-colored buildings; great for architectural shots and market activity.
Harbor vantage points with boats, fishing activity, and reflections at dusk.
Historic square with lively cafés and local life, superb for candid street photography.
Rugged coastline views and pebbled beaches offering dramatic seascapes.
Food in Chiavari
Chiavari Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herbaceous trofie pasta tossed with Genovese pesto, often served with potatoes and beans.
Must-Try!
Crispy chickpea pancake baked flat and savory, a Ligurian street-food staple.
Soft, olive-oil-rich flatbread, sometimes topped with onions or cheese; ideal for a snack or light lunch.
Marinated anchovies, a tangy and common seaside starter or antipasto.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly outdoor market where you can sample local produce, cheeses, olives, olive oil, and seasonal bites from stalls.
Seasonal stalls offering focaccia, farinata, fried seafood, and quick bites along the seafront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as Buongiorno or Buonasera are appreciated. In casual settings, a handshake is common; among friends, a light kiss on the cheek may occur.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak quietly in sacred spaces; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Eating while walking is common in Italy but preferred to enjoy meals seated when possible in Chiavari; await a table during peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Safety
Tipping in Chiavari
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is good and no service charge is included, consider rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants and bars.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is handy for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and pleasant crowds. Great for walking the old town and coastal trails.
Warm to hot days with busy beaches and vibrant evenings. Expect crowds near the promenade and markets; pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Comfortable days with cooler evenings and occasional rain. A good time for hiking and enjoying seafood without peak-season crowds.
Milder than many interiors, but cooler and wetter. Some beach facilities may be limited; city still offers culture, markets, and cozy cafés.
Chiavari at Night
Hiking in Chiavari
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with panoramic sea views; can be combined with boat or train connections from Chiavari.
Geologically rich network of trails in the Beigua area, offering sweeping vistas and diverse landscapes.
Steeper hikes with rewarding viewpoints over the Gulf of Genoa and Ligurian coast.
Airports
How to reach Chiavari by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; roughly a 1–1.5 hour train or car ride to Chiavari, depending on connections.
Further away but accessible by train and road with transfer; useful for longer trips around Tuscany and Liguria.
Smaller regional airport nearby; variety of seasonal flights and shorter transfer times to the Riviera.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Community-centered lifestyle with strong ties to markets, churches, and local festivals.
Summer visitors flock to beaches, markets, and seaside dining, with a lively, communal vibe.
Travelers drawn to pesto, seafood, and Ligurian architecture and landscapes.
Global travelers exploring the Riviera and day trips to Portofino, Santa Margherita, and Cinque Terre.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local teams and fans; a common weekend pastime and spectator activity in the region.
Ligurian coast makes sailing, kayaking, and beach volleyball popular during warm months.
Nearby hills and parks offer practical options for outdoor recreation and sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chiavari.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pesto-based dishes are a Ligurian staple, but check for cheese made with animal rennet. Ask for pesto senza formaggio or for vegetarian pastas with vegetables. Many places can accommodate meat-free options, and focaccia and farinata are naturally vegetarian.