Things To Do
in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming Ligurian town on the eastern edge of the Gulf of Tigullio. Its pastel-hued houses, palm-lined waterfront, and sheltered harbor create a quintessential Riviera vibe. The town serves as a peaceful base for exploring Portofino and Cinque Terre, with easy ferry and train links.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, winding lanes, and a relaxed pace that invites lingering on the promenade.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque coastal town and check into your hotel, taking in the charming architecture of the buildings surrounding you. Stroll along the bustling waterfront promenade, dotted with cafes and shops, as the scent of fresh pastries fills the air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery while watching the fishermen bring in their morning catch.
After exploring the town, visit the stunning Santa Margherita Ligure Castle, where you can marvel at the impressive views of the coast and surrounding hills. Spend some time at the pristine beaches, soaking in the sun or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea. Grab lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring local seafood dishes that the region is famous for.
As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the harbor, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as locals and tourists alike gather. Choose a delightful restaurant for dinner, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine while sipping on a glass of regional wine. Cap off the night with a gelato stroll, enjoying the enchanting views of the illuminated coastline.
Take a short boat ride to the nearby village of Portofino, famous for its colorful waterfront and luxurious yachts. Discover the hidden gems of this enchanting town as you wander through the narrow streets lined with vibrant shops and quaint cafes. Start your day with a rich Italian coffee at a cafe overlooking the bay.
Hike up to the breathtaking Church of San Giorgio, which offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding hills. After your hike, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch with local delicacies from a nearby deli while taking in the scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the waterfront, where you can relax at a beach club or enjoy water activities like kayaking.
Return to Santa Margherita Ligure and freshen up for a delightful dinner. Choose a seaside restaurant where you can taste local specialties like trofie al pesto, a dish that originates from the region. As night falls, enjoy a romantic stroll along the promenade, soaking in the ambiance of the twinkling lights and gentle sea waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for one at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🥐Pastry or bakery item | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine or cocktail | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coast and proximity to Portofino and Cinque Terre
- Mild climate and relaxed Riviera vibe
- Excellent seafood and pesto cuisine
- Walkable town center with scenic promenades
- Can be crowded in summer and weekends
- Parking and traffic can be challenging
- Smaller nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may close in mid-afternoon (siesta)
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Santa Margherita Ligure
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbor views of colorful boats and the blue-green water, ideal in the soft morning light.
Cobbled square with pastel buildings and a fountain, perfect for candid street photography.
18th-century villa with terraced gardens and sea panoramas; ideal from the garden terraces.
Palm-lined promenade along the harbor with warm, golden light.
Dynamic coastal views as ferries glide by and the coastline unfolds.
Food in Santa Margherita Ligure
Santa Margherita Ligure Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Twisted, emerald-green pasta tossed with Genovese basil pesto, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmigiano.
Must-Try!
Ravioli-like pasta filled with ricotta and herbs, served with pesto or walnut sauce.
Ultra-thin focaccia stuffed with soft cheese, a Ligurian specialty often found in local bakeries.
A festive Genoese layered seafood and vegetable dish dressed with olive oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering olives, olive oil, cheese, bread, and fresh seafood. A great place to taste local produce and pick up picnic ingredients.
Casual bites along the waterfront including fried anchovies, octopus salads, and panini made with fresh pesto and focaccia.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or buonasera and use polite language in shops and restaurants.
Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering religious sites.
Expect a relaxed pace in the afternoon; keep noise reasonable in residential areas.
Ask before taking photos of people and show appreciation for local customs and language.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Margherita Ligure
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included (servizio). If not, rounding up or leaving 5-10 percent is customary in restaurants. Small bars may not expect tips.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some small venues may be cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; great for coastal walks and outdoor café seating.
Warm and sunny with peak crowds; enjoy beach days, boat trips, and sunset sails, but expect higher prices and busier streets.
Pleasant days and cooler evenings; ideal for wine tastings and hillside hikes while avoiding peak-season crowds.
Mild by Mediterranean standards with occasional rain; more tranquil with cozy trattorias and fewer tourists.
Santa Margherita Ligure at Night
Hiking in Santa Margherita Ligure
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and cliffside paths with panoramic sea views connecting Santa Margherita to Portofino.
Coastal hiking with coves and the abbey near San Fruttuoso accessible by trail or boat.
Airports
How to reach Santa Margherita Ligure by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 1 to 1.5 hours by car or train to Santa Margherita.
Farther away but accessible for longer trips; about 2 to 3 hours by rail or car to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ligurian families and retirees who know the coast well; bilingual in many cases.
International travelers and day-trippers who flock to the Riviera in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong local sailing culture with clubs and coastal regattas.
Calm coves and clear waters along the coastline.
Coastal and hillside trails in Monte di Portofino and surrounding parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Margherita Ligure.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ligurian dishes are vegetarian-friendly (pasta with pesto, farinata, caponata). Ask for pesto without meat and for oil-based sauces.