Things To Do
in Ventimiglia
Ventimiglia sits at the edge of the Italian Riviera where the sea meets rugged cliffs and the border with France is just a short walk away. The old town clings to a hillside above a lively harbor, while the modern promenade draws sun-seekers, hikers, and markets alike. The famous Friday market spills from the station area into winding lanes filled with color, scent, and bargain-friendly stalls.
This border-town gateway offers a coast-forward vibe with Ligurian flavors, scenic views, and easy access to both the Riviera dei Fiori and nearby French Riviera towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly baked pastries and coffee. After breakfast, wander through the winding streets of Ventimiglia’s Old Town, absorbing the rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to visit the ancient Roman Ruins and the stunning Cathedral of St. Michelle.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, trying the local delicacies while taking in the breathtaking Mediterranean views. Afterward, explore the bustling food market, where you can sample regional specialties and fresh produce. Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the nearby beach, soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves.
As the sun sets, head to a charming trattoria for dinner featuring traditional Ligurian cuisine. Afterward, take a stroll along the promenade, where the sunset casts a golden glow over the sea. End your day with a gelato, savoring the sweet flavors as you watch the stars twinkle above.
Catch an early train to the nearby town of San Remo for a day filled with exploration. Start your visit by wandering through the famous San Remo Casino and the vibrantflowers-filled gardens nearby. Stop for breakfast at a local café, enjoying the view of the picturesque harbor.
After lunch, visit the beautiful Ariston Theatre, home of the famous San Remo Music Festival, then explore the charming Old Town with its narrow alleys and colorful houses. Don’t miss visiting the San Remo Market to grab some local street food or delicacies. By late afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the promenade, admiring the stunning coastline.
Return to Ventimiglia and unwind at a rustic pizzeria for dinner, indulging in the local pizza and wine. After dinner, take a night walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves. Embrace the tranquil atmosphere of the seaside as you reflect on your day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-5 |
| 🥖Small lunch or street food | $8-15 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $60-140 |
| 🚆Local train fare (one-way) | $2-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Ideally located for Riviera trips and border exploring
- Vibrant Friday market and seafood culture
- Beautiful coastal scenery and hillside towns
- Good value for a Riviera location
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger towns
- Parking and narrow lanes can be challenging
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Some areas are steep and hilly
- "Per favore, dove si trova il mercato?" - Please, where is the market?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi, quanto costa?" - Excuse me, how much does it cost?
- "Il conto, per favore" - The check, please
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Ventimiglia
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over the old town and harbor with colorful facades and hillside backdrops.
Golden-hour shots along the marina with boats, rippling water, and cliff-lined coast.
Historic coastal vantage points offering sea spray and expansive horizons.
Medieval townscape with a stone bridge, stone buildings, and terraced vineyards framed by dramatic light.
Food in Ventimiglia
Ventimiglia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herbaceous basil pesto tossed with hand-made trofie pasta, a Ligurian staple.
Must-Try!
Olive-oil-slicked focaccia; the cheese-filled Recco version is a local specialty.
Ligurian stuffed pasta with walnut sauce for a nutty, creamy finish.
Coastal anchovy preparations served on crostini or in light salads.
Chickpea pancake cooked in olive oil, a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A legendary weekly market near the station and old town selling clothes, leather goods, produce, and street snacks.
Freshly grilled fish, calamari, and fried olives offered by local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Italian is the primary language; greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Salve' and be polite when entering shops.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; keep noise to a respectful level in residential areas; small talk and gestures are common.
Safety
Tipping in Ventimiglia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. A small tip at bars for a drink is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many vendors at markets prefer cash; contactless is common in eateries and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days by the sea, lively street life, and crowded markets; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Milder days with autumn colors in hillside trails; markets remain vibrant with local produce.
Cool and wetter conditions; coastal sightseeing remains possible with a warm layer and rain gear.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming gardens and milder crowds; ideal for hiking and city strolls.
Ventimiglia at Night
Hiking in Ventimiglia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop from the village up to viewpoints overlooking the Nervia valley.
Forested ridges with sea views starting in the hillside town of Apricale.
Coastal path with dramatic cliffs and sea views along the Riviera.
Airports
How to reach Ventimiglia by plane.
The nearest international airport, about 60-100 km away, with connections across Europe.
A larger airport about 150-180 km away, serving many European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents of Liguria and nearby border communities.
Seasonal visitors from Italy, France, and beyond who visit the Riviera markets and beaches.
A sizable retiree community drawn to coastal living and relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and casual play; matches and youth leagues are common across the Riviera.
Coastal activities such as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular along the Riviera.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ventimiglia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on fresh vegetables, pesto, farinata, and vegetarian pastas; communicate in Italian or English and confirm stock in broths with the chef.