Italy has some of the best destinations where you and your new spouse can enjoy marital bliss. An Italian Riviera honeymoon will take you to charming coastal towns brimming with energy and romance. The Italian Riviera is a crescent-shaped Mediterranean coastline between Tuscany and the French border.
Table of Contents
Is the Italian Riviera a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
When you first think of an Italian honeymoon, you likely think of Rome (home to the iconic Colosseum), Milan, Venice, Florence, or Sicily. However, if you want an underrated yet utterly picturesque destination, the Italian Riviera on the country’s northwestern edge is where you should go. The narrow strip lies between the shimmering blue waters of the Ligurian Sea (an arm of the Mediterranean Sea) and the majestic Maritime Alps.
A charming place that screams “la dolce vita,” it boasts stunning rugged beauty, superb accommodations and eateries, and quaint villages. It’s a picturesque region often likened to Amalfi Coast — another excellent destination spanning from Positano to Vietri sul Mare in Italy’s southern region of Campania.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon on the Italian Riviera?
- Explore a castello. If you’re going sightseeing on the Italian Riviera, you won’t just be in awe of its colorful coastal houses; you can also marvel at centuries-old castles such as Castello Brown in Portofino and Castello di Lerici in Genoa.
- Book a gondola cruise. Cinque Terre, Camogli, and Santa Margherita Ligure have some of the best beaches in the region. Besides swimming in their mesmerizing waters, you can ride a gondola or a boat and go on a romantic sunset cruise.
- Go wine tasting and visit olive groves. Italy takes pride in its bustling wine and olive oil production. Whether you’re staying in Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, or Cinque Terre, you can book tours that will take you through the local production of these important products.
- Take romantic walks. A short walk in the area where you’re staying will give you access to postcard-worthy views and quaint cafes and shops. Walking from Santa Margherita to Portofino provides stunning coastal views if you want a longer walking tour.
- Hike. Want to do more than walk? The Italian Riviera offers several hiking trails. Ready your hiking shoes and greet breathtaking vistas when you traverse the Monterosso-Vernazza footpath and other Cinque Terre trails.
- Head to neighboring Italian gems. A day trip to Florence will let you slip back in time. Visit Duomo and other historical neighborhoods and reminisce about the Renaissance period in its glory. You can also visit Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy.
What Is the Best Month to Visit the Italian Riviera?
Tourists and locals flock to the Italian Riviera during the summer season. If you and your loved one are seeking a quieter coastal retreat, your best options are to visit in April, May, or late September. You will experience warmer weather and avoid thick summer crowds.
Is a Honeymoon on the Italian Riviera Expensive?
Couples spend about $2,000 to $3,600 for a one-week post-wedding vacation on the Italian Riviera. This number does not include flights and can fluctuate depending on the accommodations, excursions, and dining options you choose.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon on the Italian Riviera
- Select travel dates that coincide with the region’s shoulder or off-season.
- Walk and get in touch with your surroundings. Opt for public transportation instead of car rentals.
- Do budget-friendly activities such as hiking and having fun at the beach.
- Eat at restaurants that locals frequent.
- Consider renting a space with a kitchen to cook your food after buying ingredients at a farmer’s market.
7 Best Cities to Stay In the Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cinque Terre is a cultural landscape that boasts five colorful seaside towns linked by hiking trails. The five towns are Monterosso (the largest and flattest of the five), Vernazza and Riomaggiore (known for their vibrant harbors), Corniglia (a quiet village on a hilltop), and Manarola (famous for its jaw-dropping sunsets).
Each fishing village has unique attributes, but they all have unmistakable Italian charm. Wander on foot, explore the vineyards and olive groves, or soak up the Mediterranean sun in this area’s crystal-clear waters.
Portofino
Home to luxury estates and yachts, Portofino is a town where you can experience history and Italy’s glitz and glamor. Apart from landmarks such as Castello Brown and 10th-century San Fruttuoso Abbey, it offers several high-end boutiques for a well-deserved shopping spree.
Its beauty is also anchored in its pastel-colored houses and preserved cobblestone streets. Head to its Piazzetta and enjoy delectable seafood while enjoying marvelous views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Santa Margherita Ligure
This lovely resort town near Portofino boasts beautiful beaches, a bustling promenade, and many shops, cafes, and restaurants that attract tourists and locals. While it’s a lively area, it offers more laid-back vibes than Portofino.
Together with Rapallo, it’s considered the Pearl of the Tigullio Gulf, and from here, you can head to Baia di Paragg and enjoy beautiful beaches. Another interesting attraction is the Santa Margherita Church.
Rapallo
To the south of Santa Margherita is Rapallo. It brims with history and takes pride in having a lovely seafront and excellent dining options. Its elegant architecture further adds to the town’s picturesque beauty.
One of the most impressive sights here is the Castello di Rapallo. Between Santa Margherita and here, you’ll find the idyllic village of San Michele di Pagana.
Camogli
A hidden gem on the Italian Riviera, Camogli is a quaint village known for its towering waterfront buildings. It also boasts a rich maritime heritage and is undoubtedly the place to be if you’re big seafood lovers.
You can also dedicate your time hiking through San Fruttuoso and embracing the stunning views of an ancient abbey and an azure bay.
Genoa
Genoa is the Ligurian capital in the middle of the region, separating its east and west coasts. If you’re looking for a strategic base when exploring the villages and towns of the Italian Riviera, this is the ideal place.
The bustling port city is an often-overlooked destination but is home to a vast medieval quarter, 16th-century palaces, and the second-biggest aquarium in Europe.
San Remo
San Remo (sometimes spelled Sanremo) is a tourist hotspot, hosting important events such as the Sanremo Music Festival, Flower Parade (Corso Fiorito) of San Remo, and Milan-Sanremo Cycling. While it’s home to beaches and verdant gardens, it’s particularly popular for its upscale establishments.
It has a casino, art-nouveau buildings, and designer shops. Visit its old town, Pigna, and see the other idyllic side of this area.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to the Italian Riviera?
Fly into Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport, located in the region’s capital, or Pisa International Airport if you’re heading to a city on the eastern coast. If you’re going to a west coast area, fly to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport in France.
You can typically take a train, bus, or shuttle service from the airport to arrive at your final destination.
Traveling Within the Italian Riviera
Many areas of the Italian Riviera are walkable. Otherwise, you can explore this region by train or ferry. Though you can self-drive, note that the Italian Riviera roads are challenging. They’re narrow and busy — plus, there’s also the issue of limited parking.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available on the Italian Riviera?
The Italian Riviera has no shortage of romantic hotels for honeymooners. The region offers a good selection of luxury and boutique hotels.
One of the best places to stay is Hotel Splendido, a luxury hotel on a verdant hillside with panoramic sea views. Grand Hotel Miramare overlooks the sea and boasts pristine art-nouveau architecture. If you’re looking for something with access to a private beach, there are the likes of Hotel Cenobio Dei Dogi, Hotel Continental, and Hotel Metropole.
You can stay at bed and breakfasts or short-term rental apartments for economical stays. If privacy and seclusion are your priority, renting a villa or a holiday home is key.
What Type of Food Should You Try on the Italian Riviera?
- Trofie al pesto. Pesto is often dubbed the king of Ligurian cuisine. This pasta dish, in particular, is made with trofie pasta and basil pesto.
- Focaccia. It’s a type of Italian bread usually topped with olive oil (a known product of the region), sea salt, and herbs such as rosemary.
- Farinata. This savory pancake comprises chickpea flour, salt, and olive oil. It’s served hot and crispy. You can typically find vendors selling it on the side of the street.
- Frittura di Paranza. It’s a seafood dish made by frying small fish (usually a mixture of anchovies, sardines, and squid). It’s traditionally served with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in an Italian Riviera Honeymoon?
You can visit local museums such as Galata Musel del Mare, a maritime museum, and the 17th-century Museo di Palazzo Reale in Genoa. Meanwhile, Portofino’s Museo del Parco is a place that showcases incredible sculpture, flora, and fauna.
Apart from the abovementioned wine tastings and olive oil tours, you can take cooking classes and learn how to prepare traditional Ligurian dishes. Another way to soak up the culture is to explore local markets.
You can also visit the Bussana Vecchia in Liguria, once a ghost town due to an 1887 earthquake. If you’re into music and visiting in the winter, attend the Sanremo Music Festival, Italy’s most famous pop music event.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon on the Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera has more laid-back vibes than other cosmopolitan regions in Italy and neighboring France. Light, breathable, and casual clothing is ideal when packing for an Italian Riviera honeymoon.
You must also bring comfortable shoes that suit the area’s cobblestone streets and hilly terrain. If you plan to swim in the Ligurian sea, swimwear and cover-ups are a must. For evenings out, smarter and dressier outfits are appropriate.
Your essentials also include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light layers for cooler evenings.
Is the Italian Riviera Safe to Visit?
Though the Italian Riviera is one of the safest honeymoon destinations in Italy, you must remember these basic safety precautions:
- Keep vigilant and avoid dark or deserted areas at night.
- When visiting tourist areas, be especially alert and cautious of pickpockets.
- Always follow your guides when embarking on tours and excursions.
- Wear proper outfits and footwear when doing more intense activities such as hiking.
- Trust your instinct and never entertain sketchy offers from strangers.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Italy?
The Italian Riviera is an excellent choice for an unforgettable European honeymoon. US tourists don’t need visas for stays of 90 days or less. Ensure your passports are valid for at least six months upon arrival.
Italian Riviera Travel Tips
- Tap water is safe to drink. Bring an insulated, reusable water bottle to refill.
- Be sensitive when taking photos and selfies. Portofino, in particular, has an ordinance to usher better mobility and prevent people from stopping for too long when taking snaps at famous attractions.
- Though some Italians speak English, bring loads of patience, resourcefulness, and some Italian phrases so you can communicate with the locals.
- When paying in cash, use euros. As of writing, you can exchange $1 for €0.90.
- Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it is always appreciated.