From Sanremo to Cinque Terre: A Luxurious Italian Riviera Itinerary

Imagine stepping out of a sleek private car onto a promenade where the sea shimmers like liquid glass. That’s the feeling you get in Sanremo, the first jewel of the Italian Riviera. Known for its historic casino, upscale boutiques and a summer music festival that attracts the world’s elite, Sanremo effortlessly blends old‑world charm with modern luxury. Book a suite at the Grand Hotel Miramare, sip an Aperol Spritz on the terrace, and let the gentle hum of yachts passing by set the soundtrack for your day.

Just a short drive east, you’ll find the enchanting town of Bordighera. It’s quieter, almost secretive, but its lemon‑scented streets hide a handful of boutique hotels that cater to discerning travelers. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, pause for a gelato—yes, the real Italian kind, not the sugary tourist version—and let the panoramic view of the Ligurian Sea convince you that you’ve stumbled upon a hidden paradise.

Continuing along the coast, the medieval village of Ventimiglia beckons with its bustling Friday market. While the market itself is a riot of colors and aromas, the real draw for luxury seekers is the nearby seaside resort of Alassio. Here, pastel‑colored villas line the shoreline, and a private beach club offers plush sunbeds, concierge service, and even a small fleet of speedboats for those who crave a dash of adventure.

Further along, the famed town of Portofino feels like a set piece from a classic film. Its iconic harbor, dotted with glossy yachts, is framed by pastel houses that seem to have been painted by an impressionist. Stay at the renowned Belmond Hotel Splendido; the rooms overlook the harbor, and the hotel’s garden terraces are perfect for a sunset cocktail. Don’t miss the chance to dine at a sea‑to‑table restaurant where the catch of the day is served with a glass of local Vermentino.

Now, for the grand finale: the Cinque Terre. Five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore—each offer a distinct flavor of Ligurian luxury. In Monterosso, opt for a private villa with an infinity pool that seems to spill into the azure sea. In Vernazza, book a cliff‑side suite at a boutique hotel where you can hear the waves crash against the rocks below. And in Manarola, arrange a sunset sail on a classic wooden boat; the view of the sun dipping behind the pastel houses is, frankly, unforgettable.

Whether you’re sipping limoncello in Sanremo, strolling through a lemon grove in Bordighera, or watching the lanterns flicker over the Cinque Terre at night, the Italian Riviera offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and upscale comfort. Pack your favorite silk scarf, bring an appetite for fresh seafood, and let this coastline rewrite your idea of a perfect luxury getaway.