🌊 Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy: A Hidden Gem on the Italian Riviera
Tucked between Rapallo and Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure is one of the most charming towns on Italy’s Ligurian coast. With colorful pastel houses, elegant villas, and a lively seafront promenade, it captures everything we love about the Italian Riviera — without the overwhelming crowds of its more famous neighbors.
If you’re dreaming of a seaside escape full of Italian charm, great food, and stunning views, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy.Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy
🌴 1. Stroll the Scenic Promenade
Start your adventure with a relaxed walk along Lungomare di Santa Margherita, the town’s palm-lined waterfront promenade. The sea glimmers on one side, pastel buildings on the other, and fishing boats gently sway in the harbor.
Stop for a gelato or espresso at a café overlooking the marina — this is the perfect spot to soak up the Riviera’s slow-paced lifestyle.
📸 Travel tip: Visit at sunset when the light turns golden and the hills glow behind the harbor.
🕍 2. Visit the Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia
At the heart of town stands the elegant Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, dedicated to the town’s patron saint. The baroque architecture, marble details, and frescoed ceilings make it a peaceful retreat amid the bustle.
Don’t miss the small piazza out front, where locals gather in the evening — it’s the perfect place to people-watch with a gelato in hand.
📍 Location: Piazza Caprera
🌿 3. Wander Through Villa Durazzo and Its Gardens
Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Villa Durazzo is one of Santa Margherita’s most iconic landmarks. This 17th-century villa was once the summer residence of Genoese nobility, and today it’s surrounded by lush Italian-style gardens filled with fountains, statues, and palm trees.
Walk up the shaded paths for panoramic views of the coastline and explore the villa’s art collection inside.
🎟️ Admission: Gardens are free, small fee for the villa
🌸 Don’t miss: The viewpoint near the terrace — it’s one of the best photo spots in town.
🏖️ 4. Relax on the Beach
While Santa Margherita’s beaches are mostly pebble or shingle, they’re perfect for a lazy afternoon by the sea. The water here is calm, clear, and ideal for swimming.
Top beaches include:
Spiaggia Minaglia – Central and easy to access.
Punta Pedale Beach – A local favorite with crystal waters.
Paraggi Bay – A 20-minute walk or quick bus ride toward Portofino; turquoise water and postcard-perfect scenery.
☀️ Tip: Bring water shoes — they make pebble beaches much more comfortable!
🌳 5. Hike to Portofino through Portofino Regional Park
Love nature? One of the best hikes in Liguria starts right here in Santa Margherita. Follow the scenic trail that winds through the Portofino Natural Park all the way to the glamorous village of Portofino.
The path passes olive groves, forests, and sea viewpoints — and it’s surprisingly peaceful. You can even continue to the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, accessible only by foot or boat.
🥾 Trail tip: Santa Margherita → Nozarego → Portofino (approx. 2 hours, moderate difficulty)
⛪ 6. Visit La Cervara Abbey
Just outside Santa Margherita lies La Cervara, a 14th-century abbey with beautiful gardens and sea views. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into Liguria’s history and tranquility.
The abbey is open for guided tours on select days — it’s worth checking in advance if you’re in the area.
📍 Location: Via Cervara, between Santa Margherita and Portofino
🌸 Highlight: The wisteria-covered garden terrace in spring is breathtaking.
🍝 7. Eat Like a Local: Try Ligurian Specialties
Italian Riviera cuisine is light, flavorful, and full of local ingredients. In Santa Margherita, don’t leave without trying:
Trofie al pesto – Handmade pasta with Genovese basil pesto.
Focaccia di Recco – A crispy, cheesy flatbread from a nearby town.
Fresh seafood – Grilled fish, calamari, and anchovies are local staples.
For a memorable meal, book a table at Trattoria da Pezzi or Ristorante Antonio — both beloved by locals for their authentic Ligurian dishes.
🍷 Pair with: A glass of chilled Vermentino, Liguria’s signature white wine.
🛍️ 8. Shop the Local Boutiques & Market
Wander through the narrow lanes behind the seafront and you’ll find chic boutiques, artisan shops, and hidden courtyards.
Don’t miss the Friday morning market on Corso Matteotti — it’s packed with local cheese, olive oil, handmade linens, and leather goods. Perfect for authentic souvenirs to bring home.
🕘 Market hours: Fridays, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
🚤 9. Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast
One of the most scenic things to do in Santa Margherita Ligure is to explore by sea. Hop on a ferry or rent a private boat to visit nearby coastal treasures:
Portofino – 15 minutes by boat, ideal for a day trip.
San Fruttuoso Abbey – Accessible only by boat or hiking trail, famous for its hidden beach and underwater Christ of the Abyss statue.
🎟️ Boats depart from: Santa Margherita harbor
🕐 Best time: Morning departures offer calmer waters and fewer crowds.
🌅 10. Enjoy Aperitivo by the Sea
End your day the Italian way — with a sunset aperitivo overlooking the sea. Order a Spritz or a glass of Prosecco and watch the harbor lights flicker on as boats return from the day.
🍹 Top spots:
Sabot Bar – Trendy with harbor views.
Bar Enoteca Il Vernissage – Perfect for cocktails and people-watching.
There’s no better way to wrap up a day in Santa Margherita Ligure than with good wine, good company, and that perfect Riviera sunset.
💡 Practical Travel Tips
🚆 How to get there: Direct train from Genoa (1 hour) or Milan (2.5 hours).
🚶 Getting around: Everything in town is walkable. Boats and buses connect to Portofino and Rapallo.
🏨 Where to stay:
Luxury: Grand Hotel Miramare
Mid-range: Hotel Sant’Andrea
Budget: Hotel Minerva
📅 Best time to visit: May to September for warm weather and vibrant beach life.
✨ Final Thoughts
Santa Margherita Ligure may be small, but it’s full of timeless charm. Whether you’re here to unwind by the sea, wander historic villas, or hike coastal trails, this elegant Riviera town captures the best of Italy — beauty, food, and that effortless dolce vita feeling.
Once you’ve explored Santa Margherita, hop over to nearby Portofino or Cinque Terre — but don’t be surprised if this seaside gem ends up being your favorite stop in Italy.