Villa Durazzo Travel Guide

Perched in the heart of Santa Margherita Ligure, Villa Durazzo stands as a breathtaking testament to 17th-century Italian elegance. Built in 1678 as a summer residence, this magnificent villa offers visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Italian nobility. The villa’s Apartments of the Main Floor remain open year-round, allowing you to experience its lavish interiors while enjoying spectacular views of the Gulf of Tigullio.

As you wander through the exquisitely maintained Italian gardens, you’ll find yourself surrounded by greenery that frames perfect views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The villa sits just above the harbor, making it an ideal stop during your exploration of the Ligurian Riviera. Though not an expansive museum, Villa Durazzo compensates with its intimate charm and historical significance.

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Villa Durazzo isn’t just a historical landmark—it’s a living piece of Italian heritage that continues to captivate visitors with its seamless blend of architecture and natural beauty. When you visit in 2025, take time to absorb the tranquil atmosphere of this seaside gem that has enchanted travelers for centuries.

History Of Villa Durazzo

Villa Durazzo’s story begins in 1678 when the wealthy Durazzo family built it as their summer residence in Santa Margherita Ligure. The villa sits majestically on a hill overlooking the sparkling Ligurian Sea.

The building follows a typical square design attributed to the Alessi style, which was popular among aristocratic families of the time. Surrounded by lush gardens, the property showcases the luxury that defined Italian nobility in the 17th century.

In the 18th century, ownership changed hands when the property was purchased by new owners. The villa maintained its status as a symbol of wealth and prominence in the region.

A significant transformation came in 1892 when Nicolò Maragliano converted the villa into an elegant hotel called the “Grand Hotel.” This establishment quickly became known for its prestigious clientele.

In May 1904, the hotel welcomed its most distinguished guest – Queen Margherita of Savoia. Her visit cemented the villa’s reputation as one of the most prestigious destinations in Santa Margherita Ligure.

The property includes beautiful terraced gardens, including the oldest section known as the “Citrus Garden.” This charming space features orange, lemon, and other citrus trees that have been part of the estate since the Durazzo family’s time.

Today, you can visit Villa Durazzo to experience its rich history and stunning architecture. When you walk through its rooms and gardens, you’re following in the footsteps of Italian nobility and royalty from centuries past.

What To See In Villa Durazzo

Villa Durazzo offers a perfect blend of art, history, and natural beauty. The ground floor welcomes you with the elegant Vietri Parlour and an antique dining room featuring neoclassical frescoes and beautiful 18th-century majolica floors.

As you explore the villa, you’ll discover an impressive collection of period furniture and, surprisingly, several pianos throughout the rooms. The walls are adorned with lovely frescoes that capture the artistic heritage of the region.

The gardens are truly special and can be divided into three distinct areas:

The Citrus Garden with fragrant lemon trees
The formal Italian Garden with manicured hedges
The serene Romantic English Wood
The historic Centurione section

Take an aromatic stroll among hydrangeas, camellias, and other flora typical of this mild coastal climate. Though not expansive, these gardens offer spectacular views of the Gulf of Tigullio’s azure waters.

From the villa’s terraces, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Ligurian coastline that will make your visit memorable. The setting combines 17th-century grandeur with natural beauty in perfect harmony.

The friendly staff enhances your experience, ready to share insights about this hidden gem. While not a large museum, Villa Durazzo’s charm lies in its intimate setting and the way it captures the essence of coastal Italian elegance.

How To Get To Villa Durazzo

Villa Durazzo sits beautifully on a hill in Santa Margherita Ligure, offering stunning views of the coast. Getting there is relatively easy through several transportation options.

If you’re driving, take the A12 motorway and exit at Rapallo. From there, follow the road to Santa Margherita Ligure for about 5 kilometers. Villa Durazzo Parking is available on Via Favale.

For those using public transportation, the nearest bus station is Pizzerie, just a 3-minute walk from the villa. This makes it convenient if you’re staying in town or arriving from nearby areas.

Coming from a cruise? The Santa Margherita cruise port offers private tours that will take you directly to Villa Durazzo and nearby Portofino.

The villa is located uphill, but it’s a fairly short climb that most visitors can manage without difficulty. Unlike Camogli, which presents more challenging terrain, the walk to Villa Durazzo is gentle.

Here are your transportation options summarized:

By Car: A12 motorway → Rapallo exit → Santa Margherita Ligure road (5 km)
By Bus: Get off at Pizzerie station (3-minute walk)
By Cruise: Book a private tour from Santa Margherita cruise port
On Foot: Short uphill walk if staying in town

Villa Durazzo Visitor Information

Villa Durazzo welcomes visitors year-round with its stunning gardens and historic apartments. You can visit this beautiful 17th-century villa every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission to the gardens is free, allowing you to enjoy the lush surroundings and fabulous sea views without paying a cent. If you wish to explore the interior of Villa Durazzo, tickets cost €5.50 for adults, with discounts available for FAI and Touring Club members at €4.00.

The Main Floor Apartments, built in 1678 as the summer residence of the Durazzo family, are open for visits throughout the year. These rooms showcase the villa’s rich history and elegant design.

For more information or to arrange special visits, you can contact Villa Durazzo directly:

Phone: 0185/293135 or 334 6779998
Location: Central Santa Margherita Ligure, easily accessible from town

While exploring the grounds, don’t miss the free visitor center that provides fascinating insights into the military installations on the surrounding hillside, including the 202nd Batteria Chiappa.

The villa operates on a split schedule for interior visits:

Morning: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Afternoon: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Plan to spend at least an hour here to fully appreciate this architectural treasure and its beautiful Mediterranean gardens with panoramic coastal views.

Where To Stay Near Villa Durazzo

Finding accommodations near Villa Durazzo is simple with over 470 hotels in the area. You’ll have plenty of options to suit various preferences and budgets.

The Best Western Plus Tigullio Royal Hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to stay close to the villa.

B&B HOTEL Park Hotel Suisse Santa Margherita Ligure is just 0.1 miles from Villa Durazzo. With a rating of 7.7 out of 10 from over 2,400 reviews, it’s a solid option at around $90 per night.

Hotel Cavour, located 1.5 miles from the villa, has a slightly higher rating of 7.8 from more than 3,400 reviews. Rooms start at approximately $94 per night.

For a more romantic getaway, consider Villa Gelsomino Exclusive House. This adults-only property features premium bedding, memory foam beds, minibars, and in-room safes.

If you prefer more space and amenities, vacation rentals are available near Villa Durazzo. These properties include apartments and houses that can be booked online.

When planning your stay, consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Most hotels offer fully refundable rates, giving you flexibility with your travel plans.

Things To Do Near Villa Durazzo

Santa Margherita Ligure offers many attractions near Villa Durazzo. You can easily spend a full day exploring this charming coastal town and its surroundings.

Visit Santa Margherita Ligure Castle for a glimpse into the area’s history. The castle stands as a testament to the region’s rich past and offers spectacular views of the harbor.

Ente Parco di Portofino, a natural park, is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Walking trails lead you through beautiful Mediterranean landscapes with stunning sea views.

Beach lovers will enjoy Baia di Paraggi, a small but picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters. This intimate beach is ideal for a refreshing swim after touring Villa Durazzo.

Spiaggia Minaglia Beach provides another excellent option for sunbathing and swimming. Its location makes it a convenient stop while exploring the town.

For a more organized beach experience, try Bagni Fiore where you can rent umbrellas and loungers while enjoying pristine waters.

Don’t miss the Church of San Giacomo di Corte near Villa Durazzo. Its ornate interior and historical significance make it worth a brief visit.

Portofino is just a short boat ride or bus trip away. This famous fishing village with its colorful buildings and luxury shops makes for a perfect half-day excursion.

For nature enthusiasts, the Abbazia di San Girolamo al Monte di Portofino offers both historical architecture and beautiful natural surroundings.