Santa Margherita Ligure Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Nestled along the stunning Ligurian coastline, Santa Margherita Ligure is a gem waiting to be discovered. This charming town on the Italian Riviera offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and relaxation. Explore the Pearl of Tigullio, where the seaside charm and lush hillsides meet, creating a picturesque backdrop perfect for any traveler.

As you roam the streets, you’ll find historic architecture, vibrant markets, and inviting cafes. The Gulf of Tigullio complements the landscape, offering serene waters ideal for boating or simply soaking up the sun. This town is celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of the Ligurian coast.

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Whether you are visiting the famous Riviera di Levante or planning a day trip to nearby Golfo Paradiso, Santa Margherita Ligure is a sparkling destination that promises to enrich your travel experience with its rich culture and breathtaking scenery.

How To Get To Santa Margherita Ligure

By Car: You can reach Santa Margherita Ligure by taking the A12 motorway. Exit at the Rapallo toll booth, which is about 5 km away. Follow the signs for Santa Margherita Ligure at the roundabout. Enjoy scenic views along the way. We recommend booking a rental car in advance to ensure you have a car waiting for you.

By Train: The Genova-La Spezia train line offers smooth connections. The train station is conveniently located in Santa Margherita Ligure, close to the town center and just 150 meters from Ghiaia beach. This makes train travel a hassle-free option for exploring nearby places like Chiavari and Levanto as well.

By Plane: Fly into Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport for the nearest air travel option. Other airports in Milan, Bergamo, Turin, and Pisa also offer easy access. From any of these, rental cars or trains can bring you to Santa Margherita Ligure.

To make your arrival hassle-free, we recommend booking a private taxi.

By Boat: Enjoy a scenic boat trip with Tigullio Maritime Service. Boats run between local towns, offering a picturesque view of the Ligurian coast. This method is especially charming for a visit to the nearby Portovenere or the famous Cinque Terre.

By Bus: Utilize the regional bus services for a budget-friendly way to reach Santa Margherita Ligure. Connections from Genoa or La Spezia provide an alternative to trains and cars.

What To See In Santa Margherita Ligure

Start your journey with a stroll along the beautiful seaside promenade. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying views of the harbor filled with colorful boats. Head to Villa Durazzo, an elegant historical villa surrounded by lush gardens and magnificent palm trees. Its Italian garden is a peaceful place for a walk.

Explore Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure, a historic castle that offers panoramic views of the town and sea. Close by, you’ll find the Baroque church with stunning frescoes inside. For beach lovers, Paraggi and Baia di Paraggi are nearby scenic beaches, known for their clear waters. Additionally, San Michele di Pagana is a charming spot with colorful houses and pebble beaches.

Indulge in Ligurian dishes like pesto at local restaurants and enjoy a coffee at cozy cafes. For shopping, visit Drogheria Seghezzo, known for its local products and delicacies.

Don’t miss a boat trip to Portofino and San Fruttuoso. The Cervara Abbey en route is a stunning site. The Portofino Promontory and Parco di Portofino are perfect for nature enthusiasts, offering various trails and rowing opportunities.

Check out our articles on the best things to do in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy and best restaurants in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure

Read our article on hotels near Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History Of Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure’s history is a tapestry woven with Roman roots and vibrant cultural events. Originally settled during the Roman era, it witnessed various transformations over time. The area often faced attacks from Barbary pirates, which were frequent threats to the region.

In the 16th century, the Republic of Genoa constructed a castle here to protect the town from pirate raids. This 16th-century castle, now a symbol of resilience, overlooks the sea and offers a glimpse into the town’s defensive past.

The Basilica di Santa Margherita, built in the 17th century, stands proudly in the town center. This baroque church replaced an earlier structure and showcases beautiful art and architecture, reflecting the town’s deep religious commitment.

Santa Margherita also has connections to notable figures like the actors Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, who visited this picturesque spot. Their presence added a touch of glamor to the already enchanting town.

The Durazzo family, influential in Genoese history, also left their mark here with the stunning Villa Durazzo. Stroll through its lush gardens for a serene experience.

The town even hosted Columbian celebrations, honoring explorer Cristoforo Colombo. These celebrations continue to highlight its historical significance in maritime adventures.

Nearby Towns to Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming coastal town on the Ligurian Riviera, is surrounded by several larger towns that offer a variety of attractions and experiences. Here are five of the closest big towns to Santa Margherita Ligure:

Genoa: Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is known for its rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Key attractions include the historic port, the Aquarium of Genoa, and the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.
Rapallo: Rapallo is a popular resort town known for its scenic waterfront, historic castles, and vibrant marina. The town offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the ancient Castello sul Mare and the nearby sanctuary of Montallegro.
Chiavari: Chiavari is a charming town with a well-preserved historic center, featuring arcaded streets and elegant palaces. The town is known for its vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Sestri Levante: Sestri Levante is a picturesque town known for its beautiful bays, Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence) and Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables). The town offers a mix of cultural events, beautiful beaches, and a charming old town.
Lavagna: Lavagna is a coastal town known for its long sandy beaches and lively marina. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping options, as well as historical sites like the Basilica of Santo Stefano.

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Santa Margherita Ligure Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs