Coastal towns with the best views on the Italian Riviera

Discover the most picturesque coastal towns on the Italian Riviera, renowned for their spectacular Mediterranean sea views. This guide explores the charming localities of Liguria, highlighting their dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and colorful seafront houses. Ideal for planning your Italian vacation, this list will help you find the perfect destinations to enjoy unforgettable landscapes on the Riviera di Levante. Explore the beauty of the Ligurian Riviera and its stunning panoramas that capture the essence of this sought-after European destination.

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  1. 1

    Vernazza (Cinque Terre, Liguria)

    121 Global Votes
    • Remains a true fishing village

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    Vernazza is widely considered the most picturesque of the Cinque Terre villages, with its tightly packed, pastel-colored houses and charming harbor. The views from Castello Doria are particularly iconic, capturing the essence of the Ligurian coast.

  2. 2

    Sestri Levante (Genoa, Liguria)

    76 Global Votes
    • Offers a festive atmosphere

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    Sestri Levante is a striking beach town located on a unique crescent-shaped peninsula, famous for its two scenic bays: Baia delle Favole and the magical Bay of Silence. These bays offer pure Riviera bliss with golden sands and pastel facades.

  3. 3

    Riomaggiore (Cinque Terre, Liguria)

    44 Global Votes
    • Quieter and charming place to stay

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    As the easternmost village of Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is celebrated for its historic character and vibrant, colorful houses. It offers stunning cliffside views, particularly when seen from its renowned hiking trails and boat tours.

  4. 4

    Manarola (Cinque Terre, Liguria)

    1 Global Votes
    • Pastel houses stacked along the cliff

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    Manarola is one of the most photogenic villages in Cinque Terre, famous for its dramatic cliffside setting and colorful buildings. The path along its northern shore offers one of the most suggestive and iconic views of the town.

  5. 5

    Corniglia (Cinque Terre, Liguria)

    1 Global Votes
    • Offers 180-degree views over the sea

      (+2)

    Corniglia stands out among the Cinque Terre villages due to its elevated position, perched high on a rocky outcrop 100 meters above the sea. This unique setting provides unparalleled panoramic views of the Ligurian coastline.

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  7. 6

    Portofino (Liguria)

    1 Global Votes
    • Offers even better views from Brown Castle

      (+4)

    Portofino is a glamorous fishing village famous for its pastel-colored houses, luxury yachts, and scenic natural harbor. The best views of this picturesque town are found from Castello Brown, offering a stunning panorama.

  8. 7

    Santa Margherita Ligure (Genoa, Liguria)

    1 Global Votes
    • Offers beautiful views of surrounding cliffs and greenery

      (+4)

    Santa Margherita Ligure is an elegant resort town known for its palm-lined promenades and ornate villas, offering a sophisticated coastal charm. It provides beautiful beaches and stunning views, often considered a more accessible alternative to Portofino.

  9. 8

    Camogli (Genoa, Liguria)

    0 Global Votes
    • Picturesque and charming coastal town

      (+4)

    Camogli is a less-visited but incredibly picturesque seaside town, often hailed as one of the prettiest in Liguria. Its setting, surrounded by steep hills dotted with colorful houses, creates a stunning visual experience.

  10. 9

    Tellaro (La Spezia, Liguria)

    0 Global Votes
    • Offers tranquil and picturesque alternative

      (+4)

    Tellaro is recognized as one of Italy's most beautiful coastal villages, a true hidden gem on the Italian Riviera. Its quiet charm, cobbled streets, and seafront church offer stunning, unfussy Italian coastal beauty.

  11. 10

    Lerici (La Spezia, Liguria)

    0 Global Votes
    • Sparkling beaches

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    Lerici is a charming town situated along the Gulf of Poets, dominated by its impressive 13th-century castle. This historic fortress provides exceptional panoramic views over the bay and the surrounding coastline.

  12. 11

    Noli (Savona, Liguria)

    0 Global Votes
    • One of Liguria's hidden gems

      (+4)

    Noli is a medieval town that offers a captivating step back in time, with its history evident in its narrow streets and ancient architecture. The 13th-century castle of Monte Ursino provides panoramic views of the town and the sea.