Top 10 Picturesque Villages in Liguria

Apricale, with its terraces, dry stone walls and historic stone houses, is a sunlit village surrounded by the distinctive landscape of the Ligurian backcountry. Framed by the Maritime Alps, not far from the Riviera di Ponente (Coast of the Setting Sun), it meanders over a hill in a maze of medieval alleys.

At the top, the main square of the village is dominated by the distinctive Castello della Lucertola (Castle of the Lizard), a stronghold with a tower, arches and massive stone structure that transport you back to the feudal age. The castle's home to the Museo della Storia di Apricale (Museum of the History of Apricale), where visitors can explore seven exhibition rooms explaining the origins of this small town.

Dolceacqua, with its enchanting views and quiet medieval alleys, is a place that just oozes serenity. Set in the Valle Nervia, along the inland stretch behind Ventimiglia and Bordighera, the valley enthralled Claude Monet who painted the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) against the backdrop of Castello dei Doria (Doria Castle) in 1884.

To make the most of this evocative setting, walk in the footsteps of the famous impressionist painter: start from the Romanesque humpback bridge and continue until you reach the hill's summit. What could be lovelier than strolling hand in hand or with your family through the main street or the maze of alleyways, discovering painting exhibitions and little food and wine shops.

Laigueglia is a delightful seaside town in the Riviera di Ponente (Coast of the Setting Sun). It overlooks the Baia del Sole (Bay of the Sun) and is surmounted by the Capo Mele promontory. You'll also find the picturesque white lighthouse of the same name here, surrounded by dense vegetation.

The soft sandy beaches are punctuated by seaside resorts where kids can make the most of age-appropriate rides and adults can kick back under a beach umbrella. The little squares on the seafront are great for indulging in an ice cream or admiring the sea of outdoor bar tables. In June, the town's narrow streets and seafront buzz with music enthusiasts attending Percfest, an event of concerts, jazz performances and shows.

Bussana Vecchia could be compared to a phoenix rising from the ashes. After the earthquake of 1887, it was revitalised in the 1960s by passionate artists and craftsmen who restored this medieval village to its ancient splendour. The lively scene it enjoys today is all thanks to this rebirth, which has seen it filled with workshops, little shops and rustic, homely restaurants.

It stands on the hills surrounding Sanremo, with stone houses that evoke the day-to-day life of times gone by. Wandering the narrow, atmospheric alleys, you'll spot the remains of an ancient castle and Chiesa di Sant'Egidio (Church of Sant'Egidio). For reasons of safety, the remaining decorative stuccos and paintings can only be admired from outside.

In Seborga, you can breathe in the mountain air of the Maritime Alps, which give the western Ligurian backcountry its mild climate. This little village behind Ospedaletti, surrounded by untouched woodland, covers the top of a promontory with distinctive stone buildings. Access to the historic centre is marked by an arch under a hefty tower, which recalls mysterious tales from the Middle Ages. In the 1950s, some Seborga locals reclaimed the independence of the ancient Principality of Seborga.

This was never recognised, but the town does boast its own coins, plaques and princess. Music lovers should stop by the Esposizione degli Strumenti Musicali Antichi (Ancient Musical Instruments Museum) in the Palazzo Comunale (Town Hall).

Cervo is a small town of yellow and ochre houses, green shutters and orange roofs, perched on a hill overlooking the sea. Its narrow, slightly uphill cobblestone streets can only be accessed on foot. Not far from Imperia, visitors are drawn to this small town's intimate atmosphere and picturesque alleys and squares.

The Baroque Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista (Church of San Giovanni Battista) stands proudly at the heart of the town, with its bell tower overlooking an enchanting view of the sea. Every year the event Cervo Ti Strega ('Bewitching Cervo') takes places here, where five writers compete for the Premio Strega (Strega Award). It's a great occasion for avid readers.

Finalborgo is a fortified citadel that's part of Finale Ligure, not far from the Marina. The layout of the atmospheric streets evokes the past of this small town, built for defensive purposes. The alleys are perpendicular to each other and make for pretty nooks and crannies that captivate visitors. Among 15th-century buildings, decorated with pietra del Finale ('Finale stone' or slate), you’ll stumble upon little shops selling artisan goods.

After you've taken in the vitality of the town and its heritage, follow the paths inland either on foot (with some good boots) or on a mountain bike. Towards the end of August, Finalborgo hosts the historic re-enactment Viaggio nel Medioevo ('Journey into the Middle Ages'), featuring shows and stalls.

Varigotti, part of Finale Ligure, is a village that oozes seaside holiday vibes. The coast’s dotted with resorts and boasts a stretch of beach with amenities for disabled people. If you’re after a scenic sunbathing spot, Spiaggia della Baia dei Saraceni (Saracen Bay Beach) is perfect. Its spectacular hues make it one of Liguria’s most popular sandy shores.

After a day catching rays, visit the old part of the village, known for its unique architecture, possible evidence of the Saracen influence in medieval times. Hikers will love the fantastic path that starts from the village. It'll take you to the top of the white cliffs that are visible from the beach – the view will make the climb worth it!

Noli, a few kilometres from Varigotti, was historically a Maritime Republic. Its splendour is commemorated every September with the Regata Storica dei Rioni (Historic Districts Regatta), which includes a sea race, a historical procession, music, dancing, shows and art exhibitions. As well as making history fun, Noli also offers opportunities to try out sports activities, like walking on the Altopiano delle Manie (Manie Plateau) and scuba diving near Capo Noli.

In the alleys of this ancient medieval village, the little traditional restaurants serve a Ligurian speciality that'll delight even the most demanding palates: cappon magro, a delicacy made from tub gurnard and vegetables.

Verezzi is a delightful village inland, which can be reached from Borgio via a winding road. It’s a little paradise for hikers or those who fancy taking on the climbing walls. This little village’s a labyrinth of distinctive cobblestone mule tracks, or crêuze. What could be more pleasant than wandering aimlessly among the ancient medieval houses and soaking up the striking atmosphere?

Piazza Sant'Agostino boasts a breathtaking view of the sea, the Mediterranean scrub and the terraced roofs of the village. If you're stopping for lunch or dinner, try the intensely aromatic capers are grown in the area, as well as the lumache alla verezzina (verezzina snails), a local delicacy served with pine nuts and dried mushrooms.