Apricale
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Latest page update: 29 August 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Apricale
Apricale has only a limited amount of hotel-style accommodation, as most stays in the village are small B&Bs and historic residences set among the medieval lanes. Travellers who prefer established hotels with fuller facilities and a stronger volume of guest reviews generally stay in nearby towns and visit Apricale for its hilltop atmosphere and surrounding Ligurian countryside.
In Bordighera, Grand Hotel del Mare Resort & Spa is the most prestigious nearby option, appreciated for its elegant interiors, extensive facilities and panoramic position on the coast (€€€€). In Vallebona, Agriturismo La Zarina offers a comfortable alternative in a peaceful rural setting, with welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the valleys and hill villages (€€). For a practical base with wider services, Best Western Hotel Anthurium in Santo Stefano al Mare provides modern rooms, reliable comfort and easy coastal connections for day trips into the hinterland (€€€).
In Bordighera, Grand Hotel del Mare Resort & Spa is the most prestigious nearby option, appreciated for its elegant interiors, extensive facilities and panoramic position on the coast (€€€€). In Vallebona, Agriturismo La Zarina offers a comfortable alternative in a peaceful rural setting, with welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the valleys and hill villages (€€). For a practical base with wider services, Best Western Hotel Anthurium in Santo Stefano al Mare provides modern rooms, reliable comfort and easy coastal connections for day trips into the hinterland (€€€).
Where is
Where is Apricale?
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The medieval hill town of Apricale is situated with the Imperia Province of in the northern Italian region of Liguria.
It has a charming main square called Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II and lots of fascinating stone alleyways to explore. A favourite sight just off the Piazza is the Castello della Lucertola, while throughout the town are paintings on buildings which characterise its history. |
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Comune di Apricale
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Province: Imperia
Region: Liguria Population: 612 (in 2024 - source) Size: 20 km² Elevation: 291 metres Highlights: Castello della Lucertola, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II Close by: Isolabona, Dolceacqua, Perinaldo, Ventimiglia, Pigna |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Il Bacio della Pietra con il Sole (The Kiss of the Stone with the Sun) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2016 1 of 15 in Liguria listed by Touring Club Italiano |
What People Ask About Apricale
Where is Apricale located?
What is Apricale known for?
Is Apricale worth visiting?
What can you see in Apricale?
How do you get to Apricale?
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Discover
Discover Apricale
The Borghi Più Belli d'Italia association include Apricale on their list of Italy's most beautiful villages under the heading Il Bacio della Pietra con Il Sole, "The Kiss of the Stone with the Sun". Another association that promotes small Italian towns and villages, the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag), have included Apricale on their own list of places to visit since 2016.
The town is best reached by car and as you approach from a distance you get stunning views of its seemingly precarious location, perched overlooking the valley below.
Apricale is one of a series of fascinating small towns and villages located around ten kilometres inland of the Riviera di Ponente, Liguria's western coastline. Within a short drive of Apricale are the likes of Perinaldo, Dolceacqua, Isolabona and Pigna slightly further north, all with a similar type of historic charm. The coastal resorts around Sanremo understandably enjoy the main focus of tourism in the summer but for those who like to explore a little bit off the beaten path, Apricale and its neighbouring villages are well worth the effort.
The town is best reached by car and as you approach from a distance you get stunning views of its seemingly precarious location, perched overlooking the valley below.
Apricale is one of a series of fascinating small towns and villages located around ten kilometres inland of the Riviera di Ponente, Liguria's western coastline. Within a short drive of Apricale are the likes of Perinaldo, Dolceacqua, Isolabona and Pigna slightly further north, all with a similar type of historic charm. The coastal resorts around Sanremo understandably enjoy the main focus of tourism in the summer but for those who like to explore a little bit off the beaten path, Apricale and its neighbouring villages are well worth the effort.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Apricale
- Apricale Historic Centre: A charming medieval village, Apricale is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and scenic alleyways. The town’s historic centre offers a glimpse into traditional Ligurian life, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills. It's a perfect spot for leisurely walks and exploring local architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 13th century.
- Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista: A beautiful church located in the heart of Apricale, Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista dates back to the 12th century. The church features a striking Baroque altar and stunning frescoes, making it a significant religious and cultural landmark in the village. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the church’s surrounding square.
- Castello di Apricale: This historic castle, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and is one of the main landmarks of Apricale. The castle is a great place for history enthusiasts, with its ancient walls and medieval architecture. It’s a peaceful spot to explore and take in the village’s history and heritage.
- Hiking in the Surrounding Countryside: The area around Apricale offers plenty of hiking opportunities through beautiful natural landscapes, including olive groves and forests. Popular trails lead to scenic viewpoints, where hikers can enjoy sweeping views of the Ligurian hills and the Mediterranean coastline. It's an ideal activity for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Excursion to Dolceacqua: A short drive from Apricale, the village of Dolceacqua is known for its stunning medieval bridge and historic castle. A guided tour of the town takes visitors through its picturesque streets, offering a chance to learn about the area’s history and enjoy its unique architecture. The surrounding countryside also offers beautiful views and hiking trails.
Tours and Activities
Apricale Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Apricale
- Ristorante Apricale da Delio: Located in the centre of the village, this well-known restaurant offers Ligurian cuisine in an atmospheric stone-walled dining room. Dishes include homemade tagliatelle with wild boar ragu, rabbit with olives, and traditional vegetable pies. The terrace provides views over the surrounding hills, adding to its appeal. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Osteria dei Bacci: Tucked into a narrow lane off the main piazza, this rustic osteria focuses on local specialities and seasonal ingredients. Expect options such as chestnut flour pasta, polenta with sausage, and almond-based desserts. The setting is relaxed and full of character. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante La Capanna d’Aurora: Situated just outside the village (about 2 km from Apricale), this countryside restaurant serves hearty, traditional dishes in a peaceful, rural setting. Highlights include grilled meats, local cheeses, and homemade desserts, with generous portions and a welcoming feel. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Bar Apricale: Found in the main square, this informal spot serves wood-fired pizzas, focacce, and simple pasta dishes. It’s a convenient option for a casual lunch or dinner, especially during the summer when outdoor tables fill the piazza. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Agriturismo Terre Del Mistero: Located in the hills above the village (around 3.5 km from Apricale), this agriturismo offers fixed menus based on farm produce and traditional recipes. Meals typically include antipasti, handmade pasta, and slow-cooked meats in a rustic dining room. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Apricale Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Apricale
- Perinaldo (approx. 10 km northeast of Apricale): A quaint hilltop village known for its panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Mediterranean Sea. Perinaldo is famous for being the birthplace of the astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, with narrow stone streets, traditional Ligurian houses, and the historic Church of San Nicolò, making it an ideal spot for those interested in history and nature.
- Dolceacqua (approx. 15 km south of Apricale): A picturesque medieval town set along the Nervia River, Dolceacqua is known for its charming bridges and narrow cobbled streets. The town is dominated by the medieval Castello dei Doria, which offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Dolceacqua is also famous for its local Rossese wine, and visitors can enjoy tasting this regional specialty in the town’s rustic trattorias.
- Bordighera (approx. 25 km southwest of Apricale): A coastal town known for its Mediterranean gardens and pleasant climate, Bordighera offers a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful beaches and a lovely promenade. The town is home to the ancient Church of St. Mary of the Angels and the picturesque Via Romana, lined with historic villas. Bordighera is also a great base for exploring the nearby coastal and mountain regions of the Riviera.
- Sanremo (approx. 35 km southwest of Apricale): A glamorous town on the Italian Riviera, Sanremo is famous for its annual music festival, the Festival di Sanremo, and its beautiful gardens. The town offers a combination of elegant shops, historic buildings, and a lively waterfront. Visitors can stroll through the old town, explore the Russian Orthodox Church, or enjoy the stunning views from the Sanremo Casino.
- Taggia (approx. 15 km southwest of Apricale): A historic town nestled in the Argentine Valley, Taggia is known for its medieval centre and the impressive Abbey of San Martino. The town’s narrow streets are full of traditional Ligurian architecture, and visitors can explore its charming piazzas, such as Piazza San Martino. Taggia is also famous for its olive groves and the production of Taggiasca olives, a local delicacy.
Liguria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Apricale
By Rail: Apricale does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Ventimiglia, approximately 20 kilometres away, served by Trenitalia regional and Intercity trains. Regular services run between Ventimiglia and cities such as Genoa, Savona, and Nice (France), with connections to Milan and Turin. From Ventimiglia, Apricale can be reached by car or local bus, with a journey time of around 35 minutes.
By Road: Apricale is located in the Ligurian hinterland, about 15 kilometres inland from the Mediterranean coast and 20 kilometres north-east of Ventimiglia. It is accessible via the SP64 provincial road, which winds through the Nervia Valley. The drive from Ventimiglia takes approximately 35 minutes, and from Sanremo around 50 minutes. Roads are narrow and winding, particularly near the village. Parking is available outside the historic centre, which is pedestrian only.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Apricale is located in the Ligurian hinterland, about 15 kilometres inland from the Mediterranean coast and 20 kilometres north-east of Ventimiglia. It is accessible via the SP64 provincial road, which winds through the Nervia Valley. The drive from Ventimiglia takes approximately 35 minutes, and from Sanremo around 50 minutes. Roads are narrow and winding, particularly near the village. Parking is available outside the historic centre, which is pedestrian only.
Nearest International Airports:
- Nice Airport (Aéroport de Nice Côte d’Azur): Located about 65 kilometres west of Apricale, in neighbouring France, the drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is the closest major airport and offers extensive international connections.
- Genoa Airport (Aeroporto di Genova Cristoforo Colombo): Situated approximately 160 kilometres north-east of Apricale, the drive takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It serves a number of domestic and European destinations.
- Cuneo Airport (Aeroporto di Cuneo Levaldigi): Located roughly 120 kilometres north of Apricale, with a driving time of around 2 hours. This smaller airport offers limited regional services.
Private Transfers
Apricale Private Transfers
Private transfers to or from Apricale are ideal for travellers looking to reach this inland hill town without relying on limited public transport. With no direct train station and steep, winding access roads, a private car service provides a more straightforward and comfortable journey.
Apricale is located in the province of Imperia, about 12 kilometres inland from Bordighera and the Ligurian coast, and approximately 55 kilometres west of Sanremo. The nearest railway station is Bordighera, which connects to regional trains running along the coast between Ventimiglia and Genoa. From Bordighera, the drive up to Apricale takes around 25 minutes. The closest airports are Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, around 65 kilometres west, and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, approximately 160 kilometres to the northeast.
If you’d like to arrange a private transfer to or from Apricale, please fill in the form below with your travel details.
Apricale is located in the province of Imperia, about 12 kilometres inland from Bordighera and the Ligurian coast, and approximately 55 kilometres west of Sanremo. The nearest railway station is Bordighera, which connects to regional trains running along the coast between Ventimiglia and Genoa. From Bordighera, the drive up to Apricale takes around 25 minutes. The closest airports are Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, around 65 kilometres west, and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, approximately 160 kilometres to the northeast.
If you’d like to arrange a private transfer to or from Apricale, please fill in the form below with your travel details.
