Bordighera
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Latest page update: 25 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Bordighera
Bordighera offers a strong selection of established hotels, reflecting its reputation as an elegant Riviera resort with palm-lined promenades, sea views and a mild climate that has attracted visitors for more than a century. Most accommodation is located close to the seafront or within easy reach of the town’s historic centre, giving guests convenient access to beaches, gardens and walking routes. The best-reviewed hotels place emphasis on comfort, service and coastal settings suited to longer seaside stays.
Among the leading options, Grand Hotel del Mare Resort & Spa is the most upmarket choice, featuring refined interiors, extensive wellness facilities and direct access to the seafront (€€€€). Hotel Parigi provides a well-regarded beachfront stay with a spa, sea-view rooms and consistently positive feedback for hospitality and location (€€€). For a smaller and more intimate alternative, Hotel Villa Elisa offers a garden setting, welcoming service and steady guest satisfaction for comfort and overall value (€€).
Among the leading options, Grand Hotel del Mare Resort & Spa is the most upmarket choice, featuring refined interiors, extensive wellness facilities and direct access to the seafront (€€€€). Hotel Parigi provides a well-regarded beachfront stay with a spa, sea-view rooms and consistently positive feedback for hospitality and location (€€€). For a smaller and more intimate alternative, Hotel Villa Elisa offers a garden setting, welcoming service and steady guest satisfaction for comfort and overall value (€€).
Where is
Where is Bordighera?
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The seaside town of Bordighera is situated on the Riviera di Ponente in the Province of Imperia. It has a population of around 10,000 inhabitants with the main highlights being the promenade, the beach and the upper town known as Bordighera Alta.
Nearby places of interest include the towns of Ospedaletti, Ventimiglia and Hanbury Botanical Gardens. |
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Comune di Bordighera
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Province: Imperia
Region: Liguria Population: 10,203 (in 2024 - source) Size: 10 km² Highlights: Bordighera Alta, promenade, beach Water quality: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025 Close by: Ospedaletti, Ventimiglia, Hanbury Botanical Gardens |
What People Ask About Bordighera, Liguria
Is Bordighera worth visiting?
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Discover
Discover Bordighera
Bordighera is located on the Riviera di Ponente, west of Sanremo, with a setting that combines sandy beaches and a palm-lined seafront. The old town, perched on a hill, retains its medieval layout of narrow lanes and stone archways, while the newer part of the town stretches along the coast with 19th-century villas and gardens. Among its landmarks is the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, overlooking the historic quarter.
The mild climate has long attracted visitors, and the town is surrounded by gardens and exotic plants, a legacy of its 19th-century development as a resort. Bordighera is connected by rail and road to Ventimiglia and the French Riviera, making it a convenient stop close to the border. Inland, routes lead into the valleys towards hill villages and the foothills of the Maritime Alps.
The mild climate has long attracted visitors, and the town is surrounded by gardens and exotic plants, a legacy of its 19th-century development as a resort. Bordighera is connected by rail and road to Ventimiglia and the French Riviera, making it a convenient stop close to the border. Inland, routes lead into the valleys towards hill villages and the foothills of the Maritime Alps.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Bordighera
- Bordighera Beachfront includes both sandy and pebbled sections, with a mix of free beaches and private lidos. The seafront is lined with palm trees, cafés, and seasonal kiosks. Calm waters make it suitable for swimming, and beach facilities such as sunbeds and pedal boats are available in summer.
- Lungomare Argentina is a wide promenade that runs along the coast, named after Evita Perón’s visit in the 1940s. It is one of the longest in Liguria and offers sea views, benches, and shaded walking paths. The route is popular for walks, cycling, and coastal events throughout the year.
- Giardini Monet is a small public garden inspired by Claude Monet, who painted in Bordighera during his time in Liguria. The gardens include tropical plants, walking paths, and sea views. Informational signs describe Monet’s connection to the town and the local landscape that influenced his work.
- Old Town (Bordighera Alta) is a walled medieval district with narrow alleys, stone archways, and historic houses. It is reached by a short uphill walk from the modern centre. The area includes traditional restaurants, small churches, and viewpoints over the sea. It retains a quiet atmosphere with limited traffic.
- Villa Garnier is a 19th-century residence built by French architect Charles Garnier, who retired in Bordighera. The villa features exotic gardens and a distinctive tower, though interior access is limited. The grounds are occasionally open for guided tours and are visible from nearby walking paths.
Tours and Activities
Bordighera Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Bordighera
- Ristorante Amarea: Located along the Lungomare Argentina, Amarea offers refined seafood dishes with views over the sea. Highlights include tuna tartare, seafood risotto, and grilled prawns, accompanied by a well-curated wine list. The elegant interior and outdoor terrace make it a popular choice for evening dining. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- La Cicala: Nestled in the historic upper part of the town, La Cicala presents a mix of Ligurian and Mediterranean recipes in a warm and intimate setting. The menu changes with the seasons and might feature dishes such as pansotti in walnut sauce, braised rabbit, or baked baccalà. The atmosphere is quiet and suited to slower-paced meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pasta & Basta: Just a few steps from the central promenade, this modern trattoria offers fresh, handmade pasta with a variety of sauces. Options include pesto lasagne, seafood tagliolini, and vegetarian ravioli. It's a good choice for a quick but satisfying lunch near the beach. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Dal Vecchio Forno: Situated a short walk from the main square, this informal pizzeria is known for its crispy thin-crust pizzas and local farinata. Service is fast, and there’s a wide selection of toppings, making it ideal for families and casual dinners. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Bar Eclisse: Close to the beach area, this bar and café serves snacks, salads, and drinks throughout the day. It’s particularly busy during aperitivo hours, offering spritz, local wines, and small plates in a relaxed outdoor setting with a view of the promenade. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Bordighera Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Bordighera
- Ventimiglia (approx. 10 km east of Bordighera): A town with a rich history, Ventimiglia is known for its Roman ruins and the Civic Museum. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman Theatre or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Thursday Market. The town also has beautiful beaches, making it a great destination for those seeking both culture and relaxation by the sea.
- Sanremo (approx. 30 km west of Bordighera): Famous for its international music festival and stunning coastline, Sanremo is a lively town offering a mix of cultural attractions and seaside relaxation. The Casino di Sanremo is a popular landmark, while the historic district of La Pigna offers narrow streets and traditional Ligurian charm. Sanremo is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy both entertainment and scenic beauty.
- Imperia (approx. 25 km east of Bordighera): A town with two distinct districts, Oneglia and Porto Maurizio, Imperia is known for its olive oil production and charming historic centres. Visitors can enjoy local markets, stroll through the picturesque streets, and relax on the town’s beaches. Imperia offers a blend of culture, nature, and seaside relaxation.
- Diano Marina (approx. 20 km west of Bordighera): A popular coastal town, Diano Marina is known for its long sandy beaches and mild climate. The town features a lively promenade, several cafes and restaurants, and a charming historic centre. Diano Marina is ideal for those looking for both beach relaxation and a vibrant town atmosphere.
- Cervo (approx. 15 km southwest of Bordighera): A picturesque village perched on a hill, Cervo is known for its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. The Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, with its Baroque design, is one of the village’s key attractions. Cervo offers visitors a peaceful, scenic environment perfect for exploring its historical charm and enjoying the beautiful coastal views.
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 Bordighera
By Rail: Bordighera has its own train station on the Genoa–Ventimiglia railway line, served by Trenitalia regional trains. The town is well connected with frequent services to Ventimiglia, Sanremo, and Genoa. Journey times are approximately 10 minutes to Ventimiglia, 15 minutes to Sanremo, and 1 hour and 45 minutes to Genoa. The station is located close to the centre and within walking distance of the beach.
By Road: Bordighera lies on the western Ligurian coast, around 12 kilometres east of the French border and 140 kilometres south-west of Genoa. It is accessible via the A10 motorway, with the Bordighera exit leading directly into town. The drive from Genoa takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes, and from Nice about 1 hour. Public parking is available near the seafront, old town, and residential areas.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Bordighera lies on the western Ligurian coast, around 12 kilometres east of the French border and 140 kilometres south-west of Genoa. It is accessible via the A10 motorway, with the Bordighera exit leading directly into town. The drive from Genoa takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes, and from Nice about 1 hour. Public parking is available near the seafront, old town, and residential areas.
Nearest International Airports:
- Nice Airport (Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur): Located approximately 60 kilometres west of Bordighera, the drive takes about 1 hour. The airport provides a wide range of international and domestic flights.
- Genoa Airport (Aeroporto di Genova Cristoforo Colombo): Situated roughly 145 kilometres north-east, with a journey time of around 2 hours by car. It offers flights to key destinations in Italy and Europe.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa): About 270 kilometres north, reachable in approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes by car.
Private Transfers
Bordighera Private Transfers
A private transfer is a straightforward way to reach Bordighera or continue your journey to nearby destinations, offering comfort and efficiency without the need for train or bus changes. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and taken directly to your destination by a professional driver.
From Bordighera, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is about 60 km away, with a journey time of around 1 hour. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport lies 170 km to the east, taking around 2 hours 20 minutes, while Milan Malpensa Airport is roughly 300 km north, with transfers of about 3 hours 45 minutes. The city of Ventimiglia is just 15 minutes away, Sanremo can be reached in 20 minutes, and Monaco in around 50 minutes.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Bordighera, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is about 60 km away, with a journey time of around 1 hour. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport lies 170 km to the east, taking around 2 hours 20 minutes, while Milan Malpensa Airport is roughly 300 km north, with transfers of about 3 hours 45 minutes. The city of Ventimiglia is just 15 minutes away, Sanremo can be reached in 20 minutes, and Monaco in around 50 minutes.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
