Santa  Margherita  Ligure

⭐ Ranked #100 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
​Latest page update: 20 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​Situated along the Gulf of Tigullio, Santa Margherita Ligure is one of the most pristine seaside resorts along the Riviera di Levante. 

In an area of unparalleled beauty, Santa Margherita occupies the eastern side of the Portofino Peninsula with some of the Liguria region's most glamorous towns on its doorstep. 
​
Once a small, fairly insignificant fishing port, Santa Margherita Ligure sprang to life in the 19th century when the two neighbouring villages of Corte and Pescino were united. 

What People Ask About Santa Margherita Ligure

Where is Santa Margherita Ligure located?
Santa Margherita Ligure is a coastal town in Liguria, in the province of Genoa. It lies along the Italian Riviera between Rapallo and Portofino, overlooking the Ligurian Sea in north-west Italy.
What is Santa Margherita Ligure known for?
Santa Margherita Ligure is known for its elegant harbour, Liberty-style villas, palm-lined promenade, and access to Portofino. It’s also popular for seafood restaurants, scenic boat trips, and the nearby Paraggi beach.
How do you get to Santa Margherita Ligure?
Santa Margherita Ligure has its own train station with regular connections to Genoa, La Spezia, and the Cinque Terre. It’s also accessible by ferry, car, or bus, and is about 40 minutes by road from Genoa Airport.
Can you swim in Santa Margherita Ligure?
Yes, Santa Margherita Ligure has several beaches, including both public areas and beach clubs. The nearby Paraggi Bay, on the road to Portofino, is especially popular for swimming in clear, sheltered waters.
Is Santa Margherita Ligure a good base for exploring Liguria?
Yes, it’s a convenient base for visiting Portofino, Rapallo, Camogli, and the Cinque Terre. With good transport links by train, ferry, and road, it’s well placed for exploring the eastern Ligurian Riviera.
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Discover

Discover Santa Margherita Ligure
The point at which the two villages were traditionally separated is currently marked by one of the town's most notable landmarks: the 16th century Villa Durazzo. The beautiful villa is now a centre of creativity and culture, hosting a number of events, including weddings, both within its palace rooms and outside in its elegant gardens. 

Elegance really is a by-word here; wide boulevards fringed with palm-trees split the area between the grandiose Art Nouveau buildings with their trompe l'oeil frescoes on one side, with a series of beaches and marinas on the other.

​Santa Margherita's harbour is split into two areas: at the northern end there are a series of hotels that lead down to a seafront of beaches, while heading south along the promenade eventually brings you to the marina with its collection of glistening yachts. ​
Highlights
The dividing point between the two areas of the harbour is the tiny 16th century Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure which leads up to the aforementioned Villa Durazzo. In this same part of town lies the beautiful ​Santuario di Nostra Signora della Lettera up on a little hill, just above the 17th century Chiesa Frati Capuccini with its distinctive black and white-striped facade.

​The largest and most important church in the town, however, is the Santuario della Madonna della Rosa which sits on Piazza Caprera. The imposing Baroque edifice crowns the busiest area of the town: an intersection of well-appointed shopping streets sprinkled with places to eat and drink. ​
Convenience
Perhaps Santa Margherita Ligure's greatest advantage is its affordability compared to some of its more illustrious neighbours. Run a quick search of hotels in Santa Margherita and you'll find an abundance of more affordable options compared to the likes of Portofino or to some degree, Rapallo.

​The greater accessibility of accommodation coupled with some convenient travel options marks Santa Margherita out as one of the most popular bases from which to explore this part of Liguria. The town's train station is centrally-located while there are also a surfeit of excursions available from the port with the most popular including trips to Portofino and the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, further around the peninsula's headland. ​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Lungomare and Harbour: The waterfront promenade in Santa Margherita Ligure stretches along the curve of the bay, lined with palm trees, cafés, and grand Belle Époque hotels. The harbour is filled with fishing boats and yachts, and offers a lively atmosphere with views of the surrounding hills and colourful buildings.
  • Villa Durazzo: Set in terraced gardens above the town, Villa Durazzo is a 17th-century residence surrounded by statues, fountains, and Mediterranean plants. The villa contains period furnishings and art, and its gardens provide elevated views over the town and coastline.
  • Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia: This Baroque church, built in the 17th century, stands near the old town centre with a façade of white and grey stone. Inside are ornate altars, frescoed ceilings, and maritime votive offerings that reflect the town’s connection to the sea.
  • Boat Trips and Coastal Walks: The town serves as a departure point for boat excursions to Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and the Cinque Terre. For walkers, the trail to Portofino passes through scenic coastline, wooded hills, and panoramic viewpoints along the Monte di Portofino regional park.
  • Day Trip to Rapallo: Just 10 minutes away, Rapallo offers a larger town centre with a seafront promenade, historic castle, and cable car to the Sanctuary of Montallegro. It makes a convenient and culturally rich companion to a stay in Santa Margherita Ligure.
Santa Margherita Ligure Tours and Activities
Comune di Santa Margherita Ligure
Province: Metropolitan City of Genoa

Region: Liguria

Population: 8,452 (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 10 km²
​
Highlights: Villa Durazzo, Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure

Awards: Blue Flag Beach 2024 - 2025

Close by: Portofino, Rapallo, Camogli, Bogliasco, Sestri Levante

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Grand Hotel Miramare Located on the seafront with views over the Tigullio Gulf, this historic five-star hotel offers elegant rooms, a saltwater pool, lush gardens, a spa, and a refined restaurant. Guests appreciate the classic style, outstanding service, and walking distance to both the beach and town centre. €€€€ (luxury)
  • Hotel Continental Set on a terraced hillside with direct access to a private beach, this four-star hotel features rooms with sea-view balconies, a wellness area, and a restaurant overlooking the bay. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, beautiful grounds, and proximity to the town’s restaurants and shops. €€€€ (luxury)
  • Hotel Jolanda Positioned between the seafront and the train station, this welcoming hotel offers comfortable, classically decorated rooms, a small spa, and a breakfast terrace. Guests value the central location, friendly staff, and good access to ferries and public transport. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Sant'Andrea Located a short walk from the beach in a quiet residential area, this small boutique hotel offers rooms with elegant furnishings and a garden for outdoor breakfast. Visitors enjoy the intimate feel, attention to detail, and convenient access to both the sea and historic centre. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Tigullio et de Milan Just a few minutes' walk from the harbour and central promenade, this stylish hotel features modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a bar. Guests appreciate the contemporary design, good breakfast, and friendly atmosphere. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Ristorante Chiodo: Situated near the seafront, Ristorante Chiodo offers a variety of Ligurian and Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes. The outdoor seating area provides views of the marina, enhancing the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Osteria del Duca: Located in the historic centre of Santa Margherita Ligure, Osteria del Duca specializes in traditional Ligurian cuisine, including trofie pasta with pesto and seafood risotto. The rustic interior and welcoming service create a pleasant atmosphere for dining. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante La Camelia: Found near the town’s central square, Ristorante La Camelia offers a menu featuring Mediterranean dishes with a focus on fresh local ingredients. The intimate and elegant setting makes it an ideal place for a special meal. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Trattoria Da Pino: Located just off the promenade, Trattoria Da Pino is known for its seafood offerings, including dishes such as grilled fish and pasta with shellfish. The casual atmosphere and proximity to the sea make it a great place to enjoy fresh, local seafood. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Il Porto: Situated near the harbour, Ristorante Il Porto specializes in seafood, offering a variety of fresh fish dishes, including pasta and grilled fish. The waterfront location provides a scenic backdrop for a relaxing dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Portofino (approx. 5 km southeast of Santa Margherita Ligure): Famous for its picturesque harbour and pastel-coloured buildings, Portofino is a small but stunning village. Visitors can stroll through its narrow streets, visit the historic Castello Brown, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Lighthouse of Portofino. The village also offers some excellent dining options with fresh seafood and local Ligurian cuisine.
  • Rapallo (approx. 5 km west of Santa Margherita Ligure): A lively coastal town, Rapallo offers a charming blend of historical sites, including the Castello di Rapallo and the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montallegro, along with a picturesque seafront promenade. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day by the beach or take the funicular to Montallegro for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline.
  • Camogli (approx. 15 km southeast of Santa Margherita Ligure): A traditional fishing village, Camogli is known for its colourful buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant seafront. Visitors can explore the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, take a boat trip along the coast, or relax on the town’s sandy beach. The town also offers access to the Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino, with its beautiful hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
  • Zoagli (approx. 10 km west of Santa Margherita Ligure): A quiet seaside village, Zoagli is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere. The town is known for its rocky beaches and the beautiful Passeggiata in Mare, a coastal walk that offers stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. Visitors can also explore the nearby San Martino Abbey or relax in one of the town's charming cafes.
  • Genoa (approx. 30 km west of Santa Margherita Ligure): The capital of Liguria, Genoa boasts a rich maritime history and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow alleys and palatial buildings such as the Palazzo Ducale and the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. The Genoa Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe, making it an excellent family-friendly attraction.
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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Santa Margherita Ligure
​By Rail: Santa Margherita Ligure is served by its own train station on the Genoa–La Spezia railway line. Trains from Genoa take around 35 minutes, from La Spezia approximately 1 hour, and from Milan around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The station is located close to the town centre and within walking distance of the waterfront.

By Road: Santa Margherita Ligure is approximately 35 km southeast of Genoa, with a driving time of around 45 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Genoa, take the A12 towards Livorno, exit at Rapallo, and follow signs to Santa Margherita Ligure along the SP227 road.

Nearest International Airports:
​
  • Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (Aeroporto di Genova-Sestri Ponente): Located about 45 km northwest of Santa Margherita Ligure, the drive takes approximately 50 minutes via the A12 motorway. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train from Genoa's central station.
  • Pisa International Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa-Galileo Galilei): Situated around 140 km south of Santa Margherita Ligure, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via the A12 motorway. Train connections are also available via La Spezia.

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