Spend your Summer in the Italian Riviera, the tips every tourist should receive

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Summer in the Riviera dei Fiori is not just about the sea and sun: it is a symphony of colors, scents, and atmospheres that can enchant even the most demanding visitor. Here, among elegant Art Nouveau buildings, botanical gardens, and medieval villages suspended between the blue of the sea and the green of the inland, every day becomes a precious memory.

In this article, we will guide you through the most authentic and surprising experiences to enjoy during the beautiful season. Ready to discover the tips from those who live the Riviera every day?

Museums and Culture: the Pillars of the Riviera.

Anyone who thinks summer is just about relaxation on the beach has probably never explored the cultural soul of the Riviera dei Fiori. Here, one breathes beauty in the halls of museums, historic gardens, and artists’ villas. Silent and enchanted places where the memory of the past intertwines with contemporary aesthetics.

Casa e Collezione Laura – Ospedaletti
Located in a panoramic position with a view of the sea, this house-museum is a hymn to memory, passion for art, and attention to detail. The collection, the result of the life of a passionate and generous couple, spans from decorative arts to photography, offering an intimate and touching glimpse of different eras. It is a place to experience slowly, room by room, like a family novel.
Hanbury Botanical Gardens – La Mortola, Ventimiglia. More than just a garden, it’s a multisensory journey through plants from all over the world, gathered in a harmonious dialogue with the Mediterranean landscape. Founded in the 19th century by Sir Thomas Hanbury, these gardens cover 18 hectares and host hundreds of botanical species. Walking through flowered terraces and ancient pathways, visitors are accompanied by intoxicating scents and glimpses of the sea.

Bicknell Museum – Bordighera
Founded by Clarence Bicknell, a botanist and archaeologist, this museum is a treasure trove of knowledge. Between rock engravings, historical texts, and rare botanical collections, it offers a unique overview of the Ligurian territory and its peculiarities. The attached library is a silent and fascinating place, ideal for those who love to discover history slowly.

Villa Garnier – Bordighera
Designed and inhabited by architect Charles Garnier, the father of the Opéra in Paris, this villa is a triumph of elegance and harmony. Surrounded by a lush garden, it preserves the atmosphere of the Belle Époque and offers a fascinating view of life and aesthetics at the end of the 19th century. We have also told the story of this villa in this article ‘’From Villa Garnier to Villa Bischoffsheim: Beauty, History, and Architecture in the City of Palms’’.

Must-see Events on the Riviera dei Fiori.

Summer on the Riviera is a lively and vibrant season, marked by events that bring towns and villages to life with authentic flavors, local traditions, and breathtaking performances. Attending these events means stepping into the heart of the Ligurian community and experiencing its full vitality.

Un Paese di Sapori – Late June, Bordighera Alta
In the medieval heart of the town, among stone arches and basil-scented alleys, this event comes to life to celebrate Ligurian cuisine. Small producers, food artisans, street musicians, and local artists create a unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to kick off the summer.
Un Mare di Sapori – July, Bordighera Seaside Promenade
A long line of food stands winds along the seaside promenade, offering the best of local culinary tradition: from farinata to fried fish, from typical sweets to regional wines. The scent of sea salt blends with that of open-air kitchens, creating a multi-sensory experience.
Ferragosto Fireworks – August 15, Sanremo
When night falls on the City of Flowers on August 15, thousands of eyes turn to the sky to admire a fireworks display that enchants both adults and children. The reflection of the lights on the water, accompanied by the sound of the waves, creates a suspended, romantic, and vibrant atmosphere.

Fireworks in Dolceacqua – After Ferragosto
In one of Liguria’s most picturesque villages, fireworks explode to the rhythm of music above the Doria Castle, reflecting on the waters of the Nervia and creating light shows among the stone houses. It’s a celebration that blends tradition and beauty — with folk music and rustic flavors — and always tells an engaging story starring the valley or Dolceacqua itself.
Stockfish Festival – Mid-September, Badalucco
This festival is an ode to local gastronomy and conviviality, symbolically closing the summer season. The alleys of the village fill with long tables, intense aromas, and recipes passed down through generations. But the real star is the “stoccafisso alla badalucchese,” essential for preparing a dish rich in flavor and history, telling the story of the territory’s identity.
From October onward, the focus shifts to autumn and winter festivals dedicated to chestnuts and mushrooms. Additionally, it marks the start of the olive harvesting and pressing season — a ritual deeply tied to the Riviera dei Fiori.

Iconic Places to Visit on the Riviera.

The sea alone is not enough to truly understand the Riviera dei Fiori: one must get lost in its landscapes, discover hidden corners, pause to listen to the sound of silence or the surf. These are the places that leave a mark.

Le Calandre Beach – Ventimiglia
A stretch of fine sand, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and loved by surfing enthusiasts. Accessible only on foot via a path through the vegetation, this beach is a paradise for those seeking authenticity, long waves, and wild sunsets. The ideal spot for a day free from schedules.
Balzi Rossi Beach – Ventimiglia
A breathtaking stretch of coastline, characterized by crystal-clear waters and rocks sculpted by the wind. Here you’ll also find the famous prehistoric caves, evidence of human presence since ancient times. An opportunity to combine relaxation and culture, embracing the perfect blend of nature and millennia-old history.
Church of Sant’Ampelio – Bordighera
A symbol of the city, this small Romanesque church overlooking the sea is a spiritual and contemplative place. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, it holds legends and a mystical aura that fascinates visitors. Its position at the end of the promenade makes it a destination for romantic sunset walks and open-sky reflection.

Doria Castle – Dolceacqua
Evocative and majestic, this castle overlooks the namesake village and offers an unmatched view of the valley. Its stones tell centuries of history, from sieges to noble families and local legends. Climbing to the top reveals a breathtaking panorama and the timeless beauty of the Ligurian hinterland.

Excursions and destinations to enjoy beyond the area.

Sometimes it only takes a few kilometers to feel like you’re somewhere else. Liguria can surprise you with its contrasts, between sea and mountains, between wild nature and timeless villages. These nearby destinations offer new perspectives and moments of genuine wonder.

Eze – A blooming balcony suspended above the sea.
As a small medieval village perched between sky and sea, Eze is one of the most scenic destinations in Provence. Its cobbled alleys, artist workshops, and the famous Jardin Exotique — with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat — make it an unmissable stop for those who love rustic elegance and timeless peace. Don’t miss a visit to the Fragonard perfumery and a gourmet lunch on the terrace: a sensory experience that combines refinement and authenticity.

Cannes – Between red carpets and French charm.
Synonymous with glamour and worldliness, Cannes is much more than a festival: it’s a lively, refined city, perfect for those seeking the exclusive atmosphere of the French Riviera. Walk along the Croisette between historic hotels and high-end boutiques, or explore the old town of Le Suquet, with its picturesque views and sea-view terraces. Cannes is ideal for a day of shopping, culture, and the art of French living. And maybe, with a bit of luck, to spot a celebrity or two.
Monaco – Luxury, history, and adrenaline in miniature.
The Principality of Monaco is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of elegance, speed, and royal charm. Here, iconic casinos, exotic gardens, and princely palaces alternate in a setting that embraces the Mediterranean with class. Visit the famous Monte-Carlo Casino, stroll past the showcases of Place du Casino, or be amazed by the Oceanographic Museum. For a romantic touch, enjoy an aperitif with a view at the Café de Paris. And if you love sporty driving, follow the Grand Prix circuit — even just with your eyes.

Three destinations, three experiences, one certainty: living in the Riviera dei Fiori gives you the world at your fingertips.

Where to stay in the Riviera: Domus’ suggestions.

To truly experience the magic of the Riviera dei Fiori, it takes more than just a vacation: you need a home that knows how to welcome and tell a story. The housing solutions offered by Domus are not just accommodations, but life experiences.

Whether you want to stay in the elegant heart of Bordighera, just steps from the sea and the main summer events, or you prefer the magical atmosphere of Ospedaletti, Domus has the perfect offer for you. Each property is carefully selected to offer comfort, beauty, and a strategic location for easily reaching all the places and events we’ve described.

Our homes let you experience the Riviera like a true local: mornings at the market, afternoons by the sea, evenings along the lit-up streets of the villages. All with the privacy, relaxation, and luxury you deserve.

But the Riviera is not only synonymous with scenic beauty and charming villages. You should know it also offers a wide range of sports and recreational activities, suitable for all ages and experience levels. It’s an ideal destination for those who love movement, nature, and the sea.

Along the coast and inland you can enjoy numerous outdoor sports, including:

Hiking and trekking: thanks to a dense network of panoramic trails that cross olive groves, mountain ridges, and historic villages. Routes suitable for both casual walkers and expert hikers;
Sailing and canoeing: the calm sea and mild climate make these activities especially pleasant, particularly in spring and summer. Several schools and nautical centers offer rentals and courses for all levels;
Tennis, golf, and padel: there are many sports clubs and equipped facilities, some with sea views or surrounded by the greenery of the inland. The favorable climate allows for year-round outdoor play;
Volleyball and beach volleyball: many beaches are equipped with courts for playing these sports in a fun and relaxing setting.

Cycling: it’s impossible not to mention the famous Western Ligurian Cycle Path, which follows the route of the old railway overlooking the sea, from Ospedaletti to San Lorenzo al Mare. A paradise for cyclists, families, and athletes.

In short, the Riviera dei Fiori is a complete destination: ideal for relaxing, exploring, and staying active in one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating natural settings.

Choose Agenzia Domus to experience all the beauty of the Riviera.

The Riviera dei Fiori is a land to savor slowly, through scenic walks, cultural experiences, and moments of pure relaxation. And with Domus, every detail of your summer will find its perfect setting.

Contact us to discover the perfect housing solution for your vacation and let yourself be inspired by the authentic beauty of the Riviera dei Fiori.