Cheap holidays to Italian Riviera

The Italian Riviera, a breathtaking coastal region nestled in north-western Italy, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and charming towns. It stretches along the Ligurian Sea, offering a diverse geography that seamlessly blends dramatic cliffs with idyllic beaches. The region enjoys a typically Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters.

The top three attractions that locals love to visit include:

• Cinque Terre: This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises five picturesque villages clinging to the dramatic cliffs, offering stunning coastal views and hiking trails.
• Portofino: A glamorous village known for its luxurious harbor, upscale shops, and elegant atmosphere.
• Genoa: The vibrant capital city of Liguria, brimming with historical landmarks, impressive architecture, and culinary delights.

Getting around is easy thanks to a good train network connecting the various towns, and ferries offer scenic routes along the coast. You can easily explore these highlights by train, and ferries add another element of scenic exploration to your journey. With its blend of natural beauty, charming villages, and rich history, the Italian Riviera offers an unforgettable holiday experience.

Ready to experience the magic of the Italian Riviera? Book your flights to Genoa with Opodo and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Travelling to the Italian Riviera in Italy offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.

Best places to stay for a couple of days

• Santa Margherita Ligure: A popular resort town offering a mix of upscale hotels and more affordable options. It provides a good base for exploring the surrounding areas, including Portofino and Rapallo.
• Camogli: A charming fishing village with a picturesque harbor. Offers a more relaxed atmosphere and a variety of smaller hotels and guesthouses.
• La Spezia: A larger town serving as the gateway to Cinque Terre. Offers a wider range of accommodation choices, including budget-friendly options, and is ideal for exploring the five villages.

Budget-conscious travellers can find great deals on accommodation in smaller towns outside of the main tourist hubs. Consider exploring nearby areas like Chiavari or Sestri Levante for a more affordable stay while still enjoying easy access to the Riviera's attractions. Looking for more affordable stays? Consider exploring smaller villages nearby.

The Italian Riviera's cuisine is a delightful blend of Ligurian traditions and Mediterranean influences, creating a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Fresh seafood plays a key role, alongside herbs and olive oil, resulting in dishes both light and satisfying. The region's unique terrain and maritime heritage shape its culinary identity, with fresh produce and seafood taking centre stage.

Some must-try dishes include:

• Pesto Genovese: The iconic Ligurian sauce made with basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Best enjoyed with pasta, trofie, or gnocchi.
• Focaccia: A savoury flatbread, often seasoned with herbs and olive oil. Best enjoyed warm, as a snack or with a glass of local wine.
• Pansotti: Delicate ravioli filled with ricotta cheese and herbs. Typically served with a walnut sauce.

To sample these delicacies, venture into local trattorias and restaurants, especially those frequented by locals. Food markets offer a chance to pick up fresh ingredients, whilst exploring the backstreets of the towns unveils hidden gems. Try the pesto at lunch, enjoy the focaccia as a snack, and savour the pansotti for dinner. Many places serve these dishes during lunch, so plan accordingly.

Integrating cultural events into your Italian Riviera itinerary can significantly enrich your holiday experience. These events offer a glimpse into the region's vibrant culture, history, and traditions, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the area. Attending such events provides opportunities to meet locals and fellow travellers, creating memorable experiences.

Some of the top recurring events in the Italian Riviera include:

• Sanremo Music Festival: A world-renowned Italian song contest held annually in Sanremo. Features popular Italian singers and offers a lively and colourful atmosphere.
• Historical Regatta of the Ancient Four Maritime Republics: A spectacular event held every four years in Genoa. Re-enacts a historical maritime race between Genoa, Pisa, Venice, and Amalfi.
• Festival di San Giovanni Battista: Genoa's celebration in honor of its patron saint, featuring parades, fireworks, and various cultural performances.

Always verify the exact dates of events before your trip. For major events or festivals, booking flights and accommodations in advance is recommended, and Opodo regularly offers attractive deals on these bookings.

Booking a flight and hotel bundle with Opodo offers several advantages. We provide seamless integration of flights and hotels into one simple booking process, streamlining your holiday planning. Furthermore, bundling often results in significant savings compared to booking separately.

We at Opodo offer personalized customer service and regularly run promotions, such as Prime Days, Super Sale, Black Friday, and Travel Tuesday, providing opportunities to find even better deals. We also offer a Prime membership, unlocking further discounts and benefits.

Visit our website to explore our offers and discover your perfect Italian Riviera getaway, considering flights from London to Genoa or flights from Tirana to Genoa.