The Tigullio is one of the most renowned areas along the Ligurian Riviera — a stunning stretch of coastline dotted with beautiful coves that has attracted international visitors since the last century. With well-equipped beaches and charming harbors filled with both fishing boats and luxury yachts, picturesque towns overlooking crystal-clear waters, and a landscape bursting with colors and scents, the region invites exploration on scenic and unforgettable trails.

With its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and seabeds rich in marine life, the Gulf of Tigullio offers a remarkable variety of shorelines and landscapes. From the soft sandy beaches surrounding Moneglia, a beloved seaside resort town, to the tiny, pristine cove of San Fruttuoso, nestled in a rocky inlet of the Portofino promontory, this area is a true Mediterranean gem. San Fruttuoso is also home to a spectacular abbey that rises majestically above the bay’s turquoise waters.

In Cavi di Lavagna, you’ll find one of the longest beaches in all of Liguria — nearly 4 kilometers of sand and pebbles lined with well-maintained beach clubs, making it a favorite destination for families with children. In Sestri Levante, time seems to stand still in the Bay of Silence, one of the most beautiful beaches in Liguria. It's a crescent-shaped beach surrounded by colorful buildings that open directly onto the sand, creating a perfect spot for snorkeling and soaking in the peaceful charm.

The Tigullio area also boasts an extraordinary network of hiking trails, allowing nature lovers to explore the region just steps from the sea, with peaks rising to over 700 meters (2,300 feet). The most famous area is the Portofino Natural Park, nestled between the Gulf of Tigullio and the Gulf of Paradise. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring 80 kilometers of trails through wild landscapes, rural settlements, and historic fishing villages. These trails offer breathtaking views that have become iconic images of the Mediterranean. Notable cultural and historical landmarks include the Semaforo Vecchio (Old Signal Station), the Gassetta Mill, Locanda di San Fruttuoso, and the Hermitage of Niasca.

Another must-do experience is the Cammino del Tigullio, a 75-kilometer loop trail inaugurated in July 2020. One of its highlights is the stunning seaside village of Zoagli, where the Sentiero dei 5 Campanili (Five Bell Towers Trail) begins — a circular route offering spectacular views of the gulf, weaving through forests, old mule tracks, quaint hamlets with colorful Ligurian houses, churches, and chapels.

Rapallo is an ideal base for exploring the eastern Ligurian Riviera. A jewel in the heart of the Gulf of Tigullio, it’s been a favorite destination since the 19th century, beloved by famous names like Yeats, Nietzsche, and Hemingway. Visitors are enchanted by its Art Nouveau villas and palaces, narrow alleyways (caruggi), and tiny pebbled beaches.

For a truly unforgettable view of the Gulf, don’t miss a visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro, one of Liguria’s most important Marian shrines. Perched at about 600 meters above sea level in a lush oak forest, it can also be reached via a scenic cable car from the center of Rapallo — the panoramic views along the way are nothing short of breathtaking and offer a sense of peace and renewal.

Finally, no trip to the Gulf of Tigullio would be complete without visiting Villa Durazzo, the crown jewel of Santa Margherita Ligure. Open year-round, its grand noble floor houses Genoese School paintings, frescoes and trompe-l’œil, period furnishings, Murano chandeliers, stuccoes, and stunning ceramic and terrazzo floors.

The Villa Durazzo complex is also renowned for its historic park, covering nearly three hectares and overlooking the Gulf. Included in the Grandi Giardini Italiani network — which highlights Italy’s most beautiful gardens — it’s a tranquil green space that adds even more magic to this already captivating corner of Liguria.