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Ever heard of Camogli, Italy? This little seaside city is one in every of my favourite gems in Italy — a beautiful seaside city on the Ligurian Coast that makes an ideal different to Cinque Terre.
Situated on the western facet of the Portofino Peninsula, Camogli is simply 15 miles from busy Genoa. It’s sufficiently small to go to on a day journey from different Ligurian cities, however I believe it’s one of many higher choices for a base on this a part of northern Italy.
Camogli (pronounced ca-MO-lee) might be my favourite city alongside the Italian Riviera. That is an exceedingly nice place to spend a number of days — and whereas Camogli is common with Italians, it’s largely unknown to worldwide vacationers.
Camogli will get a lot proper — attractive homes, tightly packed collectively and painted in vibrant hues of terra cotta, pistachio, and canary. A protracted, pebbly seaside, with neon turquoise waves to swim in. And so many fabulous seafood eating places dishing up the catch of the day.
The intense colours of this city helped fishermen discover their method house. By the way, the title “Camogli” is believed to discuss with the fishermen’s wives.
Even at present, I believe Camogli nonetheless feels extra like a fishing village than a typical Italian Riviera resort. An ideal place to laze about, swim within the sea, and eat recent seafood. The most effective issues to do in Camogli are all about having fun with la dolce vita.
And in the event you’re up for exploring, it couldn’t be simpler to take day journeys to Cinque Terre, Rapallo, Portofino, and lots extra cities of the Italian Riviera. Let’s check out what this wonderful little city has to supply!
This submit was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Hannah Cooper and was printed in January 2025.

Finest Issues to Do in Camogli, Italy
Benefit from the stunning seaside
Camogli’s pastel-colored city is house to a pebble and black-sand seaside that appears straight out of a postcard. This seaside is kind of giant for such a small city (to not point out higher than something you’ll discover in Cinque Terre), with a giant space cordoned off for swimming within the shallow water of the Ligurian Sea.
There’s a good quantity of free area the place you possibly can lay down a towel and go for a dip. In any other case, you possibly can hire a solar lounger and umbrella from one of many seaside golf equipment (bagni) alongside the seaside. That is extra snug in the event you’re planning on sticking round for a full day because the seaside is stoney.
Anticipate to pay round €30 ($32 USD) in summer time and not more than €20 ($21 USD) in off-season. If the attendants quote you something greater, you possibly can politely negotiate. (I like to start out with an incredulous “É vero?”)


Go on a wine-tasting expertise
Each area of Italy is a wine-producing area — even when it’s only a nonno making wine in his yard — and that features the Ligurian Coast.
This space is understood for its high-mineral white wines constructed from Vermentino and Pigato grapes grown on terraces on steep coastal cliffs. These grapes flourish underneath the limestone-dominant soil and Mediterranean local weather.
Nonetheless, Liguria’s hilly topography makes viticulture circumstances considerably difficult. To understand the talent of native winemakers, you possibly can join a personal Ligurian wine tasting within the pure park.
Led by a sommelier, you’ll take a leisurely stroll via the Camogli Pure Park earlier than diving right into a tasting platter.


Hike in Portofino Pure Park
Escape into the pure fantastic thing about northern Italy on the beautiful Portofino Pure Park. This big park blankets the entire peninsula — not simply the city of Portofino — and has greater than 50 miles of mountaineering trails that observe historic pilgrimage routes.
Portofino Park is roofed with Mediterranean scrub and crops with a scattering of hamlets, church buildings, and previous forts.
It’s fairly rugged on the entire, and it’s a good suggestion to have good mountaineering boots for the more difficult routes. Your knees may even thanks for carrying mountaineering poles!
You possibly can hike independently in the event you’d like. Most routes have respectable signage, however in my expertise, the Italians aren’t precisely as thorough with indicators as, say, Central Europe or Germany. There are a number of mountain biking trails and guided coasteering actions.
And in the event you’d wish to hike with others, this small-group tour of Portofino Park enables you to indulge in nature with out a map. After selecting up focaccia, you’ll take the boat to Punta Chiappa, then observe the mountaineering path again all the way down to Camogli.


Go to Camogli’s many church buildings
When in Italy, you’re solely ever a number of yards out of your nearest stunning church. Camogli’s church buildings provide a second of respite from Italy’s fierce summer time solar.
Begin on the Basilica Minore di Santa Maria Assunta (Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta) which takes delight and prominence on the north finish of the seaside. Don’t be fooled by the standard exterior – the nave is thickly clad with gold and marble.
The Sanctuary of Our Woman of the Wooden (Santuario di Nostra Signora del Boschetto) sits above the harbortown. It’s stated that the Holy Madonna appeared right here in 1500.
An honest uphill stroll brings you to the Church of the Sacred Coronary heart of Jesus (Chiesa Millenaria). This historic church isn’t at all times open however the bay views are well worth the hike.
Throw in your sneakers and observe the By way of San Rocco mountaineering path to the Parochial Church of San Rocco for unbelievable views. It’s plenty of steps as much as the hamlet, so you need to carry your water bottle and a wide-brimmed hat.


See the Dragonara Fort
As soon as liable for retaining pirates at bay and briefly used as a jail, Dragonara Fort now stands in partial wreck on the promontory.
Historians imagine this fortress was constructed within the eleventh century, with additional fortifications added within the following centuries. Weird truth of the day: the Camogli fortress even served quickly as an aquarium!
The fishes have since discovered a extra appropriate house in Genoa. Nonetheless, whale watching stays one of many coolest issues to do in Camogli. This a part of the Italian Riviera sits in a cetacean sanctuary and also you would possibly spot fin whales, sperm whales, and bottlenose dolphins from the fortress.
Dragonara Fort additionally hosts native historical past and images displays. It’s free to climb as much as the piazzale and absorb panoramic views and magical sunsets over the gulf.


Dine on native delicacies
Eating in Camogli revolves round regardless of the fishermen unloaded from their nets that morning and freshly baked focaccia washed down with Ligerian wine. And I completely like it!
A particular sort of “skinny” focaccia is produced within the space. The neighboring city of Recco created a yeast-free flatbread full of stracchino cheese throughout the twelfth century and it proved to be a success – nearly 1,000 years later it’s nonetheless going sturdy!
You’ll discover scrumptious focaccia di Recco at Revello, the place there’s at all times a line. Most eating places put their very own spin on the native focaccia.
The complete village will get collectively each second Sunday in Might on the Camogli Fish Competition, held in tribute to the patron saint of fishermen. It originated throughout the Second World Battle when native wives made choices to the Madonna to guard their husbands.
Anticipate fireworks, festive music, and fish cooked on this planet’s largest frying pan.


Seafood overlooking the seaside at La Rotonda
Seafood is greatest eaten with a view of, effectively, the ocean. You’ll pay a surcharge to eat spaghetti al nero di seppie on the Italian Riviera’s seafront, nevertheless it’s value each cent.
La Rotonda is among the greatest spots for a sunset cocktail in Camogli. This family-owned enterprise serves focaccia di Recco, octopus antipasto, and cocktails proper on the rocks with a view over the historic city heart and the gulf.
Head to La Rotonda for sundown or make a full day of it on the seaside membership. “The Seaside” and terrace tiki bar are open seasonally whereas the restaurant stays open all 12 months.
Reservations at La Rotonda are a good suggestion in excessive season, however not necessary.
Discover the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum in Camogli is a genuinely healthful place to spend an hour. Based by naval historical past skilled Gio Bono Ferrari, the majority of the gathering is 146 fashions of ships constructed nearly completely by Camogli’s passionate seafarers.
Different gadgets embody barometers, compasses, octants, and synthetic horizons. Many of those nautical devices had been donated by native sailors, fishermen, and marine engineers.
It’s open Tuesday via Sunday, 9:30 AM-12:30 PM. This is among the greatest free issues to do in Camogli!


Go to San Fruttuoso
San Fruttuoso Bay is tucked away on the rocky southern coast of the Portofino Peninsula. Getting there’s a part of the journey – the one option to attain it’s on foot or by boat.
The mountaineering path begins close to Portofino and is downhill into the city, and uphill for the return. Boat companies function year-round from Camogli and seasonally from different cities on the Ligurian Coast, together with Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Rapallo, making this an ideal mixture day journey.
San Fruttuoso has a few sights, notably its Tenth-century abbey and a Sixteenth-century defensive tower. Nonetheless, the city’s star attraction is getting out on the water.
You possibly can swim out to the Portofino Marine Park from San Fruttuoso’s pebbly seaside or hire a kayak. This protected space divides the Golfo Paradiso and the Golfo del Tigullio. It’s simply probably the most thrilling issues to do in Camogli in the summertime!


Christ of the Abyss
Pop in your snorkel masks and leap into the San Fruttuoso Bay for a peek at this submerged statue!
A bronze statue of Christ of the Abyss (Cristo degli abissi) rests on the seabed at a depth of 17 meters. Carved by Guido Galletti, it commemorates the Italian diver Dario Gonzatti and people who died at sea.
If the statue seems to be acquainted, you might be considering of the same statue in Key Largo. In truth, the Key Largo statue is a copycat of its Italian cousin.
You possibly can nearly see the statue when snorkeling on the floor. In any other case, free diving or scuba diving brings you face-to-face. Portofino Divers runs excursions all 12 months, with single dives between November and April and two dives from Might.


Make a journey to Cinque Terre
Camogli is a handy base for exploring the Cinque Terre — the famously picturesque 5 cities of Italy. You possibly can see all 5 of them in a day journey from Camogli.
The quickest trains from Camogli to Monterosso al Mare, the primary city of the Cinque Terre take one hour. Having a unbelievable seaside and being comparatively flat, this northernmost city is an efficient choice for individuals who don’t wish to stroll up hills.
The opposite 4 cities — Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore — are accessible by way of the Cinque Terre Specific practice; boats additionally run to all cities however Corniglia. Vernazza and Manarola are maybe probably the most dramatic. Riomaggiore has the steepest hills within the area, whereas Corniglia is elevated with a distinct, quieter vibe.
It’s now doable to hike the By way of dell’Amore (Path of Love) between Manarola and Riomaggiore.
Cinque Terre is simply as spectacular because the photographs can have you imagine. Staying a number of days is good however a day journey covers the highlights. I like to recommend leaving Camogli early, beginning in Monterosso, then visiting Vernazza, adopted by Riomaggiore, and ending with Manarola simply in time for sundown.
From Manarola you possibly can take the practice again to Monterosso, then swap to a practice again to Camogli.


How A lot Time to Spend in Camogli, Italy
You solely want one full day in Camogli to see all the things. This city is on the small facet, and as you possibly can see, it’s not overflowing with sights.
That stated — in the event you’re searching for a trip base within the Italian Riviera, I believe Camogli is a superb contender, and tremendously underrated for worldwide vacationers.
It’s such a peaceful little spot but fabulously related to different villages and cities within the area. Santa Margherita Ligure is simply 5 minutes away by practice, whereas Rapallo is 9. You possibly can mix these with San Fruttuoso and Portofino for a pleasant day journey.
It’s also possible to do a day journey to Cinque Terre, a mountaineering day journey in Portofino Pure Park, or a day journey to Genoa (now THAT is an underrated spot!). Your alternatives add up rapidly when exploring the Italian Riviera!


How one can Get to Camogli, Italy
Camogli’s practice station is served by the road connecting Genoa and La Spezia. Trains from Genoa take round 45 minutes, whereas the quickest trains from Pisa take two hours.
Of those cities, Genoa’s Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) is technically the closest choice for flying into Camogli. Nonetheless, the Galileo Galilei Airport (PSA) in Pisa has far more connections with different European cities.
A five-minute journey on the Pisa-Mover shuttle brings you to Pisa Centrale, the place you possibly can catch a practice to Camogli.
And in the event you’re visiting different hotspots in Italy like Rome, Venice, and Florence, you possibly can simply join your option to Camogli by practice.


The place To Keep in Camogli, Italy
Camogli’s greatest motels are dotted alongside the waterfront close to the fortress, seaside, and harborfront eating places. In fact, waterfront comes with premium pricing. It can save you a bit in the event you keep a number of streets away, however be mindful you’ll must climb down a hill to get to the seaside and up a hill to get again.
- Prime-rated Luxurious Lodge in Camogli: Lodge Cenobio Dei Dogi has a waterfront setting with an enormous swimming pool going through the Mediterranean Sea. Stylish rooms characteristic antique-inspired furnishings, some have a balcony or spa tub.
- Prime-rated Adults-only Lodge in Camogli: Swanky suites on the Sublimis Boutique Lodge have charming sea views via wall-to-wall home windows or personal terraces. The practice station and seaside are minutes away.
- Prime-rated Mid-range Lodge in Camogli: Rooms and suites on the Carrick Lodge are accented with the identical colours used on the waterfront terraces. Head to the roof terrace for a jacuzzi or cocktail with a mountain view.
- Prime-rated Finances Lodge in Camogli: Stroll to all the things from the harborside I Tre Merli Locanda and sit up for a soak within the scorching tub after a day on the seaside or native trails.
Discover offers on locations to remain in Camogli right here.


Finest Time To Go to Camogli, Italy
Summer time is THE time to trip on the Italian Riviera! Whereas temperatures sizzle, Camogli’s swimmable seaside and delicate sea breeze hold issues extra snug than inland cities.
Camogli is common with Italian vacationers throughout summer time however sees fewer worldwide vacationers. Nonetheless, it’s going to be busy and also you’ll must pre-book a resort and hustle for a spot on the seaside.
If you wish to go to in the summertime however with fewer crowds, I like to recommend early June or late September.
Spring and fall are additionally pretty occasions to go to the Ligurian Coast. The ocean temperature reaches 64°F (18°C) by Might, which is nearly excellent walking-around climate.
The Sagra del Pesce pageant on the second Sunday of Might is at all times nice enjoyable to expertise.
Camogli shuts down on the finish of October and many motels and eating places shut up for the winter. It’s nonetheless very charming and you’ll take pleasure in strolling alongside the seafront, however you need to know that a number of companies will probably be closed.
Climbing Portofino Park is among the greatest issues to do in Camogli in off-season when it’s cooler.


Is Camogli Price It?
Camogli could be very a lot value it! I’m so glad I visited — and I really suppose this is among the underrated so-called “hidden gems” that so many vacationers are trying to find in Italy.
Greater than that — I believe that Camogli provides vacationers what they’re anticipating to get in Cinque Terre, with fewer crowds and decrease costs. That proper there’s a massive win.
I hope you may have one of the best time in Camogli!
Extra on the Italian Riviera:
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Have you ever been to Camogli, Italy? Share your favourite experiences!