The Ligurian Coast is home to some of the best spots for dining, sightseeing, and exploring picturesque areas, making it a must-visit getaway for unforgettable memories. Experience a bespoke Ligurian Coast yacht charter that promises not only an exquisite voyage through the crystal-clear waters and captivating coastal towns but also a luxury service tailored to your needs, ensuring a premium and exclusive experience. Along your journey, we will introduce you to the exceptional tastes of the region, featuring the freshest seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and the celebrated flavours of Ligurian cuisine, including traditional dishes prepared with white wine that highlight its essential role in local gastronomy.
WELCOME TO THE LIGURIA REGION
Nestled in north-western Italy, the Liguria region is a dazzling stretch of coastline where the mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea in a breathtaking display of natural sceneries. Known as the Italian Riviera, or Ligurian Riviera, this enchanting location is famed for its moderate climate, lush hills, and a tapestry of beautiful towns and charming fishing villages. The region is divided into two distinct areas: the Riviera di Levante to the east, with its dramatic cliffs and iconic Cinque Terre, and the Riviera di Ponente to the west, where golden beaches and vibrant towns await. ‘Levante’ means ‘rising’, as in ‘rising sun’, reflecting the eastern position of this coastline where the sun rises over the Ligurian Sea, and highlighting the bright, vibrant character and scenic beauty of the area. From the pastel-hued houses of Portofino to the tranquil harbors of small villages, Liguria offers a unique blend of Italian style, history, and luxury. Enjoy the allure of the sea, the sophisticated atmosphere of its towns, or its calm beaches. Liguria stands as one of Italy’s most captivating places.
DAY 1 | GENOA TO PORTOFINO
Surrounded by silver hills and ancient olive groves, charter guests are sure to fall in love with the inspiring views, the charm of eating gelato on the port square, and the true pleasure of spending time in these beautiful outdoor spaces, as well as enjoying lazy lunches at the tantalizing trattorias.
The nearby town of Santa Margherita is another must-visit destination, known for its picturesque setting and vibrant atmosphere. This is your picture-perfect Italian summer with trails taking you to the lighthouse and eco-farms, classy shopping for butter-soft leather and designer goods at well-appointed boutiques, and the delight of exploring the famed Castello Brown. Portofino is also home to charming art galleries, historic churches, and scenic sculptures, making it a haven for art and culture lovers.
With the Cinque Terre on your doorstep, Portofino is a poster child for sailing the Italian Riviera, offering the perfect opportunity to sail along the coast and explore scenic areas, picturesque villages, and beautiful bays.
Dining recommendations:
Ristorante Lo Stella: Ristorante Lo Stella in Portofino serves traditional Ligurian cuisine with standout dishes like fish ravioli and pesto pasta, all enjoyed with stunning harbor views. Family-run since 1850, it is a perfect spot for authentic Italian coastal dining.
Ristorante Da Ö Batti: Ristorante Da Ö Batti is a refined hideaway in Portofino, famed for its legendary scampi prepared in a secret family recipe — an essential experience for connoisseurs of Ligurian coastal cuisine.
La Terrazza at Belmond Hotel Splendido: An iconic fine dining destination overlooking the Portofino bay, La Terrazza offers elegant Mediterranean cuisine in a luxurious setting favored by royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers alike.
DAY 2 | PORTOFINO TO CINQUE TERRE
Amaze yourself on a trip through the Cinque Terre, or “Five Lands,” a tapestry of colourful villages that seem to defy gravity. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises five enchanting hamlets: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Once ashore, lace up your walking shoes for an unforgettable adventure. Hike the famous Sentiero Azzurro, or “Blue Trail,” connecting all five villages and offering dazzling coastline panoramas. In Vernazza, climb to the 13th-century Doria Castle for sweeping vistas of the picturesque harbour below. For a cultural immersion, follow the Trail of Sanctuaries, linking ancient churches perched high in the hills. Make your way to Riomaggiore, often hailed as the most romantic village. Here, witness a spectacular sunset from the medieval castle ramparts, painting the sea and the colourful houses in a golden glow. Time spent exploring these charming villages and relaxing aboard your yacht during the trip creates lasting memories of comfort and style.
Dining recommendations:
Torre Aurora: Offers an elegant fusion of Ligurian heritage and contemporary cuisine within a 13th-century Genoese watchtower. Here you can savour refined Ligurian dishes, complemented by a curated selection of local wines, including crisp white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood or features in traditional dishes like baby octopus stewed in tomatoes with white wine, alongside innovative cocktails, all while enjoying panoramic views of the Cinque Terre coastline.
Miky: This amazing spot offers a journey through Ligurian flavors, blending traditional recipes with modern techniques. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, the family-run establishment has been a cornerstone of Cinque Terre’s culinary scene since 1980.
Belforte: Perched on a cliff with panoramic sea views, this family-run establishment offers authentic Ligurian cuisine, including lobster tagliatelle and grilled octopus, in a setting that has been cherished for over 50 years.
DAY 3 | CINQUE TERRE to porto venere
Porto Venere is a picturesque Italian destination on the Ligurian Sea. Renowned for its natural beauty, striking coastline, rugged limestone cliffs and colourful buildings, Porto Venere draws many visitors each year. Set against a stunning mountain backdrop, the tranquil atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. Yachting amenities in the area include a wide selection of marinas, yacht clubs and harbours, providing premium docking and services for all kinds of vessels. For an enjoyable evening out, Porto Venere is home to a variety of delicious restaurants, serving everything from local Ligurian specialties to international cuisine. For those looking to step off their yacht and explore the local sights, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in the quaint medieval center of town. With its harbour and village appeal, Porto Venere is an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds.
Dining recommendations:
Palmaria: A refined dining experience that harmonises Ligurian culinary traditions with contemporary flair. Set within the Grand Hotel Portovenere, the restaurant boasts a panoramic veranda overlooking Palmaria Island and the village, providing an elegant setting for guests to savour dishes inspired by the “Grand Tour” of Italy.
Locanda Lorena: An exclusive dining experience combining Ligurian seafood traditions with a romantic, island setting. Accessible only by boat, it attracts both discerning travelers and celebrities seeking a secluded culinary retreat.
The Frame: An elegant blend of Italian culinary artistry and panoramic sea views. Situated in the scenic Gulf of Poets, the restaurant provides a refined atmosphere, ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions. Their signature dish, “Mareggiata,” showcases a masterful combination of marine flavors, complemented by a curated selection of fine wines.
DAY 4 | porto venere to la spezia
A stone’s throw from the famous Cinque Terre and one of the best connected spots to all areas of the Italian Riviera, La Spezia makes for a popular base. A humble and hard-working port town, La Spezia is also home to the largest naval base in Italy. Take a look at the Costantino Morin Promenade and the pretty public gardens. Fall in love with the architecture and facades along Via Del Prione & Corso Cavour, and get your fix of modern art at the wealth of museums and galleries. For lovers of Ligurian cuisine, you can taste your way through this town with its array of traditional trattorias.
Dining recommendations:
L’Osteria della corte: An intimate fine dining experience within 17th-century stone walls, featuring a seasonal Mediterranean menu crafted by Chef Silvia Cardelli. Renowned for its rich flavors and elegant presentation, the restaurant boasts a curated wine list of over 700 labels, making it a sought after destination for discerning palates.
Antica Osteria dei Camalli: Nestled in the heart of La Spezia, this Michelin-Insider restaurant offers a refined interpretation of Ligurian cuisine, emphasising seasonal ingredients and traditional flavours. Indulge in dishes like seafood risotto and fresh pasta, all within an intimate and elegant setting.
Andree: Located in the city centre, Andree presents a contemporary approach to Italian gastronomy, blending innovative techniques with local produce. The restaurant’s minimalist decor and attentive service complement a menu that evolves with the seasons, ensuring a unique dining experience with each visit.
day 5 | la spezia to forte dei marmi
A lovely tourist destination, Forte Dei Marmi, is enchanting in summer. The legendary 5-kilometre “Corso” is a vibrant thoroughfare that pulses with sophistication. Stroll along this magnificent promenade, where world-renowned luxury boutiques like Prada, Versace, and Louis Vuitton showcase their latest collections. Beyond the boutiques, charter guests can cycle along scenic beach paths, indulge in watersports like kite surfing and scuba diving, and explore the exclusive beach clubs. Forte Dei Marmi is also renowned for its wide beaches with soft sand, making it a favourite destination for beach lovers.
Dining recommendations:
Il Parco di Villa Grey: An elegant fusion of contemporary Italian cuisine and natural beauty within a Michelin-starred setting. Chef Giovanni Cerroni’s inventive menus, featuring dishes like sole with green tea and snow peas, are served in a serene garden greenhouse, providing an immersive dining experience that celebrates the flavours of the Tuscan coast.
Bistrot: Offers a refined blend of traditional and modern Italian cuisine, emphasiSing exceptional Tyrrhenian seafood and seasonal produce from its own farm. Helmed by Chef Andrea Mattei, the restaurant features two wood-fired ovens and a wine cellar with nearly 2,000 labels, including notable selections from Champagne and Burgundy.
Lorenzo: A refined Italian seafood cuisine in an elegant setting adorned with contemporary art. Established in 1981, it is renowned for its exceptional fish dishes and an extensive wine list curated by expert sommelier Chiara Viani.
day 6 | forte dei marmi to porto ferraio
Porto Ferraio is the first town you will see when sailing into Elba. With its well-developed port, panoramic views of the lush countryside, and a town laced with history (thanks in part to Napoleon), there is a lot to love about this large town. Charter guests can admire the well preserved bastions and historic walls that hint at Porto Ferraio being originally built to be a fortification. It also takes its name from the meaning Iron Port, as this was its key industry. There is lots to see and do, including the Roman villas, the residence of Napoleon, who was exiled here, and the beautiful blue beaches like Biodola and Le Ghiaie Beach.
Dining recommendations:
B Bistrot: Situated within the Baia Bianca Suites, the restaurant offers refined Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal seafood. The elegant setting by the sea provides a sophisticated backdrop for an exceptional dining experience.
Stella Marina: A renowned restaurant for its traditional seafood dishes and wood-fired pizzas. The seafront location and gluten-free options make it a standout choice for those seeking authentic Elban cuisine.
Ristorante Da Gianni: Perched above Viticcio Beach, this family-run restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on fresh fish. Guests can enjoy stunning sunsets over Corsica while dining on the terrace.
Day 7 | porto ferraio to livorno
An Italian great, those who dream of Italy are likely to pin their visions on the romantic region of Tuscany. All gold and green rolling hills, hearty cuisine, and ancient hilltop towns, it is no wonder that even the name of Tuscany is enough to make your mouth water. Livorno is a popular port town in Tuscany and is a vision of winding canals, medieval forts, glorious architecture, and sun drenched piazzas. Livorno was a blip on the map for thousands of years – a tiny fishing village that served as no threat to the port great of Pisa nearby. As time went on, its strategic location, combined with the fall of Pisa in the Battle of Meloria, marked Livorno on the map, and the town began to bloom into a bustling purpose-built port. Today it is a tantalising summer retreat, known for tempting poets like Byron and Shelley and being a glorious place for walking and wine tasting. Visitors can spend their days exploring Livorno’s historic sites, sampling local cuisine, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Dining recommendations:
La Vecchia Senese: Authentic Italian cuisine in a charming, family-run setting. Established in 1983, it is renowned for its fresh seafood, traditional pasta dishes, and wood-fired pizzas, all served in a warm, rustic atmosphere. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition has earned it a loyal local following and positive reviews from visitors seeking genuine Italian dining experiences.
Azzighe: Situated near the canals of Livorno’s historic center, Azzighe offers a convivial yet refined atmosphere, focusing on Tuscan modern cuisine. Signature dishes include ‘cacciucchino’ cappelletti and the ‘francesina’ beef main course, showcasing inventive takes on local classics.
La Perla dell’Ostricaio: Located just steps from Terrazza Mascagni, it specialises in seafood, offering dishes like fish tartare, grilled fish, and cacciucco stew. The restaurant emphasises fresh, local ingredients and provides a curated selection of wines from family-run producers.
day 8 | livorno to pisa
With its iconic leaning tower and renaissance piazzas, Pisa is one of those must visit Italian greats. This Tuscan port city was once so powerful it rivaled the likes of Venice, these days it is better known for its bright and lively college scene and for drawing in travelers who are keen to see the world’s most famous leaning tower. A UNESCO heritage site, the leaning tower, cathedral, campo santo and baptistery are made to be marveled. The leaning tower itself dates back to 1173 and the impressive cathedral is a marble carved vision of Italian grand architecture. After getting your fill of architectural splendor, there is still plenty to see in Pisa. The Cathedral Museum is a treasure trove of history and you can stroll along the oldest street of Borgo Stretto and see where the world’s most famous scientist Galileo Galilei was born. When dusk settles, make the most of the town’s lively college scene by visiting a glut of gorgeous tucked away bars and eateries to sample the kind of delights that make Tuscan the foodie capital of the world.
Dining recommendations:
Ristorante Il Belvedere: A refined yet relaxed dining experience, blending Sicilian and Tuscan seafood traditions with modern flair. Guests can enjoy dishes like seafood risotto, grilled octopus, and homemade cannoli, all served in a cozy, family-run setting with sea views.
Osteria dei Cavalieri: Located in the historic heart of Pisa, this restaurant blends traditional Tuscan cuisine with innovative twists. Housed in a 12th-century tower house, it offers a warm, intimate atmosphere complemented by a curated wine selection. Ideal for those seeking a refined yet authentic dining experience.
Ristorante Buca di San Ranieri: Situated in the city centre, this elegant eatery specialises in classic Tuscan dishes like truffle risotto and ribollita, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Its sophisticated ambiance and commitment to culinary tradition make it a top choice for discerning diners.
bonus tips for your liguria yacht charter
Beyond the famous harbours and bustling towns, the Ligurian Coast is dotted with secret coves and tranquil bays that promise moments of pure serenity. These hidden gems, often accessible only by boat, are the true treasures of the Italian Riviera. Drop anchor in the crystalline waters of San Fruttuoso, a secluded bay framed by lush hills and home to a centuries-old abbey — a perfect spot for a swim or a leisurely lunch on deck. Explore the enchanting Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, where pastel houses line a crescent of golden sand, or seek out the quiet beauty of Paraggi Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and exclusive beach clubs. The Gulf of Poets, near La Spezia, offers a string of picturesque inlets and small villages, each with its own story and charm. For those who crave adventure, the rugged coastline of the Riviera di Levante hides countless coves waiting to be discovered, where you can snorkel, sunbathe, or simply soak in the spectacular views. Sailing these lesser-known corners of Liguria transforms your yacht charter into a truly unique and luxurious experience.
BOOK YOUR LIGURIAN COAST EXPERIENCE
There is something almost cinematic about cruising the Ligurian Coast — where pastel-painted villages cling to dramatic cliffs, secret coves beckon from beneath olive-draped hillsides, and each harbour whispers stories of old-world elegance. Aboard your private yacht, the rhythm of the Riviera is yours to set: dive into crystalline waters off Portofino, sip wine in the sun-drenched squares of Cinque Terre, or explore Genoa’s grand maritime legacy. Phoenix Charter Brokers are here to make it all effortless — helping you choose the right yacht, planning a route that suits your style, and connecting you with the best local experiences along the way.
