The Italian Riviera’s Golfo Paradiso: The Other “Cinque Terre”

If you’ve heard of the Cinque Terre, you should probably also know about Liguria’s Golfo Paradiso, located on the Italian Riviera… and maybe even consider it as an alternative!

With its five seaside towns (the same as the Cinque Terre), lush landscapes, and beautiful views, Golfo Paradiso is one of the most beautiful stretches of Italian coastline. It also explains its name, which literally means “paradise gulf.”

Camogli, a gem of Liguria’s Italian Riviera

Where is the Golfo Paradiso?

The Italian Riviera’s Golfo Paradiso might be even easier to reach than the Cinque Terre. The coastal area is located just under 7 miles (11km) from Genoa. You can get to Genoa either by flying into the Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, or by taking a train to the city’s Piazza Principe station.

And the best way to enjoy Golfo Paradiso’s hidden gems and breathtaking views? Rent a car or motorbike and cruise down the SS1 highway, or go by bicycle, if you’re feeling adventurous!

The 5 Golfo Paradiso Towns

Want to know more about where to go in Golfo Paradiso? Each of the area’s five small towns have their own distinct character, cuisine, and attractions.

To help you get started, here’s a bit about each!

Bogliasco

This tiny, traditional Ligurian village boasts the clear blue water so renowned of the Italian Riviera… dotted, of course, with fishing boats and surfboards. If you’re a surfer, or want to learn, come here: Bogliasco has ideal surfing conditions, even during the winter!

Beautiful Bogliasco on the Italian Riviera. Photo: Harold Kuiper.

Pieve Ligure

A fan of flowers? Beeline here. The most verdant of the five towns, Pieve Ligure is known for its flower blossoms. (In fact, the bright yellow mimosa, or acacia, flower is the town’s symbol). On the second weekend of February, tourists flock to the Mimosa Festival to enjoy the themed parade—and, of course, to collect mimosa bouquets to give to their loved ones on International Women’s Day (March 8).

The Italian Riviera’s charming town of Pieve Ligure

The Golfo Paradiso isn’t all beautiful views—it means traditional food, too, like the garden-fresh pesto shown here.

Camogli

Camogli is famous for its freshly-caught fish (don’t miss the anchovies!), regal sailing ships, and colorfully-painted homes.

Camogli also hosts two fascinating (and fun!) annual events. The first, the Sagra del Pesce (“Feast of the Fish”), is a huge fish fry that takes place every year on the second Sunday in March. Locals and tourists gather around an enormous frying pan (almost 13 feet, or 4 meters, in diameter!) to get a taste of some of the Italian Riviera’s freshest seafood. (Even if you’re not in town for the festival, you can pay homage to it by going to see the historic, even-larger frying pan on display near the marina).

Meanwhile, on the first Sunday of August, Camogli hosts the Stella Maris. The event was inspired by a mosaic from 400 A.D., located in the town’s San Nicolò di Capodimonte church, that depicts the Madonna as a procuress of sailors. The event starts with a cannon blast in the morning, announcing the departure of Dragun (a famous pirate ship) and its followers. The boats return to land after sundown. In a stunning spectacle, locals illuminate the dark sea for the sailors by placing hundreds of glowing lanterns on the water.

Camogli, a gem of the Italian Riviera

Recco

As much as we love the food in Sori (and across the Italian Riviera… and, okay, all of Liguria), it’s Recco that’s known as the gastronomic capital of the Golfo Paradiso.

Why? Because Recco is the birthplace of two Ligurian specialties. The first, focaccia con il formaggio di Recco, is a plate of the paper-thin bread covered with creamy stracchino cheese. Usually served on a huge circular wooden dish, it’s so delicious, focaccia enthusiasts travel from far and wide just to have a taste! But make sure to save room for the second specialty, pansoti. This pasta is like ravioli, only smaller, meatless, and filled with cheese—and it’s usually topped with a luscious walnut sauce.

You must try the focaccia con il formaggio di Recco!

FAQs – Visiting the Golfo Paradiso

What’s the best time of year to visit the Golfo Paradiso?

The Golfo Paradiso is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is late spring (May/June) and early autumn (September/October) when the weather is warm, the sea is swimmable, and crowds are smaller than peak summer. July and August are lively but busier, while winter offers a quieter, more local experience, especially in towns like Camogli.

Is it better to stay in one town or explore all five?

It depends on your travel style. Many visitors choose to stay in one base (like Recco or Camogli) and take day trips to the others. The towns are close together, making it easy to explore them all over a few days. If you prefer a slower pace, staying in one place allows you to enjoy the local atmosphere more deeply.

Can you visit the Golfo Paradiso without a car?

Yes, absolutely. While driving offers flexibility, the area is well connected by regional trains and buses from Genoa. Trains run frequently along the coast, making it easy to hop between towns like Sori and Bogliasco. Walking and cycling are also great options for shorter distances.

Are the beaches in Golfo Paradiso sandy or rocky?

Most beaches in the Golfo Paradiso are pebble or stone beaches rather than sandy, which is typical of the Ligurian coast. The upside? The water is usually crystal clear and perfect for swimming. Bringing water shoes can make walking on the stones more comfortable.

How easy is it to reach the Ligurian coast from Milan or Florence?

The Ligurian coast is very accessible from both Milan and Florence, making it a great addition to your itinerary. From Milan, the journey is quick and easy: 1,5 -2 hours drive, or 1.5-2.5 hour train journey to Genoa or Camogli. From Florence, it’s slightly further but still very doable: 2.5-3 hours drive or 2.5-3.5 hour tarin journey. Thanks to regular train connections and scenic driving routes, visiting the Ligurian coast is a convenient option whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay.

The Ligurian coast is full of beautiful bays!

Ready to discover the Ligurian coast for yourself?

With the stunning Golfo Paradiso just a short journey from Milan and Florence, there’s no reason not to add a slice of the Italian Riviera to your itinerary.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer escape, combining your city break with a coastal adventure is one of the best ways to experience the true beauty of Italy. Immerse yourself in the stunning art, interesting history and fabulous fashion of Milan on a guided tour of this incredible city, and then head to the colourful seaside towns for a completely different pace and atmosphere.

Start planning your trip today and turn your visit to Milan or Florence into an unforgettable experience.