Ventimiglia, Italy: 8 Surprising Facts About this Gem of the Italian Riviera

To explore the old town, go up…

The Roia River divides Ventimiglia into two sections: new and old. City walls encircle the old part of the city, which, because it’s up on a hill, is called Ventimiglia Alta. So if you want to see some of the town’s most historic gems—including ancient ruins and churches dating back to the 10th century—then you have to go… up! Bonus: You also get picture-perfect views of the Ligurian sea.

Friday means shopping…

Shopaholics, rejoice: In Ventimiglia, not only do you have an open-air market, but it’s in the most picturesque spot possible—on the extensive lungomare (boardwalk). On Friday, the boardwalk is lined with open-air stands offering deals on handmade clothing, leather goods, furniture, produce, freshly caught fish, Italian food specialities, wine, and, of course, flowers.

Friday Market (Patrick Rouzet, wikicommons)

Can’t make it on Friday? Not a problem! Many of the same products can be found at a more limited market along the same promenade every day of the week except Sunday.

The spot for the best beaches in Liguria…

Want to hit the beach? Ventimiglia offers two breathtaking beaches right near the city center. The Spiaggia dei Balzi Rossi (“Beach of the Red Jumps”), surrounded by red cliffs and wild plants and flowers, is actually part of an archaeological site. Definitely not your typical beach! For a more traditional alternative, Spiaggia delle Calandre is ideal for long walks… and, of course, admiring (or enjoying) the turquoise water. Don’t forget your board, since surf’s up on breezy days!

Some of the best beaches in Italy are near Ventimiglia!

If this is just wetting your appetite for a cheeky trip to the Italian Riviera, then read more about the  “The 7 Best Italian Riviera Towns”.

Home to one of the Italy´s most important libraries…

It’s not all beaches and promenades in Ventimiglia. The medieval town also is home to the Biblioteca Civica Aprosiana. A must-see for any bibliophile, this huge public library, founded by the writer and Augustan monk Angelico Aprosio in 1648, is one of the oldest in Italy. And it houses the country’s 2nd-largest collection of manuscripts and books from the 17th century.

And, just like Ventimiglia, the library is divided in two! The historic collection is in Ventimiglia Alta. A more modern collection can be found in the city center. Best of all, both are open to the public every day of the week except Sunday.

A 12th-century castle that inspired Monet…

Located about fifteen minutes from Ventimiglia, this castle has been standing since 1177. Sometimes referred to as Castello di Doria, after the royal family it belonged to, the castle and its tiny village is so picturesque, it inspired the famous Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Two of his masterpieces feature the scene!

Castello di Dolceacqua, Photo Credit: Wikicommons Dongio

Be bombarded with flowers, literally…

Local flower-lovers prepare year-round for the Battaglia di Fiori, or Battle of the Flowers, held every June. After all, Ventimiglia is located on the Riviera dei Fiori (Riviera of Flowers)! The main attraction of the two-day event is the fabulous, themed parade, filled with lavish floats and dancers.

Want to watch? Be prepared to be bombarded with flowers of all different colors. (And know that you’re in good company, since past participants have included Alfred Hitchcock and Cary Grant!).

Don´t miss the Battaglia di Fiori – the annual flower festival in Ventimiglia in June. Photo Credit: Il Secolo XIX

Not going to be there for the festival? You can still get your fill of flowers. Head to Hanbury Gardens, just a short drive from Ventimiglia’s city center. Founded by Sir Thomas Hanbury in the late 1800s, it boasts 2,500 types of Mediterranean plants and flowers—plus a breathtaking view.

In Ventimiglia, your ravioli might be served cold…

As we’ve said time and time again, food in Italy is extremely regional. So it’s no surprise that the cuisine of Ventimiglia is unique! Local specialties include barbagiuai, a crispy butternut squash and cheese ravioli. In a twist on the usual way ravioli is served, barbagiuai can be eaten either hot or cold.

Taste this Ravioli with a twist – Barbagiuai is served cold and crispy. Photo Credit: Wkicommons

Piscialandrea, a deep-dish focaccia topped with tomato sauce, anchovies, olive and garlic, makes for a flavorful midday snack. If you’re looking for seafood, of course, there’s no end of options; many dishes served in Ventimiglia Italy, include fresh-caught fish.

FAQ about Visiting Ventimiglia, Italy

How do you get to Ventimiglia from France?

Ventimiglia is the first Italian town after the French border, making it easy to reach from Menton or Nice. Regular trains run along the coast, with journeys from Nice taking less than an hour.

Is Ventimiglia expensive compared to other towns on the Italian Riviera?

Ventimiglia is generally more affordable than nearby resort towns like Sanremo or Portofino. Prices at restaurants, markets, and hotels tend to be lower, making it a budget-friendly choice.

When is the best time to visit Ventimiglia?

Spring and early summer are ideal, especially June when the Battaglia di Fiori festival takes place. For a quieter experience, September offers warm weather without the summer crowds.

Can you visit Ventimiglia as a day trip?

Yes, many travelers visit Ventimiglia on a day trip from Nice, Monaco, or Genoa. However, with its beaches, gardens, historic old town, and food culture, staying overnight gives you more time to explore at a relaxed pace, and sample the delicious wine as the sunsets.