Ventimiglia
Ventimiglia, located on the Italian Riviera near the French border in the province of Imperia, is a must-see destination for any traveller visiting the region.
Known for its stunning beaches, charming medieval old town, and weekly open-air market, Ventimiglia offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Explore its rich history dating back to Roman times, including the ancient Roman bridge, Palazzo dei Rolli, and the Church of San Michele Arcangelo, showcasing the town’s heritage. Indulge in the local arts scene with galleries and studios displaying the work of talented local artists. Ventimiglia is also a popular spot for diving, boasting clear, warm waters and diverse marine life. Dive into shallow reefs or explore deeper wrecks for an exciting underwater adventure. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and popular diving spots, Ventimiglia is a must-see destination on the Italian Riviera. Plan your trip today!
parks and beaches
Parco dei Fiori
Discover Parco dei Fiori, a stunning public park near the town, boasting breath-taking gardens and picturesque walking paths. This popular destination is ideal for picnics, outdoor activities, and year-round events and concerts. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty, enjoy leisurely strolls, and experience the park’s enchanting atmosphere.
Parco Naturale delle Alpi Liguri
Situated in the mountainous region inland from Ventimiglia, Parco Naturale delle Alpi Liguri is an exceptional destination renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, it offers an opportunity to explore the region’s remarkable and pristine surroundings.
Giordini botanici Hanbury
Villa Hanbury’s Giardini Botanici Hanbury is a must-visit for gardeners, nature enthusiasts, and botany enthusiasts. Spanning 18 hectares, this renowned botanical garden in Liguria showcases thousands of species from tropical and subtropical origins. Open year-round, it offers a paradise of scents and colours to explore and is a unique and unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of Europe’s most famous gardens at Villa Hanbury in Liguria.
arts and culture
Museo Preistorico dei Balzi Rossi
Immerse yourself in European prehistory at the Museo Preistorico dei Balzi Rossi, showcasing caves, sepulchres, statues, and fossils. Admire the 20,000-year-old Prewalskii Horse graffiti. Located on the waterfront, this small museum offers Palaeolithic artifacts, stunning scenery, and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture. Don’t miss this must-visit destination for prehistoric art and archaeology enthusiasts. Explore the Museo Preistorico dei Nalzi Rossi to discover the fascinating ancient past while visiting the region.
Albintimilium Archaeological Area
Uncover the fascinating Roman heritage of Ventimiglia at the Albintimilium Archaeological Area. Explore the well-preserved Roman theatre, ancient baths, city walls, and necropolis. Discover artifacts at the nearby Museo Archeologico Gerolamo Rossi. Trace the city’s role as a crucial route to Rome and southern France through remnants of gates and roads. History enthusiasts and Roman archaeology aficionados should not miss this captivating historical site. Immerse yourself in the past and gain insights into the ancient history of the region at the Albintimilium archaeological area.
Cattedrale dell’Assunta
Immerse yourself in the cultural and religious heritage of Ventimiglia at the Cattedrale dell’Assunta. Located in Via Garibaldi, the city’s main square, this historic cathedral stands on the remains of a pagan temple dedicated to Juno. The cathedral showcases a captivating blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, reflecting its evolving history. Don’t miss the Byzantine baptismal font from the 12th-13th century near the entrance. History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those intrigued by religious heritage will find the Cathedral of Ventimiglia a must-visit destination. Discover the rich cultural and religious history of the region at this remarkable historical site.
Civica Biblioteca Aprosiana
Uncover the literary treasures of Liguria at the Civica Biblioteca Aprosiana, the oldest public library in the region. Founded in 1648, it houses a valuable collection of rare books, manuscripts, and exquisite hand-made miniatures. Hosting lectures and book presentations, the library preserves the texts of Father Angelico Aprosio. This must-visit destination captivates book lovers, history enthusiasts, and cultural heritage seekers. Explore the past and delve into Liguria’s literary history at the Civica Biblioteca Aprosiana, a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
recreational activities
Dive Deep and Explore with Scuba Diving and Snorkelling Adventures
The region is known for its clear, warm waters and diverse marine life, and there are many sites to explore, ranging from shallow reefs to deeper wrecks. Some popular diving spots near Ventimiglia include the Baie de Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Cap d’Ail, and the Îles de Lérins.
Rent a Boat in Ventimiglia's Prestigious Port | Discover Côte d'Azur's Waters
Discover the stunning Côte d’Azur through exhilarating activities such as sport fishing, snorkelling, diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, and more. Join the boat excursions and embark on a journey to create unforgettable memories at sea.
restaurants and more
Balzi Rossi
- Via Balzi Rossi, 2, 18039, Ventimiglia, Italy
Experience one Michelin-starred excellence in Italian cuisine on the French border. A historic gem with a contemporary twist and breath-taking Côte d’Azur view.
Ristorante Casa Buono
- Corso Cuneo 28, 18039 Trucco, Italy
Only a 10-minute drive from Ventimiglia, this hidden Ligurian gem awaits in the village of Val Roia. While infused with Ligurian influences, the dishes are creatively crafted, surprising, and bursting with delightful flavours. Enjoy a curated tasting menu highlighting the region’s finest ingredients sourced from local farmers.
shopping in ventimiglia
Centro Commerciale Le Terrazze
- Via Nino Lamboglia, Ventimiglia, Italy
Explore diverse shops, spanning clothing to electronics, in this shopping destination for locals and tourists. Kindly verify opening hours prior to your visit.
entertainment and events
The Battle of the Flowers
A vibrant and traditional event held annually on the first Sunday of September. Immerse yourself in the colourful festivities dating back to the early 20th century. Alongside the parade and mock battle, indulge in the flower market and other lively activities. Experience the rich culture and traditions of Ventimiglia and the Italian Riviera in this fun and unique celebration.
Medieval August
Step into the past as the city transforms into a medieval wonderland. Witness parades, knightly competitions, and vibrant historic squares. Flags, drums, and trumpets create a captivating backdrop. Indulge in food, wine, markets, and guided tours of historic sites. Don’t miss the highlight events: the historical procession and the regatta of the sestieri, a thrilling maritime Palio featuring Ventimiglia’s six districts competing in Ligurian goiter boat races. Experience the magic of Ventimiglia’s medieval festivities.
San Secondo
Ventimiglia’s annual patronal feast of San Secondo on August 26th is a deeply cherished occasion. Witness the proclamation of the prestigious “San Segundin D’Argentu” city prize, attend mass, and join the lively procession through the historic centre. As night falls, be captivated by a vibrant display of fireworks along the waterfront, accompanied by enchanting background music. Experience the breath-taking colours and joyful atmosphere of this remarkable celebration in Ventimiglia.
Dolceacqua
Discover the enchanting beauty of Dolceacqua, Italy. Nestled in the picturesque Ligurian region, this charming medieval village captivates visitors with its ancient stone houses, stunning landscapes, and the iconic Doria Castle overlooking the Nervia River. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, sample local wines, and savour the authentic Italian cuisine at quaint trattorias. Don’t miss the renowned “Rochetta” bridge, painted by Claude Monet. Whether you seek history, culture, or simply a peaceful escape, Dolceacqua offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Italy.