Liguria

Liguria is such a beautiful region in Italy, known for its stunning coastline, charming villages, and delicious cuisine. With two days to explore, you can definitely have a fantastic family-friendly adventure! Let’s dive into your itinerary!

Day 1: Exploring the Cinque Terre

Morning:

• Start in Monterosso al Mare: Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some focaccia, a Ligurian specialty! After breakfast, take a stroll along the sandy beach. It’s the largest of the five villages and has a lovely family-friendly vibe.

• Visit the Old Town: Explore the charming streets, and don’t forget to check out the Church of San Giovanni Battista. The kids will love the colorful buildings and the gelato shops!

Midday:

• Lunch in Vernazza: Take the train or hike (if you’re feeling adventurous!) to Vernazza, one of the most picturesque villages. Grab lunch at a family-friendly trattoria. Seafood pasta is a must-try here!

Afternoon:

• Explore Vernazza: After lunch, wander around the village. The kids can enjoy some time at the small beach or you can hike up to the Doria Castle for stunning views. The hike is manageable and offers a great family bonding experience!

• Train to Corniglia: Next, hop on the train to Corniglia. This village is perched on a cliff and has beautiful views. You can take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets and enjoy the scenery.

Evening:

• Dinner in Corniglia: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the trofie al pesto, a Ligurian classic!

• Return to Monterosso: Head back to Monterosso for the night. If the kids aren’t too tired, a gelato treat before bed is a perfect way to end the day!

Day 2: Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure

Morning:

• Breakfast in Monterosso: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or a local café.

• Travel to Santa Margherita Ligure: Take a train or drive to Santa Margherita Ligure. This charming town is perfect for families, with its beautiful promenade and parks.

Midday:

• Explore Santa Margherita: Stroll along the waterfront, and let the kids play in the parks. You can visit the stunning Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, which is a lovely spot for photos!

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a family-friendly restaurant with a view of the harbor. Fresh seafood and pasta are always a hit!

Afternoon:

• Boat to Portofino: After lunch, take a short boat ride to Portofino. The kids will love the boat ride! Once you arrive, explore the colorful harbor and the charming streets.

• Visit Castello Brown: If the kids are up for it, hike up to Castello Brown for panoramic views of the bay. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are worth it!

Evening:

• Dinner in Portofino: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Portofino. Try some local specialties, and don’t forget to indulge in some gelato afterward!

• Return to Santa Margherita: Take the boat back to Santa Margherita and then head back to Monterosso for a good night’s rest.

Tips for Traveling with Family:

• Pack Snacks: Always a good idea to have some snacks on hand for the kids, especially during hikes or train rides.
• Comfortable Shoes: Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there will be a fair bit of walking and exploring.
• Hydration: Keep hydrated, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful family adventure in Liguria! Enjoy the stunning views, delicious food, and quality time together! 🌊🍝🍦