Discover the Provincia di Imperia, an emerald slice of Liguria tucked along the sun-drenched Riviera di Ponente. This region blends coastal glamour with old-world charm, where olive groves climb steep hills and azure sea meets terraced villages. If you’re seeking vacation rentals that put you steps from sun-kissed beaches, lively markets, and authentic Italian experiences, you’ll find Imperia a perfect match. With a welcoming pace, easy access to boating coves, and timeless towns perched on cliffs, this is a destination where every day feels like a new adventure—whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or that special someone. And for easy planning, you can explore a wide range of accommodations on searchandstay.com, a site dedicated to helping you find the ideal holiday rental in the Imperia area.
Why Provincia di Imperia is a premium choice for vacation rentals
Liguria’s western coast is famous for its dramatic coastline, sunshine-friendly climate, and a culture that celebrates slow living without sacrificing vibrant social life. Imperia stands out because it offers both the charm of historic towns and the convenience of modern amenities. When you stay in a vacation rental in this province, you’re not just booking a place to sleep—you’re securing a home base for daily discoveries: a balcony with sea views, a kitchen to craft pesto-inspired meals, a living room that invites conversation after a day on the water, and a doorstep to some of Italy’s best-kept culinary secrets. Beach towns like Sanremo and Bordighera are within reach, while inland villages such as Dolcedo, Apricale, and Bajardo showcase Ligurian architecture, narrow lanes, and panoramic vistas perfect for slow mornings and sunset strolls. Search and Stay makes it easier to compare options across Imperia, helping you choose a house rental or apartment that matches your vibe, budget, and travel dates.
Where to stay in the Province of Imperia: neighborhoods and types of vacation rentals
Imperia Province is a mosaic of sea towns, hillside villages, and wine-and-olive country. Here are some of the most traveler-friendly bases for a memorable stay:
- Imperia (Porto Maurizio and Oneglia) – The provincial capital offers a lively waterfront, markets, historic churches, and easy access to beaches. Look for apartments with sea views, townhouse rooms, or modern lofts that place you within strolling distance of the harbor and promenade.
- Sanremo – A cosmopolitan hub known for flowered promenades, sandy and pebbly beaches, a top-tier casino, and a thriving restaurant scene. Sanremo is ideal for those who want nightlife, concerts, and frequent access to premium dining without sacrificing coastal charm. Vacation rentals here range from chic penthouses to cozy boutique flats.
- Bordighera and San Biagio – Elegant seaside towns with a refined pace, botanical parks, and coastal paths. Consider a garden apartment or a villa with olive trees and terrace seating for sunset aperitifs.
- Ventimiglia – The border-town with a bustling Friday market and spectacular seafood. A great base for day trips to Monaco or Menton, with affordable beach houses and colorful apartments near the old town.
- Dolcedo, Dolcedo valley and Apricale (inland) – For travelers who want a touch of mountain air and medieval lanes, inland villages offer stone cottages, terraced gardens, and peaceful retreats that feel far from the tourist pace while still offering easy access to the coast.
Among vacation rental options, you’ll find everything from charming fisherman’s casas and hillside villas with pool to modern apartments with contemporary kitchens and fast Wi-Fi. Whether your crew requires pet-friendly spaces, stroller-friendly layouts, or accessibility features, Imperia’s rental market offers diverse choices. When you search for accommodations, prioritize proximity to the things you love—sun, seafood markets, hiking access, or train stations—to maximize every day of your Ligurian escape.
What to do: top experiences and activities in the Province of Imperia
Beaches, harbors, and water adventures
The coastline along Riviera dei Fiori is your playground. Expect clear turquoise water, rocky coves, and beach clubs that welcome families and solo travelers alike. In Imperia itself, you’ll find sandy and pebbly beaches with calm bays suitable for swimming and snorkeling. In Sanremo and nearby towns, lively beach clubs offer loungers, cabanas, and sea-friendly eateries where you can savor fresh grilled fish as the sun dips toward the horizon.
- Swim and sun at Spiaggia di San Lorenzo al Mare, a long stretch with gentle shallows, perfect for a family day by the sea.
- Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water and discover sea caves along the rocky shoreline.
- Take a sailing excursion or a yacht charter for a sunset cruise along the Ligurian coast, stopping for a dip in a sheltered cove.
Wine, olive oil, and food-focused experiences
Liguria is a culinary mosaic built on aromatic herbs, olive oil, and sea-kissed seafood. Imperia is the heartland of Taggia and the western Ligurian olive oil tradition. The region’s signature wines—Pigato and Vermentino—shine in the warm, sunny climate, often paired with seafood, pesto, and focaccia baked in wood-fired ovens. A stay here is a chance to indulge in authentic tastings and hands-on cooking experiences that make you part of the local rhythm.
- Olive oil tastings and tours in traditional mills along the valleys near Dolcedo and Taggia.
- Pesto-making classes that celebrate the Genovese basil tradition, often led by local grandmothers who guard the original family recipes.
- Wine tastings in Liguria’s coastal cellars, featuring Pigato, Vermentino, and Ormeasco—paired with regional seafood and handmade pasta.
Cultural heritage, towns, and viewpoints
Imperia's historic towns offer charming piazzas, churches, and viewpoints that reward slow exploration. Wander the old quarters to admire pastel facades, arcades, and medieval churches. In Sanremo, world-class gardens and the historic Casino feel like a step into a glamorous postcard, while Bordighera’s elegant promenades invite tranquil evening strolls along the sea. Inland villages provide spectacular terrace views over olive groves, and on clear days you can spot the coast all the way to Nice in the distance.
Outdoor adventures and day trips
Liguria’s mountains meet the sea in dramatic fashion here. The Alta Via dei Monti Liguri network is perfect for hikers seeking dramatic ridgelines, lush forests, and breathtaking panoramas that overlook the coastline. Bicycle enthusiasts can ride along coastal lanes that connect Imperia to Sanremo and beyond, with gentle sections for beginners and challenging climbs for seasoned cyclists. For family-friendly adventures, try nature reserves, botanical gardens, and easy walking trails through olive groves and vineyards that culminate in a seaside meal.
Family-friendly and inclusive experiences
Imperia welcomes travelers of all ages with accessible beaches, gentle hikes, and kid-friendly museums. Many vacation rentals offer family amenities—kitchens for home-cooked meals, laundry facilities, and outdoor spaces where kids can play while adults unwind. Seasonal markets, street performers, and local festivals create a lively atmosphere that invites everyone to join in the fun. If you’re traveling with grandparents or relatives who need comfort and convenience, you’ll find options that balance comfort with authentic local flavor.
Itinerary ideas: 2–3 day getaways in Provincia di Imperia
Coastal loop: Imperia to Sanremo and Bordighera
Day 1: Settle into your Imperia base, wander the old town, and savor a seafood dinner with a view of the water. Day 2: Head to Sanremo for a morning market, a stroll along the promenade, and an afternoon visit to one of its lush gardens or the casino for a dash of glamour. Day 3: Move along to Bordighera for a quiet afternoon walk along the beachfront, a stop at a hillside vineyard, and a sunset meal overlooking the sea.
Inland villages and cliffside villages
Day 1: Stay in Dolcedo or Apricale to immerse in medieval lanes, stone houses, and terraced vineyards. Day 2: Drive to nearby Taggia or Castelvecchio to taste olive oil and local wines, then hike a short trail with sweeping sea views. Day 3: Return toward the coast with a visit to a village you missed on day 2, and finish with a dinner of fresh seafood and pesto-laden pasta.
Markets, markets, markets
Two markets you won’t want to miss are in Imperia and Ventimiglia. Arrive early to taste olive breads, fresh fruit, and local cheeses. The Ventimiglia market (especially on Sundays) is a shopper’s paradise—perfect for picking up picnic ingredients and handmade crafts, then pairing your haul with a seaside lunch.
Seasonal travel tips for Imperia
Liguria enjoys mild winters and warm summers, but the best times for a vacation rental stay in Imperia are spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October). These shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor dining without the peak-season crowds. If you’re chasing festivals, plan for Sanremo’s famous music and flower events in spring, plus summer concerts along the coast. Booking a house rental with air conditioning or a cool interior space is a practical idea for the hottest days of July and August. Consider a rental with a kitchen so you can prepare pesto and seafood feasts at home after a day of exploration.
Getting around is straightforward. The A10 motorway connects Imperia to Genoa, Nice (via the coast road), and the rest of Liguria, while a reliable rail network links Imperia to broader Italy. Local buses and small ferry services run along the coast, enabling relaxed day trips without relying entirely on a car. When planning an itinerary, choose a central base in Imperia or Sanremo and treat the surrounding towns as quick, day-trip options to maximize downtime and minimize travel fatigue.
Local experiences that make your stay memorable
Imperia isn’t just about beaches and basil; it’s about connecting with people, traditions, and landscapes that shape Liguria’s distinctive lifestyle. You’ll find local markets brimming with fresh seafood, olive oil tastings that reveal centuries of craftsmanship, and family-owned trattorie where the menu changes with the season. Participating in a pesto workshop or an olive oil tasting allows you to bring home more than souvenirs—you’ll take home a taste of Liguria’s heritage and the memories of shared meals with new friends.
Tips for booking vacation rentals in Imperia
To get the most out of your Imperia stay, consider these practical tips when searching for accommodations:
- Choose a base with easy access to beaches and public transport so you can explore without heavy driving.
- Look for homes with outdoor spaces—balconies, terraces, or gardens are perfect for al fresco meals and sunset moments.
- For families, prioritize rentals with multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and laundry facilities.
- Check for amenities that fit your style—pet-friendly spaces, pools, sea views, or proximity to markets and bakeries.
When you’re ready to start planning, searchandstay.com offers a curated selection of accommodations in the Imperia area, from seaside apartments to hillside villas and traditional stone houses. Use filters to match your dates, budget, and preferred type of rental, and read guest reviews to get a real sense of each property and neighborhood.
In conclusion: Imperia as a living, breathing vacation rental destination
Provincia di Imperia blends sun-drenched coast, vibrant markets, hillside tranquility, and a food-and-wine culture that invites participation. It’s a destination where you can enjoy a lazy morning by the water, a brisk hike along terraced olive groves, and an evening of conversation over fresh pesto and seafood. The region’s towns are welcoming and walkable, and the options for accommodations—from compact city apartments to expansive family villas—allow you to tailor your stay to your group’s needs. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a friends’ reunion along the Ligurian shore, Imperia offers the kind of experiences that translate into lasting memories. And with searchandstay.com to help you find the right holiday rental, your Imperia adventure can begin with a simple search and a few clicks.
So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a Riviera experience that blends sea, sun, culture, and cuisine into one unforgettable journey. Imperia is ready to welcome you with open arms, warm weather, and a coastline that begs you to linger just a little longer in its embrace.
To start exploring accommodations in the area, visit searchandstay.com and discover vacation rentals, house rentals, and holiday homes that fit your travel style, dates, and budget. Your Imperia story begins with the right place to stay—and it’s waiting on the coast just a short drive from Genoa, Nice, and the charming towns that line Liguria’s western shore.