Discover Provincia di Imperia: A Ligurian Jewel on the Italian Riviera
Nestled along the shimmering coastline of Liguria, the Province of Imperia (Provincia di Imperia) offers a vibrant blend of sun-soaked beaches, lavender-scented olive groves, and postcard-perfect hill towns. This slice of the Italian Riviera, part of the broader Liguria region, is known for its rolling hills, turquoise seas, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down, savor a glass of Verdicchio-like Vermentino, and say yes to new experiences. If you’re planning a vacation or holiday in this corner of Italy, you’ll find an impressive range of vacation rentals and holiday rentals to suit every style—whether you want a seaside apartment with sea breezes, a charming countryside villa, or a boutique stays in a historic town.
For travelers seeking a seamless booking experience and a curated selection of accommodations, searchandstay.com is a great resource to find accommodations in the area. It aggregates options across the Province of Imperia and helps you compare vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and Holidays Rentals destinations to fit your trip. From sunlit mornings on the beach to sunset dinners in hilltop villages, your next stay in Provincia di Imperia can be both effortless and unforgettable.
Where to stay in the Province of Imperia: vacation rentals and holiday rentals
The Province of Imperia offers a diverse tapestry of bases for your Italian Riviera getaway. The coastline—known as the Riviera di Ponente—features long sandy coves, pebbled beaches, and promenades ideal for sunset strolls and gelato stops. Inland, the hills cradle art-filled villages, terraced olive groves, and winding lanes perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. When you search for accommodations, think about your pace: a beachfront apartment for easy beach days, a hill town villa for panoramic views and quiet mornings, or a restored farmhouse for authentic regional flavors.
: Apartments, flats, and small villas along Imperia’s Port of Maurizio and Oneglia neighborhoods, as well as in Sanremo and Bordighera. These options put you steps from the water, the morning markets, and the best seafood dinners. : Townhouses and small palazzi perched in old towns like Dolceacqua, Taggia, and Badalucco. Expect characterful interiors, handmade textiles, and a sense of local story in every room. : Rustic to refined farm stays in the hills around Dolcedo, Moltedo, and surrounding valleys. Great for olive oil tastings, vineyard visits, and slower-paced days among olive groves. : Large apartments or houses with gardens near Diano Marina, San Lorenzo al Mare, or Ventimiglia, offering space for kids to play and easy access to beaches and parks. : A growing number of vacation rentals welcome dogs and cats, enabling you to explore with your four-legged travel buddy along the coast and into the hinterland.
When choosing a place to stay, consider proximity to beaches, train lines, and village centers with markets and trattorie. The good news is that you’ll find a wide spectrum of vacation rentals and holiday rentals that can align with family trips, couples escapes, or group adventures. And with searchandstay.com, you can filter by price range, amenities, and neighborhood to discover the perfect match for your Ligurian itinerary.
Top towns to base your stay in Provincia di Imperia
Imperia: two seas, two faces, one energetic base
Imperia sits at the heart of the province, split between Porto Maurizio and Oneglia, where the coastline curves into inviting bays and the old town invites you to wander. A base in Imperia puts you within easy reach of beaches like Spiaggia d’Oro or Spiaggia Baia del Silenzio, as well as the olive groves and hillside trails that define the Ligurian interior. Food lovers will want to explore the local markets (where you can sample fresh olives, almonds, and seasonal vegetables) and then follow a backstreet trattoria trail that serves fresh seafood and handmade pasta.
Sanremo: glamour, music, and a coastal playground
Although technically in the province’s western edge, Sanremo is a perennial favorite for travelers chasing a lively mix of beaches, music, and elegant promenades. The city’s palm-lined esplanade is perfect for strolls at golden hour, and its markets, historic theaters, and a rich festival calendar give every stay a sense of occasion. Vacation rentals in Sanremo range from modern sea-view apartments to renovated historic flats, offering convenient access to beaches, the old town, and the nearby Ligurian hinterland.
Bordighera and Ventimiglia: charming towns with a Mediterranean rhythm
Bordighera and Ventimiglia are two more anchors for a regional exploration. Bordighera’s botanical gardens and coastal paths invite morning walks with sea breezes, while Ventimiglia is famous for its bustling Friday market and strong grocery scene. In both towns you’ll find cozy vacation rentals that place you close to excellent seafood, cliffside walks, and day trips to the nearby Col di Tenda and Immense viewpoints above the coast.
Dolceacqua and the Ligurian hinterland: hill towns with wine and romance
A short drive inland brings you to Dolceacqua, a postcard-perfect village dominated by a medieval bridge and winding lanes. This is a prime base for exploring the Rossese di Dolceacqua wine region, olive-oil tastings, and scenic hikes that reveal the region’s sunlit terraces and stone stairways. Other hill towns like Taggia and Apricale offer similarly enchanting stays with a focus on authentic Ligurian life, slow meals, and hillside panoramas.
Beaches, coastline, and outdoor experiences
The Imperia coastline is a combination of sandy stretches, pebbly coves, and long walking promenades. Families, couples, and solo travelers can enjoy activities that blend sea, sun, and scenery. You’ll find beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas, public free beaches, and coves reserved for local families. If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a terrace or balcony, you’ll likely spend mornings sipping coffee while listening to the waves and planning your day of exploration.
: Snorkeling along rocky shores, paddleboarding, and easy boat trips from Imperia’s harbors. For more serious sailing, coastal charters depart from Sanremo and nearby ports. - Beach hops: A day can be simple—one or two beaches with a picnic, then a gelato crawl along the promenade. Beach access can vary by season, so a quick check on your vacation rental listing or a local market can help you map the best stretch for your group.
- Hiking and cycling: The hinterland offers scenic trails through olive groves and chestnut forests. The Ligurian coast also features bike-friendly routes along the coastal lanes and designated paths for family riders.
- Markets and waterfront strolls: Morning markets in Imperia and Sanremo are ideal for tasting local olives, cheeses, and seasonal fruit, followed by a sunset walk along the water with a fresh focaccia in hand.
If you’re after immersive experiences, look for accommodations that arrange guided coastal walks, seaside cooking classes, or olive oil tastings—often available through local hosts or curated experiences in Holidays Rentals destinations across the province.
Food, wine, and local experiences you shouldn’t miss
Liguria is a cuisine-rich region, and the Province of Imperia is a treasure chest of olive oil, seafood, and farm-to-table flavors. Your stay can be a savory journey—from a morning market coffee and fresh brioche to an evening seafood feast featuring grilled branzino, mussels, or anchovies marinated in citrus.
- Vermentino and Rossese wines: Pairings from nearby hillside domaines; consider a wine-tasting day trip that includes a stop at a hilltop village for a panoramic view and a light bite.
- Seafood and trattorie: Expect menu staples like branzino, spaghetti alle vongole, and sustainable seafood options prepared with simple, bright flavors that highlight the region’s freshness.
- Olive oil tours and tastings: The Taggiasca olive, cultivated in the area, yields a delicate, fruity oil perfect for finishing dishes or dipping crusty bread during a rustic lunch.
- Markets and cooking classes: Take a market tour to learn about seasonal ingredients, then join a cooking class to craft a Ligurian pesto, fresh pasta, or seafood dish under the guidance of a local chef.
For travelers seeking a curated culinary experience, Holidays Rentals destinations within Provincia di Imperia often partner with local producers and chefs to offer short-tailored programs. And if you’re booking through searchandstay.com, you can filter accommodations by proximity to food markets, wine cellars, and distinctive dining options to enrich your stay.
Local experiences and day trips that make your trip memorable
The province’s location on the Ligurian coast makes day trips easy and rewarding. From the convenience of a seaside base, you can explore hillside villages, vineyards, and medieval towns that tell the story of Liguria’s past while offering a lively present-day scene.
: Walk the historic bridge, wander the narrow lanes, and drop into wine cellars for a tasting of Rossese di Dolceaqua. : A short drive or hike away, Apricale welcomes visitors with winding staircases, stone houses, and panoramic views—perfect for photography and a slow lunch al fresco. : A bohemian, artist-filled village that rebuilt after an earthquake and now offers studios, cafes, and a distinctive creative energy. : While Menton lies in France, a quick cross-border excursion can broaden your culinary and citrus-fringed experience, with Italian-inspired stops and ports along the way. : A day of coastal hopping between Imperia, Sanremo, Bordighera, and Ventimiglia is simple and scenic—especially on sunny days when the sea looks electric blue.
Booking a guided day trip or a small-group experience through searchandstay.com or Holidays Rentals destinations helps you maximize time and connect with local guides who bring the coast’s history, art, and flavors to life.
Practical tips for planning your Imperia stay
Planning a trip to Provincia di Imperia is mostly about balancing beach days with hillside exploration and local dining. Here are practical tips to help you choose the right vacation rental and make the most of your time:
: Many hosts offer or can arrange olive oil tastings, winery visits, cooking classes, and guided hikes. When you book via searchandstay.com, you often get access to curated activities that enrich your stay.
Planning your ideal itinerary as a Holidays Rentals destination seeker
Whether you’re in the Province of Imperia for a short break or a longer, immersive experience, you can shape an itinerary that blends coastal leisure with authentic local encounters. Here’s a sample 5-day layout to spark ideas:
— settle into a sea-facing apartment, stroll along the harbor, and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner in a family-run trattoria. - Day 2: Sanremo exploration — spend the morning at the market, pause for a coffee by the waterfront, and end with a sunset walk along the promenade and perhaps a concert or theater event.
- Day 3: Dolces and wine — drive into the hills to Dolceacqua for the bridge and wine tasting; enjoy a hillside lunch before returning to your lodging for a relaxed evening.
- Day 4: Hill towns and olive groves — explore Taggia or Apricale, with a half-day hike and an olive oil-tasting session, then a farm-to-table dinner nearby.
- Day 5: Beach and markets — a final beach day (choose a family-friendly stretch in Imperia or Diano Marina), followed by a last stroll through a local market to pick up gifts and regional specialties.
For those who prefer a more guided approach, searchandstay.com can link you to experiences that include walking tours, boat trips, cooking classes, and temperature-balanced itineraries designed for all ages and energy levels. Holidays Rentals destinations across Provincia di Imperia often include host-led events that emphasize inclusivity, local culture, and memorable shared moments.
Why Provincia di Imperia is a smart choice for vacation rentals
The Province of Imperia stands out as a versatile destination with numerous advantages for travelers seeking vacation or holiday rentals:
: Compared with some other Riviera destinations, Imperia often offers better value for well-appointed vacation rentals without sacrificing access to excellent food and scenery. : The region’s produce—olive oil, fresh seafood, citrus, and herbs—creates a kitchen-rich environment for hosts who welcome guests into their culinary world. : Local hosts and small hotels frequently emphasize warm hospitality, accessibility, and opportunities to connect with locals through guided tastings, markets, and family-run eateries.
Finding the right place: tips for booking with searchandstay.com
When you’re ready to lock in a stay, consider these booking tips to maximize comfort and value in Provincia di Imperia:
: If you want beachfront access, filter by "sea view" or proximity to Imperia’s coast. If you crave a quieter hillside escape, search for accommodations in Dolceacqua, Dolcedo, or Taggia. : Look for terraces, outdoor dining spaces, washing facilities for longer trips, and parking if you’ll be driving along the coast. : Some listings include experiences like olive oil tastings, wine tours, or cooking classes. If you want curated experiences, searchandstay.com can surface hosts who offer these options. : If your travel dates are flexible, consider shoulder seasons for lower rates and milder crowds while still enjoying sun-filled days. : Read recent guest reviews and check how promptly hosts respond. A responsive host can make a big difference in a region where local knowledge adds immense value to your stay.
Closing thoughts: your Ligurian adventure awaits
Provincia di Imperia invites you to dive into a Ligurian experience that’s as dynamic as it is welcoming. The coast’s energy, the hillside serenity, and the region’s culinary heart create a travel narrative that’s rich with discovery and connection. Whether you’re a couple seeking sun-kissed days, a family after engaging activities, or a small group chasing culinary and cultural immersion, you’ll find vacation rentals and holiday rentals that fit your style and budget.
Ready to plan your trip? Explore accommodations in the area at searchandstay.com to discover a curated range of vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and Holidays Rentals destinations across Provincia di Imperia. From beachfront studios with easy access to the promenade to hilltop villas with panoramic views and private gardens, your Ligurian chapter is waiting. Book your stay, map your adventures, and let the Italian Riviera reveal its many moods—sunlit mornings, breezy afternoons, and evenings that linger over conversations, laughter, and local flavors.