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Between sparkling sea and olive-covered hills, Imperia exudes an elegant and serene atmosphere. This jewel of the Italian Riviera, neighboring the French Côte d’Azur, combines the authentic charm of a fishing port with the refined pleasures of a high-end seaside resort. Stroll along the quays lined with pastel-colored houses, admire the yachts gently rocked by the waves of the Mediterranean Sea, and indulge in the Italian dolce vita. Benefiting from generous sunshine and the "best climate in Italy," Imperia invites relaxation, offering fine sandy beaches, gourmet restaurants, and luxury hotels with breathtaking views of the Great Blue.
Imperia is home to superb private beaches where luxury and relaxation meet by the sea.
Bagni Spinnaker is a haven of peace nestled on the coast of Imperia. This intimate private beach captivates with its immaculate golden sand and the translucent waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Settle comfortably on sunbeds equipped with soft mattresses, under sun-colored parasols, to enjoy a breathtaking marine panorama. The atmosphere is both relaxed and high-end: attentive staff ensures your well-being, bringing fresh cocktails and gourmet snacks directly to your sunbed. The setting is simply paradisiacal, ideal for escaping everyday life in complete discretion. Whether to bask in the sun or swim in calm, clear waters, Bagni Spinnaker offers an exclusive experience while remaining family-friendly and serene.
Located on the promenade of Borgo Peri in Oneglia, Bagni Piccolo Lido combines a friendly daytime atmosphere with a festive spirit at night. By day, enjoy a well-equipped beach with sunbed rentals, hot showers, a children's play area, and even a small beach library – a true comfort cocoon by the sea. Its coastal restaurant is renowned for its seafood specialties: savor freshly grilled fish or delicious seafood pasta with a view of the waves. At aperitivo time, the bar offers cocktails and spritz to enjoy while watching the sunset. Once night falls, the beach transforms into a popular party spot for Imperia's youth: DJ sets and themed evenings enliven the sand, making guests dance under the stars. With impeccable service and a unique atmosphere, Bagni Piccolo Lido delights both families seeking relaxation and groups of friends wanting to extend the evening with their feet in the sand.
Koko Beach is Imperia's must-visit beach club for those seeking a touch of glamour and entertainment. The decor is resolutely modern and chic: immaculate sunbeds, white canopies floating in the sea breeze, Balinese beds, and lounge music in the background create a daytime lounge atmosphere. Lounge with delight, a signature cocktail in hand, while admiring the azure sea. When the sun sets, Koko Beach reveals its festive side: it becomes the only true open-air nightclub in Imperia. Trendy parties are organized all summer, with renowned DJs, entertainment, and sometimes memorable themed evenings. Dancing barefoot on the sand to lively music under the starry sky is part of the unique experience offered by Koko Beach. With its designer setting, bohemian-chic atmosphere by day, and electrifying vibe by night, this beach club offers the perfect blend of relaxation and trendy nightlife on the Riviera.
An exotic ambiance and high-end services await you at Papeete Beach Imperia. Inspired by the mythical club in Tahiti from which it takes its name, this private beach is one of Imperia's most sought-after. It stretches over a beautiful ribbon of fine golden sand about 200 meters long, gently sloping into the Mediterranean – a real delight for bathers seeking gentleness. Awarded the Blue Flag for the cleanliness of its transparent water, the beach offers all amenities: rentals of parasols and luxurious sunbeds, showers, lifeguards ensuring your safety in high season… The highlight of Papeete Beach is undoubtedly its renowned beach bar-restaurant. In the shade of a pergola, enjoy refined Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, from ultra-fresh grilled fish to clam pasta accompanied by a well-chilled Vermentino. The attentive service will make you feel like a princess on vacation. In the afternoon, why not indulge in a game of beach volleyball with friends or a paddle outing on calm waters? And at twilight, the place takes on a magical atmosphere for a final cocktail facing the setting sun. Combining paradisiacal beach and festive spirit, Papeete Beach Imperia guarantees an exceptional day of relaxation, gourmet delights, and entertainment.
So, ready to book your sunbed on one of Imperia's private beaches? It's simple, choose your favorite private beach on MySunbed and make your reservation in just a few clicks!
Around Imperia, the Ligurian Riviera also offers other exceptional private beaches to discover.
About a ten-minute drive from Imperia, Diano Marina is home to one of the most renowned beach establishments on the coast: Bagni Delfino. A true local institution, this private beach is synonymous with excellence and grandeur. More than 400 parasols carefully aligned on a vast carpet of golden sand testify to its impressive capacity. Yet the place remains welcoming and pleasant thanks to an airy layout and impeccable maintenance. Its central position on Diano's coastline makes it a popular spot for families and couples seeking a day of absolute relaxation. The facilities are high-end: spacious changing cabins, modern showers, wooden walkways for easy access, and a terrace bar-restaurant that pampers guests throughout the day. Sip a cappuccino by the sea in the morning, enjoy a fresh salad or delicious Ligurian focaccia for lunch, and perhaps extend the day with a prosecco aperitivo while admiring the comings and goings of boats. Delfino Beach is also appreciated for its quality service and safe atmosphere. In summer, it's best to reserve your spot (sunbed and parasol) in advance as the address is popular. Bagni Delfino perfectly embodies Italian beach expertise: an impeccably fine sandy beach, a chic family atmosphere, and quality services in the heart of the Riviera.
Not far from Delfino, Pantarei stands out as Diano Marina's most exclusive beach club. Imagined as a true oasis of well-being, it combines the pleasures of the beach and spa. Upon entering its elegant entrance, you'll discover a magnificent 25-meter freshwater pool with a hydromassage waterfall, surrounded by teak floors and designer sunbeds. This rare seaside luxury allows you to vary between swimming in the sea and a dip in the pool. On the sand, Pantarei offers a limited number of handpicked spots: immaculate white parasols, Balinese beds, and large shaded benches ensure maximum privacy and comfort for a discerning clientele. The atmosphere is decidedly peaceful and refined, perfect for a day of relaxation with friends. As for the palate, Pantarei's panoramic restaurant focuses on high-end local cuisine: daily fish, organic local products, and Ligurian wines are highlighted. Valet service, fresh scented towels, soft background music… every detail contributes to a luxurious and tailor-made experience. In the evening, it's not uncommon for Pantarei to host dinners under the stars or chic pool parties around the lit pool. This confidential address on the Riviera dei Fiori perfectly combines seaside relaxation, exclusive well-being, and private club spirit.
Halfway between Imperia and Diano Marina, the resort of San Bartolomeo al Mare is home to Bagni Bassamarea, a warm private beach with growing success. Here, the atmosphere is family-friendly and sporty: the sand is impeccably clean, the water is calm and protected from waves by rock jetties – a true natural pool ideal for inexperienced swimmers or children. The young and dynamic team is committed to offering more than just sunbed rentals. In addition to comfortable sun loungers and parasols available for rent, Bassamarea emphasizes nautical activities. The club has a much-appreciated sailing and windsurfing school: you can learn windsurfing or rent a paddleboard to explore the coastline freely. Everything is designed to make the day fun and active without sacrificing comfort. Feeling peckish? The beachside snack bar serves artisanal ice cream, salads, and freshly baked focaccine. Regulars particularly praise the friendliness of the staff, always ready to help, and the relaxed atmosphere on-site. At the end of the day, the place offers a charming view of the lights of Cervo perched on its neighboring hill. Bagni Bassamarea is the epitome of an accessible and friendly private beach where quality rhymes with simplicity.
What to do in Imperia besides sunbathing? The city offers numerous activities to enhance your stay.
Imperia is inseparable from olive culture, and gastronomy enthusiasts won't want to miss the Museo dell’Olivo. Founded by the famous Fratelli Carli family of producers, this immersive museum traces the millennia-old history of olive oil in the region. In an elegant building adjacent to the Carli establishments, you'll discover a fascinating collection of period objects: ancient stone mills, wooden presses, Roman amphorae used to transport "liquid gold" across the Mediterranean… Didactic exhibitions showcase the harvesting techniques of taggiasca olives, these small local olives renowned for their delicate flavor. The sensory journey will even let you smell the enchanting aromas of new oil. A visit to the Olive Museum is a true olfactory and cultural experience, which of course ends with a gourmet tasting. Don't leave without tasting the local focaccia dipped in fruity extra virgin olive oil – a simple delight that embodies the quintessential Ligurian Riviera.
For a dive into Imperia's maritime heritage, head to the Museo Navale del Ponente Ligure located in Porto Maurizio. Inaugurated in 2017 in restored old harbor warehouses, this modern naval museum takes you on a journey through the region's rich maritime history. On two exhibition floors, you can admire superb models of sailing ships and galleons that once sailed the Ligurian Sea, ancient onboard instruments, centuries-old nautical charts, and even submarine parts. The interactive scenography will appeal to young and old: navigation simulator, sound reconstructions of naval battles, everything is done to bring the past to life. As the highlight of the visit, Imperia has the privilege of housing a planetarium within the museum. Sit under the starry dome and be amazed by a commented projection of the constellations visible above the Riviera – a magical moment that transports you to other horizons. Between culture and entertainment, the Naval Museum of Imperia is the ideal activity on a slightly cloudy day or to vary the pleasures of the beach. Upon leaving, why not stroll along the nearby Calata Anselmi jetty, where each September the Vele d’Epoca gathering is held, featuring majestic old sailing ships racing in the bay.
Imperia also offers simple pleasures like a romantic walk along the sea. Take the Promenade des Amoureux (Passeggiata degli Innamorati), a picturesque coastal path linking Borgo Foce to the port of Borgo Marina. Clinging to the coast, far from traffic, this pedestrian path offers a sublime panorama of the protected marine area of Punta Le Ratteghe. The intense blue of the sea, the gentle sound of the waves, and the sea-spray-laden breeze compose an enchanting setting for a hand-in-hand walk. The path is dotted with benches for a pause facing the horizon. At sunset, the cliffs and colorful houses are bathed in orange and pink hues – a spectacle both grandiose and soothing, making it a favorite spot for couples. Whether for a morning jog in the cool air or an evening stroll in a light dress, the Promenade des Amoureux is a must to savor the gentle living of Imperia.
Departing from Imperia, set sail and experience the Mediterranean differently! Numerous boats and excursions are offered to discover the coastline from the water. For an exclusive experience, you can privatize a sailboat or yacht for half a day: head to the secret coves of the area, swim offshore in crystal-clear blue waters, and enjoy a refined lunch on board – total luxury and freedom. The more adventurous can opt for a dolphin and whale watching trip. Imperia is part of the Pelagos sanctuary, a marine protected area between Liguria, Corsica, and the Côte d’Azur where fin whales and dolphins live. Embark in the morning with an experienced crew: with a bit of luck, you'll spot a whale calf's blow or a playful school of dolphins accompanying the boat, unforgettable memories in the making! At sunset, why not book a romantic sunset cruise? Sail on a calm sea with golden reflections, a glass of champagne in hand, while the sun sets the horizon ablaze behind the hills. Whether for a nature adventure or a moment of pure romance, a sea excursion from Imperia will add an extra touch of escape to your stay.
Want to discover more? Here are two useful resources to prepare your stay:
Imperia abounds with iconic places, testaments to its rich history and Mediterranean art of living.
Perched on the heights of Porto Maurizio, the Parasio is the historic heart and soul of Imperia. This labyrinth of medieval streets with colorful facades transports visitors to another time. Climb its worn stone stairs, pass elegant loggias, and small palaces weathered by the centuries, all with the omnipresent sea as a backdrop. At the top of the promontory stands the monumental Basilica San Maurizio, watching over the city from its two bell towers. Don't miss visiting the Logge di Santa Chiara, a 14th-century open cloister overlooking the sea: its arcades offer one of the most romantic panoramas, especially at sunset when the sky blazes in the west. The Parasio, still inhabited, vibrates with an authentic atmosphere; you'll encounter artisans at work, sleepy cats at a square corner, and perhaps the scent of focaccia fresh from a wood-fired oven. On the way down, stop at Piazza del Duomo or Piazza Parasio for a coffee on the terrace and admire the view over the port. An emblem of Imperia, the Parasio is a charming place where you can easily spend hours wandering, camera in hand, as every nook holds a picturesque scene.
It's impossible to ignore the majestic silhouette of the Cathedral of San Maurizio dominating Imperia with its imposing stature. Built at the end of the 18th century, this neoclassical cathedral is the largest church in Liguria. Its immaculate white facade, adorned with Corinthian columns, rises toward the sky between two 36-meter-high twin bell towers. Inside, the eye is drawn to the grand volumes of the vaulted nave and the brightness flooding the space. Polychrome marbles, subtle gilding, and votive paintings decorate the building with sober elegance. An adjacent small museum gathers sacred objects and documents tracing the epic construction of the cathedral, which mobilized the entire community at the time. Whether you're a believer or simply an art and architecture enthusiast, a visit to San Maurizio inspires admiration. Stepping out onto the panoramic forecourt, enjoy a splendid view embracing the lower town, the Parasio's rooftops, and the marine horizon. The Cathedral of San Maurizio is not just a religious monument: it's a symbol of pride for Imperia's inhabitants and a heritage jewel illustrating the city's historical richness.
Whimsical and unforgettable, Villa Grock is undoubtedly Imperia's most unique place. Located in the Oneglia district, this extravagant villa built in the 1920s was the home of the famous Swiss clown Adrien Wettach, alias Grock. From your arrival, you'll be amazed by the site's eclectic architecture blending Art Nouveau style, oriental influences, and baroque extravagances. Nicknamed the "Kingdom of Eccentricity," Villa Grock features facades with unusual decorations, a bridge resembling a Chinese pagoda crossing a pond filled with water lilies, and gardens with a thousand fairy-tale nooks. Every detail �� colorful mosaics, twisted columns, clownish motifs scattered here and there – tells of Grock's creative and poetic spirit. Transformed into a Clown Museum, the villa brings to life the world of circus and burlesque through playful exhibition rooms. Stage costumes, vintage posters, comical musical instruments, all recall the career of this clown beloved by crowned heads. Wandering through the lounges with distorting mirrors or the miniature theater room, you'll feel a bit like a child again. The villa's park, with its palm trees, whimsical statues, and sublime view of the bay of Imperia, invites romantic strolling. It's not uncommon to see wedding photo sessions taking place there, as the setting is magical. Villa Grock, a listed historical monument, is a hidden treasure that will delight art enthusiasts, those intrigued by unusual history, or simply the curious in search of an extraordinary place.
While Porto Maurizio has the charm of the old town, Oneglia seduces with its lively and gourmet port. Calata Cuneo is the main quay of Oneglia's port, emblematic with its row of tall houses in warm tones (yellow, ochre, terracotta) whose arcades house restaurants and shops. The activity is incessant from morning to night: at dawn, fishermen unload their fresh catch on the neighboring covered market stalls, while yachts and visiting sailboats moor not far from traditional pointus. Strolling along Calata Cuneo is a way to experience the authentic atmosphere of an active Mediterranean port. The scents of salt, olive oil, and pesto mingle in the air. At lunchtime, it's a gastronomes' rendezvous – people come from afar to taste the bourride (local fish soup) or clam pasta in one of the quay's renowned trattorias, like Osteria dell’Olio Grosso or Sarri. In the afternoon, café terraces fill with joyful conversations over artisanal gelato. At the end of the day, the port offers a magnificent spectacle: the facades reflect in the calm water, and the golden light of the setting sun gives the place a warm and romantic hue. Calata Cuneo is also a popular photo spot – in the background, you can see the Parasio's silhouette perched. This iconic place embodies Imperia's dual character: both a traditional fishing port and an elegant Riviera stopover. You won't be surprised to learn that some scenes from the Hollywood film The Bourne Identity were shot there, as the setting is cinematic. The port of Oneglia is a must-see to soak up local life and savor Imperia's art of living, a glass of Pigato in hand facing the boats' comings and goings.
In addition to its private establishments, Imperia offers beautiful municipal beaches freely accessible to all.
If only one public beach in Imperia were to be mentioned, it would undoubtedly be Spiaggia d’Oro. Located at the foot of Porto Maurizio, this vast fine sandy beach is a favorite spot for families and sea bathers. Its blond sand, soft underfoot, and clear turquoise water make it a small free paradise. The gentle slope into the sea is ideal for paddling safely. In summer, beach bars and roaming ice cream vendors animate the seafront, while children's laughter echoes around the sandcastles. Well-maintained and supervised in season, Spiaggia d’Oro has been awarded the Blue Flag for the cleanliness of its water and shoreline. Crowded in mid-August (it's advised to arrive early to find a spot by the water), this golden ribbon remains pleasant thanks to its expanse. Behind the beach, a pedestrian promenade allows you to reach nearby cafés and gelaterias for a shaded break. At sunset, the beach gradually empties, leaving room for beach volleyball players and a few walkers enjoying the newfound calm. Watching the sun set from Spiaggia d’Oro, with the silhouette of Porto Maurizio outlined against the orange sky, is a simple moment of grace. Free, sublime sand, and a dream panorama: Spiaggia d’Oro is definitely the pearl of Imperia's municipal beaches.
To the west of the city, the Borgo Prino district stretches along the sea with a succession of small pebble beaches and rocky areas. Less touristy than Spiaggia d’Oro, the Prino beach attracts a local and relaxed clientele. People come here for its somewhat raw side and lively evening atmosphere. During the day, you can lay your towel on the round pebbles and enjoy generally very clean and shallow water near the shore. Don't forget your plastic sandals to enter the water comfortably. Borgo Prino's asset is its numerous restaurants, bars, and chioschi lining the promenade just behind the beach. At noon, simply cross the road to enjoy fried calamari or a caprese salad on a shaded terrace. In the late afternoon, establishments start playing lounge music, and locals gather for aperitivo. The beach then transforms into an open-air living room: people settle on walls or around beach bar tables, facing the sea, to sip a cocktail while admiring the sunset. The atmosphere is friendly and lively, often enhanced by impromptu concerts or outdoor sports broadcasts. Less "postcard" than others, Spiaggia di Borgo Prino offers an authentic and friendly beach experience, perfect for those who love to combine swimming, good food, and outings with friends.
At the end of the seafront promenade in Porto Maurizio lies the Spiaggia di Borgo Foce, a discreet gem appreciated by connoisseurs. This municipal beach stretches alongside the tiny port of Borgo Foce, where a few traditional fishing boats are moored. The beach itself is a narrow strip of gravelly sand, bathed by very calm waters thanks to the natural protection of the cove. It feels like being in an open-air pool, ideal for a refreshing swim in complete tranquility. The setting is charming: behind you, the village of Borgo Foce reveals its old houses with colorful shutters and flower-filled streets climbing towards the Parasio. On the beach, the atmosphere is relaxed and rather family-friendly. Local residents come in the morning for their daily swim or in the late afternoon to enjoy the coolness. There are no major tourist facilities here, just a shower and sometimes a small roaming kiosk in summer selling cold drinks and ice creams. And that's all part of its charm! Lying on your towel, you'll hear the water lapping against the boat hulls and the gentle hum of Italian conversations from moms watching their children. Borgo Foce is the perfect place to read a good book facing the sea or simply nap under the Ligurian sun. Nearby, a few fish restaurants and intimate bars of the borgo await swimmers once evening comes. This simple and authentic municipal beach in Imperia offers a truly timeless moment.
Imperia is easy to explore: several means of transport are available to get around the city and its surroundings.
The best way to discover Imperia is often on foot. The city, born from the union of two former towns (Oneglia and Porto Maurizio), doesn't have an ultra-compact city center, but each district is wonderfully suited to strolling. Porto Maurizio, with its perched Parasio, is a maze of narrow streets and staircases that can only be explored on foot – you have to climb a bit, but each effort is rewarded with a view or an architectural discovery. Below, along the quays of Borgo Marina and Borgo Foce, pleasant pedestrian promenades allow you to walk by the sea in complete tranquility. In Oneglia, you can enjoy walking under the arcades of Calata Cuneo or in the shopping streets around Via Bonfante: everything is accessible within a few minutes on foot. The two poles of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio are about 3 km apart – some enterprising travelers even make the journey on foot in about thirty minutes, walking along the seafront when possible, but most will prefer a means of transport to connect the two without fatigue. In any case, for traveling within Imperia and enjoying its ambiance, your walking sandals will be your best allies, giving you the freedom to stop wherever you please, at the market, in a baroque church, or in front of a tempting gelateria.
Having a car in Imperia can be an advantage if you wish to explore the surroundings or simply move quickly from one district to another. The city is crossed by the Via Aurelia (SS1), the panoramic coastal road that connects all the Riviera's resorts – a pleasure to drive when traffic is fluid, with the sea in sight. Imperia is also served by the A10 motorway (Imperia Est or Ovest exit depending on your destination), placing it about 45 minutes from the French border heading west, and 1h15 from Genoa heading east. In the city center, traffic is generally easy outside of the high season, a bit denser in summer. For parking, there are several convenient options: for example, the Molo Lungo (long pier) parking in Oneglia offers a large free space 24/7 just a few steps from the sea, ideal for accessing the promenade and seafront beaches. In Porto Maurizio, you can park near the Marina or the covered market parking. Generally, Imperia has free and paid parking spaces scattered around – sometimes it just takes moving 200 meters away from the most touristy areas to find a spot. Having a car will also allow you to explore charming perched villages in the hinterland or take a day trip to Sanremo, Alassio, or even the nearby Côte d’Azur. However, note that in the Parasio, the historic center of Porto Maurizio, traffic is restricted (ZTL zone), and it's best to park below. In short, getting around by car in Imperia is relatively easy and offers great freedom, especially since coastal panoramas will accompany you on every trip.
The train is a practical and comfortable means of transportation for arriving in Imperia or departing for other Riviera destinations. The city has a modern railway station, inaugurated in 2016, replacing the two former separate stations of Oneglia and Porto Maurizio. Now located slightly inland (Via Argine Destro), Imperia station is served by regional and Intercity trains running along the Ligurian coast. From Imperia, you can easily reach Ventimiglia (French border) in about 30 minutes, allowing for easy connections to Nice, Monaco, or Cannes via SNCF. Heading east, trains will take you to Savona or Albenga in an hour and to Genoa in about 1h40. The line offers beautiful glimpses of the coastline during the journey, making the trip enjoyable. If you're staying in Imperia without a car, the train can also be an excellent option for visiting neighboring towns on a day trip – for example, wandering through the medieval streets of Alassio or discovering the Art Nouveau casino in Sanremo, then returning to Imperia for the evening. Since Imperia station is somewhat out of the way (about 2 km from the center of Oneglia), plan for either a short walk or a brief bus or taxi ride to reach the coast from the station. In summary, traveling by train from Imperia is simple, economical, and avoids traffic stress while allowing you to enjoy the Italian French Riviera's scenery all the way.
Imperia has an efficient urban and interurban bus network managed by the Riviera Trasporti company, which can be very useful if you don't have a vehicle. Two main lines (n°30 and n°31) frequently connect Oneglia and Porto Maurizio in about fifteen minutes, with strategic stops (Oneglia center, hospital, Porto Maurizio center, etc.) – convenient for getting from one end of the city to the other without tiring. The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the ticket costs around €1.50 (to be purchased at tabacchi or via a mobile app). In summer, special shuttles may be set up to serve the more distant beaches. Beyond the city, bus lines allow you to reach neighboring communes along the coast: for example, Diano Marina and San Bartolomeo to the east, or San Lorenzo al Mare to the west, are accessible in about 20 minutes by bus. It's an interesting option for exploring other private beaches around me without driving. Schedules are posted at stops and online, with increased frequency on weekdays and slightly reduced on Sundays. Finally, note that there are long-distance bus lines passing through Imperia – including connections to the hinterland (Dolcedo, Pieve di Teco…) and lines to more distant towns along the Ligurian coast. In short, the bus in Imperia is an economical and relatively simple means of transportation for getting around, especially since the journey will allow you to observe local life along the way. Don't hesitate to ask the Tourist Office for advice on lines and stops corresponding to your planned outings.
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