GemmaIf you’ve ever found yourself staring at a map of the Italian Riviera, wishing you could just pack up the car and drive along the sparkling blue waters with the sun on your face, you’re in the right place. Santa Margherita Ligure, nestled on Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast, is the perfect starting point for some of the most breathtaking coastal drives in Europe. From charming fishing villages to cliffside roads that make your stomach flutter, there’s a route here for everyone who loves adventure, photography, or just soaking in nature. Let me show you how I make every drive unforgettable, and trust me, you’ll want to take notes.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned road-tripper, these ten scenic drives will show you parts of the Ligurian coast that you truly need to see. I’ve included must-see stops, things to do along the way, and insider tips that come from my overall experience exploring this incredible region.
1. Santa Margherita to Portofino: The Classic Riviera Drive
No list of coastal drives from Santa Margherita would be complete without mentioning the iconic route to Portofino. This short drive, only about 10 minutes if you’re in a rush, deserves at least a half-day if you want to truly enjoy it.
As you leave Santa Margherita, the road hugs the coastline, offering postcard-perfect views of the Ligurian Sea. You’ll pass charming villas tucked among pine trees, the occasional luxury yacht, and small beaches where you might be tempted to pull over for a quick dip.
Things to do in Portofino:
- Walk the Piazzetta, the town’s tiny main square, and admire the pastel-colored buildings.
- Explore Castello Brown for panoramic views over the harbor.
- Try fresh seafood at a local trattoria—seafood pasta here is a must.
From my own personal experience, visiting early in the morning helps you beat the crowds and makes the drive along the coastal cliffside feel like you’re in your own private movie scene.
2. Santa Margherita to Camogli: Colorful Fishing Village Vibes
Heading west from Santa Margherita, the drive to Camogli is about 45 minutes, but you’ll want to take your time. The road meanders through coastal cliffs, offering glimpses of the azure sea below. Camogli is known for its vibrant harbor lined with colorful houses, giving it an almost painterly charm.
Must-see spots in Camogli:
- The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, right on the waterfront.
- The pebble beach where you can relax and watch the boats drift by.
- Local bakeries selling focaccia, a Ligurian specialty.
This drive is perfect for a slow day when you’re not just looking for beautiful views, but also small-town charm and a dose of local culture.
3. Santa Margherita to Cinque Terre: Cliffside Adventure
The stretch from Santa Margherita to Cinque Terre is a bit longer, around 90 minutes by car, but it’s worth every minute. You can choose to drive to Monterosso or Vernazza first and explore the villages on foot or by train. The roads twist and turn along steep cliffs, and the views of terraced vineyards and the sparkling Ligurian Sea are spectacular.
Things to do in Cinque Terre:
- Hike the famous Sentiero Azzurro trail connecting the five villages.
- Try local wines and seafood pasta in small village trattorias.
- Take a boat tour to see the villages from the water.
From my overall experience, visiting Cinque Terre by car gives you flexibility. You can stop whenever a view catches your eye, and the less-touristy early morning light is perfect for photography.
4. Santa Margherita to Portovenere: Dramatic Coastlines and Castles
If dramatic coastal scenery is what you’re after, a drive to Portovenere should be at the top of your list. It’s about two hours from Santa Margherita, but the combination of winding roads, rocky cliffs, and charming towns makes it unforgettable.
Must-see stops along the way:
- La Spezia for a quick coffee or gelato break.
- The cliffside village of Tellaro, a hidden gem you might not have heard of.
- The famous castle and colorful houses of Portovenere.
Let yourself wander the narrow streets of Portovenere. From my own personal experience, parking can be tricky, but the walk to the waterfront makes it worth it. Bring comfortable shoes—you’ll be climbing stairs and hills, but every turn offers a new view that feels like a postcard.
5. Santa Margherita to Sestri Levante: Hidden Bays and Sunset Views
Driving east along the coast, you’ll reach Sestri Levante in about 40 minutes. The road passes small bays, olive groves, and little-known beaches that are perfect for a quiet stop. Sestri Levante is known for its Bay of Silence, a crescent-shaped beach that’s perfect for sunset.
Things to do:
- Stroll along the promenade and enjoy the pastel-colored buildings.
- Visit the Bay of Silence for a peaceful swim or photo op.
- Enjoy a seafood dinner with a view of the water.
This drive is less crowded than the Portofino route, making it perfect for a relaxed, scenic day. From my overall experience, timing your visit to catch the golden hour at the Bay of Silence is magical—it feels like the town was built just for that moment.
6. Santa Margherita to Rapallo: Historical Towns and Castles
Rapallo is only about 15 minutes from Santa Margherita, but the drive offers beautiful coastal views, especially as you approach the town from the west. Rapallo has a lively historic center and several attractions for those who like a mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
Must-see attractions:
- Castello di Rapallo, a seaside castle that dates back to the 16th century.
- The cable car ride to Montallegro for panoramic views of the Ligurian coast.
- Stroll through the old town and enjoy gelato from a local shop.
From my own personal experience, the Montallegro viewpoint is worth the short hike—you’ll see the whole coastline in one breathtaking sweep.
7. Santa Margherita to Levanto: Gateway to Adventure
Levanto is another gem east of Santa Margherita, about a 90-minute drive. Known as a gateway to the Cinque Terre, Levanto is quieter than the famous five villages, making it a perfect stop for a slower, more relaxed day. The coastal road offers plenty of pull-offs for photos and short walks.
Things to do in Levanto:
- Relax on the wide sandy beach.
- Rent a bike and ride along the seaside paths.
- Try local specialties like pansoti pasta with walnut sauce.
From my overall experience, Levanto is a hidden paradise if you want a mix of adventure, beach time, and authentic Italian village life without the crowds.
8. Santa Margherita to Zoagli and Chiavari: Charming Villages Along the Sea
Heading west from Santa Margherita, you’ll discover the small villages of Zoagli and Chiavari. These are perfect for a shorter scenic drive if you want to combine stunning coastal views with charming Italian town life. Zoagli is known for its beautiful cliffside promenade, while Chiavari offers a bustling old town with markets and cafes.
Highlights along the drive:
- Stop in Zoagli for a walk along the seaside “panoramic footbridge.”
- Explore Chiavari’s historic center and enjoy an espresso in a local café.
- Check out the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
This route is ideal if you want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation without committing to a full-day adventure. From my own personal experience, the charm of these smaller towns often exceeds that of more famous destinations—they feel authentic and welcoming.
9. Santa Margherita to Camogli via the Abbey of San Fruttuoso: Hidden Treasures
One of my favorite drives is the route from Santa Margherita to Camogli with a detour to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. This secluded spot is accessible by a narrow, winding coastal road or by boat from Camogli. The drive itself is scenic, and arriving at the abbey feels like stepping into a hidden world.
Things to do at San Fruttuoso:
- Explore the abbey and its history.
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- Take photos of the bay surrounded by cliffs.
From my overall experience, visiting San Fruttuoso is like finding a secret treasure—the drive there adds to the sense of adventure and makes the destination even more special.
10. Santa Margherita to Levanto and the Ligurian Hill Roads: The Ultimate Road Trip
For those who really want to combine sea views with hilltop panoramas, the route from Santa Margherita through Levanto and the inland Ligurian hill roads is a must. This longer drive takes several hours, but it rewards you with dramatic cliffs, terraced vineyards, and little-known villages that most tourists never see.
Highlights:
- Stop at small hilltop towns like Bonassola or Framura for views and local snacks.
- Drive through terraced vineyards and olive groves.
- End the day at Levanto for sunset by the sea.
From my own personal experience, taking the time to explore these hill roads adds a sense of discovery and adventure to your coastal trip—you’ll feel like you’ve truly experienced the Ligurian coast.
Final Thoughts
Santa Margherita Ligure is more than just a picturesque town—it’s a gateway to some of the most beautiful coastal drives in Italy. Whether you’re looking for iconic destinations like Portofino and Cinque Terre, quiet beaches, hidden abbeys, or winding hill roads with breathtaking panoramas, the routes from this town have it all.
From my overall experience, the secret to enjoying these drives is to slow down. Don’t rush. Pull over at every viewpoint, wander through tiny villages, and taste the local cuisine whenever you can. Each drive is not just a journey along the coast—it’s an experience, a memory, and sometimes, a little bit of magic waiting to happen.
Pack your camera, your curiosity, and your love for adventure—you’ll find that driving from Santa Margherita is more than a trip; it’s a way to see the Italian Riviera in all its glory.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.