GemmaIf you’re planning a family trip to the Italian Riviera, Camogli should be at the top of your list. Nestled along the Ligurian coastline, this charming fishing village is a perfect mix of colorful houses, a bustling harbor, and serene beaches. But more importantly, it’s a place that kids can truly enjoy. From my own personal experience, Camogli manages to capture the hearts of visitors of all ages. There’s something magical about watching your kids explore narrow cobbled streets while the Mediterranean sun warms their cheeks.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simple moments of joy by the sea, Camogli has something for you. Here’s a detailed guide to 12 things to do in Camogli with kids that you’ll truly love and won’t want to miss.
1. Stroll Along the Harbor Promenade
One of the first things you’ll notice in Camogli is its stunning harbor. The promenade is lined with brightly colored buildings that reflect beautifully on the water. Walking here with kids is a delight—they can watch the fishing boats come and go, feed the seagulls, and marvel at the sailboats gently rocking in the waves.
From my own personal experience, early mornings are the best time for a peaceful stroll before the crowds arrive. Grab a gelato or a fresh pastry from one of the local bakeries and let your kids skip stones or explore the little piers. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s a perfect way to start your day in Camogli.
2. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta
This stunning church is impossible to miss with its beautiful façade and tall bell tower. Inside, the intricate frescoes and detailed architecture are fascinating—even for kids, especially if you turn it into a little scavenger hunt. Challenge them to spot certain symbols or figures in the paintings, which keeps them engaged while you soak in the artistry.
The church is located close to the main square, so you can easily combine a visit here with a quick snack or coffee afterward. From my overall experience, introducing kids to historical sites in a playful way makes the visit memorable without feeling like a lecture.
3. Explore the Old Town Streets
Camogli’s charm lies in its maze of narrow streets. Wandering through the alleys, you’ll find tiny shops, artisan boutiques, and cafés tucked away around every corner. Kids love the sense of adventure—every turn is a new surprise, whether it’s a hidden fountain, a local gelateria, or a small toy shop.
To make it even more fun, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt. Ask your kids to find colorful doors, funny signs, or unusual street art. From my own personal experience, kids engage more with their surroundings when they feel like little explorers discovering hidden treasures.
4. Spend Time at San Fruttuoso Beach
While Camogli itself has smaller pebbly beaches, a short boat ride will take you to San Fruttuoso, where the iconic abbey sits right by the sea. The beach here is pristine, and the clear waters are perfect for swimming with kids. The bay is calm, so you don’t have to worry much about strong waves, and there’s plenty of space to build sandcastles or have a picnic.
If your children enjoy a bit of adventure, hiking trails leading to the abbey offer breathtaking views. From my own personal experience, combining a boat ride with a little walk makes the beach visit feel like a mini expedition.
5. Take a Boat Tour Along the Coast
Camogli’s coastline is breathtaking, and seeing it from the water is an unforgettable experience. Several local operators offer family-friendly boat tours, where you can admire the cliffs, hidden coves, and colorful villages nearby. Kids are usually thrilled to spot sea birds, playful fish, and even the occasional dolphin if you’re lucky.
Make it interactive by giving them a simple map and asking them to spot landmarks along the coast. From my overall experience, kids enjoy boat rides much more when they have a “mission” to complete.
6. Visit the Camogli Aquarium
Though smaller than some of Italy’s major aquariums, the Camogli Aquarium is a hidden gem. It’s compact, making it perfect for younger children who may lose interest quickly in larger exhibits. Here, your kids can learn about local marine life and see fish, crustaceans, and other creatures up close.
A visit here pairs beautifully with a stroll along the harbor afterward, giving kids a chance to connect what they saw in tanks with real life. From my own personal experience, the aquarium is especially fascinating for children who love interactive exhibits and touch tanks.
7. Try Ligurian Food With the Whole Family
One of the best ways to experience Camogli is through its cuisine. Kids often love the simplicity of Ligurian food—think fresh pasta, focaccia, and seafood. Try ordering trofie al pesto or a pizza Margherita and share it family-style.
For a special treat, stop at one of the gelaterias in town. Let your kids choose their flavors—it’s a fun ritual and a great way to introduce them to Italian desserts. From my own personal experience, letting kids be part of food decisions makes mealtime more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone.
8. Climb to Castello della Dragonara
This small castle offers one of the best panoramic views in Camogli. The climb is manageable with kids, though it might require some encouragement for younger ones. Once you reach the top, the views of the Ligurian Sea and the colorful village below are worth every step.
You can turn the visit into a story adventure—imagine knights, dragons, or pirates. From my overall experience, weaving a little narrative keeps kids entertained and sparks their imagination.
9. Attend Local Festivals or Events
Camogli is lively throughout the year, but if your visit coincides with a local festival, it’s a chance for your kids to experience authentic Italian culture. The Sagra del Pesce (Fish Festival) in May is especially exciting, featuring seafood, music, and parades. Children can watch cooking demonstrations, join in games, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Even if you miss a festival, local markets are vibrant and fun to explore. From my own personal experience, immersing kids in local culture, even for a short time, gives them lasting memories beyond typical tourist attractions.
10. Take a Scenic Train Ride to Nearby Towns
Camogli’s location makes it easy to explore nearby Ligurian gems by train. A short ride will take you to places like Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure. Kids often enjoy trains as much as the destination itself—the rhythmic motion, the view of the coast, and the sense of travel make it exciting.
Plan a round-trip with a picnic or a stop for gelato along the way. From my overall experience, combining a train journey with small day trips adds variety and adventure without exhausting the family.
11. Explore Punta Chiappa
For families who enjoy light hiking, Punta Chiappa offers an incredible coastal trail with stunning views. The path winds along the cliffs, passing hidden coves and natural pools where kids can splash and play. Bring comfortable shoes and water, and let the kids explore safely under your guidance.
This spot is perfect for a mix of exercise, nature, and relaxation. From my own personal experience, trails like these are ideal for teaching children to appreciate nature while keeping them active.
12. Enjoy Sunset at the Harbor
After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to wind down than watching the sunset at Camogli’s harbor. The sky paints the colorful buildings in golden hues, and the calm water reflects everything like a mirror. Kids can enjoy the moment, skip stones, or simply watch the boats sway gently.
It’s a simple activity but one that leaves a lasting impression. From my overall experience, ending the day with a serene, shared experience like this reinforces the joy of travel for both children and adults.
Final Thoughts on Camogli With Kids
Camogli is more than just a picturesque town—it’s a place where kids can explore, learn, and simply have fun. From charming streets and vibrant markets to beaches, boat rides, and cultural experiences, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Based on my overall experience, the key to visiting with children is to mix structured activities with unplanned moments of exploration. Let them wander a little, chase a seagull, or marvel at the colors of the harbor—you’ll be surprised at how much they remember and treasure these experiences.
Whether it’s a short visit or an extended stay, Camogli offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly experiences. Pack your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and a good pair of walking shoes, and get ready to make memories your kids will talk about for years to come.
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.