Written by Karla Vazquez, FAM Hosted by Waterstone Marketing
Italy’s northwestern coastline is dotted with colorful fishing villages, palm-lined promenades, glamorous beach clubs, and some of the most historic hotels in the country. Thanks to Waterstone Marketing, I had the chance to explore several distinct regions—from the elegance of Sanremo to the sustainable luxury of Nervi and the authentic seaside charm of Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio. Below is a recap of where we stayed and what we did in each destination to help inspire your next Italian escape.
Where We Stayed
Royal Hotel Sanremo: A grand dame overlooking the sea, the Royal Hotel Sanremo embodies classic Riviera elegance. Guests enjoy access to local beach clubs, a nightly music program, and a dedicated kids’ club. The hotel is open from February to November, with its busiest season aligning with the famed Italian Song Festival. Above all, what makes the Royal truly memorable is the warmth of its team.
Capitolo Riviera: Just outside Genoa lies the sunny seaside enclave of Nervi, home to the newly opened Capitolo Riviera—a thoughtful blend of sustainability, contemporary art, and minimalist luxury. The lower level houses the spa, gym, golf room, and treatment spaces, while the heated pool is a standout feature. Travelers can easily reach Cinque Terre and Portofino by train or opt for a boat trip to the fishing village of Camogli. Open year-round, the property is ideal for guests who appreciate eco-conscious design and curated art and wines
Hotel Byron: Often described as the Hamptons of Italy, Forte dei Marmi brings together beach culture, stylish boutiques, and effortless luxury. Hotel Byron embodies this coastal chic perfectly. The sandy beaches are accessed via private beach clubs, and bicycles are the most charming way to explore town. Open from April to October, the property features a pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and uniquely designed rooms accented by an eclectic art collection.
Hotel Plaza e de Russie: Located along Viareggio’s lively beachfront promenade—known for its Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant boutique scene—Hotel Plaza e de Russie offers a refined stay in the heart of Italy’s famed Carnival city. Its convenient location near the Pisa airport made it the perfect base for our final night on the Italian Riviera.
What We Did
Our time in Sanremo blended history, culture, and a touch of luxury shopping. We began with a leisurely walking tour through the city’s charming lanes—past palm-lined promenades, elegant Belle Époque buildings, and the winding pathways of the medieval district. It was the perfect way to get a feel for Sanremo’s old-world glamour.
A highlight was our visit to The Mall Sanremo, just a short drive from the city center. This beautifully designed luxury outlet center sits close to the Italian–French border and offers far more than designer boutiques. The team here curates fully personalized experiences, from private cooking classes to customized tastings of regional olive oils, wines, and even Tuscan cigars. We rolled up our sleeves for a pesto-making class, learning the traditional technique as we crushed basil, garlic, and local olive oil with a mortar and pestle. It was delicious, hands-on, and surprisingly soothing—an authentic Ligurian experience in a modern, stylish setting.
In Nervi, our days unfolded at a slower pace. We started with a botanical walking tour through the area’s coastal gardens, rich with Mediterranean flora and shaded pathways overlooking the sea. Nervi is known for its 300 days of sunshine, and it certainly delivered—every view felt framed in golden light.
Later, we took part in a cocktail-making class hosted in partnership with Flor de Caña, the award-winning, fifth-generation Nicaraguan rum brand celebrated for its dedication to sustainability. Shaking cocktails with a spirit that’s both premium and ethically produced added a meaningful twist to the experience.
In true Italian fashion, our transition to the next town included an essential stop: gelato in Portofino. There’s nothing like savoring a cone in one of the world’s most picturesque harbors while doing some more shopping!
Our stop in Forte dei Marmi was all about beach culture, design, and laid-back luxury. With its soft sandy beaches, chic boutiques, and relaxed coastal vibe, it’s easy to see why Italians compare it to their answer to the Hamptons and Americans to Santa Barbara. We strolled along the scenic bike path, browsing high-end shops and admiring the architecture that blends coastal charm with contemporary style.
One of the most memorable activities was a full Carrara marble tour. Exploring the legendary white quarries—where Michelangelo once sourced his marble—felt both surreal and educational. It’s a unique experience that’s engaging for families, art lovers, and anyone looking for a break from sunbathing.
In Viareggio, we were treated to classic seaside ambiance from the moment we opened our curtains. Our room overlooked the lively beachfront promenade, where bicycles, strollers, and boutique shoppers filled the streets well into the night. The area’s stores stay open late, giving the evenings a festive, summery feel.
A standout cultural moment was our visit to Villa Puccini in Torre del Lago, the lakeside home of the legendary composer Giacomo Puccini. Touring the villa offered a moving look into his life, creative process, and personal history. For classical music enthusiasts, it’s an unforgettable stop—and even for casual visitors, the insight into Puccini’s world is both inspiring and beautifully preserved.
And to cap off our journey, we enjoyed the perfect farewell with a beautifully crafted dinner at Lunasia, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hotel Plaza e de Russie. Each course felt like a celebration of Tuscan creativity and coastal flavors—a refined, unforgettable dining experience that made our final night in Italy truly special.
