Curated Luxury Properties · Italian Riviera · 2 Stays
Best Luxury Properties in Italian Riviera, Italy
The Italian Riviera curves along the Ligurian coast in a sequence of pastel-painted harbours, terraced hillsides and hidden coves that have drawn well-heeled travellers since the nineteenth century. Santa Margherita Ligure and Rapallo anchor a coastline where the pace slows to long lunches, late afternoon swims and evening passeggiata along palm-lined promenades. Villas here sit among olive groves and maritime pines, with views that drop sharply to a sea that shifts from teal to deep cobalt.
Browse 2 stays →2 properties in Italian Riviera
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2 properties
Editor picks
“Unlike most villas in this price range, The Hillside Garden offers dual kitchen facilities that transform group dining into an effortless pleasure rather than a logistical challenge. The property's position on the established Cinque Terre route places guests at the heart of one of Europe's most iconic coastal experiences, yet far enough above the crowds to guarantee tranquillity. Most compelling is the custom Triton mural that dominates the pool area, creating an artistic focal point that elevates this from a standard Mediterranean rental into something with genuine character and sense of place.”
“The tiered garden setting creates a sense of complete privacy whilst maximising those spectacular Ligurian Sea views from virtually every room. Unlike many coastal villas that feel exposed or overly formal, this property strikes a perfect balance between Italian grandeur and genuine warmth. The outdoor kitchen paired with multiple terraces means you can live entirely al fresco when the mood takes you, yet the converted conservatory games room provides a sophisticated retreat when the Mediterranean sun becomes too intense. One of the few properties in this stretch of coastline where you can walk to the beach yet feel completely secluded in your own private slice of the Riviera.”
Why Italian Riviera
What makes Italian Riviera worth choosing
A Coast Built for Lingering
The Ligurian littoral rewards those who resist rushing. From the fishing village of Camogli to the yacht-filled marina at Portofino, each settlement along this coast has a distinct rhythm and palette. A villa stay gives you the freedom to move between them at will, returning each evening to your own terrace and a glass of Vermentino.
Cinque Terre on Your Doorstep
The five villages of Cinque Terre lie within easy reach by train or boat, turning a day trip into one of Europe's most celebrated coastal experiences. The route from Santa Margherita Ligure takes under ninety minutes by rail, depositing you directly into Monterosso al Mare. Arriving by sea from Rapallo adds a dramatic approach along the cliffside.
Ligurian Cooking, Unrepeatable Elsewhere
Pesto alla genovese, focaccia di Recco and fresh anchovies define a cuisine that rarely travels well beyond the region. Markets in Rapallo sell just-picked basil and local pine nuts by the bag. The best meals here happen at home, on a villa terrace, with ingredients sourced that morning.
Best time to visit
Local guide
Local guide to Italian Riviera
dining
Il Gabbiano
This seafront restaurant serves exceptional fresh fish and Ligurian specialities with tables directly overlooking Rapallo's harbour. The linguine alle vongole is outstanding and the sunset views are unmatched.
Il Pitosforo
A hidden gem in Santa Margherita Ligure serving exceptional Ligurian seafood with a focus on local catch and traditional preparations that showcase the region's maritime heritage.
experience
Portofino boat trip
Take a private boat from Rapallo's harbour to Portofino for the classic approach to this iconic village. The 20-minute journey offers spectacular coastline views and avoids the crowded coastal road.
Portofino boat excursion
Take a private boat from Santa Margherita Ligure harbour to approach Portofino from the sea, revealing why this tiny fishing village has captivated visitors for generations.
activities
Cinque Terre hiking
The coastal path between Monterosso and Vernazza offers one of Italy's most spectacular cliff-top walks with dramatic sea views. Start early to avoid crowds and bring plenty of water.
Cinque Terre hiking trail
The coastal path between Monterosso and Vernazza offers the most spectacular section of the famous Cinque Terre trail, with dramatic clifftop views and authentic village encounters.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Riviera
When is the best time to visit Italian Riviera for a luxury villa holiday?
Late May through June and September deliver warm weather, manageable crowds and lower rates than the peak months. July and August bring the hottest temperatures and the liveliest atmosphere, though coastal villages fill quickly. October still offers pleasant swimming conditions and an unhurried feel that rewards flexible travellers.
What types of luxury properties are available in Italian Riviera?
TheChosenStay curates a hand-picked selection of villas along the Ligurian coast, many set among terraced gardens with sea views. Properties typically reflect the region's architectural character: shuttered façades, tiled floors and generous outdoor living spaces shaded by pergolas. Expect a blend of period charm and contemporary comfort rather than generic resort style.
How much does a luxury villa in Italian Riviera cost per week?
Villas in our collection start from around $2,500 per week. Rates tend to peak during July and August, while shoulder season weeks in May, June and September often represent better value. Early booking secures the strongest selection at any price point.
What amenities do luxury properties in Italian Riviera typically include?
Private pools, outdoor dining terraces and well-equipped kitchens feature prominently. Many villas provide access to private or semi-private garden grounds planted with citrus and olive trees. Staff services such as housekeeping, pre-arrival provisioning and private chef arrangements can often be organised on request.
How many guests can luxury villas in Italian Riviera accommodate?
Villas in the region typically sleep between four and ten guests, making them well suited to couples seeking space, families with children or small groups of friends. Some larger properties accommodate twelve or more across multiple bedrooms and separate annexes. Contact TheChosenStay for guidance on matching a property to your group size.
How do you get to Italian Riviera?
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport sits roughly thirty minutes by car from Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure. Pisa and Milan Malpensa serve as secondary options, each around two to two and a half hours by road or rail. The A12 motorway runs the length of the coast, and frequent regional trains connect all major towns.
Which areas of Italian Riviera are best for a luxury villa stay?
Santa Margherita Ligure combines waterfront elegance with easy access to Portofino, just ten minutes along the headland by boat. Rapallo provides a slightly larger town setting with excellent restaurants, a castle on the harbour and a cable car up to the sanctuary at Montallegro. Further along the coast, Sestri Levante and Lerici each hold their own appeal for travellers seeking quieter surroundings with strong local character.
Is Italian Riviera suitable for families, couples or groups?
Families benefit from calm, sheltered bays, boat excursions and the novelty of village-hopping by train. Couples find romance in the intimate scale of the coastline, from cliffside aperitivi to candlelit dinners above the harbour. Groups of friends gravitate toward villas with generous outdoor space for long meals and shared days on the water.
How far in advance should you book a luxury villa in Italian Riviera?
For July and August, booking four to six months ahead gives you the widest choice. Shoulder season stays in May, June or September allow more flexibility, though the most desirable properties still fill early. Last-minute availability does occasionally arise, so it is always worth enquiring with TheChosenStay.
Our Selection in Italian Riviera
Few stretches of European coastline reward a slow, well-planned stay quite like this one. Our collection here reflects a conviction that the best Ligurian holidays unfold from a private base: a villa with good light, a terrace facing the sea and the kind of quiet that makes returning each evening feel like a privilege. We select properties for their character, their setting and their ability to anchor a holiday that feels genuinely personal. For travellers who value substance over spectacle, this is a coast we return to with real confidence.
The Chosen Stay