Curated Luxury Properties · Italian Riviera · 2 Stays
Luxury Villas in Italian Riviera, Italy
The Italian Riviera drapes pastel towns and pine-covered headlands along Italy's stretch of Ligurian coast, with Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure forming a natural base for a villa stay. Properties here cling to the cliffs above small harbours, most with direct sea views and steps down to the water. It is a region built for slow mornings on a terrace and short boat rides to the next cove.
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
Cliffside villas above working harbours
Santa Margherita Ligure keeps a working fishing harbour alongside its promenade, giving guests fresh seafood and boat charters within walking distance. Rapallo adds a wider seafront and a cable car up to the sanctuary above town. Both bases put a villa's terrace within sight of the water.
Portofino and the Cinque Terre nearby
A short drive or boat ride from Rapallo reaches Portofino's harbour, while the Cinque Terre villages sit within a comfortable day trip by train or private boat. Guests can spend a week alternating between quiet villa mornings and afternoons exploring the wider coast. The compact geography means little time is lost travelling between highlights.
A refined, less crowded alternative
The Riviera draws a quieter crowd than the busiest stretches of the Amalfi Coast, with smaller harbour towns and fewer large hotels. Villas here favour privacy and sea-facing terraces over resort amenities. Restaurants along the coast lean toward family-run trattorias rather than large tourist venues.
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 to early October brings warm, settled weather for swimming and coastal boat trips, with July and August the busiest and warmest months. June and September offer a good balance of warm water and quieter towns. Winter is mild but many coastal restaurants close for the season.
What types of luxury properties are available in Italian Riviera?
The collection is made up of villas, typically set high above the coastline with sea views and private terraces. Several include direct or near-direct access to the water via steps or a private path. Interiors mix restored period buildings with more contemporary coastal design.
How much does a luxury villa in Italian Riviera cost per week?
Weekly rates run from around €15,500 to €21,000 depending on the property and season, with August commanding the highest rates. Properties with the most direct sea access and largest terraces sit toward the top of that range. Late spring and early autumn typically offer better availability at similar rates.
What amenities do luxury properties in Italian Riviera typically include?
Expect sea-facing terraces, outdoor dining areas and, in many properties, a private path or steps to the water. Staffed villas can include a housekeeper or private chef on request. Air conditioning and covered outdoor living space are standard given the summer heat.
How many guests can luxury villas in Italian Riviera accommodate?
Villas in this collection suit small to mid-sized groups, typically six to ten guests across several bedrooms. Layouts favour shared terraces and dining space over large separate wings. Confirm bedroom and bathroom counts directly, as configurations vary by property.
How do you get to Italian Riviera?
Genoa airport is the closest gateway, around forty minutes by road from Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure. Milan's airports offer more international connections at roughly two hours by road or a shorter route via train to Genoa then onward transfer. Private transfers can be arranged directly to most villas.
Which areas of Italian Riviera are best for a luxury villa stay?
Santa Margherita Ligure suits guests who want a working harbour and easy access to Portofino. Rapallo offers a wider seafront and good road links along the coast. Both put guests within reach of the Cinque Terre for a day trip.
Is Italian Riviera suitable for families, couples or groups?
Yes, the terraces and sea views suit couples seeking a romantic base as well as small family groups or friends travelling together. The coastline's boat trips and harbour towns give families plenty to do without long transfers. Larger celebrations are better served by the region's bigger estates further along the coast.
How far in advance should you book a luxury villa in Italian Riviera?
Peak summer weeks, particularly August, are best booked six months or more in advance given limited villa stock. Shoulder season stays in May, June or September can often be secured with three to four months' notice. TheChosenStay recommends confirming early for any date near a local festival, when the coast fills quickly.
Our Selection in Italian Riviera
A stay on this stretch of coast rewards patience more than itinerary. We look for villas where the terrace does most of the work, positioned so a morning coffee and an evening aperitivo both face the water without needing to move. Properties are chosen for their proximity to a harbour on foot rather than a headline view alone, since that proximity shapes every day of a stay. We keep the collection small and prioritise access to the water over size of the house.
The Chosen Stay