Imperia(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Imperia, the top choice for families is Hotel Baia dei Marinai, a seaside boutique hotel offering spacious family rooms and direct access to Spiaggia di San Marco. Just a 5-minute walk from the beach, it features a kids’ play area, a Mediterranean-style restaurant, and panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. Located near the historic old town and harbor, it’s ideal for day trips. The hotel also provides free parking and airport shuttle services, making it a perfect base for family travelers seeking comfort and convenience in a scenic coastal setting.

The historic city center (Centro Storico) is the best area for staying in Imperia. It’s located just steps from the harbor and old town square, with easy access to landmarks like the Chiesa della Madonna dell'Assunta and local markets. While lively, most accommodations offer soundproofing, and nighttime safety is excellent. From here, guests can stroll to the coastal walking path for breezy ocean views and sunsets, enjoying authentic Italian charm in a vibrant yet walkable neighborhood.

Stay in a Borgo Antico guesthouse like Casa del Sole B&B, where centuries-old buildings have been restored into charming bed & breakfasts, preserving original wooden beams and stone walls. Guests can join local women-led homemade pasta workshops, learning to make pesto pasta and seafood risotto. Every Saturday evening features the Night Market, where artisans sell homemade olive oil, shell crafts, and hand-rolled noodles—perfect for immersive cultural experiences rooted in Ligurian traditions.

Hotel La Terrazza is the ultimate romantic retreat in Imperia, perched on a cliff with 360-degree sea views. Its private terraces, heated jacuzzis, and ambient candlelight create a dreamy atmosphere. Rooms feature modern luxury with vintage touches, while the hotel offers complimentary wine welcome sets and sunrise breakfast delivery. Private beach dinners and sunset yacht rentals are available upon request. With its elegant design blending Mediterranean style and contemporary comfort, it’s the perfect destination for couples seeking intimacy and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Yes, many Imperia seaside hotels provide comprehensive water sports packages. For example, Hotel Mare Nostrum offers free rental of snorkeling gear and tandem kayaks daily, plus guided lessons for beginners. Located right beside Spiaggia di San Giovanni, the clear waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Guests can also book guided sea HopeGoo tours along the Ligurian coastline, exploring hidden caves and red rock formations. Some premium hotels even arrange private sailing charters, allowing couples to enjoy a serene sunset cruise across the sparkling sea.

Opt for Palazzo Cappello, a 18th-century noble residence transformed into a boutique hotel in the heart of Imperia's old town. Originally home to aristocratic families, it retains original marble staircases, frescoed ceilings, and carved windows. Inside, modern amenities blend seamlessly with classical architecture. Guests can visit the underground museum showcasing the city’s maritime history and trade legacy. Daily guided tours and traditional Italian afternoon tea served in the courtyard offer deeper insight into Ligurian heritage and lifestyle.

Near Imperia, explore the Monte Carlo Regional Nature Park, featuring hiking trails and wildflower gardens with sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea. Another highlight is Golfo di Calvisio, known for its striking red cliffs and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The Sentiero di Santa Maria trail winds through pine forests and rocky paths, ending at a viewpoint overlooking the entire harbor and city skyline. These sites combine untouched nature with rich geological beauty, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

Yes, Imperia is well-connected. Most hotels offer train station transfers, and the Imperia Train Station provides quick Trenitalia services: 20 minutes to Ventimiglia, 45 minutes to Genova, and 2 hours to Milano. Local buses link to Savona and Alessandria. Several upscale hotels also provide airport shuttles to Riviera Airport, enabling seamless multi-city travel across northern Italy. Efficient public transport makes it easy to extend your itinerary beyond the region.

Every summer, Imperia hosts the Festa del Mare, held at the harbor square, featuring traditional fishing rituals, pirate parades, Mediterranean music concerts, and a seafood cooking competition. The air fills with the scent of grilled octopus and sea urchins. Another major event is the Festival of the Assumption, where thousands of lanterns are lit in honor of the Virgin Mary. Monthly Old Town Art Markets showcase local ceramics, embroidery, and hand-painted glassware—ideal for discovering authentic Ligurian craftsmanship.

Absolutely. Many Imperia hotels cater to backpackers and self-guided travelers with self-check-in systems, 24-hour front desks, and shared kitchens. Recommend Hostel Marina Blu, located steps from Spiaggia di San Marco, offering affordable rates, free luggage storage, and free tourist info. The hostel organizes group hikes along the coast and local food tours, allowing budget travelers to explore deeply without extra costs. Ideal for solo adventurers seeking authentic, flexible stays in a scenic coastal town.