Camogli Old Town and Harbor
A jewel of the Italian Riviera, Camogli enchants with its tall, colorful houses, charming harbor, and relaxed fishing village atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe
Camogli Old Town and Harbor
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A jewel of the Italian Riviera, Camogli enchants with its tall, colorful houses, charming harbor, and relaxed fishing village atmosphere.
"Stunning seaside town in Liguria with a nice selection of bars, shops and restaurants."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Camogli's beaches are rocky. Water shoes are a must for comfortable beach time and exploring the shoreline.
🚤 Boat to San Fruttuoso
Don't miss the boat trip to the stunning San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem accessible only by sea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colorful Waterfront Promenade
Camogli Harbor
Wander along the picturesque harbor, admiring the tall, pastel-hued buildings that line the waterfront.
Stella Maris Festival
Camogli Harbor
If visiting in early September, experience the magical Stella Maris festival with illuminated boats.
San Fruttuoso Abbey
Accessible by boat from Camogli
Discover this stunning abbey nestled in a hidden cove, a truly magical and secluded spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pace
Beach Realities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Camogli's beaches are rocky. Water shoes are a must for comfortable beach time and exploring the shoreline.
🚤 Boat to San Fruttuoso
Don't miss the boat trip to the stunning San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem accessible only by sea.
😋 Try Focaccia
Indulge in the local specialty, Focaccia di Recco, a delicious cheese-filled flatbread.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant, tall houses are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for magical shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Camogli's beaches are rocky. Water shoes are a must for comfortable beach time and exploring the shoreline.
🚤 Boat to San Fruttuoso
Don't miss the boat trip to the stunning San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem accessible only by sea.
😋 Try Focaccia
Indulge in the local specialty, Focaccia di Recco, a delicious cheese-filled flatbread.
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant, tall houses are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for magical shots.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the seaside promenade, taking in the views and local life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Camogli is consistently praised for its stunning beauty, vibrant colorful houses, and laid-back atmosphere, offering a more authentic Italian Riviera experience. Visitors love the seaside eateries and the picturesque promenade, though some note the beaches are rocky rather than sandy.
"Very laid back and beautiful town with colourful houses. Lots of seaside eateries!"
Elaine Dawson
"Stunning seaside town in Liguria with a nice selection of bars, shops and restaurants."
Nico Wilson
"It was a lovely seaside town in Italy. They are not the best beaches as they are rocky, but what a view and very pleasant people."
Lars R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Camogli is easily accessible by train from Genoa and other nearby towns like Rapallo. The train station is a short walk from the old town and harbor. Ferries also operate to Camogli from other coastal towns, offering scenic sea views.
Yes, you can take a scenic ferry ride from Portofino to Camogli, which is a popular and enjoyable way to travel between the two.
Driving to Camogli can be challenging due to narrow roads and limited parking. It's generally recommended to use public transport like trains or ferries.
Exploring by ferry is highly recommended to visit nearby spots like San Fruttuoso Abbey or other coastal villages.
Absolutely! Camogli makes for a wonderful day trip from Genoa or other Ligurian towns, offering a charming escape from busier tourist spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Camogli Old Town and its harbor are public areas and do not require any entrance tickets. You can freely explore the streets and promenade.
The main beaches in Camogli are public and free to access. However, some areas might have private sections with loungers for rent.
Ferry prices to San Fruttuoso Abbey can vary, but typically range from €10-€20 for a round trip. It's best to check current prices at the local ticket booths.
Most churches in Camogli are free to enter, though donations are always appreciated. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta is a notable example.
The Stella Maris festival in Camogli usually takes place on the first Saturday of September, featuring a beautiful procession and fireworks. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade with its colorful buildings is a prime spot. Also, capture the view from the harbor looking back at the town, and the dramatic coastline near San Fruttuoso. +1
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photographing the colorful houses and the sea. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Drone regulations can be strict in Italy, especially in populated areas and near protected sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the town's architecture and coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots of San Fruttuoso.
Yes, the rocky beaches offer a unique texture and contrast with the clear water. Try capturing the waves crashing against the rocks for dramatic effect.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss Focaccia di Recco, a thin focaccia filled with stracchino cheese. Seafood is also a must-try, given Camogli's fishing heritage.
The harbor area is lined with trattorias and restaurants offering fresh seafood. Look for places with outdoor seating to enjoy the seaside ambiance.
Yes, bakeries selling focaccia and pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) offer delicious and affordable options for a quick bite.
Most restaurants in Camogli serve lunch from around 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Some may close between lunch and dinner.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer pasta dishes, vegetable antipasti, and salads that can cater to vegetarians. Focaccia is also a great vegetarian option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for trattorias that offer simple pasta dishes or pizza, which are usually kid-friendly. The promenade is safe for little ones to wander, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. While not a typical sandy beach resort, Camogli provides a picturesque and engaging environment for families seeking a taste of authentic Ligurian life.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Enjoying the free public beaches and simply strolling through the charming old town are wonderful ways to experience Camogli without spending much. Pack your own snacks and water bottles to save on small purchases throughout the day. The beauty of Camogli lies in its atmosphere, which is free to enjoy.
📸 Photographers
Consider taking a boat trip to San Fruttuoso Abbey for truly breathtaking shots of the abbey nestled in its cove.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Camogli's Old Town
Many visitors are drawn to the unique atmosphere, describing it as a more authentic and less crowded alternative to nearby famous spots. Exploring the narrow alleyways (caruggi) behind the main promenade reveals hidden courtyards and local life. You'll find small shops selling local crafts, artisanal products, and delicious food. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, with its impressive bell tower, stands prominently overlooking the town and is worth a visit for its historical and architectural significance.
Beaches and Coastal Exploration
A must-do coastal excursion from Camogli is a boat trip to the San Fruttuoso Abbey. This ancient abbey is dramatically situated in a secluded cove, accessible only by sea or a challenging hiking trail.
The Enchanting Stella Maris Festival
The festival culminates in a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the night sky over the Ligurian Sea. It's a deeply cultural event that showcases the strong maritime heritage of Camogli and offers a magical, almost ethereal, atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit