Santa Margherita, Sestri & Chiavari Private Shore Excursion

Overview

From the port of Santa Margherita, this private shore excursion reveals the Ligurian coast’s quiet sophistication — panoramic bays, marble lanes, and timeless harbors where sea and history meet. Between Sestri’s Riviera charm and the artisan soul of Chiavari, each stop flows naturally, balancing vibrant seaside life with serene elegance, letting you savor Liguria at your own rhythm without losing a single precious moment. - Over 20 years of experience organizing private tours since 2001. - Expert local guide. - Travel in comfort with a private driver and premium vehicle. - 100% private experience, explore at your own pace. - Convenient port pickup and drop-off included.

Itinerary

1. Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure

   A military fortress built in 1550 by the Republic of Genoa to protect the coast from North African pirate raids. This exterior stop allows visitors to observe the robust 16th-century defensive architecture and take advantage of its strategic position. Situated right by the sea, it provides an outstanding panoramic viewpoint for photographing the Gulf of Tigullio, the harbor, and the surrounding coastal landscape.

   · 10 min· Admission not included

2. Description: A pedestrian tour through the town's ancient core. The area features traditional narrow alleys (locally known as caruggi) and elegant facades decorated with the trompe l'œil technique, which uses paint to simulate three-dimensional architectural reliefs. The walk covers the commercial district and main squares, such as Piazza Caprera, allowing visitors to appreciate typical Ligurian architecture and the local atmosphere within an optimized timeframe.

   · 20 min

3. Chiesa di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia - Santuario di Nostra Signora della Rosa

   A visit to the town's main church, a prominent example of the Ligurian Baroque style. The current structure's construction began in 1658 over the foundations of a 13th-century church. The entrance leads to a profusely ornamented interior that contrasts with the building's exterior. Highlights include elaborate stucco work, gold leaf details, crystal chandeliers, and impressive frescoes by artists such as Nicolò Barabino.

   · 15 min

4. A walk along the elegant palm-lined promenade that defines the town's coastline. This area connects historic pastel-colored buildings and prestigious hotels with the marina, where traditional fishing boats are moored alongside luxury yachts. The allotted time allows visitors to stroll along the waterfront, approach the beach sections (which consist of a mix of sand and pebbles), and experience the coastal environment characteristic of the Italian Riviera before continuing the tour.

   · 25 min

5. Explore the historic heart of Sestri Levante with a walk through its charming medieval center. As you navigate the traditional narrow streets, known locally as 'caruggi', you will be surrounded by the colorful facades of ancient buildings. A unique highlight of this stroll is the opportunity to admire the beautiful, intricately carved slate stone portals that adorn the entrances of historical noble houses, showcasing the rich architectural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of the Ligurian Riviera.

   · 45 min

6. Visit the iconic Baia del Silenzio, widely recognized as one of the most picturesque locations on the Ligurian coast. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this crescent-shaped beach framed by vibrant pastel-colored houses and traditional wooden fishing boats resting on the sand. This stop provides an excellent setting to capture memorable photographs and appreciate the natural coastal landscape that has inspired writers and artists for centuries.

   · 45 min

7. Baia delle Favole

   Walk along the scenic promenade of the Baia delle Favole, named in honor of the famous author Hans Christian Andersen, who once resided in Sestri Levante. This larger bay features a lively marina and a sweeping coastline with panoramic views of the Tigullio Gulf. It offers a vibrant contrast to the quiet charm of the Baia del Silenzio, completing your comprehensive view of Sestri Levante's unique dual-bay geography before your return journey.

   · 45 min

8. Enjoy a quick stop at Chiavari’s lively open-air market in Piazza Mazzini, where locals shop for seasonal fruits, vegetables, and Ligurian specialties. It’s colorful, authentic, and perfect for a few photos and a taste of daily life.

   · 15 min

9. Chiavari's historic center is a living medieval masterpiece. Stroll beneath its iconic portici — long, covered arcades stretching along the main streets — built in the Gothic-Genoese style and still displaying traces of original frescoes from centuries past. These charming walkways, lined with boutiques, cafés, and artisan shops, are the soul of the city and one of the finest examples of medieval urban architecture in the Italian Riviera.

   · 30 min

10. Step inside one of Liguria's most impressive religious landmarks, the Cathedral of Nostra Signora dell'Orto. Built between 1613 and 1633, its striking neoclassical façade features eight towering Corinthian marble columns inspired by Rome's Pantheon. The elegant three-nave interior is adorned with Baroque frescoes and a magnificent 17th-century choir decorated with twelve original paintings.

    · 15 min

Pickup

Pickup included.

At the pier of tender arrival in Santa Margherita Ligure

How to use your ticket

What to know before you go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

Product code: 5518978P6

Activity offered by Italy - Top Private Tours via Viator.