Family-Friendly Italy: Santa Margherita Ligure

• Stroll through Santa Margherita: The town center is picturesque along the sea and has plenty of shops (ranging from high-end to gift shops), restaurants and sights. The sidewalks are easy to navigate with a stroller and it’s very walkable.

• Enjoy the Pool and Beach: There are several beach clubs to explore and take a relaxing swim in the sea, or enjoy your hotel pool. If staying at the Grand Hotel Miramare, access to the Bagni Miramare beach club is complimentary, or the pool has an incredible view.

• Explore Portofino: A 20-minute drive away from Santa Margherita, Portofino encapsulates the quintessential Italian Riviera vibrancy. Boats frame the port, and travelers dine, shop and stroll their way through this intimate town. It’s accessible by boat, bus or taxi.

• Day trip to Cinque Terre: Santa Margherita is ideally situated to access the acclaimed Cinque Terre. While the towns of Cinque Terre have less hotel options, Santa Margherita is a great base nearby. There is a train station in the center of town that accesses Cinque Terre, or you can travel there by boat or car.

• Sail on a Boat Excursion: Venture on a private or group boat excursion. Bask in a sunset dinner cruise, or take a day ferry around the coast.

• Take a Cooking Class: From pasta making to pesto cooking, there are several options for a fun cooking class to break up the sightseeing.

• Local History & Sights: There is so much history in this area; take a walking tour or explore on your own. Be sure to see the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure and the Basilica of St. Margaret of Antiochia.

Meals:

• Kicks: Known for its pizza and Italian cuisine, this is a very family-friendly restaurant. Seating is primarily outdoors on the front terrace, as well as a back patio part of Piazza Caprera.

• Ristorante Pizzeria Da Gennaro: Bustling with couples and families every night, this restaurant is right in the heart of Santa Margherita with a view of the sea. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.

• Osteria Numero 7: Featuring traditional Ligurian Italian cuisine, the pesto dishes are a must-try here. All seating is indoors, and it’s family-friendly.

• L’Altro Eden: Enjoy an elegant date-night here with cuisine featuring specialty fish dishes.

• Le Colonne: At the Grand Hotel Miramare, dine on the outdoor patio overlooking the sea. Perfect for couples or families and offers a range of cuisine from salads to pizza.

• Langosteria Paraggi: A 10-minute taxi ride from Santa Margherita, this restaurant is part of a beach club and is welcoming to families. Enjoy lunch or dinner with fresh seafood, pasta, salads and more.

Snacks:

• Panificio Fiordiponti: This Ligurian bakery features mouth-watering focaccia, bread and pastries.

• Gelataria Gepi Mare: Delicious gelato and desserts, perfect for an after-dinner treat.