Diano Marina vacation packages

Best things to do in Diano Marina

Diano Marina, a picturesque coastal town on the Italian Riviera, is renowned for its sandy beaches, charming streets, and lively local culture. Vacations in Diano Marina are all about enjoying the seaside, indulging in delicious Ligurian cuisine, and soaking up a bit of history.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Capo Berta: This scenic headland offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Ligurian Sea. The various paths and trails make it a popular spot for cycling and hiking, or you can enjoy a more relaxed sunset stroll.

• Diano Castello: The nearby hillside village of Diano Castello offers a peaceful escape, with narrow, winding streets interspersed with viewpoints where you can pause and enjoy the surrounding olive groves and vineyards stretching down to the sea.

The best districts

• Lungomare delle Nazioni: Diano Marina’s seafront promenade is the beating heart of the town. Lined with palm trees, cafés, and gelato shops, it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or cycle. In the evening, its lively bars and restaurants come to life.

• Historic center: The old town area offers a completely different vibe. Wander through its narrow streets, discovering historic buildings, family-run trattorias, and charming boutiques. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee and embrace local Diano Marina life.

Parks and gardens

• Villa Scarsella Park: This green oasis provides shaded picnic areas, a small children’s playground, and plenty of open space. It also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, so there’s often something happening.

• Hanbury Botanical Garden: About an hour’s drive away, near Ventimiglia, these stunning botanical gardens host a vast collection of exotic plants.

Historical monuments

• Sant’Antonio Abate Church: This small and charming church is one of the town’s historical highlights. Admire its beautifully decorated interior while enjoying a peaceful break from the bustling seafront.

• Diano Castello: A medieval village overlooking Diano Marina, Diano Castello is home to several well-preserved churches, including the Church of Saint Nicholas, known for its impressive Baroque architecture.

Day trips in the area

• Imperia: Imperia is a charming local town with a split personality – Oneglia for industry, and Porto Maurizio for leisure. Wander the historic port, visit the Olive Museum, and explore its lively Saturday market.

• Sanremo: If you’re into glitz and glamour, spend a day in Sanremo. Famous for its casino, music festival, and lush gardens, it offers a wonderful mix of culture, history, and luxury.

Family activities in Diano Marina

Diano Marina is a family-friendly destination with plenty to keep both adults and children entertained. From fun beach days to curiosity-piquing cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.

• Beaches: Diano Marina’s sandy beaches are ideal for families, with soft sand and shallow waters perfect for paddling or swimming. Many beach clubs also offer kids’ play areas.

• Water sports: Take a boat trip along the coast or hire pedalos for a fun and easy way to explore the water with the family.

• Mini golf and go-karting: Just outside the town center, you’ll find mini-golf courses and go-kart tracks perfect for a spot of friendly competition.

• Aquarium and zoos: The Genoa Aquarium makes for a fantastic family day trip. It’s a bit of a drive, but well worth it to see Europe’s largest aquarium. Marvel at its 400+ aquatic species, from majestic sharks to mesmerizing jellyfish.

Free things to do in Diano Marina

There are many ways to enjoy Diano Marina vacations without spending a fortune. Here are some of the best free and low-cost activities the town offers.

• Explore the Lungomare: The seafront promenade is free to wander and a great place to soak up the sights and sounds of Diano Marina.

• Free events: During the summer months, Diano Marina hosts a variety of free concerts, open-air movie nights, and festivals. Look out for its food festivals, which showcase the best of local cuisine and often include tastings.

• Hiking: For those who love getting active in the great outdoors, there are plenty of walking and cycling paths that are free to access. The trails around Capo Berta offer stunning coastal views and are particularly enjoyable during the cooler months.

• Local bus routes: If you want to explore more of the surrounding area, it’s cheap and easy to take a local bus. Trips to nearby San Bartolomeo al Mare or Imperia cost around $1.50 per ticket, making it a budget-friendly way to see more of Liguria’s coastline.

Local dishes in Diano Marina

Diano Marina’s culinary scene is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients and simple yet delicious flavors, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're savoring its seafood offerings or enjoying a slice of local cake, the flavors of Liguria are sure to leave you craving more.

Some typical dishes

• Pesto alla Genovese: Perhaps the most famous dish from Liguria. This vibrant green sauce is crafted from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. It's typically served with trofie pasta, a twisted shape designed to capture every last bit of pesto.

• Ravioli di Borragine: These ravioli pasta pockets are filled with a mixture of borage leaves, ricotta, and Parmesan. The subtle sweetness of the borage creates a delicate yet delightful dish.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Buridda: A robust fish stew that mixes various types of local seafood with tomatoes, potatoes, and herbs. It's best enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

• Acciughe Ripiene: Stuffed anchovies filled with breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and cheese, then lightly fried. This tasty snack pairs perfectly with a glass of local white wine.

Sweets and desserts

• Torta di Pinoli: A Ligurian classic, this pine nut cake features a buttery pastry and a sweet, nutty filling. It’s often enjoyed as a mid-afternoon treat with coffee.

• Canestrelli: These flower-shaped cookies can be found in most bakeries around town. Their buttery sweetness and light, crumbly texture make them incredibly addictive.

Local drinks

• Vermentino: This dry white wine is a staple from Ligurian vineyards. It pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, making it the perfect accompaniment for meals by the sea.

• Pigato: Another local white wine, Pigato is slightly more aromatic and has a hint of sweetness. Enjoy a chilled glass alongside a plate of Liguria’s finest pesto pasta.