Italian Riviera: San Remo, Sorrento & Genoa

Pinned between the mountains and the sea, on a steeply-sloped crescent of land stretching from the French border to Tuscany, more than half of Liguria (better known as the Italian Riviera), is protected park land. The inland towns are some of the most interesting in Liguria, both for their history and their gorgeous settings amid the forests, valleys, and peaks of the Apennine Mountains. The hiking here is fantastic. In addition to the major city of Genoa, you ll find the gorgeous coastal cities of Camogli, Santa Margherita Ligure, Sestri Levante, and Portovenere, plus enchanting Portofino, a mecca for the beautiful people. San Remo as well, home of the famous Music Festival. The author, who has long spent several months here each year, takes you through every town and region as you explore the Roman ruins, the artists workshops, feudal castles, and the ancient paths that still connect the villages. The scent of herbs and pines, the startling blue of the sea. Brilliant white cliffs tumbling into the depths. Pounding surf and chiming church bells. Mountain peaks that break the clouds. Here is the most detailed guide to the Italian Riviera, also known as Liguria. Liguria stretches from the French border to Tuscany. Backed by the Apennine Mountains, small villages dot the hillsides, perch on mountain peaks, and line the valleys. Seaside towns include Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure and San Remo. Genoa, the sophisticated metropolis, abounds with history and culture. We tell you what you must not miss: The olive oil, the black truffles, the wines and cheeses. Pesto sauce, made of fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, cheese and pinenuts. Pizza dell'Andrea, named for Andrea Doria, the 16th-century Neapolitan admiral. It was his favorite and is still popular. Shrimp, scallops, lobster, clams, mussels and squid are all on the menus. Hike the ancient trails between the villages. Prowl the medieval streets of Genoa. Explore the feudal castles and Roman ruins. Shop in the antique markets and artists's studios. Here is practical advice on when to go, where to go, transportation, currency, climate, history, business hours, medical care, banking, staying safe, plus all the hotels and restaurants worth your attention. A detailed guide to every aspect of the destination: history, culture, foods, restaurants, hotels, sightseeing, things to do - written by an author who knows the place intimately. Here is practical advice on when to go, where to go, transportation, currency, climate, history, business hours, medical care, banking, staying safe, plus all the hotels and restaurants worth your attention. An earlier version of this guide was justly criticized because it lacked a hyperlinked table of contents. That problem has now been solved so you can click on any topic listed and it will take you to that section of the book.