Ventimiglia is a town located in the far western part of the Italian region Liguria and… no! It has nothing to do with measuring distance – the translation of the name is literally “twenty miles”, even if you might thing so! Its name derives from the Latin word Albintimilium (hence Bintimilium, Ventimilium), formed from “albom” meaning capital, and “Intemeliom” that is the ancient population that lived on this coast. Today, the “capital of the Intemelioms” is a charming town located on the border with France, a strategic position that has always made it an important connection on the tourist routes between Italy and the French Riviera. The city is crossed by the Roia River and is characterized by its medieval historic quarter, perched on a hill, home to quaint alleys, ancient churches, and panoramic views of the sea. In addition to its historical and cultural heritage, Ventimiglia offers beautiful beaches, a mild climate year-round, and traditional Ligurian cuisine.
Here is how you can get to Ventimiglia
Ventimiglia is served by two major international airports and a heliport, but… none of them are in Italy! The closest is the heliport in the Principality of Monaco, just 16 km away. But if you can’t afford a private helicopter, you can always land at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) located 50 km away (about a 45-minute drive) or Cannes Airport (CEQ), a one-hour drive away. The Italian airport of Genoa (GOA) is the furthest: it takes over two hours by highway to reach Ventimiglia from there.
Public transportation is available, in the form of regional trains and buses, but renting a vehicle with a driver will allow you to explore the Ligurian coast to beautiful Ventimiglia with much greater ease.
The last beach before the border
The last Italian beach before the border with France is Lido Darsenùn. It is a small, free beach with fine gravel and a crystal-clear sea with a beautiful seabed. It’s such a precious gem that it must not be “polluted” by cars (which are left at the Balzi Rossi parking lots); it can be reached on foot or by boat. A tiny gem that shouldn’t be overcrowded, but—if you can—it is certainly worth at least a stroll!
If Darsenùn is physically and truly Italy’s last beach, Ventimiglia as a whole is generally considered the last beach. In a positive sense.
Indeed, there are more than one beautiful coves that make its coast stunning and welcome bathers of all types. Le Calandre is the most famous beach, also because it is made of soft sand and is located a short distance from the Cala del Forte tourist port. Families with children, groups, beginners and experts can swim at Le Calandre… it offers excellent services and is not far from the town center. Balzi Rossi, located – as mentioned – near the last Italian beach, is also called the “egg beach” because the stones that compose it are round and smooth; it is a small corner carved out of the rocks, romantic and not for everyone, but for this reason even more beautiful. On the central seafront Promenade Cavallotti lies Marco Polo Beach, made up of gravel and dozens of small coves, the so-called “city beach” precisely because it is served directly by the historic quarters’ services.
Heading back towards the border, you could also stop at Latte Beach: this beautiful, long, narrow strip of sand is located in the hamlet of the same name and, despite being secluded and romantic, offers useful services, restaurants, and captivating events.
What to see in Ventimiglia and the surrounding area?
Ventimiglia is perched on a hill overlooking these beautiful beaches. It retains a medieval charm epitomized by the beauty of its Cathedral of the Assumption, which offers a splendid view of the sea and the Roia River. Also worth seeing are the Church of St Michael, the spectacular portal of the Convent of the Canonesse, and the small church of Mortola Inferiore. The architectural wonders of the old town also include the Canarda Gate’s tower, the Loggia del Parlamento, and the ancient Genoese walls.
Among the most famous attractions in the area are the Hanbury Botanical Gardens, an oasis of over 18 hectares home to thousands of plant species from around the world. The mild climate of the Riviera favors lush vegetation and spectacular views overlooking the Mediterranean. Just a few kilometers away are the medieval village of Dolceacqua, famous for its castle and characteristic stone bridge immortalized by Claude Monet, and Apricale, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy thanks to its small squares, murals, and perfectly preserved stone houses.
Things to do in Ventimiglia…
Strolling along the seafront at sunset is undoubtedly the most beautiful experience to do, here!
Nature lovers can also explore the nearby Valle del Roia, perfect for hiking, trekking, with its scenic routes through mountains, olive groves, and small villages steeped in tradition. For those seeking an international experience, the French border is just a few minutes’ drive away, allowing easy access to Menton, an elegant town on the French Riviera famous for its gardens, colorful historic center, and pleasant year-round climate.
If you’re passionate about ancient history, in addition to the beauty of the center, you can admire some Roman ruins from the city of Intemeli, in nearby Nervia. Here, beyond the theater, you can wander along paths leading to the domus surrounded by mighty walls, the remains of the baths, and the shops.
Be sure to visit Ventimiglia on Fridays so to experience the colorful, scented “circus” of the famous local market. Strolling among the stalls, you’ll discover local crafts, but above all, the finest products from the Ligurian hinterland—special souvenirs to take home. If you’d like to sample delicacies, explore the town’s many restaurants. Typical dishes showcase simple, authentic ingredients, such as olive oil, vegetables, fresh fish, and aromatic herbs. Specialties include focaccia, torta verde, Ligurian ravioli, and farinata. Seafood and anchovies, prepared in a variety of ways, are also highly prized. Traditional desserts include biscuits and cakes made according to local recipes. Thanks to its mild climate and seaside location, Ventimiglia offers a cuisine rich in authentic flavors, appreciated by residents and visitors alike.
