Italy’s Top 10 Waterfront Cities

Italy is celebrated for its rich history, art, and world-renowned cuisine. Its picturesque waterfront cities offer stunning coastal views, iconic cultural landmarks, and unforgettable seaside experiences. Below are the top 10 waterfront cities in Italy, each known for its unique charm and beauty.

1. Amalfi

Amalfi, located on the coast of Italy, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. This waterfront city is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

Local Attractions

• Amalfi Cathedral: Stunning medieval architecture with intricate mosaics and lush gardens
• Paper Museum: Explore traditional paper making in a historic 13-th century mill
• Valle delle Ferriere: Lush nature reserve with waterfalls and ancient ironworks

Where to stay

• Hotel Residence: Stay at this lovely 4-star hotel in Amalfi, just a 1-minute walk from Amalfi Beach. Amenities include breakfast, bar, restaurant, etc. Activities such as hiking, biking, and snorkelling are also available.
•  Core Amalfitano City Suites: Stay at this charming 4-star hotel in Amalfi, just a 2-minute walk from the Amalfi Cathedral. The hotel offers amenities such as a grocery store, bar, and rooftop access. Activities include shopping and beach access.

Where to eat

• Sensi Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Italian traditional cuisine at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from Hotel Residence and a 2-minute walk from the Core Amalfitano City Suites. 
• Da Maria: Try classic Italian pizza at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from Hotel Residence and a 3-minute walk from the Core Amalfitano City Suites. 

2. Venice

Venice, also known as the floating city of Italy, is a popular waterfront destination famous for its enchanting canals, rich history, and artistic heritage.

Local Attractions

• St.Mark’s Basilica: A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture with stunning mosaics and interiors
• Grand Canal: Take a romantic gondola ride along the canal, lined with historic palaces
• Rialto Bridge: Historic bridge with vibrant shops and stunning views. 

Where to stay

• Hotel San Cassiano Ca’Favretto: Stay at this delightful 4-star hotel in Venice, just a 7-minute walk to the Rialto Bridge. Amenities include breakfast, bar, and room service, with activities such as golfing, sailing, and windsurfing available.
• Hotel Al Nuovo Teson: Stay at this 3-star cozy hotel in Castello, just an 8-minute walk to St. Mark’s Square. Amenities include air conditioning, breakfast, and business services, as well as activities like sailing.
• Palazzo Marcello: Stay at this 3-star hotel in Santa Croce, just a 6-minute walk to the Grand Canal. Enjoy amenities such as breakfast, room service, and air conditioning. Take advantage of the casino and golfing facilities.

Where to eat

• Al Ninono Risorto: Indulge in local Italian cuisine at this restaurant, a 2-minute walk from Hotel San Cassiano Ca’Favretto
• Ristorante al Gabbiano: Enjoy delicious seafood at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from Hotel Al Nuovo Teson. 
• Arcicchetti Bakaro: Try miniature gourmet toasts at this restaurant, a 2-minute walk from Palazzo Marcello. 

3. Rome

Rome, the eternal city, offers a unique blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning waterfronts along the Tiber River.

Local Attractions

• Colosseum: Explore the iconic ancient amphitheatre where gladiators once battled

• Vatican City: Visit St.Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel with Michel Angelo’s frescoes

• Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin into the baroque fountain to ensure you return to Rome

Where to stay

• Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese: Stay at this charming 5-star hotel in the Rome City Centre, just an 11-minute stroll to the Spanish Steps. Amenities include a gym, bar, and restaurant. Activities such as biking and scooter rentals are also available.
• Hassler Roma: Stay at this 5-star hotel with an amazing view of Rome City, just a 9-minute walk to the Trevi Fountain. Amenities include a spa, bar, restaurant, etc. Activities include a full-service spa and sauna.
• Palazzo Dama: Stay at this beautiful 5-star hotel in the heart of Rome, just a 4-minute walk from Piazza del Popolo. Enjoy amenities such as a pool, spa, and bar, as well as activities including biking and swimming.

 Where to eat

• Ristorante Doney: Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk away from the Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese. 
• Bar Frattina: Enjoy delicious pasta at this restaurant, a 4-minute walk from the Hassler Roma hotel.
• Dal Bolognese: Try authentic Emilian cuisine at this restaurant, a 4-minute walk away from Palazzo Dama

4. Naples

Naples is a captivating city on the southwestern coast of Italy, known for its historic charm and stunning views of the Bay of Naples.

Local Attractions

• Pompeii Ruins: Explore the ancient city preserved by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius
• Naples National Archaeological Museum: Discover an extensive collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum
• Castel dell’Ovo: Visit the seaside fortress offering stunning views of the Gulf of Naples

Where to stay

• Grand Hotel Vesuvio: Stay at this luxurious 5-star hotel in the Naples City Centre, just a 3-minute walk to Castel dell’Ovo. Enjoy amenities such as a pool, spa, and gym. Experience activities including a full-service spa and access to the beach.
• Decumani Hotel de Charme: Stay at this upscale 4-star hotel in the Naples City Centre, just a 10-minute walk to the Port of Naples. Enjoy amenities such as a bar, breakfast, and business services, as well as activities like boat tours, snorkelling, and windsurfing.

 Where to eat

• Transatlantico: Indulge in traditional Campania foods at this restaurant, only a 3-minute walk from the Grand Hotel Vesuvio. 
• Tandem: Enjoy traditional Neapolitan cuisine at this restaurant, only a 3-minute walk from the Decumani Hotel de Charme. 

5. Genoa

Genoa, a historic port city in Italy, is a top waterfront destination known for its maritime heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning seaside views.

Local Attractions

• Porto Antico: Explore the historic harbour, home to museums, shops, and the Genoa Aquarium
• Palazzi dei Rolli: Visit UNESCO-listed Renaissance palaces showcasing Genoa’s wealth and architectural grandeur
• Via Garibaldi: Stroll down this elegant street lined with historic palaces and art galleries

Where to stay

• Melia Genova: Stay at this luxurious 5-star hotel in Genoa, just a 9-minute walk to Piazza de Ferrari. Enjoy amenities such as a pool, gym, and restaurant and activities like golfing, surfing, and sailing.
• Capitolo Riviera: Stay at this lovely 5-star hotel in Nervi, just a 4-minute walk from Parchi di Nervi. Enjoy amenities such as a spa, pool, and bar, as well as activities like whale watching and swimming.

Where to eat

• Mattoni Rossi: Enjoy delicious Italian pizza at this restaurant, 1-minute walk from Melia Genova.
• Saker Sushi: Indulge in Japanese cuisine at this restaurant, a 2-minute walk from Capitolo Riviera. 

6. Capri (Anacapri)

Capri, an enchanting island in Italy’s Bay of Naples, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, luxurious charm, and vibrant atmosphere.

Local Attractions

• Blue Grotto: Enter a magical sea cave illuminated by vibrant blue light
• Monte Solaro: Take the chairlift for panoramic views of Capri and the surrounding sea 
• Villa San Michele: Explore this historic villa with stunning gardens and breathtaking island views

Where to stay

• Hotel Villa Blu: Stay at this 5-star luxury boutique hotel in Anacapri, just a 5-minute drive to the Blue Grotto. Enjoy amenities such as a pool, gym, and bar, as well as activities like water skiing, scooter rentals, and windsurfing.
• Hotel Scalinatella: Stay at this stunning 5-star hotel in Capri, just a 9-minute walk to the Gardens of Augustus. The hotel offers amenities such as a gym, restaurant, pool, and activities including boat tours and windsurfing.

 Where to eat

• La Terrazze SRL: Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at this restaurant, a 3-minute walk from Hotel Villa Blue.
•  Ristorante Terrazza Brunella: Enjoy local cuisine and seafood at this restaurant, a 3-minute walk from Hotel Scalinatella.

7. Ravello

Ravello, located high above the Amalfi coast, is a waterfront destination known for its cultural heritage and serene atmosphere.

Local Attractions

• Villa Rufolo: Visit this historic villa with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Amalfi Coast
• Villa Cimbrone: Explore the lush gardens and the famous Terrace of Infinity overlooking the sea
• Ravello Cathedral: Admire the stunning medieval architecture and the museum housing historical artifacts

Where to stay

• Palazzo Confalone: Stay at this stunning 5-star hotel in Ravello, just a 1-minute walk to Villa Rufolo. The hotel offers amenities such as a restaurant, bar, and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy activities like swimming and biking.
• Ravello Art Hotel Marmorata: Stay at this luxurious 4-star hotel in Ravello, just an 8-minute walk to Minori Beach. Enjoy amenities like a pool, gym, bar, and activities like snorkelling, windsurfing, and biking.

Where to eat

• Bar Klingsor: Enjoy delicious local cuisine at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from Palazzo Confalone.  
• Garden Ravello: Indulge in local Italian cuisine at this restaurant, a 7-minute drive from the Ravello Art Hotel Marmorata. 

8. Trieste

Trieste, a picturesque waterfront city on the Adriatic coast, offers a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences.

Local Attractions

• Piazza Unita d’Italia: Stroll through Italy’s largest seafront square, surrounded by grand historic buildings

• Miramare Castle: Explore the elegant 19th-century castle with beautiful gardens and stunning sea views

• Trieste Cathedral: Visit the medieval cathedral with intricate mosaics and panoramic views of the city

Where to Stay

• Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta: Stay at this beautiful 5-star hotel in the heart of Trieste, just a 3-minute walk to Piazza Unità d’Italia. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a pool, bar, and restaurant, as well as access to swimming and the beach.
• You.Me Design Place Hotel:  Stay at this charming 4-star hotel located in the city centre of Trieste, just a 3-minute walk from the Canal Grande di Trieste. The hotel offers amenities such as a spa, breakfast, and air conditioning, while activities include a full-service spa.

Where to Eat

• Biancospino Ristorante: Enjoy Italian cuisine at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from the Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta. 
• Trattoria Caprese: Try fresh seafood at this restaurant, a 2-minute walk from You.Me Design Place Hotel.

9. Verona

Verona, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is rich in history and romance.

Local Attractions 

• Arena di Verona: Visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre, famous for its summer opera performances

• Juliet’s House: See the iconic balcony and statue in this romantic setting

• Piazza delle Erbe: Explore Verona’s lively square, filled with cafes, shops, and historic buildings

Where to Stay

• NH Collection Palazzo Verona: Stay at this luxurious 5-star boutique hotel in Verona City Centre, just a 4-minute walk to Piazza delle Erbe. Enjoy amenities such as a restaurant, bar, and breakfast, as well as wine tours.
• Hotel Accademia: Stay at this stunning 4-star hotel in Verona, just a 3-minute walk from Juliet’s House. Enjoy amenities such as a gym, bar, and breakfast, as well as activities like hiking and biking. 

Where to Eat

• La Bottega della Gina: Enjoy delicious pasta at this restaurant, a 3-minute walk from the NH Collection Palazzo Verona Hotel. 
• Antica Bottega del Vino: Indulge in local Italian cuisine at this restaurant, a 1-minute walk from Hotel Accademia. 

10. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, a stunning string of five seaside villages on Italy’s Ligurian coast, offers breathtaking views, vibrant culture and charming architecture.

Local Attractions

• Sentiero Azzurro: Hike the scenic coastal trail connecting the five villages, offering breathtaking views
• Vernazza: Explore this picturesque village with its charming harbour and colourful houses
• Monterosso Beach: Relax on the largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre, perfect for swimming and sunbathing

Where to Stay

• NH La Spezia: Stay at this beautiful 4-star hotel in La Spezia, just an 8-minute walk to Castello San Giorgio. Enjoy amenities such as a bar, gym, and restaurant, as well as activities like biking and hiking.
• Cinque Terre Residence: Stay at this charming 4-star hotel in Riomaggiore, just an 8-minute walk from the Castle of Riomaggiore. Amenities include a hot tub, bar, and breakfast. Activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkelling are also available.
• Park Hotel Argento: Stay at this lovely 4-star hotel in Levanto, just a 10-minute walk to Levanto Beach. The hotel offers amenities such as a pool, bar, and spa, as well as activities like hiking and biking.

Where to Eat

• Osteria da Bartali: Indulge in delicious Ligurian-style food at this restaurant, a 3-minute walk from NH La Spezia. 
• II Pescato Cucinato: Enjoy fish and chips at this restaurant, a 5-minute walk from the Cinqueterre Residence. 
• La Picea: Try local pizza at this restaurant, a 10-minute walk from the Park Hotel Argento. 

 

Italy’s waterfront cities offer an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters of Cinque Terre, wandering the historic streets of Genoa, or soaking in the views of Naples and its stunning bay, each destination offers something unique. At Waterviews Travel, experience these spectacular cities at your own pace, uncovering hidden beaches, charming coastal villages, and unforgettable vistas along the way. So, pack your bags, set your own course, and embark on the ultimate Italian seaside adventure! Contact us today at service@waterviewstravel.com or call 1-800-735-9790 to personalize your trip and embark on a journey that’s as unique as you are.

Photo Credits: Pixabay Photos. E&Os excluded.