Bespoke
Italian Riviera Bespoke
Discover the colourful Ligurian coast
Country
Italy
Accommodation Options
Boutique & luxury hotels
Things to See & Do
Hiking, boating & swimming
Best Time To Go
April – June, September – October
Carbon Neutral Trip
Pastel villages cling to cliffs along the Cinque Terre coast, while Portofino glows with dolce vita glamour and superyacht sheen—the Italian Riviera is a masterclass in effortless elegance. Hike ancient mule tracks through terraced vineyards, where winemaking is more art than agriculture. Wander seaside towns washed in gelato tones, where every faded shutter and baroque balcony tells a story. Plunge into pools as blue as the Ligurian Sea, letting the Riviera wash over you.
For true hikers, the trails through Portofino Park and the Cinque Terre are as rewarding as they are spectacular—winding high above the sea with views that plunge straight to the Mediterranean.
The effortless glamour of la dolce vita in Portofino meets the authentic, rustic charm of the Cinque Terre—blending luxury and simplicity to capture the true spirit of Italian coastal life.
Few places rival the Cinque Terre’s dramatic vertical vineyards, cascading straight down to meet the sparkling sea—nature’s artistry at its most breathtaking.
Experience Designer
Trip Inspiration
Snapshot of a Day
Lace up for an unforgettable hike through Cinque Terre’s iconic trails. Follow rugged coastal paths with sweeping Mediterranean views, climbing the hills to reach our exclusive, foot-access-only lunch spot.
Trip Inspiration
Hike Seaside Villages & Terraced Cliffs
Along the coast and hinterland, a zigzag of historic trails—still used by shepherds and farmers—winds through the landscape. After years of exploration, we’ve handpicked our favourites, connecting small villages often overlooked while passing through the region’s most iconic bays. We deliver the perfect blend of quiet, jaw-dropping routes and abundant, sublime relaxation.
Recommended Duration: 5-7 days
Best Time To Go: May – June, September – October
Things to See and Do: Hike the famous trails of the Cinque Terre, enjoy an aperitivo at Nessun Dorma at sunset, walk out to the Portofino lighthouse and explore Castle Brown, and taste farinata—a savoury chickpea flour pancake.
Don't Miss Out On: A guided tour in Genoa and a visit to the thriving covered market.
Snapshot of a Day
Spend the day in Genoa discovering its maze-like old town, grabbing fresh focaccia from a corner bakery and watching the boats drift by. History, food and sea—everything within walking distance.
Trip Inspiration
Multi-Active Adventures Along the Coast
While many know the Cinque Terre for its iconic hiking trails, the Italian Riviera offers a full spectrum of activities for a truly well-rounded adventure. What better way to enjoy the vibrant coastline than kayaking in its sparkling waters? Take an e-bike guided excursion into the hills, far from the tourist towns. We’ll also include at least one bucket-list hike along the classic Cinque Terre footpaths or through Portofino Nature Park. And don’t forget a stop in Genoa—a chance to enjoy authentic history and food, all while staying close to the sea.
Recommended Duration: 5-7 days
Best Time To Go: April – June, September – October
Things to See and Do: E-bike near the Cinque Terre, kayak around the Portofino promontory, hike through pastel-coloured villages and terraced vineyards, and explore the rich food and history of Genoa.
Don't Miss Out On: Visiting Genoa to explore an underrated jewel of a city.
Snapshot of a Day
Soak up the stunning coastline on a private boat ride, taking in the best views of the Italian Riviera’s colourful villages.
Trip Inspiration
Taste of Italy: Culture, Cuisine & History
It’s no surprise this coastline attracted painters, writers and jet-setters in its heyday, with picture-perfect landscapes, vibrant colours and sweeping vistas. Explore tiny medieval villages lined with original walls and fortresses, craggy hilltop monasteries and a captivating mix of Romanesque and Genovese Gothic churches. Soak up the stunning coastline before sipping sweet Sciacchetrà with a vintner or whipping up a plate of pasta al pesto with our favourite local chef.
Recommended Duration: 5-7 days
Best Time To Go: April – June, September – October
Things to See and Do: Cooking classes to learn how to make focaccia, pesto and local pasta like trofie or corzetti, visit the fascinating city of Genoa and enjoy a private boat ride for the best views of the coastline’s villages.
Don't Miss Out On: Eating fresh anchovies, marinated overnight in lemon.
Featured stays
Splendido
Location: Portofino, Italy
La Torretta Lodge Manarola
Location: Manarola, Italy
Grand Hotel Portovenere
Location: Porto Venere, Italy
Capitolo Riviera
Location: Genoa, Italy
Grand Hotel Miramare
Location: Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy
Process
Step 1
Let's connect
Whether you have a specific trip in mind or are looking for inspiration, get in touch with your travel preferences, and one of our Experience Designers will kick off the planning.
Step 2
Detailed Brief
After a conversation to learn more about your trip, you’ll receive details on an adventure with us, including activities and accommodation options in the destinations. An initial Trip Development Fee is made before moving to the next stage.
Step 3
Customized Itinerary and Confirmation
Your Experience Designer will share a tailored trip plan and will collaborate to adjust and finalize the itinerary. A per-person trip deposit is requested to confirm your trip, with full payment made 95 days* before departure.
Step 4
Support, Start to Finish
Before your trip, you’ll receive details on every step of your journey. You’ll have dedicated support while on trip, and when you return, our Traveller Relationship team will be ready to welcome your feedback and explore ideas for your next B&R adventure!
* Final payment terms may vary based on destination and type of trip.
Good to know
Biking
Because of the terrain, this isn't a typical biking area—but there are some guided e-bike routes available. Let your Experience Designer know if you're interested.
Terrain
Some hikes have challenging uphills and uneven terrain. We recommend familiarity with hiking in these conditions and hiking boots with ankle support. Walking poles are available for additional support.
Van Support
Due to the location of our trails, van support is limited on this trip.
Why choose a Bespoke trip?
An Effortless Journey
Our expert Experience Designers are perfectionists, using first-hand knowledge of routes, restaurants and hotels to create an unforgettable experience. This means you’re in the best hands to plan your dream trip.
Lifelong Memories
Our Bespoke trips are often described as lifechanging. When every detail and magical moment is planned just for you and your group – you'll get exactly what you’re after, and more. The perfect addition to the memory book.
Years of Local Friendships
We’ve been at this since 1966, and our Experience Designers have been planting seeds and building friendships around the world since day one. The loyalty we share with our connections is invaluable and is what allows us to give access exclusive to B&R.
Creativity and Spontaneity
From our office to our guides on the road, every person who touches your trip pours their passion and creativity into it. When you travel Bespoke, you’ll work closely with passionate planners to create the perfect fit for you and your travelling companions.
Speak to an Expert