Things To Do
in Imperia
Imperia is a coastal city located in northwestern Italy, in the region of Liguria. Known for its picturesque harbor and historic old town, Imperia offers a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. The city is famous for its olive oil production, with many olive groves dotting the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood cuisine in Imperia.
- "Ciao" - Hello
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Scusa" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đ˝ď¸ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đď¸ââď¸ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day on the beautiful beaches of Imperia, soaking in the sun and enjoying the gentle waves. Grab a pastry and coffee from a local cafĂŠ for breakfast.
Explore the vibrant old town of Porto Maurizio, visiting its charming streets and historical sites. Don't forget to have lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood.
Stroll along the promenade as the sun sets, with picturesque views over the Mediterranean. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Italian trattoria, savoring local specialties.
Visit the local market in the morning to experience fresh produce and traditional Italian products. Taste some local cheeses and cured meats as you wander.
Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Ligurian dishes. Enjoy the meal you cooked alongside fellow culinary enthusiasts.
Finish your day at a local wine bar, sampling delicious wines from the region. Share your experiences with new friends and enjoy a small plate of antipasti.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery with stunning beaches along the Ligurian Sea.
- Rich cultural heritage, including historical architecture and festivals.
- Mild Mediterranean climate, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- Access to delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and Ligurian specialties like pesto.
- Charming old town areas with picturesque streets and vibrant local markets.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons, making it less enjoyable.
- Cost of living can be higher compared to other less touristy parts of Italy.
- Limited public transport options may make it difficult to explore surrounding areas.
- The area can experience heavy rainfall, especially in the fall and winter months.
- Some amenities may be less accessible for non-Italian speakers.
Best Activities in Imperia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Imperia is renowned for its olive oil production, and the Olive Oil Museum provides insight into the region's rich agricultural history.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic old town of Parasio, known for its charming alleyways and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Imperia is located near the Maritime Alps, offering plenty of hiking opportunities with scenic mountain views and diverse flora and fauna.
Head to Spiaggia d'Oro, a beautiful beach in Imperia, to sunbathe, swim, or simply enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Imperia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Imperia
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic district on the hillside offering panoramic views of Imperia and the coastline.
Former residence of the famous Swiss clown Grock, featuring beautiful gardens and scenic views of the sea.
A picturesque waterfront promenade with stunning views of the harbor and colorful buildings.
A small village perched on a hill with amazing views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
A charming square with a historic clock tower and a vantage point for capturing the beauty of Imperia's architecture.
Food in Imperia
Imperia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A renowned local specialty, Pesto Genovese is a vibrant basil sauce made with fresh Ligurian basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. It is traditionally served over trofie or trenette pasta.
Must-Try!
Imperia is famous for its deliciously light and airy focaccia, which comes in various forms such as plain, with olives, or with onions. It's a must-try snack or accompaniment to a meal.
This traditional Ligurian dish features dried and salted cod, which is rehydrated and then cooked with potatoes, tomatoes, olives, and olive oil. It's a delightful taste of the local seafood cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Imperia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, Porto Maurizio hosts a lively street market offering a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food stalls where you can savor regional delicacies like panissa (chickpea flour specialty), fried seafood, and farinata (chickpea pancake).
Oneglia's market is a great place to discover fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties. Don't miss the opportunity to taste traditional street foods like stuffed olives, vegetable fritters, and freshly prepared seafood snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Imperia, Italy, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. It is also common to exchange kisses on the cheek, especially among friends and family.
When dining in Imperia, it's respectful to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it's appreciated to take small portions and savor the meal, as Italian dining is often seen as a social and leisurely activity.
Italians generally have a smaller personal space bubble compared to some other cultures, so it's important to be mindful of this when interacting with locals in Imperia. It's common for people to stand closer during conversations and for gestures to be more expressive.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Imperia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Imperia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Imperia, Italy, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is customary to leave a small gratuity for exceptional service, typically rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros on the table.
In Imperia, Italy, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are becoming more popular, particularly in urban areas and with larger retailers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Imperia as the weather is mild and the city is filled with colorful blooms. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Summer is peak tourist season in Imperia with warm weather perfect for beach activities and water sports. The city comes alive with festivals and events, but it can be crowded with tourists.
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Imperia as the crowds thin out, the weather remains pleasant, and the surrounding hills are covered in a golden hue. It's a great time for food and wine festivals.
Winter in Imperia is quiet and peaceful, with mild and sometimes rainy weather. It's a good time for enjoying local cuisine, visiting museums, and taking leisurely strolls along the coast.
Imperia at Night
Hiking in Imperia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning regional park offering a variety of hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea.
A popular hiking destination providing a panoramic view of the coastline and surrounding mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging.
A scenic trail through olive groves and picturesque villages, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying the local landscape.
A forested area with a network of trails ideal for nature walks, showcasing the region's flora and fauna.
A coastal trail with stunning views of the sea, connecting two charming towns along the Ligurian Riviera.
Aiports
How to reach Imperia by plane.
The main airport serving Nice, France, and the surrounding region, located approximately 60 km from Imperia.
An international airport located about 120 km from Imperia, serving the city of Genoa and surrounding areas.
An international airport located around 180 km from Imperia, serving the city of Turin and its region.
Located about 60 km away in Nice, France, this airport connects to various international destinations.
Located approximately 200 km from Imperia, this is one of the main airports serving Milan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant demographic group in Imperia, comprising native Italians who have historical roots in the region.
Includes expatriates from various countries, particularly from Europe and beyond, who have settled in Imperia.
Many retirees from Northern Europe are drawn to Imperia for its mild climate and relaxed lifestyle.
Migrants who temporarily work in the tourism industry, particularly during the summer months.
Young individuals studying in local educational institutions, as well as those from nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Imperia, with local teams participating in various leagues and a strong community following.
Imperia is known for its scenic landscapes, making it a favored spot for both amateur and professional cycling.
Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are highly popular in Imperia.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Imperia, with clubs that compete at various levels within Italy.
Running events and marathons are common in Imperia, attracting both local and international participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Imperia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Imperia's culinary scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based versions of local dishes like vegan pesto pasta, vegetable focaccia, and a variety of fresh salads. Ristorante La Pizza serves delectable vegetarian pizzas and has vegan cheese options.
For those with gluten restrictions, Imperia provides several options such as gluten-free pasta dishes at Ristorante San Lorenzo and gluten-free focaccia at Forno Cappello, ensuring that dietary needs are well catered to.