Imperia: The City of Two Souls in the Heart of the Riviera dei Fiori

Articolo del May 3, 2026. Pubblicato in CITIES & NIGHT LIFE

Visiting Imperia means discovering a city unlike any other destination on the Riviera dei Fiori. Here, the sea takes center stage, but it's not the only attraction. Imperia was created in 1923 through the union of two historically independent towns, Porto Maurizio and Oneglia, which still retain distinct personalities, atmospheres, and identities. On one side lies the Parasio, the historic district climbing the hill overlooking the Mediterranean. On the other stands Oneglia, with its harbor, elegant squares, bustling markets, and long-standing connection to the olive oil trade. Between them stretch beaches, seaside promenades, and lovely restaurants where visitors can enjoy authentic Ligurian cuisine. Imperia is a city best experienced slowly, guided by the scent of the sea breeze and the ever-changing views where the blue of the Mediterranean meets the green of endless olive groves.

The Timeless Charm of the Parasio

The historic heart of Imperia is the Parasio, the ancient district of Porto Maurizio. Wandering through its narrow alleyways is like stepping into an authentic corner of Liguria, where arches, stairways, and quiet squares seem untouched by time. Pastel-colored houses line the winding streets that gradually open onto breathtaking sea views. Every corner invites visitors to slow down and admire the details: a slate stone doorway, a small shrine, or a flowered  terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Towering above the village stands the Basilica of San Maurizio, the second largest church in Liguria. Its monumental profile is visible from every corner of the town and i Imperia’s most recognizable landmarks. Just a short walk away, the Logge di Santa Chiara offer one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the Riviera dei Fiori. From here, the panorama stretches across the open sea, the beaches, and the surrounding hills.

Oneglia: The Maritime Soul of the City

Crossing the Impero River, visitors arrive in Oneglia, where the atmosphere changes completely. Here, the city reveals its more dynamic and commercial character, shaped over centuries by maritime trade and olive oil production. The streets of the center are perfect for a leisurely stroll among traditional shops, cafés, and artisan stores that reflect everyday life in Imperia. The harbor remains one of the liveliest areas of the city, especially in the evening when restaurants fill with guests and fishing boats cast shimmering reflections on the water.

The Capital of the Taggiasca Olive

Any story about Imperia inevitably leads to olive oil. The hills surrounding the city are covered with thousands of olive trees that produce one of Liguria’s most renowned gastronomic treasures: extra virgin olive oil made from the famous Taggiasca olive. This centuries-old tradition is celebrated at the Olive Museum, where visitors can learn the history of olive trees and how olive cultivation has shaped the history, culture, and economy of the region. Yet olive oil is best discovered at the table, where it plays a central role in nearly every traditional recipe, from seafood dishes to inland specialties.

Authentic Flavors of the Riviera dei Fiori

The cuisine of Imperia perfectly reflects the meeting of sea and countryside. Restaurants and traditional trattorias serve specialties such as Ligurian-style rabbit, brandacujun, stockfish prepared according to local recipes, and of course pesto made following traditional methods. Alongside these iconic dishes, visitors can enjoy simple but exceptional products including Taggiasca olives, Ligurian focaccia, farinata and local white wines such as Pigato and Vermentino.

Sea, Beaches, and Waterfront Walks

Beyond its history and culture, Imperia also boasts some of the best beaches on the Riviera dei Fiori. The areas of Borgo Marina and Borgo Prino are ideal for a relaxing day at the seaside and if you want to take a nice walk you should try the "Passeggiata degli Innnamorati", overlooking the Mediterranean.  At sunset, the warm Mediterranean light reflects on colorful façades and harbor boats, creating the atmosphere that makes this stretch of coastline so special.

An Ideal Base for Exploring Western Liguria

Thanks to its central location, Imperia is also an excellent starting point for discovering some of the most beautiful villages of inland Liguria. Within a short drive, visitors can reach Dolcedo, Valloria, Cervo, and many other villages where traditions, landscapes, and a slower pace of life remain unchanged. Those who choose Imperia as their destination discover an authentic city where the sea meets the culture of olive oil and every walk becomes an opportunity to experience a different side of the Riviera dei Fiori.

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