Basilica of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia
An elegant and charming jewel on the Italian Riviera, offering a peaceful escape with stunning coastal views and authentic Ligurian charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Basilica of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant and charming jewel on the Italian Riviera, offering a peaceful escape with stunning coastal views and authentic Ligurian charm.
"Santa Margherita Ligure: an affordable, authentic, and beautiful gem on the Italian Riviera."
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Explore Santa Margherita Ligure on foot; it's the best way to soak in the atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure instead of Portofino for more affordable accommodation. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basilica of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia
Piazza Cap. Enrico Franzoni
A stunning Ligurian Baroque church with dazzling gold leaf, frescoes, and stained glass. A peaceful sanctuary.
Lungomare Promenade
Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, admire colorful buildings, and enjoy the harbor views. Perfect for a leisurely walk.
Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure
A historic 16th-century castle offering panoramic views of the town and coastline. Great for photos!
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Santa Margherita Ligure
Getting Around Santa Margherita Ligure
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Explore Santa Margherita Ligure on foot; it's the best way to soak in the atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure instead of Portofino for more affordable accommodation. :moneybag:
🌊 Free Beaches
Discover beautiful free beaches between Paraggi and Portofino for a relaxing day. :ocean:
🚲 Scenic E-Bike Rides
Rent e-bikes to explore the stunning coastline and nearby towns. :electric_plug:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Charm
Explore Santa Margherita Ligure on foot; it's the best way to soak in the atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure instead of Portofino for more affordable accommodation. :moneybag:
🌊 Free Beaches
Discover beautiful free beaches between Paraggi and Portofino for a relaxing day. :ocean:
🚲 Scenic E-Bike Rides
Rent e-bikes to explore the stunning coastline and nearby towns. :electric_plug:
📸 Castle Views
Visit the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure for breathtaking panoramic views. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Santa Margherita Ligure for its elegant charm, beautiful promenade, and authentic Italian Riviera atmosphere. It's often highlighted as a more peaceful and affordable alternative to nearby Portofino, making it an ideal base for exploring the Ligurian coast. Some find the town can get busy during peak season.
"The Basilica of Santa Margherita is dedicated to Saint Margaret of Antioch. Entrance to the basilica is free, and the church is open daily.
Construction of the current church began in 1658 on the foundations of an earlier, 13th-century chapel or church. The architectural design is attributed to Giovanni Battista Ghiso (or G. B. Ghisio), a significant figure in Ligurian Baroque. During construction and subsequent adaptations, the façade's orientation was changed. In the 18th century, a new bell tower (campanile) was added to the façade—designed by Carlo Orsolino (1750)—and alterations were made to the façade. The old stone bell tower was demolished in 1786.
Architecture
Style: Ligurian Baroque.
Plan: Latin cross church, three naves separated by columns, with a dome above the intersection of the cross's arms.
The façade: divided into three sections, with a double order of columns (binate columns), stucco decorations and sculptures, including depictions of the apostles Peter and Paul in niches on the sides. Reliefs are incorporated above the side façade or side elements, such as the scene "The Calling of St. Peter" in an octagonal field above the side portal.
Interior: three naves, a dome, and richly decorated decorative details. Relics of Saint Margaret are present: urns containing her remains and (from 1724) also the "precious blood" (sangue prezioso).
A place of worship and devotion for the parish, the basilica—that is, a church particularly distinguished by its title. Architecturally, Santa Margherita Ligure is an important landmark for visitors."
Tomek qwerty
"You’ll gasp audibly when entering Santa Margherita Ligure’s small yet lavish baroque church, not just at the truly dazzling array of gold leaf, frescoes, chandeliers and stained glass, but also at the sheer serendipity of it being here at all."
Professor A
"Beautiful on the inside. A feeling of peace and calm."
Michael Adams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Santa Margherita Ligure from Milan by train in about 2.5 to 3 hours. It's also a convenient base for day trips to Portofino and Cinque Terre.
Yes, Santa Margherita Ligure is very close to Portofino, just a 15-minute bus ride or a scenic 1-hour seaside hike away. +1
Santa Margherita Ligure is conveniently located about 2 hours from the south of France, making it an accessible destination.
The town is very walkable. For exploring nearby areas, local buses and ferries are available. E-bikes are also a popular option for scenic rides.
Yes, Santa Margherita Ligure is approximately 2 hours from Switzerland, making it a feasible destination for travelers from that region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entrance to the Basilica of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia is free. The church is open daily for visitors.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure, which offers stunning views.
Yes, you can find beautiful free beaches between Paraggi and Portofino, often nestled among rocks with clear blue water.
The basilica is open daily, allowing visitors to experience its beauty and peaceful atmosphere at their convenience.
The bus from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino typically costs around 5 euros.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The basilica is a prime example of Ligurian Baroque architecture, featuring a Latin cross plan, three naves, and a dome.
Inside, you'll find richly decorated naves, a dome, and significant relics of Saint Margaret, including her remains and the 'precious blood'.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined promenade, taking in the colorful buildings, harbor views, and the general ambiance of the Italian Riviera.
The Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure offers excellent panoramic views. The castle itself is a historic defense structure.
It's described as an elegant, charming, and peaceful seaside town with a relaxed vibe, offering an authentic Italian Riviera experience. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss out on authentic focaccia ligure, fresh pesto, and delicious seafood dishes. Burrata and pizza are also highly recommended. +2
Yes, there are charming restaurants, particularly those serving fish and traditional Ligurian cuisine, offering a romantic atmosphere near the seafront.
You can find excellent pizza, including burrata pizza, at restaurants like Grand Hotel Miramare, offering a delightful culinary experience.
The local cuisine features fresh seafood, traditional Ligurian dishes like pesto, and delicious focaccia. +1
While known for its elegance, exploring local trattorias and enjoying focaccia can offer more budget-friendly dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots along the promenade with colorful buildings, the harbor, and the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure for panoramic views. +1
While you can see glimpses, the best Portofino views are from Portofino itself, like from Castello Brown. However, the journey there offers scenic photo opportunities.
Photography here often focuses on the charming Italian Riviera aesthetic, colorful architecture, seaside landscapes, and delicious food. +1
The Ligurian Baroque style of the Basilica, with its ornate details, and the historic Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure are excellent subjects.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the town's charm and coastal scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure for a touch of history and great views that might capture kids' imaginations. For a fun excursion, a short ferry ride to Portofino or a boat trip along the coast can be an exciting adventure for the whole family. Packing beach essentials and snacks will enhance the experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize public transport like buses and ferries for day trips, which are more economical than private tours. Walking is free and the best way to explore the town's charm. Look for trattorias offering daily specials or 'menu fisso' for affordable and authentic meals.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Seek out restaurants with a romantic ambiance, particularly those serving fresh seafood and traditional Ligurian dishes near the waterfront. A visit to the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure offers stunning panoramic views, ideal for a memorable moment together. Consider a scenic boat trip or a hike to nearby Paraggi for a more intimate experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Basilica of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia: A Baroque Gem
The interior is a breathtaking spectacle of gold leaf, intricate frescoes, and dazzling chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of awe and serenity. Visitors are often struck by the sheer opulence and the serendipitous beauty of the church. It houses important relics of Saint Margaret, including her remains and the revered 'precious blood,' adding to its spiritual significance.
Architecturally, the basilica boasts a Latin cross plan with three naves separated by columns, topped by a dome at the intersection of the transepts. The facade is divided into three sections with double-order columns and adorned with stucco decorations and sculptures, including depictions of apostles. It stands as a testament to the region's rich artistic and religious heritage.
Exploring the Italian Riviera: Santa Margherita Ligure as a Base
Travelers often choose Santa Margherita Ligure for its authentic feel and affordability compared to Portofino, making it a smart choice for those seeking the Italian Riviera experience on a budget. The town itself offers a delightful promenade lined with palm trees, colorful buildings, and a picturesque harbor, perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking in the 'dolce vita'.
Beyond its immediate charm, Santa Margherita Ligure serves as a gateway to other Ligurian treasures. You can easily access nearby towns like Camogli and explore the stunning coastline via ferry or bus. The option to rent e-bikes also provides a fun and active way to discover the scenic beauty of the region.
Culinary Delights of Santa Margherita Ligure
Pesto, the iconic sauce of Liguria, is another must-try. Whether served with pasta or as a spread, its vibrant basil and pine nut flavor is unforgettable. For those who enjoy classic Italian fare, the town also offers excellent pizza and creamy burrata, perfect for a casual yet delicious meal.
Many restaurants, particularly those near the lungomare (seafront), offer a romantic ambiance, making Santa Margherita Ligure a wonderful destination for couples. While the town exudes elegance, exploring local trattorias can also provide more budget-friendly dining options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the delicious local cuisine.
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