TOP 10 HOTELS IN
ITALIAN RIVIERA
WELCOME TO THE ITALIAN RIVIERA, WHERE PASTEL VILLAGES MEET SUPERYACHTS, AND THE LIGURIAN SEA GLISTENS BENEATH DRAMATIC COASTAL CLIFFS.
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​Portofino is intimate, exclusive and effortlessly glamorous — a harbour framed by designer boutiques and iconic seafood restaurants. Just minutes away, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a slightly grander seaside elegance with Belle Époque villas and palm-lined promenades.
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This stretch of coastline is about long lunches, private beach clubs, boat days along hidden coves and golden-hour aperitivos overlooking the harbour. And when it comes to luxury hotels, the Riviera delivers heritage palaces, cliffside retreats and boutique stays full of Italian character.
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We’ve curated the best luxury hotels in Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure — prioritising five-star elegance first.
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Let’s step into Riviera season.
1. Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Harbourfront Glamour in the Heart of Portofino
Splendido Mare sits directly on Portofino’s iconic piazzetta, placing you front row to one of the most famous harbours in the world. This Belmond property blends Riviera heritage with refined, contemporary interiors inspired by classic Ligurian style.
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What makes it unique is its unbeatable waterfront position — you are quite literally staying in the centre of Portofino’s postcard view. Guests enjoy access to the facilities of sister property Splendido above the harbour, combining boutique intimacy with full five-star indulgence.
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This is Portofino glamour at its most authentic.
2. Eight Hotel Paraggi
Chic Boutique Luxury on a Private Beach
Eight Hotel Paraggi is one of the most exclusive boutique hotels on the Italian Riviera. Located directly on the tiny bay of Paraggi between Santa Margherita and Portofino, it offers rare private beach access in this tightly held stretch of coastline.
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The hotel’s sleek design contrasts beautifully with the turquoise waters just steps away. Its intimate scale and beachfront setting make it uniquely positioned for travellers wanting privacy and proximity to Portofino without staying in the harbour itself.
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Few hotels on the Riviera offer this level of seafront exclusivity.
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3. Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast
Cliffside Grandeur with Dual Infinity Pools
Perched dramatically above the Ligurian Sea, the Excelsior Palace is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Santa Margherita Ligure. Its panoramic terraces and two infinity pools overlooking the coastline make it a Riviera classic.
What sets it apart is its private beach club connected via lift down the cliffside — a rare feature that elevates the experience beyond most regional stays. With grand interiors and sweeping sea views, it delivers timeless Italian elegance on a larger scale.
This is the Riviera at its most cinematic.
4. Imperiale Palace Hotel
Belle Époque Seaside Elegance
Imperiale Palace Hotel is a historic Art Nouveau villa set within manicured gardens right on the waterfront in Santa Margherita Ligure. Originally a private aristocratic residence, it retains a sense of refined grandeur and heritage charm.
Its private beach platform and sea-facing terraces create a peaceful yet luxurious setting. The combination of historic architecture and true waterfront access makes it one of the most distinguished hotels in the area.
It feels like stepping into a more romantic era of the Riviera.
5. LHP Hotel Santa Margherita Palace & SPA
Modern Boutique Luxury in the Heart of Town
LHP Hotel Santa Margherita Palace offers a sleek, contemporary take on Riviera luxury just steps from the promenade. With a stylish spa, modern interiors and boutique scale, it delivers comfort with understated sophistication.
Its central location allows easy access to ferries, harbour walks and restaurants while still feeling tucked away. The intimate design and focus on wellness make it a unique alternative to the region’s grand historic villas.
It’s a polished and convenient base for exploring Portofino and beyond.
6. Hotel Palazzo Durazzo Suites
Refined Heritage in a Noble Residence
Hotel Palazzo Durazzo Suites is housed within a restored noble palace, offering an intimate and refined stay with architectural detail throughout. High ceilings, elegant finishes and curated interiors give it a sophisticated yet personal atmosphere.
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Its uniqueness lies in its residential feel — it feels more like staying in a private Italian palazzo than a conventional hotel. Guests enjoy proximity to the harbour while experiencing a quieter, more exclusive environment.
This is boutique Riviera living at its most elegant.
7. Grand Hotel Miramare
Classic Riviera Charm with Sea Views
Grand Hotel Miramare is one of Santa Margherita’s most recognised historic hotels. Surrounded by gardens and overlooking the sea, it blends traditional Italian decor with resort-style facilities.
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Its longevity and prime position along the promenade give it a strong sense of Riviera heritage.
8. Hotel Piccolo Portofino
Intimate Seafront Boutique Stay
Hotel Piccolo Portofino sits just outside the harbour in a restored villa overlooking the sea. Smaller in scale but rich in charm, it offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling piazzetta.
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Its terrace views and boutique feel make it ideal for couples seeking privacy.
10. Regina Elena Dependance
Relaxed Seaside Comfort
For travellers seeking a more relaxed stay, Regina Elena Dependance offers comfortable rooms near the sea with access to private beach facilities.
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Its location provides easy access to both Santa Margherita and Portofino by boat or scenic coastal walks.