Ventimiglia is located in Liguria coast of the Mediterranean sea. This is a beautiful city, which attracts many visitors each year. Also, Ventimiglia is the first city people enter from France.

Ventimiglia, Italy is worth visiting for its charming Old Town, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks It also offers delicious local cuisine and a vibrant market scene. Plus, its proximity to the French border makes it a convenient stopover for travelers exploring both countries.

The city is divided into two parts by the Roia river, which is falling into the sea.

The western part of Ventimiglia is located on the hill and this is where the old town is located. The new town is based in the Eastern part of Ventimiglia. This is flat territory which consists mainly of modern constructions.

Things to do in Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a charming town located in Italy, close to the French border. Here are some things you can do while visiting:

• Visit the Old Town: Explore the historic center of Ventimiglia, which features narrow streets, ancient buildings, and beautiful squares.
• Go to the beach: Ventimiglia has several beaches, including the Calandre Beach and the Balzi Rossi Beach, where you can relax and sunbathe.
• Check out the markets: The town is famous for its markets, including the Friday market and the antique market held on the last Sunday of every month.
• Visit the Hanbury Botanical Gardens: These botanical gardens are located on a hill overlooking the sea, and they feature a vast collection of exotic plants and flowers.
• Explore the Forte dell’Annunziata: This historic fortress dates back to the 14th century and is now a museum that offers stunning views of the town and the sea.
• Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: This beautiful cathedral is located in the heart of the Old Town and features stunning frescoes and artwork.
• Take a day trip to Monaco: Ventimiglia is just a short train ride away from Monaco, where you can visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino and explore the luxurious city.

What places to visit in Ventimiglia?

One of the main attractions in Ventimiglia is the old town, where you can walk, shop and have dinner. The old town of Ventimiglia is a labyrinth of mid ages narrow streets. This is the area of mid ages constructions and architecture. High buildings and casino can be also found in the old town.

Certainly, among the most interesting places to see in Ventimiglia are: Cathedral of St. Maria at Via Garibaldi and the Church of Archangel Mikhail of Xth century.

The Eastern part of the city is a popular destination for youth entertainment. There are numerous night clubs, discos and restaurants here.

Plan a trip to Ventimiglia in summer

The first recommendations for the travelers visiting Ventimiglia – go to the beach! If you are visiting Ventimiglia in summer this is the first things to do upon arrival. 

The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. The sea is nearby and if you plan your trip in advance, you can book a hotel room near the sea and will save time walking from from the hotel to the beach. 

What to do in the Italian city near the sea?

Ventimiglia is a nice place for romantic date or meeting with friends – there are number of cozy cafes and restaurants along the seacoast line offering  amazing food.

You can visit Ventimiglia if you are staying in the South of France. It will take you approximately one hour to drive by car from Nice. Superb opportunity to visit two countries during one vacations!

Also, day trips are regularly arranged from France for the tourists willing to taste Italian life. Travel agencies offer individual and group trips from Nice to Ventimiglia. Tourists who prefer to arrange trips themselves can go to Ventimiglia from Nice by train. The ticket costs EUR 6.40 for adults.

Train tickets can be bought along the coastline in other cities in auto machines.

Why people come to Ventimiglia market?

One of the reasons why so many people from French coast and Italy are coming daily to Ventimiglia is to buy fresh and tasty food at the local market. City market is the main attraction for many tourists as well.

Fresh vegetables and fruits are always on the shelves of the market place here. Tasty delicatessens as well as authentic Italian food is for sale in various sections of the market. Fresh flowers and plants are a huge part of the market spot.

Open hours of Ventimiglia market

The local market is open daily from 7am till 1pm during weekdays.

On Fridays and Saturdays most of the market stalls are working.

For real shoppers’ best time to come to Ventimiglia market is Friday, when the center of town becomes a huge shopping area. They offer everything for sale here – clothes, food, shoes….

Most importantly, well known brand boutiques are open in the center of the city and you can combine rest at the beach with the shopping tour. 

Best Destinations to see near Ventimiglia in Italy

If you are visiting Ventimiglia, plan a trip to Hanbury gardens located near the city. These are 18 hectares gardens of old trees and exotic plants. Also, the views over the sea and mountains are marvelous and you definitely will enjoy this trip.

Another idea of what to see near Ventimiglia is visiting Archaeological museum of Girolamo Rossi in a Fortress. This is the exhibition of very interesting artifacts, which were found in this area.

Alternatively, you can plan a trip to San Remo or the capital of Liguria region – Genoa, which is about 3 hours by train.

Visiting Ventimiglia would be a great idea, if y would like to enjoy the real Italian cuisine, sea views and take a walk round the city.