One of the most fascinating resorts on the Ligurian Riviera, it is a place where history blends with natural beauty. Located on the border between Italy and France, this town offers a unique tourist experience, a perfect blend of history, nature and culture.
We invite you to discover together with a tour guide what makes Ventimiglia a must-see destination for those visiting Liguria.
Our guided tour begins with the discovery of the Roman remains of ancient Albintimilium, including the baths and the theater, with its semicircular structure clad in Turbie stone. We continue our journey into the past by reaching Upper Ventimiglia: the beating heart of this fascinating Ligurian town, where millennia-old history and tradition are intertwined with architecture, picturesque streets and local culture. Ventimiglia Alta lies on the Cavo hill to the right of the Roja plain that has lapped it since the 13th century, when the Genoese diverted the course of the river to bury the port and conquer the town. Its historic center is still surrounded by ancient medieval walls, which formed the city's fortification. Nice Gate e Bridge Gate which once marked the entrance to the city, are authentic works of medieval engineering and represent one of the most fascinating aspects of the historic center.
As you stroll along the cobblestone streets that climb to the top of the hill, we invite you to discover historic buildings dating back centuries, with stone portals, arched windows and wrought iron balconies, which recount the life of a city that over the centuries has been under the control of the Romans, the Lombards, the Saracens and the Genoese.
Definitely worth a visit is the Co-cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, a true Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece of the 13th century. Its simple but elegant facade features a large portal surmounted by a rose window, which lends an atmosphere of sacredness and solemnity.
The interior of the cathedral features a large vaulted ceiling and a series of frescoes and artworks decorating the walls, telling the religious history of the city and its community. Among the most significant works is the 15th century polyptych and the impressive baroque organ. Next to the cathedral is the 44-meter-high Bell Tower.
Absolutely must see the Baptistery of the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption which is located near the main entrance of the church. The baptistery dates back to at least the 5th century. Its location near the main entrance to the cathedral was typical of early churches, where the baptistery was placed near the entrance to emphasize the significance of initiation and purification associated with baptism. The structure is distinguished by its mosaic floor and for the’stone architecture as well as for the Romanesque elements that characterize it.
Another destination not to be missed is a visit to the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, a beautiful example of medieval architecture, with a simple facade and an interior rich in Baroque decoration. This place of worship, located in one of the quietest squares in the center, preserves inside a roman mile testifying that the Roman Via Julia Augusta passed right through here.
Another attraction of great interest is the Municipal Palace, which dates back to the 15th century and features a fascinating arcade and a series of frescoes decorating the interior, telling the stories of the city and its inhabitants over the centuries.
Above the old town, on the top of the hill, stands the Ventimiglia Castle, an imposing medieval structure that played a key role in the city's history. Although the fortress has been largely destroyed over the centuries, some ruins are still visible and worth a visit for the breathtaking views they offer of the city and the sea.
On Fridays Ventimiglia is enlivened by the weekly market, the largest in Liguria-a true Ligurian Samarcanda, an authentic experience.
The guided tour of Ventimiglia can be combined with:
Also discover our trekking: The Via Julia Augusta from Ventimiglia to Menton.
