Begin your journey exploring the charming Imperia Old Town where you can witness the best of Italian culture and delight in its unique architecture. Roam around the narrow lanes, visit cathedrals and museums and make sure to listen to some Italian music while enjoying a cup of coffee.
You can enjoy a classic walking route that passes through the villages that are just about 4 kilometers from each other - Parasio and Cervo. Parasio is a hilltop village with an extraordinary urban layout that is only reachable by foot. Cervo, which is just 2km/1.2mi west is a picture-perfect coastal town. A dreamy experience for history and arts enthusiasts.
Imperia is known for producing some of the best olive oils in Italy. Go to one of the farm-to-table olive oil houses to take a tour and indulge in an immersive tasting session. Learn about the farming practices and the differences in flavor profiles between the different grades of olive oil.
After breakfast, drive to the abandoned old town of Bussana Vecchia, located atop a hill overlooking stunning views of the shimmering sea. The town, destroyed by a devastating earthquake in the late 1800s, has since been reconstructed as an enchanting artist's village, housing the works of many artists from all over the world.
Continue your adventure by visiting the iconic Villa Grock, the former residence of the brilliant Swiss clown Grock. The villa's architecture is a unique blend of styles, and the decoration includes breathtaking murals, intricate stucco decorations, and elaborate frescoes. This villa is a must-visit for art and architecture lovers.
Piazza San Lorenzo is a square located right in the heart of the town. There you can explore the many cafes around the square, making it the perfect spot for a light lunch or lunch. It's surrounded by restaurants, shops and hosts cultural events especially during summertime.
On the final day of your journey, visit the beautiful 1950s' era Villa where Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco used to stay, featuring stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. There are garden tours available, and visitors can learn about the history and significance of the villa.
While most of the city center is easily accessible by walking, a car is recommended for the trips to Bussana Vecchia and Grace Kelly's villa. Car rental cost is estimated to be €80 for 2 days.
If you have extra days, consider exploring other beautiful towns that are close to the Imperia region. You could also enjoy a visit to Piazza Dante or take a dip in some of the beautiful beaches that are close to the villa.
The closest airport to Imperia is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), located in Nice, France which is 88km/54.7 mi from the city center. Other nearby airports with longer travel distances include Genoa (GOA) and Turin-Caselle (TRN). Keep in mind that transportation from the other airports could result in extra costs of time and money.