Bordighera: The Complete Guide

Bordighera
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Al*from*Lig

Bordighera presents itself as the perfect destination, whether you’re seeking a brief weekend escape or an extended stay of two weeks or more. Each day in this vibrant city can offer new and invigorating experiences, guided by the right information. From Bordighera, you have convenient access to explore the medieval villages of the hinterland and even venture into the enchanting Côte d’Azur. Additionally, the bustling centre of Sanremo is just a short distance away. Bordighera offers the ideal balance of liveliness without overwhelming chaos, creating an atmosphere where forming friendships is effortless – whether on the beach, in the park, or at the charming cafes within the old town.

This city is an excellent playground for sports enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for training and physical well-being. You can embark on exciting excursions, immerse yourself in cultural visits, or simply unwind on the serene seashore. The presence of grand villas with expansive parks, breath-taking gardens, and majestic buildings evokes the legacy of Bordighera’s English colony from the late 19th century. Although times have changed, the mark of this heritage remains unspoiled. Bordighera distinguishes itself from other towns along the Ponente coastline, upholding an air of elegance and sophistication. Its refined appearance stands as a testament to its unique charm.

Beyond the captivating beach and sea, there’s a wealth of discoveries awaiting you. Concealed behind the promenade is a world of wonders to explore. You’ll encounter the medieval allure of Bordighera Alta, enclosed within its pentagonal walls, and the enchanting ambiance of Capo Sant’Ampelio – the southernmost point of Liguria – along with its quaint church. Hidden secrets are scattered throughout the Arziglia area and extend further up the slopes of Monte Nero, inviting you to uncover their mysteries.

Visiting Bordighera for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Bordighera on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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Best places to See in

Best Time to Visit Bordighera

Bordighera, located on the Italian Riviera in Liguria, is known for its Mediterranean climate, beautiful coastline, and lush gardens. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit Bordighera:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a wonderful time to visit Bordighera as the weather is mild, and the surrounding landscape bursts into bloom with colorful flowers. This season is ideal for exploring the town’s historic center, strolling along the seaside promenade, and visiting its famous botanical gardens, such as the Giardino Esotico Pallanca. Spring also offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby hills and enjoying picnics on the beach.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Bordighera, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to enjoy the town’s beautiful beaches, including the sandy shores of Bagni Kursaal and Bagni Lido. Summer also brings a variety of cultural events and festivals to Bordighera, such as the Music Festival and the Artisan Market, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
  3. Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Bordighera, as the weather remains warm, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season is ideal for exploring the town’s art galleries, museums, and historic landmarks, such as the Church of Sant’Ampelio and the Villa Garnier. Fall also offers opportunities for food and wine tasting, as well as olive oil tours, in the surrounding countryside.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter in Bordighera is mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). While the weather may be cooler, winter still offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, as well as scenic drives along the coast. Winter is also a great time to explore the town’s culinary scene, with cozy restaurants serving up delicious Italian comfort food.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Bordighera depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you’re seeking a beach vacation in the summer or a cultural experience in the shoulder seasons, Bordighera has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.

Average Temperatures in Bordighera

  • January 13°C 10
  • February 14°C 10
  • March 15°C 12
  • April 17°C 12
  • May 21°C 12
  • June 26°C 11
  • July 29°C 8
  • August 28°C 7
  • September 25°C 9
  • October 22°C 14
  • November 17°C 25
  • December 13°C 12

How to get to Bordighera

Visiting Bordighera by Plane

The nearest airport to Bordighera is Nice Airport, which is approximately 40 minutes away by car. City taxis and taxi services are recommended for transportation from Nice Airport to Bordighera.

Visiting Bordighera by Car

Bordighera is easily accessible by car via the A10 Genoa-Ventimiglia motorway, followed by a scenic road from the Bordighera tollbooth to the city center. You can also reach Bordighera by train, with connections from Milan, Genoa, and France, although some trains may require a change in Ventimiglia. Taxis are available outside the station in Ventimiglia for the onward journey to Bordighera.

Visiting Bordighera by Train

Visiting Bordighera by train is a convenient option. There are trains almost hourly to and from Genoa, with regional trains taking approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, and high-speed trains taking around 2 hours. Additionally, there are two to three trains per hour connecting Bordighera with San Remo, which is a quick 13-minute journey. This efficient train service makes it easy to travel to and from Bordighera by rail.

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