Set on the sun-drenched Italian Riviera, Alassio is a laid-back resort known for its stunning beaches, sparkling sea views and ochre-coloured cliffside houses. Spend your time basking on the beach, wining and dining at waterfront restaurants and exploring the Savona countryside.

Things to do

Alassio boasts one of Italy's best town beaches, fringed by bronze sand and a breezy promenade. Soak up the sun, relax under a colourful umbrella and cool off in the crystalline Ligurian Sea. A one-hour stroll down the coast will get you to the nearby resort of Laigueglia, where you'll find seafood trattorias.

Alassio is anchored by an atmospheric Old Town filled with traditional ochre-coloured houses. Via XX Settembre is the town's main thoroughfare, lined with cafes, boutiques and delicatessens. Kids and adults alike will swoon over the ice-cream flavours at Gelateria a Cuvea.

Venture into the hillsides to discover traditional Ligurian villages. Cosio d'Arroscia is one of the prettiest settlements, filled with cobbled lanes and stone buildings. It's perched on a hilltop and commands sweeping views over the Arroscia Valley.

Enjoy a glass of grappa at an open-air cafe or sit down for a seafood meal at a candlelit restaurant. Osteria La Sosta is a local favourite, serving authentic Ligurian cuisine like stuffed "pansoti" pasta in creamy walnut sauce and rabbit prepared with capers, pine nuts and olives.

Getting around

Alassio is easy to get around on foot, especially along Via XX Settembre and the waterfront promenade. A rental car is best for exploring the Italian Riviera. Trains depart from Stazione Ferroviaria di Alassio.