Laigueglia between the Sea, History and Ligurian Cuisine

Laigueglia combines a golden sandy beach with clear waters and a historic centre whose sea-facing piazzette and caruggi showcase the typical architecture of a seafaring village. Those looking for a place to stay with coastal landscapes, historic buildings and paths leading into the Ligurian hills will find several distinct facets here within a compact area characteristic of the destination.

Sea, Piazzette and Fortification History

Laigueglia's history includes the Baluardo di Levante, built in 1564. The structure also served as a prison and a hospital for sailors held in quarantine. The Bastione di Levante is the only surviving tower of Laigueglia's 16th-century defensive structures.

The Chiesa di San Matteo also shapes Laigueglia's cultural identity. It is a religious building in the Ligurian Baroque style and houses works of art from the 17th century. The Cappella della Madonna delle Penne provides another link to seafaring: it was built by Catalan coral fishermen. On 5 August, a ceremony for sailors and fishermen is held at the Madonna delle Penne.

For 2026, the Fiera di San Matteo is also scheduled from Friday, 25 September, to Sunday, 27 September, as a fair of traditions and handicrafts featuring fireworks.

Paths Above the Coast

Laigueglia has a network of paths, routes and connections suitable for trekking and cycling. Route 23 of the Sentiero Liguria offers a particularly useful perspective: this scenic high-altitude trail runs above Laigueglia and leads between Albenga and Andora. Laigueglia's hill paths pass through fragrant Mediterranean maquis and offer views across the gulf.

A seafront promenade connects Laigueglia with Alassio.

Local Specialities from Laigueglia

Local culinary culture includes Balette di San Maté. They are prepared for the Fiera di San Matteo at the Pro Loco stand, which welcomes visitors. Balette di San Maté have been part of the festivities in Laigueglia for more than thirty years and are officially recognised in the DE.CO. register as part of Laigueglia's gastronomic heritage.

Another speciality is Marunsin, an almond biscuit from Laigueglia made with almonds, flour, sugar and orange blossom water.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Plans

When choosing a hotel in Laigueglia, you can focus your stay on the area's defining features: the golden sandy beach and clear waters, the historic centre with its piazzette and caruggi, the buildings reflecting Ligurian history, or the routes for trekking and cycling. A date around the Fiera di San Matteo or an interest in Balette di San Maté and Marunsin may also shape your plans.

More Destinations for Planning Your Trip

If you would like to include other places besides Laigueglia, you can find Celle Ligure, Pero, Stella, Spotorno, Pietra Ligure, Bardino Vecchio, Spinetta and Balestrino here.

For the overarching travel overview: Savona.