Growing Foreign Demand in Liguria: the Italian Riviera Property Market

The Italian Riviera has once again taken center stage on national television. In the latest report by PresaDiretta (Rai 3), the focus was placed on how the Ligurian coast is increasingly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for international buyers.

The episode, now available on RaiPlay, featured an interview with Matteo Scandolera, Managing Partner of LiguriaHomes Casamare, who shared his perspective on the rising demand from foreign clients and the growing appeal of the Riviera.

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube (in Italian only)

More than tax benefits: Why the Italian Riviera stands out

One of the key aspects highlighted in the program is the €200,000 flat tax regime for new residents, which has become an important incentive for high-net-worth individuals relocating to Italy. Yet, the reasons why the Italian Riviera is experiencing such strong demand go far beyond taxation. The region offers a mild climate throughout the year, breathtaking landscapes that combine sea and hills, a unique cultural and gastronomic heritage, and the strategic advantage of being located just minutes from the French Riviera and major European hubs.

For many international buyers, Liguria is no longer just a holiday retreat. It has become a place to establish a permanent residence, to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle, and to take advantage of the opportunities the region offers both in terms of quality of life and long-term investment.

Properties for every lifestyle

The Riviera is often associated with exclusive villas overlooking the sea, and these remain highly sought-after. But the real estate opportunities available here are far more diverse. Modern or historic apartments in vibrant coastal towns, as well as charming village houses that preserve the authentic Italian spirit, also attract a wide range of buyers. This variety ensures that Liguria appeals not only to ultra-high-net-worth individuals but also to families, professionals, and retirees who are looking for a second home or a new beginning in Italy.

A trusted voice on national television

Being chosen by Rai 3, Italy’s national broadcaster, to comment on this phenomenon was an honor and a recognition of the professional role that LiguriaHomes Casamare has played for more than 30 years. Our agency has built its reputation as a point of reference for the Riviera thanks to its extensive presence across the territory, with offices in Sanremo, Ospedaletti, Bordighera, Imperia, Santo Stefano al Mare and, soon, a new office in Alassio. Equally important is our multilingual team, able to support clients in English, French, German, Russian, Spanish and more, ensuring that every stage of the buying process is clear and seamless for international clients. This combination of local expertise, international outlook, and decades of experience has positioned LiguriaHomes Casamare as the leading real estate group on the Riviera.

LiguriaHomes Casamare: your partner for buying in the Riviera

In partnership with Hamptons International, we provide tailored advice, multilingual assistance, and a curated selection of properties across the Italian Riviera. Our mission is to help clients from all over the world find not only their ideal property but also a lifestyle that reflects the best of what Italy has to offer.

🔗 Explore our properties in the Italian Riviera

📞 +39 0184 574262
📩 info@liguriahomes.com

Pourquoi la Ligurie séduit-elle autant ?

Qualité de vie, diversité naturelle, culture, gastronomie, ports et traditions : une région italienne à découvrir…

Située entre la mer Méditerranée et les Alpes, à seulement quelques kilomètres de la Côte d’Azur, la Ligurie attire chaque année de plus en plus de Français à la recherche d’un cadre de vie exceptionnel, que ce soit pour une résidence secondaire ou pour un changement de vie complet.

Une qualité de vie rare en Europe

Vivre en Ligurie, c’est profiter d’un climat doux toute l’année, d’un environnement sûr et d’un rythme de vie apaisé. Les petites villes côtières comme San Remo, Bordighera ou Alassio offrent un quotidien paisible, entre promenades au bord de mer et moments de convivialité à l’italienne.

Credits: Grand Hotel Alassio

Entre mer turquoise, collines verdoyantes et montagnes

La grande richesse de la Ligurie réside dans sa diversité naturelle. Plages de sable, criques secrètes, oliveraies en terrasse, collines fleuries et sommets alpins accessibles en moins d’une heure : ici, chaque week-end est une nouvelle aventure surtout pour les amateurs de sports en plain aire.

Une terre d’art, d’histoire et de villages authentiques

Credits: Turismo.it

La Ligurie conserve un patrimoine culturel vivant. Des villages médiévaux perchés comme Apricale, Dolceacqua ou Triora aux villas Belle Époque de San Remo, chaque lieu respire l’élégance et l’histoire. Marchés, festivals et artisanat local viennent enrichir une vie culturelle authentique.

Une gastronomie simple, saine et savoureuse

La cuisine ligure est réputée pour sa fraîcheur et son authenticité : pesto alla genovese, focaccia, poissons grillés, vins locaux comme le Pigato ou le Rossese, et bien sûr l’huile d’olive de Taggia, produit emblématique de la région.

Ports, nautisme et économie bleue

La mer n’est pas seulement un décor en Ligurie. Elle est aussi un moteur économique grâce aux ports de plaisance modernes (San Remo, Imperia, Alassio…), à la pêche locale et aux métiers liés au nautisme, piliers d’une économie maritime durable. Un grand investissement récent a était fait pour Cala del Forte, une marina attrayante, flambant neuve et ultramoderne située à Vintimille.

Une agriculture d’excellence entre mer et montagne

Enfin, l’agriculture ligure s’inscrit dans une logique de respect de l’environnement et de qualité : cultures en terrasse, petites exploitations familiales, produits biologiques, herbes aromatiques, fleurs… tout cela contribue à faire de la Ligurie une terre de goûts et de traditions.

Et si vous faisiez de la Ligurie votre nouveau chez-vous ?

Chez LiguriaHomes Casamare, nous accompagnons depuis plus de 30 ans une clientèle internationale exigeante à la recherche de biens d’exception.

« Un Paese di Sapori » : deux soirées de saveurs, de tradition et d’ambiance à Bordighera

Bordighera s’apprête à accueillir l’un des événements les plus appréciés de l’été : « Un Paese di Sapori », la manifestation œnogastronomique qui, chaque année, transforme le centre historique de Bordighera Alta en un véritable parcours de dégustation en plein air.

L’événement

L’édition 2025 de « Un Paese di Sapori » se tiendra donc le jeudi 26 et vendredi 27 juin, de 19 h à minuit, dans les ruelles pittoresques de Bordighera Alta. Au programme : des stands gastronomiques, de la musique live et des DJ sets dans une ambiance festive et conviviale.

Organisée par la Confcommercio en collaboration avec la mairie de Bordighera, la manifestation réunira plus de 20 établissements, dont des restaurants, des bars et des producteurs locaux. Les visiteurs pourront y déguster des spécialités traditionnelles ligures, tant de la mer que de l’arrière-pays, le tout à des prix accessibles.

Une atmosphère unique vous attend !

Se promener au cœur du village médiéval de Bordighera Alta, entre les vieilles pierres, les lanternes suspendues et la musique entraînante, tout en dégustant des plats typiques, est une expérience inoubliable. L’événement offre une occasion unique de découvrir l’authenticité et le charme de cette perle de la Riviera.

Une belle opportunité de découvrir Bordighera !

« Un Paese di Sapori » est bien plus qu’un événement culinaire : c’est aussi l’occasion d’explorer la ville, son histoire, son architecture et son art de vivre. Ce territoire séduit autant les visiteurs de passage que ceux qui rêvent d’y vivre.

Venez nous rencontrer

Si vous passez par Bordighera lors de l’événement « Un Paese di Sapori », n’hésitez pas à nous rendre visite dans notre agence, idéalement située en centre-ville. Nous serons ravis de vous accueillir et de vous présenter nos meilleures propriétés à vendre dans la région.

Que vous cherchiez une résidence secondaire avec vue sur la mer, une maison de vacances ou un investissement immobilier sur la Riviera italienne, notre équipe multilingue est à votre disposition.

Ineja 2025: Imperia celebrates San Giovanni with food, culture and fireworks by the sea

From June 20th to 29th, 2025, the city of Imperia comes alive for one of its most iconic and beloved events: Ineja, the traditional feast of San Giovanni Battista, patron saint of the city. This year will be the 45th edition, and this celebration blends religious tradition, Ligurian cuisine, music, markets, and spectacular shows in the heart of Oneglia, by the sea.

A celebration on the waterfront

Organised by the “Comitato San Giovanni e Tradizioni Onegliesi” with support from the City of Imperia and local business associations, the festival takes place along the scenic Calata G.B. Cuneo and Banchina Aicardi.
The official opening on Friday, June 20th at 6:30 PM, will feature a traditional flag-throwing performance by the “Sbandieratori of Ventimiglia”, setting the stage for ten vibrant days of events.

Authentic flavours of Liguria

A true highlight of the festival is Ineja Food, a celebration of local culinary heritage. Every evening, volunteers serve traditional dishes such as: Brandacujun (creamy stockfish and potato dish); Stoccafisso all’Onegliese; Zemin di pesce (Ligurian fish soup); Fried anchovies, calamari, minestrone, and more.

Each night features a special “Dish of the Day”, offering a different taste of the region, paired with local wines and craft beers.

Music, markets and family fun

The festival offers a rich programme of live music, theatre, cultural exhibitions, and children’s entertainment.
The famous MercantIneja market returns to Calata Cuneo with a fresh look, filled with artisanal stalls, local products, and handmade goods.
There will also be special events around the city, including open-air cinema, themed menus at local restaurants, and cocktail creations inspired by San Giovanni.

Faith and fireworks

On Tuesday, June 24th, the city honours its patron saint with religious services and the traditional procession through the streets of Oneglia.
In the evening, don’t miss the grand fireworks display over the sea, a dazzling spectacle that lights up the port and draws thousands of spectators.

View the full programme

For detailed schedules, event listings, and culinary evenings, consult the official programme here: View the full Ineja 2025 programme.

Discover Imperia

If you’re visiting Imperia during Ineja 2025 and are captivated by its beauty and charm, we invite you to explore the best real estate opportunities in the area.
Our team in our Imperia Office will be happy to welcome you and assist you in finding your ideal home in Imperia or on the Italian Riviera.

📍 Browse our properties for sale in Imperia

West Liguria confirms its excellence with Blue Flags 2025

Once again, Liguria proves itself a top coastal destination: for the 16th consecutive year, it leads Italy with the highest number of Blue Flag beaches. In the 2025 edition of the prestigious international recognition awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Liguria secured 33 Blue Flag municipalities, reaffirming its position as the region with the cleanest and most environmentally sustainable coastline in the country.

Balzi Rossi (Ventimiglia) – Credits: Corriere della Sera

What is the Blue Flag?

The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized award given to coastal locations that meet strict environmental, quality, and safety criteria. The evaluation process takes into account the cleanliness of the water, waste management, sustainable tourism initiatives, accessible beaches, and the presence of lifeguards and safety measures. Only those municipalities that demonstrate consistent dedication to environmental protection and public services are honored with this recognition.

West Liguria shines again

In this year’s list, West Liguria once again plays a starring role. Towns like San Remo, Ospedaletti, Bordighera, Riva Ligure, Santo Stefano al Mare, Imperia, San Lorenzo al Mare, and Cipressa proudly renew their Blue Flag status, confirming their reputation for excellence along the Italian Riviera. These are not only seaside destinations of remarkable beauty but also places offering a high quality of life, where traditional Ligurian charm meets modern services and a vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene.

In addition to the main towns of West Liguria, several coastal destinations in the province of Savona and beyond have been reconfirmed or newly added. Albenga, Loano, Andora, Finale Ligure, Spotorno, Laigueglia, Noli, and Varazze are just a few of the towns helping to form a coastline that is both breathtaking and environmentally respected.

Blue Flag ports in West Liguria

And the excellence extends beyond the shoreline. Some of the most important marinas of West Liguria have also been awarded the Blue Flag in 2025. Among them is PortoSole in Sanremo, one of the largest and most prestigious tourist ports in the Mediterranean, known for its elegance and first-class facilities. Joining it are the Marina degli Aregai in Santo Stefano al Mare, the Marina di San Lorenzo, the Tourist Port of Bordighera, and the Marina di Alassio. All of these ports have been recognized for their environmental management, safety measures, and high-quality services. These marinas not only enhance the region’s appeal for yacht owners and sea lovers but also contribute to the broader commitment to responsible coastal development.

Italy’s Blue Flag 2025 rankings by region

Liguria’s leadership is even more significant when placed in the national context. Italy saw a record 236 municipalities and 81 marinas receiving the Blue Flag in 2025. Liguria remains firmly in first place with 33 recognitions, ahead of Puglia (27), Calabria (23), Campania and Marche (both with 20), and Tuscany (19). This result reflects a long-term vision, where environmental policy is fully integrated into regional identity, creating value for both residents and investors.

Why it matters for property buyers

For international and Italian buyers looking to invest in real estate along the Italian Riviera, the Blue Flag designation is more than just a label, it’s a guarantee of environmental quality, safety, and long-term value. Owning a property in a Blue Flag municipality means enjoying pristine surroundings, clean waters, and sustainable living.

At LiguriaHomes Casamare, we proudly represent some of the finest properties in these award-winning areas, offering our clients access to a lifestyle that is truly second to none.

Explore life on Liguria’s most prized coastline

Whether you’re dreaming of a sea view apartment in Sanremo, a romantic villa in Bordighera, or a traditional home in the charming village of Ospedaletti, our team is here to help you find the perfect property in the heart of Italy’s most awarded coastline.

👉 Browse our properties and discover why life in West Liguria is truly Blue Flag living at its best.

The impact of Trump’s tariffs on the Italian Real Estate Market: opportunities for the Italian Riviera

In recent months, the reintroduction of tariff policies by the Trump administration has generated global economic ripples, reshaping international trade dynamics. While some protectionist measures seem purely disruptive, they can, in fact, create new opportunities for the Italian real estate market, particularly in the sought-after Italian Riviera.

At LiguriaHomes Casamare, we have been closely monitoring not only the macroeconomic landscape but also the tangible local trends. Notably, U.S. buyer interest in our region has significantly increased over the past year, and our website has seen a continuous growth in visits from American residents actively searching for homes in Liguria.

Monetary Policy, Interest Rates, and Mortgage Accessibility

Global economic tensions, especially those stemming from tariff wars, often push central banks like the European Central Bank (ECB) toward more accommodative monetary policies to sustain growth. This can translate into lower interest rates, making mortgages more accessible and stimulating housing demand.

For buyers from abroad – particularly from the US – this environment creates an attractive window to invest in Italian properties. Lower financing costs increase purchasing power, making luxury coastal properties in Liguria even more appealing both as vacation homes and as long-term investments.

Real Estate as a Safe-Haven Investment

In times of international uncertainty, high-end real estate consistently proves itself as a safe-haven asset. Investors – both domestic and foreign – are increasingly turning to the Italian housing market, particularly its prime coastal areas, to diversify their portfolios.

Properties in Liguria offer not only enduring value but also a degree of insulation from global trade volatility. For international buyers, including Americans, this makes the Italian Riviera an exceptionally attractive alternative to more volatile investment vehicles.

Tourism, Lifestyle, and the Second-Home Market

One of the often-overlooked impacts of global trade tensions is their influence on travel preferences. Italy’s reputation as a safe, culturally rich, and idyllic destination becomes even more appealing during periods of international instability.

We have observed a tangible increase in high-net-worth American travelers who, after visiting Liguria, transition from tourists to property buyers. The region’s charm – from San Remo’s glamour to Bordighera’s elegance and Alassio’s allure – offers the perfect combination of lifestyle, investment potential, and Mediterranean beauty, driving the growth of the second-home market.

Moreover, one of Liguria’s greatest advantages is its exceptional international connectivity. Thanks to the Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport, located just across the French border, buyers and investors from the US, the UK, and beyond can easily reach the Italian Riviera with frequent direct flights from major global cities. Additionally, Genoa Airport has been investing significantly to expand its international routes, opening even more convenient access points for foreign visitors and property buyers. This ease of travel enhances the appeal of owning a home in Liguria, transforming it into a truly accessible Mediterranean destination.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities for American Buyers

Economic history teaches us that markets adapt, often emerging stronger from periods of international tension. For the Italian Riviera, the combination of a unique real estate heritage, favorable financing conditions, and increasing global appeal positions the region as a prime beneficiary of the current international rebalancing.

At LiguriaHomes Casamare, we are already witnessing a surge in inquiries and transactions from American buyers. In 2024, US client interest has grown notably, and our analytics show a steady rise in website visits from American residents searching for homes in Liguria. This signals a promising trend: as the Italian Riviera becomes even more attractive on the global stage, we stand ready to assist international buyers in discovering their perfect property here on the Mediterranean coast.

If you are considering a real estate investment in Italy, now is an excellent time to explore the extraordinary opportunities Liguria has to offer.

👉 www.liguriahomes.com