Loano is a charismatic seaside town on the Italian Riviera. Relax on the honey-coloured sand, stroll along the palm-lined promenade and swim in the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Centuries-old churches and brightly painted villas add to the postcard-perfect atmosphere.
Things to do in Loano
Laid-back cafes dot the beach and offer sun loungers and beach umbrella rentals. They’re known as “lidos” and serve simple yet delicious seafood dishes, plus refreshing sodas and cocktails. Top up your tan and take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
Just steps from the beach is Via Garibaldi, a lively thoroughfare lined with cafes, bars and restaurants. Tables spill onto the street and create an infectious holiday atmosphere. Sit down for a plate of fried squid and an Aperol spritz. Stock up on fresh produce, cured meats, homemade pesto and other treats at the weekly market.
Circle-shaped Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista watches over Piazza Italia. The 12-sided Renaissance church dates back to the 1600s and features a soaring domed roof. Inside, you can admire paintings by famed Ligurian artists like Luciano Borzone and Orazio De Ferrari. Convento di Monte Carmelo is another historic gem. Walk through the cloisters and gardens before visiting the shop to buy jams and honey made by the friars.
Beach hop along the coast and visit neighbouring seaside towns like Borghetto Santo Spirito and Pietra Ligure. The beautifully preserved medieval city of Albenga is also worth a visit. Explore the medieval centre and sunbathe on the silver-pebble beach. Just inland is Toirano, a picturesque village surrounded by forested hills. The village is a gateway to Grotte di Toirano, a network of karst caves dripping with stalactites.
Getting around Loano
Loano is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Liguria region, a 30-minute drive from Savona and one hour from Genoa. Trains run between Genoa and Loano in under 1.5 hours. Genova City Airport is a one-hour drive away.