Most people have heard of the infamous area called the French Riviera, but did you know there is also another coastal area of Europe known as the Italian Riviera that is just as beautiful? If not, here is some information on the Italian Riviera as well as the top Italian Riviera Must Do's if you decide to travel there. The Italian Riviera is an Italian coastal area in Liguria, close to France's border. It's a breathtakingly beautiful area because of its fine, soft sandy beaches, turquoise waters and near perfect climate.

Italian Riviera Beaches

If there is one must see place in the Italian Riviera, it would have to be its gorgeous beaches. There are several along the area's coastline but one of the favorites would have to be the Riviera Dei Fiori. This particular beach stretches from Cervo to Ventimiglia and is near the border of France. There are many lush resorts here as well as nice hotels, and tons of entertainment spots to choose from. Another popular place to visit and see is the Riviera Delle Palme which is centered on the Ligurian coast. Here you'll find a more historic area and beach resort called Alassio with amazing beaches too. There are many forms of entertainment here including discos, bars, casinos and more.

Historic City of Genoa

Genoa is certainly not the largest city, or the most popular, but it is one of the most beautiful. It also shares rich history with its townspeople and visitors since this city's founding dates back before Roman times. It's the birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus, houses many amazing museums and galleries, showcases the oldest European lighthouse and even has a wonderful aquarium containing a diverse array of marine life. Take a walk through the streets of the city's infamous 'Old Town' area which is so well preserved you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. There's also the Via Balbi and Via Garibaldi areas where some of the greatest palaces and ancient Renaissance buildings still stand today in all their powerful glory. You can also depart off the coast of Genoa by boat and go on a whale and dolphin watching expedition into a 60,000 square mile of protected ocean area. You'll see many species of both whale and dolphin in their natural habitat which can make for a wondrous trip. Make sure you bring along zoom cameras or binoculars in the event you're not able to get as up close and personal as you'd like to these sometimes shy marine mammals.