Alassio is a seaside town on the Italian Riviera, in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. It is a place for a relaxed day or a longer stay by the sea, with a character that many visitors describe as elegant without being formal.
The beach
The town's best-known feature is its long stretch of golden sand, which runs for about three kilometres along the coast. Walking its length is an easy way to spend a morning or an evening, and the setting suits anyone who wants to combine time in the water with time simply sitting and looking out over the Ligurian Sea.
The Muretto
Alassio is also known for the Muretto di Alassio, a wall along the seafront covered in signatures and messages left by visitors, many of them well-known names. It is one of the town's most photographed spots and a good place to stop on a stroll along the promenade.
The old town
Behind the seafront lies the historic centre, a network of streets lined with boutiques and cafes. It is a pleasant area to wander without a fixed plan, stopping for a coffee or a browse in the shops. The mix of the lively old quarter and the quiet beach gives Alassio its balance of relaxation and sophistication.
Planning a visit
- Allow time for both the beach and the old town, which sit close together.
- Go in the early morning or late afternoon if you prefer a quieter promenade.
- Combine the visit with other towns along the Riviera if you are travelling by coast.