Foreign demand rising sharply in 2026
Liguria is more attractive than ever in 2026, boosted by its proximity to France and Switzerland, a mild climate, and a spectacular coastline. 🌅
Improved rail and highway connections make short stays and remote work easier.
30% of buyers come from France, Switzerland, or Germany
French- and German-speaking buyers account for about 30% of foreign demand, especially on the Riviera di Ponente (near the border) and around the Gulf of Tigullio.
Their motivation: accessibility, quality of life, and a market more affordable than other European rivieras.
Recent data on purchase requests show the cumulative share of France–Germany–Switzerland varies by area, from about 35% (Genoa department) to 47% (Imperia), with peaks of 24% French buyers in Imperia and 19% German buyers in La Spezia. This confirms that Ponente appeals to cross-border markets, while Levante attracts a more diverse audience.
Prices range from €2,000 to €10,000/sq.m depending on the area
The spread is wide depending on sea view, distance from the beach, property condition, and local rarity. 📍
- Hinterland and small towns: from €1,500–2,500/sq.m.
- Sanremo and Bordighera center/seafront: €4,500–7,000/sq.m depending on the view.
- Portofino and ultra-prime Levante addresses: €8,000–10,000/sq.m (or more for exceptional properties).
- Cinque Terre (« balcony » villages): high premium, scarce supply, and strictly regulated renovations.
With equal budget, Ponente often offers more space than Levante.
For seasonal rentals, demand is strong from March to October, peaking in summer.
As a guide, based on the most viewed properties online, the averages are about:
- €3,165/sq.m for houses and apartments in Sanremo,
- €4,156/sq.m for houses and apartments in Bordighera,
- €3,073/sq.m for houses and apartments in Rapallo,
- €2,763/sq.m in Monterosso (Cinque Terre).
These averages combine town centers and suburbs and remain below ultra-prime seafront addresses.
The most sought-after areas in Liguria
Riviera di Ponente: Sanremo, Bordighera, Dolceacqua
- Sanremo: a lively city all year, beach, casino, concerts. Ideal for full-time living or combining remote work and weekends.
Good choice of apartments with terraces, townhouses, sea-view villas. ✨ - Bordighera: elegant and more intimate, beautiful seafront promenade, palm trees, and Belle Époque architecture.
Very popular for quiet second homes and unobstructed views. - Dolceacqua: medieval village in the Nervia valley, stone charm and softer prices.
Perfect for an authentic pied-à-terre 15–25 min from the sea.
Ponente assets: quick access from Nice, dry climate, many cycle paths.
The Riviera dei Fiori combines local markets, coastal trails, and marinas. 🚲
Riviera di Levante: Portofino, Rapallo, Sestri Levante
- Portofino: mythical address, preserved cove, yachting, and natural park.
Ultra-prime market, very low turnover, exceptional views. - Rapallo: more accessible, very well connected by train, full services.
Good compromise for mixed use and seasonal rentals. - Sestri Levante: the Baia del Silenzio appeals for its beaches and lively center.
High prices on bay sides, more affordable further back.
And the Cinque Terre? Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore offer unique panoramas.
Supply is scarce, renovation regulations are strict, and access sometimes on foot: choose with a practical eye on logistics. 🏞️
Quick fact Cinque Terre: in the La Spezia department, recent foreign demand is mainly split between Germany (19%) and Switzerland (15%), with France (10%) topping out the trio. This mix explains the pressure on small, well-located units.
The hinterland: more accessible Liguria
Mountain villages at €1,000/sq.m
As soon as you move away from the coast, prices can drop to around €1,000/sq.m in some villages.
Val Nervia, Val Argentina, or the Savona hinterland offer village houses, small farmhouses, and artists’ workshops.
- Quality of life: nature, silence, olive trees, and hiking trails. 🌿
- Practical: check winter access, shops, internet, and parking.
- Project: plan renovation and insulation budgets adapted to the terrain.
Typical properties: stone houses with sea-view terraces
« Rustici » and « case liguri » feature thick walls, slate roofs, vaults, and panoramic terraces.
Ideal for a renovation project respectful of heritage.
- Points to watch: landscape constraints, seismicity, hamlet co-ownerships.
- Renovations: anticipate surveys, permits, and local craftsmen (delays in high season).
- Value: careful renovation creates great user and resale value. 🛠️
2026-2030 forecasts in Liguria
Continued growth in second homes
The fundamentals remain strong: remote work, European mobility, appetite for sea-nature destinations.
Limited new-build supply supports well-located and well-renovated properties.
- Strong demand in Ponente for family budgets.
- Ultra-prime Levante driven by scarcity and the prestige effect.
- Hinterland seeing a revival, especially for hybrid life-work projects. 💡
Expected 3% annual growth on the Riviera dei Fiori
Market scenarios anticipate an average increase of about 3%/year in Ponente (Riviera dei Fiori) in the medium term, driven by coastal scarcity and access from Nice.
Differences remain depending on condition, view, and distance to sea.
- To buy smart: target renewing neighborhoods, top floors with elevator, and usable outdoor spaces.
- To rent confidently: check co-ownership rules, local taxes (IMU on second homes), and occupancy calendar.
- Fees to expect (approximate): notary and registration, possible agency, refurbishment costs. 📑
