Weekend in Diano Marina

The main parish church in the old town - a 17th-century Ligurian Baroque building with a striking white facade. Inside: marble altars, an 18th-century wooden crucifix and a small c

Tip: Visit just before evening mass (6pm) to hear the organ. The side door leads to a tiny courtyard with a view over the rooftops to the sea - no sign, just a wooden door slightly ajar.

A flat, well-maintained coastal cycle path that follows the old railway line. Just under 6km of tarmac from Diano to Cervo, with sea views, tunnels and a couple of small cafes alon

Tip: Rent a bike for €10-15 half-day at 'Bici&Co' on Via Aurelia - they'll give you a route map. Best at sunset when the light hits the cliffs north of town.

A small archaeology museum housed in a former convent. Displays focus on the local Ligurian and Roman history of Diano, with pottery, amphorae and a reconstructed Roman shipwreck from the 1st century

Tip: Free entry only for the permanent collection on certain days (check current schedule). Ask at the ticket desk for the key to the adjacent cloister garden - usually open on request.

A paved footpath running from the marina to the sandy cove of Prino. Passes small fishing boats, a watchtower ruin and benches overlooking the bay. The best free viewpoint of Diano Marina's crescent h

Tip: Combine with a takeaway focaccia from 'Panificio Ligure' in town. There's a shaded picnic table under the pine trees at the far end - popular with locals, rarely full.

The main seafront promenade runs the length of Diano Marina's free public beach - a wide sweep of grey sand with calm, clean water. Benches, palm trees and a cycle path. Perfect for a morning stroll o

Tip: Arrive by 9am in July-August to secure a spot near the water; the beach fills fast. Head to the eastern end (near the old town ramp) for quieter patches.