If you’re spending some time in the French Riviera, why not take a quick break from all the croissants for a family day trip to Ventimiglia, Italy. Just a short train ride from the French Riviera, Ventimiglia, Italy is the perfect way to add a little Italian flair to your holiday. Known for its Friday market, beautiful beaches and old-world charm, Ventimiglia offers a laid back experience right across the border from France and is a great stop with kids.
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How to Get to Ventimiglia from France
Getting to Ventimiglia with kids is incredibly easy, especially if you’re staying in Nice, Menton, or Monaco – the hot spots in the French Riviera. Frequent regional trains run along the coast, with the journey from Nice taking about 50 minutes and from Menton just 15 minutes. Book tickets ahead of time on the SCNF app or grab them from a kiosk on arrival at the train station. The Ventimiglia train station is right in the heart of the city and is a short walk from the main stops.
Pro Tip: If there are seats available, be sure to sit on the coast side (right side to Ventimiglia and left side from Ventimiglia) of the train so you are able to see the stunning views of the Mediterranean on your ride.
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What to do on a Family Day Trip to Ventimiglia
1. Explore the Famous Ventimiglia Friday Market
One of the biggest draws for visitors to Ventimiglia is the Friday Market – known as the largest market in Italy. Beginning around 7 a.m. you’ll find vendors set up along the seafront promenade. Here, you’ll find everything from leather bags, shoes and clothing to fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. It’s the perfect place to stock up on Italian goods for less or grab some food for an afternoon picnic at the beach. The kids will love looking at all the colorful vendors and even if you aren’t a huge shopper, you’ll still enjoy wandering the market and experiencing it the way the locals do.
If you can’t make it to Ventimiglia on a Friday, you can still visit the Ventimiglia Covered Market which is open Monday-Saturday in the heart of town.
Pro Tip: Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and snag the best deals.
2. Wander Through Ventimiglia’s Old Town (Centro Storico)
After you’ve had your fill of the market, head uphill to explore Ventimiglia’s medieval old town, known as the Centro Storico. Here you’ll find endless alleyways, charming piazzas and many historic buildings such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. This area is very peaceful compared to the bustling market area. The kids will love running through the cobblestone streets and finding all the unique buildings.
3. Relax at the Beach
Ventimiglia has several beaches including Spiaggia dei Balzi Rossi (Beach of the Red Jumps) and Spiaggia delle Calandre. The Spiaggia dei Balzi Rossi is known for its unique location surrounded by red cliffs. Bring a towel along to spend the afternoon at a public beach taking in the turquoise waters and views of the surrounding hills. The perfect end-of-day stop to let the kids just play. If you really love them, you’ll pick up some cannolis to have while you enjoy the views.
4. Fill Up on Italian Coffee
Yes, this is getting its own heading because after many days in France, the Italian coffee scene was out of this world (plus let’s not forget, if you’re traveling with kids we know you’ll be in need of lots of coffee). Visit a local cafe for a true Italian cappuccino or espresso. We loved Caffè Vergnano 1882 where we ordered the Togo Cafeè from the Gli Speciali menu and it was divine. The kids (not surprisingly) loved the donuts because obviously a sprinkle donut is life.
5. Enjoy Authentic Italian Cuisine
What kid will not be over the moon about a day filled with pasta and cannolis. Stop by a seaside restaurant or family-run trattoria for fresh pasta, seafood and wood-fired pizzas. Do not, I repeat, do not skip the cannolis for dessert. While you’re at it, maybe grab some extra cannolis for later.
Favorite Restaurants in Ventimiglia
Take a Tour to Ventimiglia
If you don’t want to take the train or prefer to see Ventimiglia, Italy with a guide, consider booking a tour from the French Riviera with a pickup and drop-off directly from your hotel or holiday rental in Nice. A private tour will allow you to see multiple stops along the French and Italian Rivera all in one day!
đźš— TAKE A TOUR: Take a tour of some of the best Italian and French Rivera stops all in one day on this private tour – perfect for large families! Reserve your spot here!
How Long to Visit Ventimiglia
This of course depends on how long you have to spend in the French Riviera. Ventimiglia could be a trip for only a few hours or a whole day. We opted to spend a half-day in Ventimiglia but could have spent longer and enjoyed a beach afternoon to make it a full-day trip. If you are limited on your time in the French Riviera, I would suggest spending the morning in Ventimiglia and combining it with another city like Menton in the afternoon as we did.
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Is Ventimiglia Stroller Friendly?
Overall, I would say yes, Ventimiglia is stroller friendly. As with most places in France, you will find certain areas that are a bit harder to navigate with the stroller. You may have to carry it up stairs here and there and there are definitely some narrow sidewalks that can be a bit challenging. It’s all still doable though – the adventure of traveling with kids.
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Why Ventimiglia is Worth the Trip
While Ventimiglia doesn’t have as many things to do as some other day trips in the French Riviera, it makes up for it in true Italian charm. With its short train ride from France, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for the whole family. Our kids loved getting a taste (literally) of the Italian Riviera.
Tips for Visiting Ventimiglia, Italy
- Currency: Italy uses the Euro (just like France).
- Language: Italian is the main language but many vendors and locals also speak French and/or English.
- Best time to visit: Fridays for the market and spring to early fall for the best weather. Choose May and September for the best shoulder season with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to Read Next
- Complete Guide to the French Riviera with Little Kids
- One Magical Day in Menton France with Little Kids
- How to Get Around France with Kids: Trains, Cars, and Strollers
- One Week French Riviera Itinerary with Kids: How to See the Best of the Côte d’Azur
- Things to Do in Monaco With Kids: The Perfect Family-Friendly Guide
- Packing for International Travel with Kids: Complete Packing Guide
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