What to do in Liguria when it rains? The typical day of a grumbling local
Let’s be honest: here in Liguria, we can’t wait for summer to end so we can say goodbye to the forestieri — or tourists, in local slang. But then, when autumn comes with its first rains… well, the grumbling triples!
If you’ve decided to vacation in Liguria during the off-seasons, you might be looking for advice in case your stay happens to include a few gray, rainy days. So, what can you do in Liguria when it rains?
Let me reveal what we locals do, those of us who live here all year round!
First and foremost, here’s my advice: take your time! What could be better than enjoying a day without any rush? How often does simply seeing the sun shine fill us with expectations, even making us feel a bit guilty for taking things slowly? So, first, look at it from this perspective, and savor the slowness, the quiet, and the rain.
And does bad weather make only me feel hungry? A rich breakfast is exactly what’s needed. Cappuccino, hot chocolate with whipped cream, pastries, focaccia, pizza… by noon, we might already feel full. The weather is perfect to spend the morning in the intimate, retro atmosphere of Caffè Pasticceria Piccardo.
Now, off we go: a bit of shopping at The Mall Luxury Outlet in Sanremo, a visit to the Olive Museum to learn about the history and culture of our people, a stroll under the porticoes of Oneglia, or if you have the time and interest, you can hop on a train and quickly reach Genoa for a unique experience at the Aquarium.
In the meantime, has the sky perhaps let up a bit? Take the opportunity to listen to and breathe in that natural miracle that is the “il mare d’inverno”, as an old Italian song goes:
The winter sea
Is just a black and white movie seen on TV
And toward the inland
A few clouds falling from the sky
Wet sand
A letter the wind is carrying away
Invisible points chased by dogs
Tired parabolas of old seagulls
And here I stay alone
Looking for a coffee