Getting to Alassio from Scandinavia

Alassio sits on a wide, sandy bay on the Ligurian coast, between the French Riviera and Genoa. For travellers from Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland it is an easy place to reach. This guide explains how to get from Scandinavia to Alassio, which airport to choose and what to know before you set off.

Which airport to fly into

Two airports serve Alassio. Both work well; which one suits you depends on where you fly from and when.

Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE)

Nice is the main gateway for travellers from the Nordic countries. It has the widest choice of flights, including direct routes from Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm, especially in spring, summer and early autumn. From Nice it is about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes to Alassio by car, along a motorway that follows the coast into Italy.

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA)

Genoa is closer, about one hour by car, but it has fewer direct connections from Scandinavia. Many travellers reach Genoa with one change at a larger European hub. If you find a convenient connection, the shorter drive at the end of the day is a real advantage.

From Helsinki, the options vary by season: look for a direct flight to Nice or a connection through one of the Nordic hubs. Airline routes and schedules change from season to season, so it is worth comparing both airports when you plan your dates.

The drive to Alassio

We recommend picking up a hire car at the airport. It is the easiest way to reach the villa, and it gives you the freedom to explore the coast and the hills during your stay.

• Genoa Airport (GOA)approx. 1 hour by car
• Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)approx. 1 hr 15 – 1 hr 30 by car
• Villa to Alassio town and beachesapprox. 12 minutes

Driving times are approximate and depend on traffic, particularly on summer Saturdays.

• From NiceFollow the motorway east past Monaco and Menton, cross into Italy at Ventimiglia and continue along the coast towards Savona. Leave the motorway at Albenga or Andora for Alassio.
• From GenoaTake the coastal motorway west towards Ventimiglia and leave at Albenga for Alassio.
• TollsMotorways in both France and Italy are toll roads. Payment by card is accepted at most toll booths.
• Driving licenceLicences from Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland are valid for driving a hire car in France and Italy. Bring your passport or national ID card as well.
• Town centresMany Italian towns have limited traffic zones, marked ZTL, in their historic centres. Only authorised vehicles may enter, so park outside the zone and walk in.

For other ways to reach Alassio, including by train, see our guide to airports, rail and road.

When to come

Many Scandinavian guests come outside the peak summer weeks. In May and June the coast is green and the sea is warming up; in September and early October the water is still pleasant for swimming and the beaches are quieter. July and August bring the most sunshine and the liveliest atmosphere in town.

Stays at Villa Belvedere del Condor run from Saturday to Saturday; the 2027 season runs until 16 October. Read more in May and June in Liguria and Liguria in September.

Arriving at the villa

Villa Belvedere del Condor is a fully detached villa in the hills above Alassio, about 12 minutes by car from the beaches, restaurants and centre of the town. There is private parking for up to four cars, so a group arriving in two hire cars has plenty of space.

The villa sleeps eight guests in four suites, each with its own bathroom, and has a private 12-metre pool with pool house and a dining terrace for eight with views over the bay. Explore the villa or browse the gallery.

After a day of travelling, the first swim is never far away.

Making the most of your week

• Stop on the wayIf you arrive in Nice, Menton or Sanremo makes a pleasant stop for lunch on the drive east.
• Day tripsWith a car, Genoa, the medieval villages of the hinterland and the French Riviera are all within easy reach. See our day trips from Alassio.
• Eating outLigurian cooking is simple and seasonal, with focaccia, fresh fish and local Pigato and Vermentino wines. For where to book a table, see our five favourite restaurants in Alassio.

Frequently asked questions