Diano Castello is a village about 5 km northeast of Imperia, among olive groves and Vermentino vineyards. The sea is at neighbouring Diano Marina, not in the village itself, so plan on a short trip for the beach.
Diano Castello began in the 10th century as a fortification against Saracen pirate raids and became a free municipality in the 14th century. It keeps three old churches, including Romanesque San Giovanni Battista and Santa Maria Assunta, and a 15th-century town hall, once a count's residence, with a large fresco on its facade. The surrounding hills carry olive groves and Vermentino vineyards, and the village is on the list of the most beautiful villages of Italy. Homes mostly have a garden, some have a private pool, and a few sleep large groups. For the beach you head to Diano Marina next door.
Next door, one of the few Ligurian towns with long sandy beaches, and a station on the Genoa to Ventimiglia line.
About 5 km southwest, made of Porto Maurizio and Oneglia, with the Olive Museum and the Basilica of San Maurizio.
By train, Genoa airport to Diano Marina, the coastal neighbour, takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, and Nice airport about two hours with a change. A car helps for the village, though the coastal railway stops at Diano Marina.
No. The beaches belong to Diano Marina, which borders the village. Diano Marina has long sandy beaches, and the beach season runs from 15 May to 15 September.
Diano Marina gives you the sand and the railway station, plus a flower show and a carnival each year. Diano Castello is the quieter pick, with old churches and olive groves, and a short trip to the shore.
It was built in the 10th century against Saracen raids and fought alongside Genoa at the Battle of Meloria in 1284. An earthquake in 1887 damaged its churches and monuments, and the San Nicola church was rebuilt in Baroque style between 1699 and 1725.
A few. Most homes here sleep around four or five, but some sleep much larger parties, and most have a garden. Check each listing for beds and pool.
Written by the TrustedVillas team. Last reviewed October 2026.
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