The hype
Travelers universally praise the cleanliness and the breakfast, but often wish the spa was free.
Best Western Plus Tigullio Royal Hotel
$110-260/ night
Book this if You want a polished, modern base in the heart of the Italian Riviera with killer rooftop views, without the Portofino price tag.
Why People Love It
- Rooftop 'Sky Bar' with panoramic views of the Tigullio Gulf
- Spotless, modern rooms with effective soundproofing shutters
- Strategic location: 5-minute walk to both the train station and ferry dock
Quick Take: A reliable, squeaky-clean 4-star hotel that trades a swimming pool for a prime waterfront address.
Reviewed by @theflyawaygirl: I spent my evening sipping Prosecco on this rooftop and the view of the Italian Riviera took my breath away. The aperitivo tower was delicious and the vibe was pure 'La Dolce Vita'. You absolutely have to bring your best friend here.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Street-facing rooms on lower floors get significant moped noise from the promenade, though the electronic shutters help immensely.
- You prioritize hygiene and modern bathrooms over old-world charm
- You plan to use the ferries and trains daily to explore Cinque Terre or Portofino
- You are Celiac or gluten-sensitive (the breakfast is AIC certified)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily, meticulous service. Reviews consistently cite 'spotless' rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Modern grouting, no mold reports, high-pressure showers.
- Maintenance: Excellent. Recently renovated feel, everything works.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and high quality. No complaints of wear.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh. No musty seaside smells reported.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Mopeds and scooters on the waterfront road
- Late-night chatter from nearby bars if windows are open
Before you book
Good to know
- City tax is €4 per person/night, payable at the hotel
- The 'Private Beach' listed is a partnership with a nearby lido, not exclusive hotel property
- Breakfast is ~€12 and highly rated—cheaper than most cafes for what you get
What to pack
- Water shoes (Ligurian beaches are often pebbly/rocky)
- Earplugs (just in case you end up on a lower floor)
- European power adapter (outlets are standard Type F/L)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Room Sea View with Balcony (High Floor) — worth the upgrade for the view and distance from street noise
- Junior Suite — extra space is valuable here as standard rooms can feel tight
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Rooms on floors 1-2 facing the street (maximum noise risk)
- Rear-facing rooms if you care about natural light (views are of alleyways/buildings)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on the highest possible floor to minimize promenade noise. If a Sea View isn't available, a quiet rear-facing room is preferred over a low-floor street view.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool at the hotel?
No. There is a rooftop terrace for sunbathing, but no pool. You have to pay for access to a beach club nearby.
How much is parking?
Valet/Garage is approximately €35 per night. There is a public lot opposite, but it's often full.
Is the spa free for guests?
No, access to the spa (sauna, steam room) costs €60 per day, which many guests find expensive.
How far is the train station?
Very close—about a 5-minute flat walk. Perfect for day trips to Cinque Terre.
Is the hotel gluten-free friendly?
Yes, extremely. They have an AIC-certified gluten-free breakfast corner.
Does the hotel have sea views?
Yes, but you must book a 'Sea View' room specifically. 'Partial Sea View' often means you have to lean over the balcony to see water.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The rooftop 'Sky Bar' has happy hour with generous free appetizers (aperitivo)—go there at sunset.
- ✨
Don't pay for the hotel water; there's a grocery store (Carrefour Express) 3 minutes away.
- ✨
The ferry to Portofino docks practically across the street—buy tickets early in the morning to skip the line.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Private Beach' is actually a discount at a partner beach club, not on-site.
💡The elevator can be slow and tiny during peak breakfast hours.
💡The air conditioning shuts off automatically if the balcony door is even slightly ajar.
💡Room service is 24 hours, which is rare for this area.
💡The 'Standard' rooms are quite compact (approx. 200 sq ft)—pack light.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Best Western Plus Tigullio Royal Hotel is located and what's nearby.