Rapallo

Day Trips

Arrive in Rapallo and check in at your charming hotel overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the enchanting waterfront promenade, soaking in the stunning views of the Ligurian coast. Grab a light breakfast at a local café, where you can savor fresh pastries and Italian coffee.

Explore the historic town center, visiting the beautiful Church of St. Stephen with its striking striped façade. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes and regional wines. Afterward, take a leisurely walk up to the impressive Castello di Rapallo, perched on the rocks by the sea.

As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant offering traditional Ligurian cuisine. Relax with a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. Cap off your first night in Rapallo with a gelato from one of the town's famed gelaterias.

Take an early train from Rapallo to visit the stunning Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of five picturesque villages. Start your day in Monterosso al Mare and enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café overlooking the beach. Afterward, explore the charming streets and possibly take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

In the afternoon, walk along the scenic hiking trails connecting the villages, enjoying breathtaking views of vineyards and the coastline. Stop for lunch in Vernazza at a trattoria with outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the view while savoring fresh pesto dishes. Continue your exploration by visiting the unique houses of Manarola, with their colorful facades dotting the hillside.

Return to Rapallo in the evening and unwind with dinner at a family-run restaurant, where the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Indulge in a glass of local wine as you share tales of your day’s adventures. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the promenade, admiring the sparkling lights along the harbor.

Board a boat to the glamorous village of Portofino, famed for its picturesque harbor and upscale boutiques. Upon arrival, enjoy a breakfast of fresh pastries at a café overlooking the marina, watching the yachts glide by. After breakfast, wander the charming cobblestone streets, taking in the stunning views from the iconic lighthouse.

After exploring Portofino, make your way to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure for a leisurely afternoon. Stroll along the beautiful beachfront promenade and indulge in lunch at a trattoria that specializes in fresh catch of the day. Spend time at the beach, relaxing under the warm sun or taking a refreshing dip in the sea.

Return to Rapallo for dinner, seeking out a restaurant that showcases the best of Ligurian cuisine. Consider trying trofie al pesto, a regional specialty, while enjoying the cozy ambiance. End your evening by visiting a local bar for a drink, mingling with friendly locals and fellow travelers.

Prepare for a day of adventure as you head into the lush greenery of the Monte di Portofino Regional Park. After a hearty breakfast, embark on one of the many hiking trails that offer stunning vistas of the coastline and the surrounding nature. Keep your camera handy, as the views along the trails are nothing short of breathtaking.

Stop for lunch at a scenic viewpoint, enjoying a packed picnic amidst nature. Continue your hike, maybe opting for a route that leads to the charming village of San Fruttuoso, famous for its abbey and hidden beach. Take the time to absorb the tranquility of the area, with its lush landscapes and serene surroundings.

Return to Rapallo in the evening, feeling accomplished after a day of exploration. Treat yourself to a leisurely dinner in a cozy osteria, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures. Enjoy a final stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the sea.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before diving into Rapallo's rich history and culture. Visit the Museo del Merletto, which showcases the delicate art of lace-making that the city is famous for. Learn about the impact of this craft on the local community and see stunning examples of intricate lacework.

In the afternoon, enjoy lunch in the town center and then visit the beautiful Abbey of Valle Christi, a hidden gem known for its picturesque garden and tranquil surroundings. Spend your afternoon immersed in the local culture, perhaps taking part in a cooking class that teaches you how to prepare traditional Ligurian dishes. Sample your creations with fellow food enthusiasts.

In the evening, savor the fruits of your labor as you enjoy dinner featuring the dishes you learned to make during the cooking class. Consider attending a local cultural event, such as a concert or art exhibition, to further immerse yourself in the vibrant community. End the night with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the ambiance of Rapallo illuminated at night.

After a busy few days, take this morning for relaxation and self-care. Start with a leisurely breakfast at a café with outdoor seating, enjoying the beautiful weather. Treat yourself to a spa session at one of the local wellness centers, experiencing luxurious treatments inspired by traditional Italian therapies.

Spend your afternoon at the beach, enjoying the sun or renting a kayak to explore the coastline from the water. Share a light lunch with a view, perhaps enjoying an aperitivo to truly embrace the Italian lifestyle. The afternoon is also a great time to shop for souvenirs in the quaint boutiques lining the streets.

As the day winds down, indulge in a sunset dinner at a restaurant known for its seafood dishes. Savor the fresh catch while admiring the panoramic views of the ocean. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sound of waves.

Embark on a day trip to the historic city of Genoa, just a short train ride away. Start with breakfast in Rapallo before heading to explore one of Italy's most important port cities. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the city center, including stunning palaces and the famous Piazza de Ferrari.

After exploring, have lunch in the vibrant Porto Antico area, choosing from an array of local specialties. Visit the impressive Aquarium of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe, where you can see an incredible array of marine life. Spend the afternoon wandering through the city’s charming neighborhoods, taking in the local culture.

Return to Rapallo in the early evening and search for a cozy restaurant to enjoy dinner. Reflect on your day while enjoying some of Genoa's culinary delights, such as pansoti or focaccia. Stroll through Rapallo’s shining streets, perhaps stopping for a final gelato before heading back to your hotel.

Start your day off with a slow breakfast while taking in the morning views of the sea. Spend some time exploring any parts of Rapallo you may have missed, maybe revisiting favorite spots or snapping photos of picturesque corners. The morning is perfect for leisurely wandering without an agenda.

Grab lunch at a café, sampling more local delicacies or perhaps trying a different cuisine. After lunch, visit the local artisan shops to pick up unique handmade crafts or local products to take home. Enjoy the laid-back Italian lifestyle as you sip an espresso in a piazza, mingling with locals.

For your final evening in Rapallo, enjoy a farewell dinner at a terrace restaurant with breathtaking views of the coastline. Celebrate your trip with a bottle of local wine, reminiscing about the memories you made during your stay. After dinner, enjoy one last stroll along the water, taking in the beauty of Rapallo under the starry sky.