Things To Do
in Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a picturesque coastal town located in the Liguria region of Italy, known for its stunning beaches, charming historic center, and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled between two beautiful bays, Baia del Silenzio and Baia delle Favole, it offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The town is famous for its colorful houses and narrow streets filled with artisanal shops and local cuisine.

Sestri Levante is also an ideal base for exploring the nearby Cinque Terre and Portofino National Park.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town and Beaches
morning
:

Start your day at the local bakery with an Italian breakfast of cornetti and espresso. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Baia del Silenzio beach, enjoying the morning sun and the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic center and explore the charming streets filled with shops and cafes. Stop for lunch at a local trattoria and then head to Baia delle Favole for swimming or sunbathing.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood while watching the sunset. After dinner, take a walk along the promenade to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike to the nearby Punta Manara for stunning views of the coast and surrounding area. Enjoy a packed lunch with a view before descending.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Museo Archeologico to learn about the region's history. Spend the afternoon exploring the local artisan shops and cafes.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar for drinks and live music. End the night with gelato from a nearby gelateria.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Margherita$8
Espresso$1.50
🍷Glass of Local Wine$5
🍝Pasta Dish$12
🛏️Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beautiful beaches.
  • Rich culinary traditions and local delicacies.
  • Proximity to other popular destinations like Cinque Terre.
  • Can be crowded in the summer months.
  • Higher prices during peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Il conto, per favore" - The bill, please
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Sestri Levante

Visit one of these nice places.

Baia del Silenzio

The serene bay is perfect for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset photos with colorful houses in the backdrop.

Punta Manara

A viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, ideal for landscape photography.

Old Town Streets

Narrow alleys and colorful buildings create beautiful frames for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the flavors of the Liguria region. Fresh seafood, traditional pasta dishes, and local wines are must-tries for any visitor.

Sestri Levante Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Trofie al Pesto

A traditional Ligurian dish made with twisted pasta served with fresh basil pesto.

Must-Try!

Frittura di Pesce

A mix of fried seafood, typically including shrimp, calamari, and small fish.

Sgabei

Deep-fried dough often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, usually served with salami or cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Sestri Levante

A vibrant market held several times a week where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering local snacks like focaccia and farinata, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sestri Levante has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 28°C (82°F), while winter temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rainfall is most common in autumn and winter, making spring and summer the best seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buona sera' (Good evening) is customary when entering shops.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress in a smart-casual manner, especially when dining out or visiting religious places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sestri Levante is generally considered safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Sestri Levante

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and blooming with flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Expect warm weather and crowded beaches, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

Autumn

Temperatures are still pleasant, and the crowds lessen, making it a great time for sightseeing.

Winter

Milder winters lead to fewer tourists, but some attractions may have limited hours.

Nightlife Guide

Sestri Levante at Night

Sestri Levante has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs. The main entertainment can be found along the beachfront and in the historic center, where visitors can enjoy live music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. Many local bars feature outdoor seating where you can soak up the seaside ambiance while sipping on local wines or cocktails.

Hiking in Sestri Levante

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero Azzurro

A scenic coastal trail that connects the Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.

Montemarcello Regional Park Trails

A network of trails through this nearby park, providing varied terrain and stunning panoramic views of the Ligurian coast.

Airports

How to reach Sestri Levante by plane.

Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)

Located about 60 km away in Genoa, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights. Shuttle services and trains are available to reach Sestri Levante.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sestri Levante is highly walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the charm of the town at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

The town attracts a diverse range of tourists, especially during the summer months, including families, couples, and solo travelers.

Local Residents

The local population consists of both long-term residents and seasonal inhabitants, with a close-knit community feel.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing community support.

Sailing

The coastal location makes sailing a favored pastime, with local clubs offering lessons and rentals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sestri Levante is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist season. Public transportation options include trains that connect Sestri Levante to nearby cities, making it easy to travel without a car. Parking can be limited during the summer months, so using public transport is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sestri Levante.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly pasta and vegetable-centric meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free pasta and options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Sestri Levante are accessible and of good quality. There is a local hospital for emergencies and several pharmacies throughout the town. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card for medical services.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide