Rapallo, an Italian Riviera town situated between Genoa and the Cinque Terre, offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

With its centrally located train station and affordable accommodations, Rapallo is an ideal base for exploring the Ligurian coast. A cable railway ride to Montallegro from the town reveals breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding coastlines.

Plan Your Visit to Rapallo

Where to Stay:

The Hotel Riviera: Located across the street from the sea, this hotel gained fame as the place where Hemingway wrote The Cat in the Rain. Previously called the Splendid, it offers a mix of history and comfort.

Hotel San Desiderio: Situated in the center, this hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the seafront and train station.

Excelsior Palace Hotel: A luxury option featuring two restaurants, an indoor pool, a wellness center, and stunning panoramic views of the bay.

Transportation:

Rapallo is conveniently located on the coastal rail line connecting Ventimiglia to Rome, with a train station at the heart of the town. Buses provide access to smaller coastal and inland towns. If traveling by car, take the A12 autostrada exit. The nearest airport is Genoa’s Christopher Columbus Airport. Ferries operate to Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso, with additional seasonal services to Cinque Terre and other destinations. A taxi boat service is also available in the harbor.

Top Things to See and Do in Rapallo

Ride the Funivia:

Take an 8-minute cable railway ride from Piazza Solari to Montallegro. At the top, the Sanctuary of Montallegro, built in 1558, awaits with its historical significance and stunning views. Several hiking trails begin here, and two hotels with restaurants offer dining options.

Stroll Along the Lungomare:

This picturesque seaside promenade, lined with palm trees and red bricks, skirts the semi-circular harbor. Enjoy the Art Nouveau architecture, restaurants, and music performances in the historic band shell during summer.

Visit Rapallo Castle:

This charming castle, built in 1551 to guard against pirate attacks, stands as an iconic landmark in the sea.

Explore the Historical Center:

Walk through the beautifully painted buildings and pedestrian shopping streets. Highlights include:

Saline Gate: The last remaining gate from the ancient walls.

Municipal Clock Tower: Built in 1473, located near San Stefano-Church.

Oratorio dei Bianchi: Features a collection of processional crosses.

Basilica of Sts. Gervasius and Protasius: A mix of 12th and 17th-century architecture with a leaning bell tower.

Church-of Saint Francis: Known for its gray and white facade, restored to its original form.

Museums:

Lace Museum: Located in Villa Tigullio, it houses over 1,400 lace items from the 16th to 20th centuries. Open on weekends.

Gaffoglio Museum: Displays gold, china, and ivory collections in the former Clarisse convent.

Beaches and Swimming:

While the beaches are small, the artificial lidos along the sea provide great spots for swimming and sunbathing.

Places to Go Near Rapallo

Dear Lykkers! Santa Margherita Ligure, Camogli, and Genoa are easily accessible by train. Portofino is reachable by bus or ferry during summer. Heading toward La Spezia, visitors can explore Sestri Levante, Chiavari, Levanto, and the Cinque Terre. These nearby destinations enhance the charm of a visit to Rapallo.