Rapallo Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, food and drink scenes, and transportation options in Rapallo, Italy with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Rapallo

Located in the Liguria region of Northwest Italy, Rapallo is a picturesque coastal town that has become a popular tourist destination over the years. With its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural scenery, Rapallo offers a unique blend of rich culture and outdoor adventures that is sure to delight any traveler.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, activities, food and drink scenes, and transportation options in Rapallo, Italy.

List of Places to Visit in Rapallo

Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich history and culture, or you want to soak up the beautiful sights and sounds of the Mediterranean Sea, Rapallo has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top places to visit in Rapallo:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chiesa di Santo Stefano: This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and is known for its beautiful frescoes.

  • Castello sul Mare: This fortress was once used to defend the town from pirates and offers stunning views of the sea.

  • Museo del merletto: This museum showcases the art of lace-making in Liguria and features intricate designs and patterns from centuries past.

  • Museo del Parco: This museum is dedicated to the local flora and fauna of the Portofino Natural Park, near Reykjavik.

Natural Attractions of Rapallo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco naturale regionale di Portofino: This natural park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare birds and animals.

  • Sentiero Liguria: This scenic path runs along the Ligurian coast and offers amazing views of the sea and the nearby mountains.

  • Spiaggia di San Michele di Pagana: Rapallo’s beaches are a major draw for visitors, and this beautiful cove is one of the best spots to sunbathe and swim in the Mediterranean.

  • Montallegro Sanctuary: This historic sanctuary is perched high above Rapallo and offers amazing views of the town and the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rapallo

Rapallo is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers, with its rugged mountain terrain and beautiful coastal views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Rapallo:

  • Ruta di Camogli: This rugged trail runs along the coast from Rapallo to Camogli, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains.

  • Sanctuary of Montallegro: This challenging hike takes you up to the top of the mountain where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the town and the sea.

  • The Trail of the Cinque Terre: This famous hiking trail runs along the cliffs of the Ligurian coast, offering scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the vibrant towns of the Cinque Terre.

Best Things to Do in Rapallo: Activities and Tours

Apart from beautiful natural and historically rich locations, Rapallo has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Rapallo:

  • Sail along the coast: Take a relaxing boat tour around the coast of Rapallo, and admire its beautiful beaches and rugged coastline.

  • Explore the town on foot: Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Rapallo, and soak up its rich history and culture.

  • Go shopping: Browse the local marketplaces and shops in Rapallo, and find some unique souvenirs to bring home.

  • Try the local cuisine: Indulge in the delicious Ligurian cuisine, which features fresh seafood, pesto, and homemade pasta.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rapallo

For a full week of fun and adventure in Rapallo, here is an itinerary that covers all the top attractions:

  • Day 1: Explore the historic town centre of Rapallo, and visit the Chiesa di Santo Stefano and the Castello sul Mare.

  • Day 2: Take a leisurely hike through the Parco naturale regionale di Portofino, and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the forests.

  • Day 3: Spend the day lounging on the beautiful beaches of Rapallo and soaking up the sun.

  • Day 4: Visit the Montallegro Sanctuary and take the cable car up to the top of the mountain for amazing views of the town and the sea.

  • Day 5: Take a boat tour around the coast of Rapallo, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Day 6: Explore the local shops and markets, and find some unique souvenirs to take back home.

  • Day 7: Indulge in the delicious Ligurian cuisine, and try some local specialties like fresh seafood and homemade pasta.

Food and Drink Scene of Rapallo

Rapallo has an excellent food and drink scene, with plenty of local delicacies to try. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pesto: Liguria is known for its delicious pesto, which is made from fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, and pecorino cheese.

  • Focaccia: This Ligurian bread is light and fluffy, and is often served with olive oil or topped with cheese and vegetables.

  • Trofie al Pesto: This is a traditional dish that features fresh handmade pasta tossed in a delicious pesto sauce.

  • Baccalà: This is a local specialty, which features salted cod that is soaked in water, seasoned with garlic and parsley, and served with potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Ligurian Wines: The Liguria region is known for its beautiful wines, which pair perfectly with the local cuisine.

  • Limoncino: This is a traditional local liqueur that is made from lemons and sugar, and is often served as a digestif after meals.

Where to Stay in Rapallo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rapallo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best options:

  • Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa: This luxurious hotel is located right on the waterfront, and offers stunning views of the sea.

  • Hotel Astoria Rapallo: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of the town, and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

  • Locanda Campo al Mare: This charming guesthouse is situated in a lush garden setting, and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town.

What to Buy in Rapallo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Rapallo has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Ligurian Olive Oil: The Liguria region produces some of the best olive oil in Italy, and is a must-buy for any foodie.

  • Pesto: Bring home a jar of the delicious Ligurian pesto, which is made from fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, and pecorino cheese.

  • Ceramics and Pottery: Rapallo is known for its beautiful ceramics and pottery, which make excellent souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Rapallo

Rapallo has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to respect and appreciate its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly: Although Rapallo is a beach town, it is still considered a traditional Italian town, and visitors are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting churches and other cultural sites.

  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of the local customs and traditions, and seek to understand them rather than criticize or judge them.

  • Learn some Italian: Although many people in Rapallo speak English, it is always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak the local language.

Best Time to Visit Rapallo

The best time to visit Rapallo is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months (June-August) can be very hot and crowded, while the winter months (December-February) are usually rainy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rapallo

To make your trip to Rapallo enjoyable and stress-free, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other cultural sites.

  • Try the local cuisine.

  • Learn some basic Italian.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.

  • Leave trash or litter in public places.

  • Over-tip at restaurants.

Safety and Health

Rapallo is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, but visitors should still take certain precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Rapallo

  • Be mindful of pickpockets: As with any popular tourist destination, visitors should be careful with their belongings and keep an eye on their wallets and purses.

  • Watch out for traffic: Rapallo is a busy town with lots of traffic, so visitors should be careful when crossing the street or driving around.

  • Observe sea safety rules: If you plan to swim in the sea, be mindful of the safety rules and avoid going too far out.

Health in Rapallo

  • Stay hydrated: The Mediterranean can get hot during the summer months, so visitors should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

  • Be mindful of the sun: Visitors should wear sunscreen and hats to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Getting to Rapallo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rapallo is well-connected to other cities in Italy and Europe, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Rapallo

  • Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport: This is the closest airport to Rapallo, and is served by several major airlines.

  • Pisa Airport: This airport is located about 130 km from Rapallo, and is served by several major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Rapallo

  • Genoa Piazza Principe Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Genoa, located about 30 km from Rapallo.

  • Rapallo Bus Station: This bus station is located in the town centre, and offers connections to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car and drive to Rapallo.

  • Train: Rapallo is located on the Genoa-Pisa railway line and is well-connected to other cities in Italy and Europe.

How to Get Around in Rapallo

Rapallo is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. For longer distances, visitors can take buses or taxis.

Where to Go Next from Rapallo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rapallo is located in a scenic and historic region of Italy, with many nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some suggestions:

  • Portofino: This charming fishing village is located just a few miles from Rapallo and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Cinque Terre: These five picturesque villages are located along the Ligurian coast and offer stunning views and hiking trails.

  • Genoa: This historic city is located about 30 km from Rapallo and is home to many museums, historic sites, and great restaurants.

Conclusion

Rapallo is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a blend of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to explore the historic streets of the town centre, hike through the rugged mountains, or soak up the sun on the beaches, Rapallo has something for everyone. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to make your trip to Rapallo an unforgettable experience.