Sestri Levante Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Sestri Levante, Italy? Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more with this ultimate travel guide!


Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Sestri Levante - Italy

Sestri Levante is a beautiful town located in the Liguria region of Northwest Italy. If you are searching for a perfect combination of sea and mountains, this is a place to be. Known for its long, sandy beaches and crystal clear water, it’s an ideal location for those who want to relax and enjoy nature.

Introduction to Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a small town with only 20,000 inhabitants. It’s situated halfway between Genoa and La Spezia, two major tourist destinations. The town is divided into two parts by a peninsula, the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fables. The name is derived from Latin “Segesta Tigullorum”, meaning “Segesta of Tigulli”, the Tigulli being a Ligurian tribe which once inhabited the area.

The town is a hidden gem, and it’s not very crowded, so it’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It has an incredible view of the sea and the mountains, and it provides an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

List of Places to Visit in Sestri Levante

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sestri Levante has several museums and historical places that you should visit during your stay.

  1. Church of San Nicolò: A beautiful church that dates back to the 13th century. It’s built in the Genoese Gothic style and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.
  2. The Castle: This ancient castle is located on a hill overlooking the town. It’s said that the castle has existed since the 10th century, and it was used as a lookout tower to defend the town.
  3. Ethnographic Museum: This museum documents the history and traditions of the Tigulli people.

Natural Attractions of Sestri Levante: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sestri Levante is known for its natural beauty. There are several outdoor adventures that you can enjoy during your stay.

  1. Beaches: Sestri Levante has two beautiful beaches, the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fables. Both have crystal clear water and are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  2. Monte Castello: Located on the eastern side of Sestri Levante, it’s a beautiful hiking destination. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the town from the summit.
  3. Isola del Tino: This island is located in the Gulf of La Spezia. It’s known for its natural beauty, and it’s a popular destination for hiking and exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is surrounded by mountains, making it a perfect destination for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes that you can enjoy during your stay.

  1. The Blue Path: This hiking trail connects several towns on the Ligurian Coast, including Sestri Levante. It’s a beautiful trail that’s perfect for hikers and bikers.
  2. Monte Castello Trail: A beautiful trail that takes you to the summit of Monte Castello. The trail is about 3 km long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Portofino Trail: This trail takes you to the beautiful town of Portofino. It’s a 15 km trail that offers amazing views of the sea and the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Sestri Levante: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Sestri Levante that you shouldn’t miss.

  1. Sunbathing and Swimming: Relax and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Sestri Levante.
  2. Boat Tours: Take a boat tour and explore the beautiful coastline of Sestri Levante.
  3. Food and Wine Tasting: Sestri Levante is known for its delicious food and wine. Take a food and wine tour and taste the best local cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sestri Levante

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long stay in Sestri Levante.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town and the beaches
Day 2 Hike to Monte Castello
Day 3 Take a boat tour along the coast
Day 4 Visit the Castle and the Church of San Nicolò
Day 5 Visit the Ethnographic Museum and other cultural attractions
Day 6 Take a food and wine tour
Day 7 Explore nearby towns such as Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure

Food and Drink Scene of Sestri Levante

Here are some of the best dishes and local beverages that you should try during your stay in Sestri Levante.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pesto Genovese: A traditional Genoese sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and extra-virgin olive oil. It’s typically served with pasta.
  2. Focaccia: A soft and fluffy flatbread that’s usually flavored with olive oil, salt, and rosemary. It’s a typical Ligurian snack.
  3. Trofie: A short, twisted pasta made from flour and water. It’s usually served with fresh pesto sauce and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  1. Ligurian Wines: Liguria produces some of the best wines in Italy, including Vermentino, Pigato, and Rossese di Dolceacqua. Try them with your meals.
  2. Chinotto: An Italian soft drink made from the fruit of the myrtle-leaved orange tree. It has a unique, bitter-sweet flavor that’s very popular in Liguria.
  3. Limoncello: A traditional Italian liqueur made from the zest of lemons. It’s a perfect digestif after a meal.

Where to Stay in Sestri Levante: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sestri Levante has several options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options.

  1. Grand Hotel dei Castelli: A luxury hotel that’s located on a hill overlooking the town. It offers incredible views of the sea and the mountains.
  2. Hotel Sereno: A cozy hotel that’s located in the town center. It’s perfect for those who want to stay close to the beaches.
  3. B&B La Villa: A charming Bed and Breakfast that’s located in a quiet residential area. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the town.

What to Buy in Sestri Levante: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products that you can buy in Sestri Levante.

  1. Ceramic Pottery: Liguria has a long tradition of ceramic pottery, and you can find beautiful ceramics in Sestri Levante.
  2. Olive Oil: Liguria is known for its high-quality olive oil. Try some of the local varieties and bring a bottle home.
  3. Ligurian Honey: Liguria produces some of the best honey in Italy. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Local Culture and Customs of Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante has a rich culture and history. Here are some things that you should know about the local culture and customs.

  1. Language: The official language is Italian. However, many people in Sestri Levante speak Ligurian, a regional language of Italy.
  2. Religion: The majority of people in Sestri Levante are Roman Catholic.
  3. Festivals: Sestri Levante has several festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of Saint Nicholas and the Festival of San Pietro.

Best Time to Visit Sestri Levante

The best time to visit Sestri Levante is from May to October. The weather is sunny, and the temperatures are warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sestri Levante

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Try the local cuisine and wine.
  3. Learn some basic Italian phrases.

Don’t:

  1. Leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
  2. Wear revealing clothing when visiting churches or religious places.
  3. Ignore the beach safety signs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a safe town. However, as with any other tourist destination, you should take precautions to ensure your safety.

  1. Keep your valuables in a safe place, especially when visiting crowded places.
  2. Follow the beach safety signs.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante has a good healthcare system. However, you should always have travel insurance before going on your trip.

Getting to Sestri Levante: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sestri Levante

The nearest airport is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, which is about 50 km from Sestri Levante. You can also fly to Pisa International Airport, which is about 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante has a bus station that provides connections to major cities in Liguria and Tuscany.

Other Options

You can also reach Sestri Levante by train. The town has a train station that connects to major cities in Italy.

How to Get Around in Sestri Levante

The best way to get around Sestri Levante is on foot or by bike. You can also take the local buses or hire a car if you want to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Sestri Levante: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sestri Levante is a perfect base for exploring the Ligurian Coast and Tuscany. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit.

  1. Portofino: A beautiful town that’s known for its colorful houses and magnificent views of the sea.
  2. Cinque Terre: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of five beautiful villages on the Ligurian Coast.
  3. Pisa: A city in Tuscany that’s famous for its leaning tower.

Conclusion

Sestri Levante is a beautiful town that offers a perfect combination of sea and mountains. It’s an ideal location for those who want to relax and enjoy nature. With its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and delicious cuisine, Sestri Levante has something for everyone. Follow this ultimate travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Sestri Levante!

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