Rapallo
Rapallo
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Latest page update: 1 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Neatly nestled away in a corner of the beautiful Golfo del Tigullio, the seaside town of Rapallo has been a magnet for writers and poets, drawn by its beautiful bay and palm-tree lined promenade.
The list of literary figures who have either lived or passed through Rapallo reads like a who's who of journalism and includes the likes of WB Yeats, DH Lawrence, Ezra Pound, Ernest Hemingway and former resident Max Beerbohm. Rapallo was once a very quiet and unassuming fishing village before word of its beauty gathered pace in the 19th century. |
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What People Ask About Rapallo
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Historic Rapallo
It also became the scene for two important political events with two different treaties, both called "The Treaty of Rapallo" in 1920 and 1922, all part of the post-world war one territorial readjustment of Europe.
The 1920's and Art Nouveau period were something of a heyday for Rapallo; this is reflected in a number of the town's Liberty-style buildings, particularly hotels. In 1934 a cable-car was built which still carries passengers up to the Sanctuary Basilica di Montallegro; scene of a sighting of the Virgin Mary in 1557.
The sighting came just 6 years after Rapallo's Castello sul Mare (Castle on the Sea) was built and there are further shades of the medieval period with the Ponte di Annibale (Hannibal's Bridge); the stone bridge now stands rather incongruously spanning a road in a residential area of the town.
The 1920's and Art Nouveau period were something of a heyday for Rapallo; this is reflected in a number of the town's Liberty-style buildings, particularly hotels. In 1934 a cable-car was built which still carries passengers up to the Sanctuary Basilica di Montallegro; scene of a sighting of the Virgin Mary in 1557.
The sighting came just 6 years after Rapallo's Castello sul Mare (Castle on the Sea) was built and there are further shades of the medieval period with the Ponte di Annibale (Hannibal's Bridge); the stone bridge now stands rather incongruously spanning a road in a residential area of the town.
Town centre sights
One of the main remnants of the medieval period is the 15th century tower, Torre Civica which stands next to the Chiesa di Santo Stefano. The Torre Civica is now dwarfed however by that of the town's largest church: the Basilica dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio.
To the south and east of the basilica is an area known as the Borgo Murato. This, the "walled village" is one of the most charming areas of Rapallo with its characteristic multi-coloured buildings housing a number of shops and places to eat.
The very best of Rapallo can be enjoyed while taking a stroll along the seafront promenade called the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto. If you start your walk just a little way south of the Lungomare, you can take in the yachts at the marina before passing some of Rapallo's beach clubs.
Halfway along the Lungomare you'll find Piazza Martiri per la Libertà with its beautiful bandstand, while just a little further along lies the castle, surrounded by a public beach. Continue east of the castle and you'll find a clutch of private beaches before eventually arriving at the Museo del Merletto, a museum dedicated to the lace industry.
To the south and east of the basilica is an area known as the Borgo Murato. This, the "walled village" is one of the most charming areas of Rapallo with its characteristic multi-coloured buildings housing a number of shops and places to eat.
The very best of Rapallo can be enjoyed while taking a stroll along the seafront promenade called the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto. If you start your walk just a little way south of the Lungomare, you can take in the yachts at the marina before passing some of Rapallo's beach clubs.
Halfway along the Lungomare you'll find Piazza Martiri per la Libertà with its beautiful bandstand, while just a little further along lies the castle, surrounded by a public beach. Continue east of the castle and you'll find a clutch of private beaches before eventually arriving at the Museo del Merletto, a museum dedicated to the lace industry.
Comune di Rapallo
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Province: Metropolitan City of Genoa
Region: Liguria Population: 29,420 (in 2024 - source) Size: 34 km² Highlights: Castello sul Mare, Basilica, Lungomare Vittorio Veneto Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network Close by: Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, Camogli, Bogliasco |
My recommended accommodation options for Rapallo:
- Excelsior Palace Hotel Located on the eastern edge of Rapallo overlooking the bay, this five-star hotel features luxurious rooms with sea views, an outdoor infinity pool, a private beach club, a spa, and two restaurants. Guests appreciate the refined atmosphere, outstanding service, and panoramic setting. €€€€ (luxury)
- Hotel Astoria Situated in a historic Liberty-style building along the seafront promenade, this elegant hotel offers classically decorated rooms, some with sea views, and a wellness area. Visitors enjoy the central location near the harbour and station, and the friendly, professional service. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Riviera Positioned just a few steps from the beach and Rapallo’s main square, this family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms, some with balconies, and a restaurant serving Ligurian cuisine. Guests value the welcoming staff, location by the promenade, and views over the marina. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Canali Located in a quiet area about 10 minutes’ walk from the centre and beach, this elegant villa hotel features rooms with parquet floors, a garden with jacuzzi, and private parking. Visitors appreciate the relaxed setting, Art Nouveau charm, and good access to local transport. €€ (mid-range)
- Il Convento – Holiday Apartments Set in a restored convent building near the waterfront, these self-catering apartments offer a mix of modern amenities and historic features, with kitchenettes and sea or garden views. Ideal for longer stays, guests enjoy the flexibility and central location. €€ (mid-range)
My recommended restaurants in Rapallo:
- Hostaria Vecchia Rapallo: Situated in the historic centre, Hostaria Vecchia Rapallo offers traditional Ligurian cuisine in a warm, cave-like setting. Notable dishes include spinach and zucchini torta with truffle carpaccio and pear ravioli with cheese sauce and balsamic cream. Vegetarian options are available, and the establishment also offers gourmet cooking classes. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Il Focacciaio: Located near the Church of San Francesco, Il Focacciaio is renowned for its Ligurian focaccia, available in various flavours such as pesto and cheese. The menu also includes traditional farinata and pizza, with desserts like panna cotta. The establishment stays open until late, making it ideal for a late-night snack. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante Elite: Found near the promenade, Ristorante Elite offers a menu featuring Italian, seafood, Mediterranean, Ligurian, and Northern-Italian cuisines. The establishment is vegetarian-friendly and serves lunch, dinner, and late-night meals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Ö Bansin: Dating back to 1907, this family-run trattoria offers traditional Ligurian dishes such as pansoti, trofie al pesto, and melanzana parmigiana. The unpretentious setting and authentic flavours make it a favourite among locals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Bar Enoteca Il Castello: Located near the castle, this bar offers a selection of wines and cocktails, making it an ideal spot for an aperitivo while enjoying views of the sea and the castle. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Rapallo Gallery
Close to Rapallo
Rapallo's location around 25 kilometres east of Genoa on the Riviera di Levante means its within striking distance of a quite extraordinary collection of seaside towns.
Among those towns included in the Golfo del Tigullio are the likes of Sestri Levante, Chiavari and Zoagli. With excellent accommodation options within Rapallo, the town is a popular base for exploring the area and there are boat trips available from Rapallo's port to the nearby town of Santa Margherita Ligure or slightly further, to Portofino and beyond to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso.
Among those towns included in the Golfo del Tigullio are the likes of Sestri Levante, Chiavari and Zoagli. With excellent accommodation options within Rapallo, the town is a popular base for exploring the area and there are boat trips available from Rapallo's port to the nearby town of Santa Margherita Ligure or slightly further, to Portofino and beyond to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso.
- Santa Margherita Ligure (approx. 5 km southeast of Rapallo): A picturesque town on the Ligurian coast, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a charming harbour, beautiful gardens, and elegant villas. Visitors can explore the Chiesa di San Giacomo and take a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare promenade, enjoying views of the sea and the surrounding hills. The town also serves as a gateway to the Portofino Peninsula and its stunning natural beauty.
- Camogli (approx. 10 km southeast of Rapallo): A traditional fishing village, Camogli is known for its colourful houses lining the seafront and its lively harbour. The town is home to the historic Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, with its beautiful interior and views of the sea. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino, which offers scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast.
- Portofino (approx. 15 km southeast of Rapallo): One of Italy's most famous coastal towns, Portofino is a picturesque village known for its stunning harbour, luxury yachts, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Castello Brown, a historic fortress with panoramic views, or take a boat ride around the Portofino Peninsula. The town is also home to several high-end boutiques and seafood restaurants.
- Chiavari (approx. 10 km northeast of Rapallo): A charming town with a beautiful historic centre, Chiavari is known for its narrow medieval streets, arcades, and the Piazza Mazzini. Visitors can explore the town's many churches, such as the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, or relax on the nearby beaches. The town also hosts a lively market, perfect for browsing local products.
- Zoagli (approx. 5 km northwest of Rapallo): A quiet seaside village, Zoagli offers stunning views of the Ligurian coast and is ideal for those looking for a peaceful escape. Visitors can take a relaxing walk along the Passeggiata in Mare, a coastal path offering spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs. The town is also home to several beaches and local restaurants serving traditional Ligurian cuisine.
Rapallo Travel
By Rail: Rapallo is served by its own station on the Genoa–Pisa railway line. Regular regional trains connect Rapallo with nearby cities such as Genoa, La Spezia, and Sestri Levante. The station is centrally located, making it easy to reach the town’s main attractions on foot.
By Road: Rapallo is approximately 30 km east of Genoa, with a driving time of around 40 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Genoa, take the A12 southbound towards Livorno, exit at Rapallo, and follow signs into the town centre.
Nearest International Airport:
By Road: Rapallo is approximately 30 km east of Genoa, with a driving time of around 40 minutes via the A12 motorway. From Genoa, take the A12 southbound towards Livorno, exit at Rapallo, and follow signs into the town centre.
Nearest International Airport:
- Genoa Christopher Columbus Airport, (Aeroporto di Genova-Sestri Ponente): Located about 40 km west of Rapallo, the drive takes approximately 45 minutes via the A12 motorway. From the airport, you can rent a car or travel to Genoa’s main train stations and take a regional train to Rapallo.
