Recco
|
Latest page update: 25 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Recco
Recco has a modest but well-established hotel offering, supported by its coastal setting and reputation for food tourism — particularly its famous focaccia col formaggio. Most accommodation sits close to the seafront or within easy reach of the town centre, giving visitors access to restaurants, beaches and transport links for exploring the Riviera di Levante. The best-reviewed hotels focus on comfort, convenience and welcoming hospitality.
Among the leading options, Hotel La Villa Manuelina stands out for its comfortable rooms, well-regarded on-site dining and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Elena, overlooking the bay, provides a more traditional Riviera setting with sea views, friendly service and steady satisfaction for both comfort and location (€€€). For a simpler stay, Hotel La Giara offers clean, well-kept rooms and reliable value with easy access to the town’s amenities and waterfront (€€).
Among the leading options, Hotel La Villa Manuelina stands out for its comfortable rooms, well-regarded on-site dining and consistently positive guest feedback (€€€). Hotel Elena, overlooking the bay, provides a more traditional Riviera setting with sea views, friendly service and steady satisfaction for both comfort and location (€€€). For a simpler stay, Hotel La Giara offers clean, well-kept rooms and reliable value with easy access to the town’s amenities and waterfront (€€).
Where is
Where is Recco?
|
The seaside town of Recco is situated on the Riviera di Levante in the Province of Genoa.
It has a population of 9,632 inhabitants and is located 18 kilometres east of Genoa, the regional capital of Liguria. The town has 3 hotels while nearby places of interest include Camogli, Sori, Bogliasco, Rapallo, Portofino and Zoagli. |
|
Comune di Recco
What People Ask About Recco, Liguria
Is Recco worth visiting?
What are the main attractions in Recco?
How do I get to Recco?
What is Recco known for?
When is the best time to visit Recco?
Related links
Discover
Discover Recco
Recco is located on the Gulf of Paradise, between Camogli and Sori, a short distance from Genoa. The town is set in a small bay where the Recco stream flows into the sea, with a seafront promenade and pebble beaches forming its coastal character. Much of the centre was rebuilt after the Second World War, though older churches such as San Giovanni Battista remain important landmarks.
The town is especially known for its food heritage, particularly focaccia col formaggio, a Ligurian speciality that has gained national recognition. Recco also serves as a transport link for reaching nearby resorts, with rail and road connections along the Riviera di Levante. Its position makes it convenient for exploring both the Portofino Peninsula and the coastal stretch towards Genoa.
The town is especially known for its food heritage, particularly focaccia col formaggio, a Ligurian speciality that has gained national recognition. Recco also serves as a transport link for reaching nearby resorts, with rail and road connections along the Riviera di Levante. Its position makes it convenient for exploring both the Portofino Peninsula and the coastal stretch towards Genoa.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Recco
- Recco Beach and Promenade include both free and private areas along a sheltered stretch of coast. The beach is a mix of pebbles and dark sand, with swimming platforms and sea access ramps. The promenade behind the beach features cafés, benches, and seasonal events. It is easily accessible from the town centre.
- San Giovanni Battista Church stands close to the seafront and was rebuilt in the 1950s after wartime destruction. The modern structure features a large dome, marble interiors, and decorative mosaics. It is one of Recco’s main landmarks and remains active for services and religious festivals throughout the year.
- Focaccia di Recco Events are held annually to celebrate the town’s famous cheese-filled flatbread. The most well-known event takes place in late May or early June and includes tastings, food stalls, and live music. Many local bakeries also offer demonstrations during the celebration. The festival draws large crowds from across the region.
- Lungomare Bettolo is a pedestrian-friendly seafront area with wide walkways, sea views, and small green spaces. It connects the beach area with nearby residential streets and public squares. The walkway is a popular place for evening strolls and summer events, especially during local festivals.
- Santuario di Nostra Signora del Suffragio is located in the upper part of town and dates back to the 15th century. The sanctuary has a simple stone façade and an interior with paintings, votive offerings, and wooden furnishings. It remains a site of local devotion and is visited during processions and religious observances.
Tours and Activities
Recco Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Recco
- Manuelina: Widely credited with popularising focaccia col formaggio, Manuelina is a landmark restaurant in Recco. The menu features Ligurian specialities such as trofie al pesto, seafood risotto, and the iconic cheese-filled focaccia baked in a wood oven. The elegant setting and long tradition make it ideal for special occasions. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Da ö Vittorio: A long-established family-run restaurant close to the seafront, Da ö Vittorio is known for its relaxed atmosphere and high-quality local dishes. Highlights include pansoti with walnut sauce, grilled prawns, and handmade ravioli. Outdoor seating is available in fine weather. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Focacceria Tossini: Located near the main square, Tossini offers takeaway and sit-down options for focaccia col formaggio, along with other baked goods and snacks. It’s ideal for a quick lunch or light evening meal, especially if you want to try the local speciality on the go. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Ristorante Da Angelo: Set in the centre of town, Da Angelo provides a friendly atmosphere and a menu that combines Ligurian tradition with a few creative twists. Popular choices include fried calamari, fresh pasta with seafood, and local white wines. Suitable for both families and couples. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Del Ponte: Just a short walk from the train station, this casual eatery offers a wide range of wood-fired pizzas, salads, and simple pasta dishes. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a convenient choice for a laid-back dinner after a day at the beach. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Recco Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Recco
- Camogli (approx. 5 km west of Recco): A charming fishing village with colourful houses lining its seafront, Camogli is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, visit the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. The town offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and traditional Ligurian charm.
- Sori (approx. 7 km west of Recco): A small, peaceful coastal town, Sori is known for its stunning views and quiet beaches. The town offers a tranquil escape with its scenic seafront and charming local cafes. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline or explore the surrounding hills for beautiful panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea.
- Santa Margherita Ligure (approx. 10 km west of Recco): Known for its beautiful villas, lush parks, and elegant marina, Santa Margherita Ligure is a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and sophistication. The town offers a mix of traditional Ligurian charm and modern amenities, with scenic walks along the seafront and easy access to Portofino, just a short boat ride away.
- Genoa (approx. 20 km northeast of Recco): A historic city with a rich maritime heritage, Genoa offers a wealth of attractions, including the Palazzo Ducale, the Genoa Aquarium, and the Via Garibaldi. The city’s vibrant old town is full of narrow alleys, lively piazzas, and local restaurants, making it a great place to experience authentic Italian culture and history.
- Bogliasco (approx. 5 km east of Recco): A small, picturesque village on the Ligurian coast, Bogliasco is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. The town’s beach and scenic promenade provide a relaxing escape, and its charming streets are perfect for leisurely exploration. Bogliasco is ideal for those looking for a quieter alternative to the more tourist-heavy towns along the coast.
Liguria Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
1. Cinque Terre
2. Portofino
3. Sestri Levante
4. Camogli
5. Rapallo
6. Portovenere
7. Lerici
8. Santa Margherita Ligure
9. Genoa
10. Finalborgo
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Liguria
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Recco
By Rail: Recco has its own train station on the Genoa–La Spezia railway line, operated by Trenitalia. Regional trains run frequently, with journey times of around 30 minutes to Genoa and 1 hour to La Spezia. The station is located close to the centre of town, within walking distance of the seafront, restaurants, and the main piazza.
By Road: Recco is located on the Ligurian coast, approximately 20 kilometres east of Genoa. It can be reached via the A12 motorway, with the drive from Genoa taking about 25 minutes. From La Spezia, the journey takes roughly 1 hour. Public parking is available near the beach, in the town centre, and close to the train station.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Recco is located on the Ligurian coast, approximately 20 kilometres east of Genoa. It can be reached via the A12 motorway, with the drive from Genoa taking about 25 minutes. From La Spezia, the journey takes roughly 1 hour. Public parking is available near the beach, in the town centre, and close to the train station.
Nearest International Airports:
- Genoa Airport (Aeroporto di Genova Cristoforo Colombo): Located about 30 kilometres west of Recco, the drive takes around 35 minutes. The airport provides regular domestic and European services.
- Pisa Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa Galileo Galilei): Situated approximately 130 kilometres south-east, the journey takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes by car. It serves a wide network of international routes.
- Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Linate): Positioned roughly 170 kilometres north, with a drive time of around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Private Transfers
Recco Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Recco, providing direct service without the need for train or bus connections along the Ligurian coast. You’ll be collected from your chosen point and taken comfortably to your destination by a professional driver.
From Recco, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is about 35 km away, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. Pisa International Airport is roughly 140 km to the south, reached in about 1 hour 50 minutes, while Milan Malpensa Airport is around 190 km north, taking just over 2 hours 15 minutes. The city of Genoa can be reached in about 25 minutes, while Portofino is only 20 minutes away and La Spezia just over 1 hour.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Recco, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport is about 35 km away, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. Pisa International Airport is roughly 140 km to the south, reached in about 1 hour 50 minutes, while Milan Malpensa Airport is around 190 km north, taking just over 2 hours 15 minutes. The city of Genoa can be reached in about 25 minutes, while Portofino is only 20 minutes away and La Spezia just over 1 hour.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
