Rapallo Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located on the picturesque Italian Riviera, Rapallo is a charming coastal town in the Liguria region of Italy. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, it is a popular tourist destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.
Rapallo is best known for its breathtaking waterfront, lined with palm trees and elegant villas. The town's main promenade, Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, offers stunning views of the sparkling Ligurian Sea and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a romantic sunset walk. Along the promenade, visitors can find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants where they can indulge in delicious local cuisine while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
One of the highlights of Rapallo is its historic old town, which is a maze of narrow, winding streets and charming squares. Here, visitors can admire the medieval architecture, browse the local shops for souvenirs, or stop by one of the many gelaterias for a refreshing treat. The Basilica of St. Gervasius and Protasius, with its distinctive black and white facade, is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
For those seeking adventure, Rapallo offers a range of outdoor activities. The nearby Portofino Natural Park is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush greenery, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Visitors can also explore the underwater world by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Marine Protected Area of Portofino, where they can discover colorful marine life and hidden coves.
Rapallo is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The world-famous Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque fishing villages perched on the cliffs, is just a short train ride away. Visitors can also take a boat trip to the stunning Portofino, a glamorous resort town known for its luxury yachts, high-end boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Rapallo Attractions - What to See and Explore
Rapallo offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro, Villa Pagana, Bagni Tigullio Rapallo, Museo del Merletto. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Rapallo – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Rapallo, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Acquario di Genova (Genoa), Cowboyland, Galata Museo del Mare (Genoa).
Best Time To Visit Rapallo
Learn when is the best time to travel to Rapallo weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience Rapallo
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Pizza
Pizza is a savory dish of Italian origin consisting of a usually round, flattened base of leavened wheat-based dough topped with tomatoes, cheese, and often various other ingredients which...
Dish
Pasta
Pasta is the Italian designation or name given to a type of starchy noodle or dumpling food or dish typically made from grain flour, commonly wheat, mixed into a paste or dough, usually...
Food
Ravioli
Ravioli are a type of pasta comprising a filling enveloped in thin pasta dough. Usually served in broth or with a sauce, they originated as a traditional food in Italian cuisine.
Pasta
Antipasto
Antipasto is the traditional first course of a formal Italian meal. Typical ingredients of a traditional antipasto include cured meats, olives, peperoncini, mushrooms, anchovies, artichoke...
First course
Risotto
Risotto is a northern Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a creamy consistency. The broth can be derived from meat, fish, or vegetables. Many types of risotto contain...
Dish
Liguria