Rapallo holidays

How to reach Rapallo

Flight time: Flights to Rapallo involve landing at nearby Genoa, which is situated roughly 30km away. Flying direct to Genoa from London typically takes 2 hours, while other UK airports require a connecting flight.

Transfer time:

• From Genoa Airport, it takes around 40 minutes to drive to Rapallo by car or taxi.

• You can also easily reach the town via public transport. Take the bus from the airport to Genoa’s second-largest main station, Genova Brignole, then catch an onward train to Rapallo. This journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes in total.

Price:

• A taxi from Genoa Airport to Rapallo costs approximately €60.

• If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, the combination of bus and train will set you back around €10.

Best time to visit Rapallo

Rapallo’s position on the Italian Riviera makes it a fantastic destination at any time of year. Each season brings its own unique charm, so here’s a handy guide to help you plan:

• March to May marks the arrival of spring in Rapallo. Flowers burst into bloom and you can expect 6–9 hours of daily sunshine. With pleasant temperatures ranging from 14°C to 20°C, it’s a wonderful time for exploring the town and its surroundings.

• June to August is high season, so expect your holidays to Rapallo to consist of warm, sunny days perfect for seaside relaxation. Temperatures sit somewhere between 25°C and 30°C, with up to 12 hours of daily sunshine and minimal rain. This is when Rapallo really buzzes with life, but expect it to be busy.

• September to November offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Days are still warm, with temperatures gradually dropping from 20°C in September to 15°C by November. You’ll find your days a mix of sunny spells and the occasional autumn shower.

• December to February is Rapallo’s low season, but don’t let that stop you from visiting, as the town still makes for an appealing winter getaway. Daily temperatures hover around 8°C to 12°C, with 3–6 hours of sunshine. This period is a great opportunity to see Rapallo’s indoor sights and experience its culinary delights without the crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the primary language, but you’ll find that English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, using some basic Italian phrases, like “grazie” (thank you) and “buongiorno” (good morning), is always appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: Italians value politeness, so remember to greet people as you enter shops, cafés and restaurants. The pace of life is also slower, so expect to dine later than usual and to take your time over meals. Dinner often starts at 7:30 pm or later and can go on for most of the evening.

• Currency: The Euro is used in Italy. ATMs are readily available in Rapallo, and most places accept major cards, but it’s handy to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: While Rapallo is compact and easy to explore on foot, there are plenty of public transport options if you want to venture further afield. Local buses cost around €1.50 per ride, while trains will connect you to nearby towns like Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino from just €2. You’ll also find ferries operating along the Ligurian coast on a seasonal schedule.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses 230 volts with two-round-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Rapallo is on Central European Time (CET), which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Rapallo

Rapallo is a picturesque town nestled on Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast. Whether you’re after historic landmarks, panoramic views or laid-back seaside charm, holidays to Rapallo promise an almost endless choice of unforgettable experiences.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Sanctuary of Montallegro: Accessible by cable car, this hilltop sanctuary offers sweeping views of Rapallo and the Ligurian coastline beyond. The ride itself is a wonderfully scenic experience, and the vistas from the terraces around the sanctuary are spectacular.

• Lungomare Vittorio Veneto: Rapallo’s seafront promenade provides picturesque views of the Gulf of Tigullio, framed by colourful buildings and wooden fishing boats bobbing on the water. Take a stroll here at sunset for an unforgettable experience.

Parks and gardens

• Parco Casale (Casale Park): This peaceful park is perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic. Its lush greenery and shaded benches make it an inviting escape from the intense summer sun.

• Villa Tigullio Gardens: Situated right on the coastline, these gardens provide a lovely spot to unwind among exotic plants while listening to the calming sound of waves nearby.

Historical monuments

• Castello sul Mare (Rapallo Castle): Rapallo’s seaside castle dates back to the 16th century, when it was built to defend the town from pirate attacks. It now stands as an iconic waterfront landmark.

• Basilica of Saints Gervasius and Protasius: This basilica in the heart of the town dates back to the medieval period but has been remodelled multiple times over the centuries. Today it showcases a striking Gothic-Romanesque exterior, with its bell tower being a prominent feature of Rapallo’s skyline.

• Porta delle Saline (Saline Gate): The only survivor of the five gates that once stood in Rapallo’s medieval walls. It’s a subtle yet significant nod to the town’s rich history.

Day trips in the area

• Portofino: Located a short ferry or bus ride away, this glamorous town is a must-see for its pastel-painted buildings, high-end boutiques and harbour.

• Cinque Terre: Easily reachable by train, the five cliffside villages of Cinque Terre are famed for their colourful houses, hiking trails and dramatic sea views.

• Santa Margherita Ligure: A lively neighbouring town with elegant villas, a bustling marina and excellent seafood restaurants.

Activities for families in Rapallo

Rapallo holidays are a fantastic choice for families, with plenty of diverse attractions to keep kids entertained while adults soak up the scenery.

• Lungomare Vittorio Veneto: Kids will love exploring the promenade, with its enticing gelaterias and safe beaches where they can paddle or play.

• Water sports: The calm waters of the Gulf of Tigullio are perfect for families wanting to try out water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Equipment rentals are readily available, or you can join a guided snorkelling tour and get to know the local marine life.

• Parco Casale (Casale Park): This park has plenty of open space for children to run around, plus playground areas and shaded spots for parents.

• Altum Park: If you fancy an active afternoon with the family, head to this adventure park situated in San Desiderio, just outside Genoa. It has tree-top rope courses, zip lines and plenty of other outdoor challenges.

• Cycling: Rapallo is well-connected to a network of coastal and inland cycling routes – and you can easily rent bikes from various places within the town. The flat promenade is ideal for younger riders, while the Ligurian hills offer more challenging routes for seasoned cyclists.

• Ferry trips: A ferry ride along the Ligurian coast is both a fun and scenic way for families to see Rapallo from a different perspective and explore neighbouring towns like Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino. If you’re after a particularly magical family experience, join a sunset cruise.

Free things to do in Rapallo

The Italian Riviera may be known for its luxury, but holidays to Rapallo needn’t blow the budget. Here are just some of the free and low-cost ways to make the most of its scenic beauty and vibrant culture:

• Free events: During the summer months, Rapallo hosts free concerts and open-air cinema screenings along the promenade. The spectacular free fireworks display that takes place during the annual Feast of Our Lady of Montallegro celebration is an event not to be missed if you’re in Rapallo in early July.

• Lungomare Vittorio Veneto: The seaside promenade is free to enjoy, offering beautiful views, a relaxed atmosphere and some fresh sea air. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Churches: Many of Rapallo’s historic churches, like the Basilica of Saints Gervasius and Protasius, are open to the public, so you can admire their ornate interiors at no cost.

• Explore by public transport: For a small fare you can hop on a local train to explore nearby towns like Camogli or Chiavari. The journey itself is a visual feast.

Food and drink in Rapallo

With its enviable position on Italy’s Ligurian coast, visiting Rapallo provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in some fresh, tasty seafood. Not tempted? The town will still delight you with its mix of traditional Italian fare, enticing sweet treats and local wines.

Some typical dishes

• Trofie al Pesto: This local dish, made with hand-rolled trofie pasta and fragrant basil pesto, is a regional signature.

• Farinata: A savoury pancake made using chickpea flour that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. It’s a great thing to grab if you need a snack on the go.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Acciughe Ripiene: Stuffed anchovies, baked or fried, are a popular appetiser in Rapallo.

• Cacciucco: A hearty seafood stew featuring fresh fish and shellfish in a tomato-based broth, typically served with crusty bread.

Meat dishes

• Coniglio alla Ligure: Rabbit cooked Ligurian-style with olives, pine nuts, rosemary and white wine.

• Pollo alla Diavola: Spicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs and chilli peppers, offering a flavourful kick.

Sweets and desserts

• Pandolce Genovese: A traditional cake from nearby Genoa, baked to a bread-like texture and packed with raisins and pine nuts. This sweet treat is typically enjoyed at Christmas.

• Gelato al Limone: If you fancy something lighter, this lemon gelato made from the area’s famed citrus fruits is a cool and refreshing choice.

Local drinks

• Vermentino: This crisp Ligurian white wine is perfect for pairing with seafood dishes.

• Limoncello: A zesty liqueur made from locally-grown lemons: the ideal way to end a meal.

• Chinotto: A unique, bittersweet soda made from myrtle-leaved orange. It’s a refreshing and slightly different non-alcoholic option if you simply need to quench your thirst.