Rapallo is much more than just a beach destination or a seaside escape. With its prime location in the heart of the historic town center, guests staying at Giramondo Rapallo can easily explore the area’s top attractions. Nestled between the mountains and the deep blue waters of the Tigullio Gulf, Rapallo is the perfect place for culture enthusiasts, sea lovers, and hiking fans alike.
Watchtower at the entrance to the San Fruttuoso inlet
1 – From Rapallo to Portofino
The Rapallo seafront is less than 100 meters from Giramondo. One of its standout features is the old seaside castle—the Castello di Rapallo—a historic fortification that has quietly guarded the town’s coastline for nearly 500 years. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a number of beach clubs where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Heading in the direction of Santa Margherita Ligure, you’ll soon reach San Michele di Pagana, a charming seaside hamlet that’s part of Rapallo. This hidden gem is known for its colourful fishermen’s houses overlooking the bay. If you happen to be passing through on a warm day, don’t miss the chance to take a refreshing dip. The clearest waters in San Michele can be found along the rocky coastline stretching from Trelo Beach to Prelo.
Between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, you’ll come across even more spots perfect for a swim or simply to feast your eyes on breathtaking coastal beauty. Elegant Liberty-style villas—once owned (and still inhabited) by well-known personalities—were built here between the mid-1800s and early 1900s. Even today, you might spot a familiar face strolling along the scenic, flat road that leads to Portofino.
Once you arrive in Portofino’s iconic piazzetta, embrace the VIP atmosphere. Explore its elegant streets and hidden corners—but don’t forget that beyond the glitz, Portofino holds centuries of history. The town and its neighbouring villages grew from a life of terraced farming and the deep blue sea, where fishermen and small sailing boats once set off in search of fortune.
As with many high-profile tourist destinations, Portofino tends to be more expensive than other nearby towns. Don’t be surprised if a gelato or a coffee costs twice as much as it would elsewhere—but the experience is truly one of a kind.
View of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte, near Camogli
2 – Monte di Portofino and San Fruttuoso
Among the many natural wonders of Tigullio is the Portofino Mountain, a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The mountain offers a rich network of scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery. Since 1935, the Portofino Regional Park Authority has carefully protected this invaluable natural heritage, preserving its biodiversity from the impact of human activity and the pressures of modern development.
Within the Portofino Park, you’ll find over 80 km (50 miles) of hiking trails and footpaths. One of the most popular destinations is San Fruttuoso, home to a thousand-year-old abbey nestled in a secluded cove. This magical place can only be reached by sea or via hiking trails through the park.
It’s absolutely worth the effort—but be prepared. If you’re hiking in summer, be sure to bring plenty of water and a hat, as the sun can make the journey quite challenging.
3 – Sanctuary of Lady Mary of Montallegro
Perched on the hills above Rapallo, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro has watched over the local community for almost 500 years. Its long history makes it the region’s spiritual guardian.
There are two ways to reach the sanctuary. You can ride the Ligurian coast’s oldest cable car and enjoy breathtaking views on the way up. Or, if you prefer a walk, take one of the peaceful forest trails that wind their way to the top through the woods.
The Apparition of Our Lady of Montallegro at Giovanni Chichizzola4 – Genova
Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is a city of extraordinary layers and surprises. Its museums, grand palaces and historic churches stand in elegant contrast to the lively labyrinth of caruggi—the narrow alleyways that pulse with daily life. Once you’ve learned the main streets, it’s a joy to lose yourself among those shaded lanes, just as Fabrizio De André sang, “where the sun of the good Lord doesn’t shine,” and discover hidden squares, artisan workshops and family‑run cafés at every turn.
From Rapallo, a swift 45‑minute regional train whisks you straight into the heart of Genoa’s old town. Choose Genova Piazza Principe if you want to begin with the city’s maritime story: a short walk brings you to the Galata Museo del Mare, an interactive journey through Genoa’s relationship with the Mediterranean. Follow the revived galleys and submarines along the Porto Antico promenade until you reach the Aquarium of Genoa—the largest in Italy and one of the world’s top ten.
A stone’s throw away, the 13th‑century Palazzo San Giorgio once housed one of Europe’s earliest banks and, legend has it, even Marco Polo during his captivity. From there, make your way up to the striking black‑and‑white facade of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo before arriving at Piazza De Ferrari, the city’s vibrant main square. Crossing Piazza Fontane Marose, you’ll find Via Garibaldi—often called the “Street of Palaces”—where magnificent Renaissance and Baroque mansions open their doors to visitors during the Rolli festival. A little further on, Via Balbi leads you past historic university buildings to the Royal Palace, which became a Savoy residence after Genoa joined the new Italian state.
When it’s time to head back, you can simply retrace your steps downhill to Piazza Principe. Or, for a change of scenery, return via Piazza De Ferrari and stroll along Via XX Settembre—the city’s premier shopping artery—before boarding at Genova Brignole. Whichever route you choose, Genoa’s rich history, dramatic architecture and spirited street life will leave you with memories to treasure. For more practical tips and opening hours, visit www.visitgenoa.it.
How to ge there:
From Rapallo, catch a regional train to either Genova Brignole or Genova Piazza Principe. The trip takes about 45 minutes and drops you right into Genoa’s historic heart.
5 – Ligurian Cuisine
Of course, no trip to Liguria would be complete without sampling its mouthwatering cuisine.
The region’s “white art” shines in the aroma of freshly baked focaccia—whether classic, topped with onions, or laden with cheese—alongside crispy farinata and other local delights found in each neighbourhood bakery.
Nationally—and internationally—famed, pesto alla genovese remains the undisputed star; most local restaurants still follow the traditional recipe to the letter, even if the mortar has given way to an electric blender. And if you’ve never tried it—or simply want to relive that flavour—don’t miss the pansoti in salsa di noci (salsa di noci = waltnuts sauce): delicate stuffed pasta with creamy ricotta and tender spinach, all drenched in a silky walnut dressing.
With your taste buds tantalised, I won’t keep you from exploring this magical corner of nature, history, and hidden gems.
I wish you the very best for your stay in Rapallo and at Giramondo. Welcome!
For more on Tigullio’s traditions, itineraries, and insider tips, visit www.welcometigullio.it.
Warm regards,
Alberto Romano
Author of this guide and Director of Giramondo Rapallo—your perfect B&B for holidays in Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Portofino.