Lerici(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

The best neighborhoods to stay in Rapallo are Centro Storico and Punta Chiappa, both offering panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. Stay at Hotel Belmonte, a historic seaside boutique hotel with sea-view balconies and easy access to Rapallo Harbour and the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Alternatively, Villa Albergo in Punta Chiappa provides private gardens, a sauna, and sweeping coastal vistas. Both areas are within walking distance of art galleries, waterfront restaurants, and scenic hiking trails along the Cinque Terre Coast.

For families, Hotel Windsor in Centro Storico Rapallo is ideal, featuring spacious family rooms with separate living areas, baby beds, and an indoor playroom. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Lipara Beach, a child-friendly stretch of sand with shallow waters. Nearby, Rapallo Harbour offers boat rentals and seafood markets perfect for family outings. The hotel also provides guided family tours of the historic center and nearby Santa Maria Assunta Church, blending culture and comfort for all ages.

Visitors to Rapallo should not miss the Festival della Costa, held annually in summer at Piazza Santa Maria Assunta, showcasing local folk and jazz music. Join a hands-on ceramic workshop in the old artisan district, where master potters teach traditional hand-painted pottery techniques. For nature lovers, the Black Rock Trail Tour offers scenic hikes along the Ligurian Sea cliffs, revealing 16th-century fortifications and wild lavender fields. These immersive experiences highlight Rapallo’s artistic heritage, maritime history, and deep connection to the landscape.

For a romantic escape, Hotel Belmonte stands out with its sea-view suites featuring private terraces and champagne fridges. Enjoy a couples’ dinner on the balcony under the stars, paired with live violin music. Book a private beachside massage at their secluded pavilion for a soothing aromatherapy experience. Located just a 7-minute walk from Rapallo Harbour, the hotel offers easy access to sunset cruises and moonlit strolls along the coast—perfect for creating unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the Ligurian Sea.

Must-try dishes in Rapallo include Risotto ai Frutti di Mare at Ristorante Maximo, made with fresh lobster, mussels, and sea bass caught daily. Try Calamari Fritti—crispy fried squid served with lemon and basil sauce—and Vanilla Gelato from century-old Pasticceria Pama. Don’t miss the Mediterranean Fisherman’s Breakfast at a harbor-side stall: fresh bread, olive oil, and smoked anchovies. These flavors reflect Rapallo’s coastal identity, combining rich seafood traditions with simple, authentic ingredients enjoyed by locals every morning.

Key historical sites in Rapallo include Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, a 13th-century church housing Renaissance frescoes and intricate wood carvings. The Porta Vecchia, a medieval city gate, now serves as a small museum displaying artifacts from Rapallo’s military and trade past. Palazzo Balbo, once a noble residence, hosts rotating art exhibitions and classical concerts. These landmarks reflect the town’s layered history, from maritime defense to cultural patronage, offering visitors a deep dive into Ligurian heritage and architectural elegance.