Located on the world-famous Italian Riviera overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Rapallo is a historic municipality that has inspired numerous poets with its centuries-old castle, bustling piazzas and atmospheric harbour. Rapallo is blessed with numerous fascinating museums, waterfront restaurants, a peaceful park and nearby monuments.
Things to do in Rapallo
Don’t miss seeing the iconic Castle of Rapallo, which was built in the 16th-century and occupies a prime position overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Combine it with a drive out to Castello Brown, a 16th-century castle museum home to beautiful artwork, antiques and gardens.
Time your visit to Rapallo for the Thursday market in Piazza Cile, when numerous local stallholders set up shops selling trinkets, fresh produce, handmade goods and souvenirs. You can visit the historic Chiosco della Musica on any day of the week to admire the centuries-old pagoda and visit the surrounding coffee shops.
Keen scuba divers should venture south of Rapallo to dive 17 metres below the surface of the Mediterranean Sea to marvel at the bronze Christ of the Abyss statue. If you prefer to stay on land, take a day trip out to the beautiful Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro, a shrine built in the mid-1500s that can be accessed by cable car or walking an old mule trail.
Soak up the picturesque waterfront in Rapallo while indulging in Italian treats, such as gelato from Frigidarium. You can also enjoy cocktails and late-night Italian cuisine at Gran Caffè Rapallo or visit Taverna Azzurra Rapallo for outdoor seating.
Getting around Rapallo
Rapallo is best reached by catching a fast inner-city train to Rapallo train station from Genoa, which has international and domestic flights at Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport. You can explore Rapallo easily on foot and use trains, buses or a hired vehicle to venture further afield.