Top reasons to visit Rapallo
- Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Rapallo, where you can relax by the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore historic churches and the iconic Rapallo Castle, immersing yourself in the area's rich history.
- Charming Centro Storico: Wander through the delightful old town, featuring friendly locals and luxury boutiques for a unique shopping experience.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities and breathtaking coastal walks, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Gateway to Liguria: Use Rapallo as a base to discover enchanting nearby towns and stunning landscapes.
Find great hotels in Rapallo
Discover the charming accommodations of Rapallo, where a variety of options await to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you prefer a family-friendly hotel or a quaint bed and breakfast, Rapallo offers a delightful selection. With pet-friendly facilities and opportunities for adventure, you’ll find the perfect base for your Italian getaway. Explore the local hotels and read reviews to ensure your stay in this picturesque Ligurian town is nothing short of exceptional.
- Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast: This luxurious 5-star hotel offers an exquisite retreat for those seeking both beach and adventure experiences. With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, the Excelsior Palace Portofino Coast features direct beach access, allowing guests to indulge in sun-soaked relaxation. It boasts a range of adventure sports, including onsite scooter rentals and nearby hiking, biking, and horse riding opportunities. The property’s elegant design and attentive service provide a majestic backdrop for your Ligurian getaway, making it a preferred choice for discerning travellers.
- Best Western Plus Tigullio Royal Hotel: A stylish 4-star accommodation, this hotel is ideal for families and adventurers alike, also rated 9.4 out of 10 by guests. Located conveniently in Rapallo with direct beach access, it offers a variety of fun activities, such as sailing and kayaking nearby. Families will appreciate the child-friendly services, including babysitting and free cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for all ages. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere, combined with its thoughtful amenities, creates a welcoming environment for family vacations.
- Hotel Vesuvio: This charming 3-star hotel, also boasting a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, is perfect for those with a passion for golf and adventure. With direct access to the beach, guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including nearby fishing and hiking. The hotel’s golf-themed experiences are tailored for enthusiasts, offering an engaging stay for those looking to combine relaxation with sport. The warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations ensure visitors feel at home while exploring the scenic Ligurian coast.
Where to stay near Rapallo
Rapallo, nestled along the stunning Ligurian coast, offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation and rich cultural experiences. Wander through the charming centro storico, where friendly locals and luxury boutiques await. Nearby, discover picturesque towns and breathtaking coastal views, perfect for romantic getaways or family adventures. With its ideal location, Rapallo serves as a gateway to explore the enchanting Liguria region, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with history and natural beauty.
- Portofino: Nestled approximately 5km from Rapallo, Portofino is a picturesque coastal village renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. This charming city is a haven for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike. Visitors can indulge in leisurely strolls along the marina, enjoy a day at the family-friendly beach, or explore quaint shops and boutiques in the shopping centre. The peak season from June to August brings a lively buzz, whilst the quieter months of October to December allow for a more tranquil experience amid its scenic landscapes.
- Santa Margherita Ligure: Just 1.6km away from Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure is a delightful coastal town that offers a blend of relaxation and cultural experiences. This moderately seasonal destination attracts tourists primarily in April and from June to July, with its beautiful beaches and recreational areas drawing families and outdoor aficionados. The town boasts a vibrant shopping centre and a charming marina, providing ample opportunities for exploration and leisure. With family beaches and local attractions just a stone’s throw away, Santa Margherita Ligure is ideal for a leisurely day trip or a longer stay.
- Camogli: Located about 6km from Rapallo, Camogli is a quaint fishing village that exudes charm and warmth. Known for its stunning beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, this city is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and quality time with loved ones. The moderately seasonal visitor numbers peak in April and from June to July, making it a lively yet welcoming spot. With a range of outdoor activities and shopping options available, Camogli offers a unique blend of leisure and local culture, ensuring an enjoyable experience for every traveller.
Things to do in Rapallo
Shopping
In Rapallo, explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby Il Filo di Arianna in Chiavari for artisanal products or the Centro Commerciale “I Leudi” in Sestri Levante for a wider selection of shops.
Recreation
Explore the serene Terme di Rapallo, where you can indulge in rejuvenating thermal baths and soothing spa treatments amidst tranquil surroundings. For outdoor activities, stroll along the picturesque promenade or take a boat trip to nearby coves, offering a blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
Adventure
Explore the stunning coastline of the Tigullio Gulf by taking a kayaking adventure from Rapallo. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, admire picturesque cliffs, and discover hidden coves, all while enjoying the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
Embark on a thrilling hike along the trails of the Portofino Regional Park, where you can experience breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and lush landscapes. The trails offer a mix of challenging paths and scenic strolls for varying skill levels.
Experience the excitement of paragliding over the beautiful Ligurian coastline. Launching from the nearby hills, you’ll glide through the air, taking in panoramic views of the coastline and the charming town of Rapallo below.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Caffè Pasticceria, where you can enjoy exquisite cocktails while soaking in the coastal views. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nearby La Pignatta, offering traditional Italian dishes and local wines, perfect for an enjoyable evening with friends.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rapallo
To save money on your trip to Rapallo, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November when hotel prices are lower. Utilise public transport options like buses and trains for economical travel. Enjoy free attractions such as Paraggi Beach and San Fruttuoso Abbey. For accommodations, book approximately one month in advance and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most costly. Additionally, consider package deals that combine flights and hotels for further savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Rapallo is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Rapallo are January to February and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Rapallo about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rapallo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Rapallo is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you will be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel in Rapallo with your flights and activities.
Find the best attractions in Rapallo
Rapallo is an idyllic destination for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, historic churches, and the charming marina. A highlight of your visit could be the iconic Rapallo Castle, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. With a blend of cultural and nature experiences, Rapallo promises a delightful holiday for all types of travellers.
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro: Perched on a hill, this stunning church offers breathtaking views of Rapallo and the Ligurian Sea. The journey up the winding path is rewarding, enriched by the serene atmosphere and the exquisite frescoes within, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage.
- Museo Attilio & Cleofe Gaffoglio: This intriguing museum showcases a diverse collection of historical artefacts and artworks. Visitors can delve into the local history and appreciate the evolution of art in the region, all while enjoying the charming setting in the heart of Rapallo.
- Villa Tigullio: Set in a picturesque park, this art museum features captivating exhibitions that highlight both contemporary and classical works. The villa itself is an architectural gem, providing a lovely backdrop for leisurely strolls amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.
Best time to go to Rapallo
The best time to visit Rapallo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rapallo
Reaching Rapallo, Liguria is convenient via several major airports. Milan Malpensa International Airport (MXP) is situated 148km away, with excellent accommodation options like the 4-star Hotel Osteria della Pista, 5km from the airport, and the Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel, just 161m away. Milan LINate Airport (LIN), located 124km from Rapallo, offers luxury stays at the 5-star Tivoli President Milano Hotel, 6km away. Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) is 151km from Rapallo, featuring the 5-star Relais Chateaux Da Vittorio, 5km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport services to their nearby hotels.