The port town of Rapallo is in the Liguria region of northwest Italy, in the Tigullio Gulf next to Portofino and Santa Margherita. It is the largest seaside resort town in the Italian Riviera. The picturesque castle in the sea guards the small harbor and the seaside promenade is cheerfully busy with families.
The pedestrian-only shopping streets in the historic center and the good seafood restaurants of Rapallo attract hordes of visitors.
It makes a good base to visit the other parts of the Italian Riviera as it is well connected with the nearby towns. Visitors should not miss the funicular ride up the hill to Montallegro.
A Little Bit Of History
The coastline of of this area was used by early Phoenician, Greek and Roman traders, but there was no permanent settlement until the Middle Ages.
Castello sul Mare, Rapallo
The town itself was constantly raided by pirates and it was nearly burned to the ground in 1549. As a result, the coastal castle was built in 1551.
The port town was an independent commune until 1229 when it became a part of Genoa. At the end of the 18th century it was taken in by the House of Savoy and later it was united with Italy.
The Castle of Rapallo
The town has been used for numerous conferences and peace accords. The Anglo-Franco-Italian Conference was held here during the World War I in 1917.
The Treaty of Rapallo was signed between Italy and Yugoslavia in 1920 and the Russian-German Treaty of Rapallo was signed here in 1922.
Festa dell’ Apparizione della Vergine is the most important festival here, and it is celebrated in Montallegro. A procession from the town goes up the hill to the church.
The Festival Il Palco Sul Mare is the festival of wave and wine that is devoted to music. Sometimes sailing regattas are held in the gulf.
Small weekend festivals, outdoor markets and concerts are held throughout the year.
Where is Rapallo?
- 19.8 miles/ 32 km from Genoa, Italy
- 95.6 miles/ 154 km from Livorno, Italy
- 101.2 miles/ 163 km from Milan, Italy
- 128 miles/ 206 km from Florence, Italy
- 128.6 miles/ 207 km from Monte Carlo, Monaco
- 137.3 miles/ 221 km from Nice, France
- 24.2 miles/ 39 km from Genoa Airport, Italy
- 127.3 miles/ 205 km from Milan-Malpensa Airport, Italy
- 108.1 miles/ 174 km from Milan Linate Airport, Italy
- 137.9 miles/ 222 km from Milan Bergamo Airport, Italy
Things to See
Port of Rapallo
- The Castle
- Historical Center
- Basilica
- Church of Saint Francis
- Lace Museum
- Municipal Tower
- Funivia Ride
- Gaffoglio Museum
- Seaside Promenade
Beaches
- San Michele di Pagana
- Paraggi Beach
- Santa Margherita
Excursions
- Portofino
- Santa Margherita and Lavagna
- Hiking
- The Sanctuary
Enjoy Rapallo at your own pace.
The medieval town is less known but it has retained its character, and you are sure to find something memorable.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
