Rapallo Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Rapallo
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Rapallo, nestled along the sparkling Ligurian coast, welcomes your family with palm-lined promenades and the gentle sound of waves along the Gulf of Tigullio. As you stroll the lively Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, you’ll find colorful gelaterias, playful fountains, and the iconic Rapallo Castle, which lights up at sunset and offers a magical backdrop for family photos. The town’s mild climate means you can enjoy outdoor cafes and leisurely walks year-round, making Rapallo a perfect destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Families love Rapallo’s easy access to the sea, where you can hop on a boat tour from the harbor to explore the dramatic coastline and hidden coves. The Santuario di Montallegro cable car whisks you up the hillside for panoramic views and gentle hiking trails that are great for kids. For a unique experience, join the Rapallo Cooking Class to learn how to make authentic Ligurian pesto together. Nearly 40% of visitors return to Rapallo for its friendly atmosphere and kid-friendly amenities, making it a trusted favorite for Italian family getaways.
Beyond the well-known attractions, Rapallo has hidden gems that delight curious travelers. Discover the ancient ruins of the Porta delle Saline or let your kids run free in Parco Casale, a green oasis with playgrounds and shady picnic spots. Don’t miss a family bike ride along the scenic cycle path to nearby Santa Margherita Ligure, passing fragrant lemon groves and peaceful beaches. Whether you’re exploring vibrant markets, sampling fresh focaccia, or relaxing by the sea, Rapallo offers a warm, welcoming escape for families looking to create lasting memories together.
Nearby cities
Santa Margherita Ligure
Discover Santa Margherita Ligure in Liguria Riviera Levante & Cinque Terre—where your family can stroll palm-lined promenades, play on sandy beaches, and savor gelato by the sea.
Camogli
Discover Camogli in Liguria Riviera Levante & Cinque Terre—colorful beach days, fresh seafood, gentle waves, and family strolls along the lively seaside promenade.
Zoagli
Discover Zoagli in Liguria Riviera Levante & Cinque Terre—crystal beaches, seaside strolls, and family picnics under the sun. Perfect for your next adventure!
Chiavari
Discover Chiavari in Liguria Riviera Levante & Cinque Terre—where your family can stroll sunlit beaches, explore lively markets, and play in lush seaside parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Rapallo has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Families visiting Rapallo, Italy, can embark on unforgettable outdoor adventures, from exploring the scenic Portofino Regional Park, where lush trails wind through Mediterranean forests to panoramic viewpoints, to enjoying boat excursions along the Ligurian coast, revealing hidden coves and the colorful village of Santa Margherita Ligure. The nearby Paraggi Beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the historic Castello sul Mare provides a captivating backdrop for leisurely seaside strolls and picnics.
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To plan a balanced itinerary in Rapallo, start your day exploring the vibrant waterfront promenade and the historic Castello sul Mare, then wander through the lively shops and cafes of Piazza Cavour. For outdoor adventure, take the scenic cable car up to Santuario di Montallegro for panoramic views and hiking trails through lush Ligurian hills. In the afternoon, relax at Parco Comunale Casale or enjoy a boat trip to the colorful fishing village of Portofino nearby.
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For families seeking spacious accommodations in Rapallo with outdoor space, consider booking a stay at the Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa, where family suites often feature private terraces overlooking the Ligurian Sea and lush gardens. Alternatively, many local villas and apartments, such as those near Parco Casale, offer private patios or garden areas, providing a relaxing setting for children to play and adults to unwind after exploring the charming waterfront and historic Castello sul Mare.
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For a memorable 3-day trip to Rapallo, start by strolling along the vibrant Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, where palm trees line the picturesque waterfront and cafés invite you to relax with Ligurian specialties. Visit Castello sul Mare, a striking 16th-century castle overlooking the bay, and admire the frescoes inside the Basilica dei Santi Gervasio e Protasio. Take a scenic boat ride to the enchanting Portofino or explore the lush trails of Parco Naturale Regionale di Portofino for breathtaking coastal views.
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In Rapallo, the cleanest and safest swimming areas can be found along the well-maintained Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, where the water is regularly monitored and the beaches are kept tidy. The Bagni Ariston and Bagni Lido facilities offer clear, calm waters, attentive lifeguards, and amenities like sunbeds and changing rooms. For a more scenic experience, Parco Comunale Casale provides a tranquil spot with lush greenery and easy access to the sea, making it ideal for families and swimmers seeking peace of mind.
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The closest ski resort to Rapallo is Santo Stefano d’Aveto, located in the Ligurian Apennines about an hour and a half by car. This charming mountain village offers slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers, surrounded by scenic forests and panoramic views of Monte Bue. After a day on the snow, you can enjoy local Ligurian cuisine in traditional trattorias, making it a perfect winter escape from the coastal ambiance of Rapallo.
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In Rapallo, visitors can expect to pay around 10 to 20 euros for entry to the Castello sul Mare, a picturesque seaside fortress, while a scenic boat tour to Portofino or San Fruttuoso typically ranges from 25 to 35 euros per person. Exploring the cable car up to the Sanctuary of Montallegro costs about 12 euros round-trip, offering breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast. Prices may vary slightly during peak tourist season, but these highlights remain affordable and memorable.
