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Lungomare Castello, 16038 Rapallo, Italy (September 2018)
Rapallo
Rapallo, a picturesque town situated along the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region, offers an enchanting mix of historical charm, seaside beauty, and cultural vibrancy. Located between Genoa and the glamorous towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo is often considered the gateway to the Tigullio Gulf. It has long attracted visitors seeking the quintessential Mediterranean experience, with its lush hills, colourful harbour, and elegant promenade. Rapallo, less crowded than some of its more famous neighbour’s, offers visitors a more tranquil and authentic taste of Ligurian life. With a history that stretches back over two thousand years, Rapallo has played an important role in the region since Roman times. Its strategic location along the coast made it a valuable settlement for maritime trade and defence throughout the centuries. Over the years, it has been ruled by various powers, including the Byzantines, Lombards, and Genoese. This rich history is evident in the town’s architecture and landmarks, where a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles tells the story of its past. One of the most striking symbols of Rapallo is the Castello sul Mare, (Castle on the Sea), a 16th-century fortress that stands guard over the harbour. Built in 1551 to defend the town against pirate raids, the castle is a reminder of Rapallo’s historical significance as a maritime stronghold. Today, it hosts exhibitions and events and provides visitors with stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. Along with the castle, the Basilica of Santi Gervasio e Protasio, with its impressive Baroque interior, and the Chiesa di San Francesco, a Gothic-style church, offer further insights into Rapallo’s artistic and religious heritage.
Beyond its historical attractions, Rapallo is renowned for its beautiful waterfront and lively atmosphere. The town’s Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, a palm-lined promenade that stretches along the coastline, is the heart of Rapallo’s social life. Locals and visitors alike stroll along the promenade, enjoying views of the sparkling sea and the boats bobbing in the harbour. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and gelaterias, it’s the perfect place to savour Ligurian cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, pesto, and focaccia. The promenade is also a focal point for events and festivals, particularly during the summer months when the town comes alive with music, markets, and fireworks. Rapallo is also a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The hills that rise behind the town are crisscrossed with hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the coast and the Mediterranean. One of the most popular excursions is the cable car ride to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro, a 16th-century pilgrimage site perched high above the town. From here, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Rapallo, the Gulf of Tigullio, and the verdant hills that stretch inland. The sanctuary itself is an important spiritual site, known for its beautiful frescoes and peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Rapallo is a haven for those seeking wellness and relaxation. The town has long been known for its thermal baths and spas, offering treatments that draw on the therapeutic properties of the local mineral waters. This tradition of wellness continues today, with visitors enjoying a range of spa services that complement the town’s serene atmosphere. Rapallo’s proximity to other famous Ligurian destinations, such as Portofino and the Cinque Terre, makes it an ideal base for exploring the Italian Riviera. Regular ferries and trains connect the town to nearby coastal gems, allowing visitors to discover the region’s other charming towns and breathtaking landscapes with ease. Rapallo is a blend of history, beauty, and leisure, offering a laid-back yet culturally rich experience on the Italian Riviera. Whether you’re wandering its historic streets, relaxing by the sea, or exploring the nearby hills, Rapallo provides the perfect setting for a memorable Italian getaway. Its welcoming charm and spectacular setting make it a hidden treasure along the Ligurian coast
Worth a Visit
Lungomare Castello in Rapallo, Italy, is a charming seaside promenade that beautifully captures the essence of the Ligurian Riviera. Located in the heart of Rapallo, along the Gulf of Tigullio, it stretches beside the sparkling Mediterranean waters and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and coastline. The promenade takes its name from the historic Castello sul Mare, a 16th-century seaside castle built as a defense against pirate attacks. Today, the castle stands as a picturesque landmark, often hosting exhibitions and cultural events. Walking along Lungomare Castello, visitors enjoy a mix of elegant cafés, restaurants, and palm-lined pathways that create a relaxing atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, sunset views, or simply soaking in the maritime charm of Rapallo. Easily accessible and central, Lungomare Castello embodies the town’s unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Lungomare Vittorio Veneto in Rapallo, Italy, is one of the most scenic promenades along the Ligurian Riviera. Stretching across the seafront of the Gulf of Tigullio, it is a lively, elegant walkway lined with palm trees, colorful buildings, and inviting cafés. This promenade is the beating heart of Rapallo, where visitors and locals alike gather to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere. From here, the views are breathtaking: the turquoise waters dotted with boats, the green hills in the background, and the historic Castello sul Mare at one end. Along the Lungomare, you will also find a variety of restaurants and gelaterias, perfect for sampling Ligurian cuisine while overlooking the sea. Whether you come for a morning stroll, an afternoon coffee, or to watch the sun set over the bay, Lungomare Vittorio Veneto offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and coastal charm that defines Rapallo.
The Chiosco della Musica in Rapallo, Italy, is one of the town’s most distinctive landmarks and a symbol of its rich cultural life. Built in the early 20th century, this elegant bandstand stands proudly along the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, surrounded by palm trees and the beautiful backdrop of the Gulf of Tigullio. Its refined architecture, with decorative columns and painted ceilings, reflects the Belle Époque style, a period when Rapallo was a favorite destination for European nobility and artists. The Chiosco was originally designed as a venue for concerts and public gatherings, and it continues to host musical performances, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. For visitors, it is both a striking monument and a reminder of Rapallo’s artistic heritage. Whether admired during a seaside walk or enjoyed as part of a live event, the Chiosco della Musica perfectly embodies the town’s charm and timeless elegance.
Piazza IV Novembre in Rapallo, Italy, is a lively square that captures the spirit of this coastal town on the Ligurian Riviera. Located just a short walk from the seafront and the marina, the square serves as a central meeting place for both locals and visitors. It is surrounded by colorful buildings, cafés, and shops that create a welcoming atmosphere where people gather for coffee, conversation, and daily life. The square is often animated with markets, small events, and the rhythm of the town, making it a perfect spot to experience Rapallo’s authentic charm. From Piazza IV Novembre, it is easy to explore nearby landmarks such as Lungomare Vittorio Veneto and the Chiosco della Musica. Whether you stop here to relax on a bench, enjoy local flavors, or simply watch the world go by, Piazza IV Novembre offers a genuine taste of Rapallo’s vibrant social and cultural scene.
Photo Gallery of Walk in Rapallo – Via Avenaggi to Via Langano
Approximately 1.70 km – 01.06 miles
The walk starts in Via Avenaggi – Via Paolo Zunino – Piazza Giovanni Battista Pastene – Via S. Francesco d’Assisi – Via Milite Ignoto – Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi – Lungomare Castello – Piazzetta Giovanni da Vico – Lungomare Vittorio Veneto – Piazza Martiri per la Libertà – Lungomare Vittorio Veneto – Via Antonio Gramsci – Via Fratelli Cairoli – Via Marsala – Via Giuseppe Mazzini – Piazza Cavour – Walk back to Via Antonio Gramsci – Piazza 4 Novembre – Via Marco Polo – Via Dante Alighieri – Via Langano
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