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VIa Pilade Queirolo, 16039 Sestri Levante GE, Italy (May 2022)
Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante is a small coastal town on the Ligurian Riviera that seems to gather everything people imagine when they think of Italy by the sea: pastel-coloured houses, fishing boats rocking gently in the harbour, narrow streets filled with cafés, and a rhythm of life shaped by sun and salt air. Positioned between the larger destinations of Genoa and the Cinque Terre, Sestri Levante has long been a place of passage, but it retains a character that feels intimate and distinctly its own.
What immediately sets Sestri Levante apart is its extraordinary geography. The historic center sits on a narrow peninsula extending into the Ligurian Sea, creating two contrasting bays on either side. To the east lies the Baia del Silenzio, or Bay of Silence, a crescent-shaped beach framed by traditional Ligurian houses painted in soft yellows, pinks, and ochres. The water here is calm and luminous, especially in the early morning when the town is quiet and the name feels entirely deserved. On the opposite side is the Baia delle Favole, the Bay of Fables, larger and more open, named in honour of Hans Christian Andersen, who spent time in Sestri Levante and found inspiration in its scenery.
The town’s history stretches back to ancient times, shaped by maritime trade and centuries of shifting rule. Traces of this past can still be seen in the old town’s architecture: stone archways, small chapels, and the remnants of defensive walls that once protected the peninsula. Despite its historical depth, Sestri Levante never feels weighed down by its past. Instead, history blends naturally into daily life, where locals greet one another in the piazza and fishermen mend nets beside modern sailboats.
Life in Sestri Levante follows the gentle cadence typical of Liguria. Mornings begin with espresso at neighbourhood bars, afternoons slow under the warmth of the sun, and evenings invite long walks along the promenade. Food plays a central role, with Ligurian cuisine at its heart: fresh seafood, delicate focaccia, trofie pasta with fragrant pesto, and simple dishes elevated by high-quality olive oil. Restaurants range from family-run trattorias to seaside terraces where dinner unfolds to the sound of waves.
Beyond the town itself, Sestri Levante serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. Coastal trails offer sweeping views of the sea, while nearby villages and hills reveal vineyards, olive groves, and quiet sanctuaries away from the crowds. Trains connect easily to iconic destinations, yet returning to Sestri Levante feels like coming home to something calmer and more personal.
Worth a Visit
Parrocchia di San Bartolomeo della Ginestra is a historic parish church located in Piazza della Chiesa di San Bartolomeo, in the charming coastal town of Sestri Levante, Italy. This church, dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, has been a central point of faith and community life for centuries. Its architecture reflects traditional Ligurian style, with elegant lines and a welcoming atmosphere that invites both prayer and reflection. Inside, visitors can admire religious artworks, sacred furnishings, and an intimate environment that speaks of devotion and history. The parish plays an active role in the spiritual and cultural life of the town, organizing liturgical celebrations, community gatherings, and charitable activities. Positioned in a picturesque square surrounded by local life, the church is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of tradition and continuity. It remains a treasured landmark for residents and a meaningful stop for visitors exploring Sestri Levante.
Piazza Repubblica is one of the central squares of Sestri Levante, a lively coastal town on the Italian Riviera. Surrounded by shops, cafés, and local businesses, the square serves as a natural meeting point for residents and visitors alike. Its open space and welcoming atmosphere make it a hub of daily life, where people gather for markets, events, or simply to enjoy a stroll. Piazza Repubblica reflects the spirit of modern Sestri Levante, combining convenience with a sense of community. It is often used as a venue for cultural activities, seasonal festivals, and social occasions that bring the town together. Its location also makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions, from historic churches to scenic promenades along the sea. Whether for shopping, relaxation, or experiencing local traditions, Piazza Repubblica represents the vibrant heart of everyday life in Sestri Levante.
Via XXV Aprile is one of the most charming and lively streets in Sestri Levante, a picturesque town on the Ligurian Riviera. Stretching through the historic center, this elegant pedestrian street is lined with colorful buildings, boutiques, artisan shops, and inviting cafés. It is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors, offering the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely stroll, shopping, or tasting local delicacies. The street is named in honor of April 25th, Italy’s Liberation Day, reflecting its cultural and historical significance. Walking along Via XXV Aprile, one can enjoy the unique blend of history and modern life, where traditional Ligurian character meets contemporary style. The street leads toward the enchanting Baia del Silenzio and other key attractions of Sestri Levante, making it an essential part of any visit. With its lively yet relaxed ambiance, Via XXV Aprile captures the essence of this beautiful coastal town.
The Basilica of Santa Maria of Nazareth, located in Piazza Giacomo Matteotti in Sestri Levante, is one of the town’s most important religious landmarks. Built in the early 17th century, the basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and reflects the deep devotion of the local community. Its striking Baroque façade and elegant bell tower immediately capture attention, while the interior reveals an atmosphere of grandeur and reverence. Visitors can admire ornate altars, detailed frescoes, and works of sacred art that highlight the church’s historical and artistic value. The basilica not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cultural and architectural treasure, representing centuries of faith and tradition in Sestri Levante. Located in a lively square at the heart of the town, it remains a spiritual reference point for residents and a must-see for visitors wishing to explore the rich heritage of the Ligurian coast.
Giardini Pubblici Mariele Ventre, located along Viale XX Settembre in Sestri Levante, is a welcoming green space where residents and visitors can enjoy moments of relaxation and leisure. Dedicated to Mariele Ventre, the beloved founder of the famous Piccolo Coro dell’Antoniano children’s choir, the gardens honor her legacy of joy and community spirit. This public park offers a peaceful setting with shaded areas, walking paths, benches, and play spaces, making it ideal for families, children, and anyone looking for a quiet retreat. Its central location ensures easy access from the town’s main streets and nearby attractions, while its open and friendly atmosphere reflects the character of Sestri Levante itself. The gardens often serve as a gathering spot for social life, offering a place to pause, read, or simply enjoy the surrounding beauty. Giardini Pubblici Mariele Ventre stands as a symbol of harmony, relaxation, and shared community values.
Photo Gallery of Walk 1 – Via S. Michele to Loggia Amblingh
Approximately 1.23 km – 0.76 miles
The walk starts in Via S. Michele – Parco Villa Comunale, Viale Rimembranza – Viale Rimembranza – Piazza Guglielmo Marconi – Via Tre Segni – walk back to Piazza Guglielmo Marconi – Municipal Market Hall of Santa Chiara, Piazza Santa Chiara – Via Sportello – Via Tripoli – Via Santa Maria – Chiesa Santa Maria Maggiore, Via Santa Maria – Via Santa Maria – Piazza del Tomolo – Via Catena – Porta Catena, Loggia Amblingh
Photo Gallery of Walk 2 – Piazza del Tomolo to Via Adriatica
Approximately 0.60 km – 0.37 miles
The walk starts in Piazza del Tomolo – Via Santa Maria – Via Giosia – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Cattedrale di San Giuseppe, Piazza L. V. Pudente – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Via Vescovado – Piazza L. V. Pudente – Piazza del Popolo – Via Adriatica
Photo Gallery of Walk 3 – Corso Dante Alighieri to Via Vittorio Veneto
Approximately 1.76 km – 1.09 miles
The walk starts in Corso Dante Alighieri – Via Palizzi – Via Aimone -walk back to Corso Dante Alighieri – Corso Plebiscito – Chiesa di Santa Maria Del Carmine, Via Vescovado – Via Valerico Laccetti – Via Giovanni Pascoli – Piazza Caprioli – Corso de Parma – Piazza Diomede – Piazza Barbacani – Piazza G. Rossetti – Corso Nuova Italia – Via Vittorio Veneto
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