Red carpet Rapallo-Portofino
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Coastal Walk Rapallo Santa Margherita

4.6
·491k reviews·Rapallo, Italy

Experience the breathtaking Italian Riviera with a scenic coastal walk connecting the charming towns of Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Red carpet Rapallo-Portofino

Coastal Walk Rapallo Santa Margherita

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the breathtaking Italian Riviera with a scenic coastal walk connecting the charming towns of Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Italian Riviera's charm unfolds on this stunning coastal walk, offering sea views and picturesque towns."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for the coastal path! Bring sturdy shoes for exploring the scenic routes and charming towns.

💰 Rapallo is Budget-Friendly

Rapallo offers a more affordable base than Portofino, with great food and easy access to nearby attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Scenic Coastal Path

The Scenic Coastal Path

Between Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure

A breathtaking walk with panoramic sea views, charming coves, and glimpses of colorful villages. Perfect for photos!

Rapallo's Harbor Charm

Rapallo's Harbor Charm

Rapallo

Explore the vibrant harbor, historic castle, and lively promenade of Rapallo. A great base for exploring the Riviera.

Santa Margherita Ligure's Elegance

Santa Margherita Ligure's Elegance

Santa Margherita Ligure

Wander through elegant streets, admire the colorful buildings, and enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere of this beautiful town.

Ferry to Portofino

Ferry to Portofino

From Rapallo or Santa Margherita Ligure

A short, scenic ferry ride to the iconic and glamorous village of Portofino. A must-do for the quintessential Riviera experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riviera Charm

Discover the stunning Italian Riviera by exploring the scenic coastal walk connecting Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure. This picturesque path offers breathtaking sea views and charming seaside towns, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more active hike. Plan your visit to soak in the authentic Ligurian atmosphere.

Beat the Crowds, Savor the Views

While Portofino draws the biggest crowds, Rapallo offers a more relaxed and affordable experience with easy access to its famous neighbor via ferry.TikTok Consider visiting Rapallo first to enjoy its charm before a day trip to Portofino, allowing you to avoid peak tourist times and truly savor the Italian Riviera's beauty.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler air, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

wouldn’t want it any other way<3 tee from @In Print We Trust🐆 #rapallo
@juliaamalieaxel
227.1K likes • 1.2M views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for the coastal path! Bring sturdy shoes for exploring the scenic routes and charming towns. TikTok

💰 Rapallo is Budget-Friendly

Rapallo offers a more affordable base than Portofino, with great food and easy access to nearby attractions. TikTokReddit

Italian Summer #italy #italianriviera #italiansummer #visititaly #exploreitaly #liguria #aesthetic #cinqueterre #riomaggiore #manarola #portofino #rapallo #santamargheritaligure #italianaesthetic #dolcevita #ladolcevita #sufjanstevenssummer #italyexplores #travelideas #traveltips #travel #traveltiktok #travelbucketlist #travellife #traveltok #travelthrowback #solotravel
@whoismerty
44.9K likes • 254.1K views
italy has my heart #portofino#italy#eurosummer#luxury#rapallo#sea#fyp#foryou
@m.s.gmira
15.5K likes • 304.3K views

🚢 Ferry for Portofino

Take the ferry from Rapallo or Santa Margherita to Portofino to avoid traffic and enjoy stunning sea views. TikTok+1

📸 Capture the Views

The coastal walk offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone for those postcard-perfect shots! TikTok

The Italian Riviera🇮🇹 #Portofino #Rapallo #italiansummer #portofinoitaly #Italia #Italy #Fyp
@marthineh
4.2K likes • 110.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for the coastal path! Bring sturdy shoes for exploring the scenic routes and charming towns. TikTok

💰 Rapallo is Budget-Friendly

Rapallo offers a more affordable base than Portofino, with great food and easy access to nearby attractions. TikTokReddit

🚢 Ferry for Portofino

Take the ferry from Rapallo or Santa Margherita to Portofino to avoid traffic and enjoy stunning sea views. TikTok+1

📸 Capture the Views

The coastal walk offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone for those postcard-perfect shots! TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the coastal paths and towns. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of the coastal walk connecting Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure, praising the breathtaking sea views and charming towns. Many appreciate Rapallo as a more affordable and less crowded alternative to Portofino, while Santa Margherita offers a touch of elegance. Some find the walk can be a bit challenging in parts, and crowds can be significant during peak season.

What People Like

Spectacular sea views
Charming coastal towns
Affordable Rapallo base

What People Dislike

Crowded in summer
Some uneven paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can start the coastal walk from either Rapallo or Santa Margherita Ligure. Both towns are easily accessible by train from Genoa and other major Italian cities. The walk itself connects the two towns directly, offering stunning sea views along the way. TikTok+1

Yes, it's very easy! You can walk the scenic coastal path, take a local bus, or hop on a short ferry ride. The train also connects the two towns quickly. TikTok

Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive in these popular coastal towns, especially during peak season. Taking the train or ferry is often recommended. TikTok

The most scenic and convenient way is by ferry from Rapallo's harbor. It's a short, pleasant ride offering beautiful coastal vistas. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The Ligurian coast is well-served by trains and ferries, making it easy to explore towns like Rapallo, Santa Margherita, and Portofino without a car. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the coastal walk itself is a public path and does not require any tickets or admission fees. You can enjoy the scenery freely. TikTok

Ferry prices can vary slightly depending on the season and operator, but typically range from €10-€15 for a round trip from Rapallo or Santa Margherita. It's a worthwhile expense for the views. TikTok

Both Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure are open towns with no general entrance fees. You can wander their streets and harbors freely. TikTok

For most ferry routes, especially during off-peak times, you can purchase tickets directly at the harbor before departure. However, booking in advance is advisable during peak summer months to secure your spot. TikTok

While there isn't a single pass for this specific coastal walk, consider regional train passes if you plan to visit multiple towns along the Ligurian coast. This can be more cost-effective than individual tickets. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The best way is to wear comfortable shoes and take your time. Enjoy the stunning sea views, stop for photos, and perhaps pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot. TikTok+1

The walk between Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery or take photos. TikTok

While the path itself might have limited options, both Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure offer numerous restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias to enjoy before or after your walk. TikTok

The main paved path is generally stroller-friendly, but there can be some uneven sections or steps. It's best to check specific sections or opt for a shorter portion if you have very young children. TikTok

Keep an eye out for hidden coves, charming viewpoints overlooking the bay, and the picturesque harbors of both towns. The approach to Portofino by sea is also a highlight. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most magical light for capturing the stunning coastal scenery and the charming towns. TikTok

Expect breathtaking shots of the Ligurian Sea, colorful boats in the harbors, charming seaside architecture, and panoramic views of the coastline. TikTok+1

Many points along the path offer excellent vantage points. Look for elevated spots that provide a wide panorama of the sea and the towns. The approach to Portofino by ferry also provides iconic photo opportunities. TikTok

A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient for most visitors. If you're a serious photographer, a wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. TikTok

Drone regulations can be strict in Italy, especially in populated areas and near harbors. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The coastal walk between Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure can be a wonderful experience for families, offering beautiful scenery and a chance for kids to burn off energy. The main paved sections are generally manageable with strollers, though some parts might be uneven. Consider starting from Rapallo, as its harbor area is quite engaging for children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and plan for frequent stops at playgrounds or gelato shops in Santa Margherita. TikTok

For a more relaxed family outing, focus on exploring the harbors and promenades of Rapallo and Santa Margherita themselves. The ferry ride to Portofino can also be an exciting adventure for kids, offering a different perspective of the coastline. Remember that the Italian summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon walks are often best to avoid the midday sun. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Rapallo is your best bet for a budget-friendly stay on this stretch of the Riviera. As noted by travelers, it's significantly less expensive than Portofino while offering easy access to it via ferry. Opting for an apartment rental and cooking some meals can further reduce costs, as suggested by one traveler who found affordable flights and accommodation. TikTok

Utilize the efficient and affordable train and ferry systems to get around instead of relying on taxis or private transport. The coastal walk itself is free, offering incredible views without any cost. Enjoying local markets for picnic supplies and seeking out trattorias away from the main tourist hubs will also help keep your expenses down while still savoring delicious Ligurian cuisine. Reddit

couples

The coastal walk between Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure offers a romantic setting with stunning sea views and charming seaside towns. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, stopping for aperitivos with a view or sharing a gelato. The picturesque harbors and elegant streets of Santa Margherita Ligure provide a sophisticated backdrop for a romantic getaway. TikTok

Consider a sunset ferry ride to Portofino for a touch of glamour, or find a quiet spot along the coastal path to watch the waves. The relaxed pace of these towns allows for quality time together, enjoying the beauty of the Italian Riviera at your own pace. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Rapallo

Rapallo serves as a fantastic, often overlooked, gateway to the Italian Riviera. Unlike the more exclusive Portofino, Rapallo offers a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking value without compromising on beauty. Its picturesque harbor, dominated by the striking Castello di Rapallo, provides a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls. The town boasts a lively promenade, charming piazzas, and a good selection of restaurants and shops, offering a genuine taste of Ligurian life. Many visitors find Rapallo to be a more relaxed and less crowded alternative to its glamorous neighbors, yet it still provides easy access to them. TikTokReddit

From Rapallo, you can easily embark on the scenic coastal walk towards Santa Margherita Ligure, or catch a ferry to the world-renowned Portofino. This strategic location makes Rapallo an ideal base for exploring the wider Tigullio Gulf region. The town's affordability, as highlighted by travelers, means you can enjoy more of the local cuisine and experiences without breaking the bank, making it a smart choice for those looking to experience the Italian Riviera on a budget. TikTok

Exploring Santa Margherita Ligure

Santa Margherita Ligure exudes an air of refined elegance, offering a slightly more upscale yet still welcoming atmosphere compared to Rapallo. Its beautiful harbor is lined with colorful buildings, elegant yachts, and charming cafes, creating a postcard-perfect scene. The town's pedestrian-friendly streets are perfect for a relaxed wander, revealing boutique shops, artisanal stores, and inviting trattorias serving fresh Ligurian seafood. The Basilica di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia stands as a prominent landmark, adding to the town's architectural charm. TikTok

This town is a delightful stop along the coastal path, offering a sophisticated contrast to Rapallo's more traditional feel. Visitors often praise its well-maintained promenade and the vibrant yet relaxed ambiance. Santa Margherita Ligure is also a convenient departure point for ferries to Portofino and other coastal gems, making it a versatile destination for day-trippers and those staying longer. The blend of natural beauty and refined Italian style makes it a beloved spot on the Riviera. Instagram

The Iconic Coastal Walk Experience

The coastal walk connecting Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure is a highlight of the Italian Riviera, offering an accessible and incredibly scenic way to experience the Ligurian coastline. This path is more than just a trail; it's an immersion into the breathtaking beauty of the region, with the azure sea stretching out before you and charming villages dotting the landscape. The walk is generally well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though comfortable footwear is a must. TikTok+1

Along the route, you'll encounter stunning viewpoints perfect for capturing memorable photos, small coves ideal for a brief respite, and the constant, soothing sound of the waves. The journey allows you to appreciate the dramatic cliffs and the vibrant Mediterranean flora. It’s a chance to escape the hustle of the more famous tourist spots and enjoy a more intimate connection with the Riviera's natural splendor. Many travelers recommend dedicating ample time to this walk to truly soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. TikTok

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