Riviera di Levante · 25 min from Rapallo
Sestri Levante: the city of two seas and the Baia del Silenzio.
A narrow peninsula separates the Baia del Silenzio from the Baia delle Favole — the one that inspired Hans Christian Andersen in 1833. By train from Rapallo in 25 minutes.
The city of two seas
Sestri Levante is built on a long, narrow peninsula that separates two completely different bays. On one side the Baia delle Favole — wider, with a well-equipped beach, a lively promenade and shops. On the other side the Baia del Silenzio — more intimate, more photogenic, with fine sand, colourful houses reflected in the water and a few fishing boats pulled ashore. The visual contrast is immediate and striking.
The name "Baia delle Favole" (Bay of Fables) dates to 1833: Hans Christian Andersen stayed in Sestri Levante and called it exactly that. Every year in June the town celebrates that visit with the Andersen Festival, an international festival dedicated to children's fiction with performances, readings and awards.
Between the two bays lies the historic centre of the peninsula: narrow alleys, the pedestrian Via XXV Aprile with its shops, the Church of the Cappuccini, and a viewpoint at the tip of the peninsula overlooking both bays.
- The Baia del Silenzio is often considered one of the most beautiful bays in Liguria.
- The peninsula has a very different character from the western Tigullio — worth a stop.
- Pairs naturally with Chiavari and Lavagna (20 min further by train).
Pair it with
- Chiavari and Lavagna — 20 min by train, market and Torta dei Fieschi
- Andersen Festival — June, theatre and readings for children
- Riviera Film Festival — June, outdoor screenings
- Blues & Soul Festival — July, live music in the square
Recommended itinerary: morning Baia del Silenzio and alleys, lunch on the promenade, afternoon in Chiavari, return to Rapallo in the evening. Two stops in one day.
Getting there
How to reach Sestri Levante from Rapallo.
The train is the most convenient choice: fast, affordable, and the station is central. In summer avoid the car — parking in the centre is difficult.
By train — from Rapallo station, Trenitalia regional service on the Genoa–La Spezia line. About 25 minutes, ticket ~€3–4. Sestri Levante station is in the heart of the promenade, about 10 minutes on foot from the Baia del Silenzio through the alleys. Check timetables at trenitalia.com.
By car — A12 motorway, Sestri Levante exit, about 30 minutes. Parking in the centre is difficult in high season; best to park near the station or in peripheral areas and walk to the centre.
Staying in Rapallo
A base for the whole Riviera di Levante.
From Rapallo you reach Sestri Levante (25 min) and Chiavari (15 min) by train, and in the opposite direction Portofino (20 min via SML). Three nights let you explore the entire coast.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Sestri Levante.
Practical answers for planning your visit.
How do you get from Rapallo to Sestri Levante?
By train is best: Trenitalia regional service, about 25 minutes, ticket ~€3–4. The station is central, a 10-minute walk from the Baia del Silenzio. By car: A12 motorway, Sestri Levante exit, ~30 minutes.
What is the difference between the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole?
The Baia del Silenzio is smaller, more sheltered and more photogenic — colourful houses on the water, fine sand, few facilities. The Baia delle Favole is wider, with a well-equipped beach, a lively promenade and shops. Both are separated by the historic peninsula and can be visited on foot in under an hour.
When is the Andersen Festival?
In June. The festival celebrates Hans Christian Andersen who visited Sestri Levante in 1833 and called it "the city of two seas". It includes theatre performances, readings, workshops and the Andersen Prize (a literary award for children's fiction).
Can you combine Sestri Levante and Chiavari on the same day?
Yes: Chiavari is just 20 minutes further by train. A comfortable itinerary: morning in Sestri Levante (Baia del Silenzio + alleys), lunch on the promenade, afternoon in Chiavari, return to Rapallo in the evening.
Who is Rapallo Smart Home designed for?
For couples, two couples, families or small groups of up to 4 guests looking for independence, a full kitchen and discreet technology. A convenient base for exploring the whole Riviera di Levante.
Plan Sestri Levante and the Riviera with LigurIA.
LigurIA combines Sestri Levante, Chiavari and the other stops along the Riviera di Levante into a tailor-made itinerary. Free, no sign-up required.