How to reach · Zurich
How to reach Rapallo from Zurich: train, car, flight
From Zurich there are three viable options to reach Rapallo: train via Milan Centrale (5 hours, one or two changes), car via Gotthard+Genoa (450 km, 4h30 with toll vignettes), or a 1h10 SWISS direct flight to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA). The train is the most relaxed; flying is fastest if you travel light.
Option 1 · Fastest
By flight from Zurich to Genoa GOA
SWISS 1h10 direct, several daily. Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA) is the closest airport to Rapallo, 50 km away. From the terminal: Volabus to Brignole station (~6 EUR, 30 min) then regional train Brignole-Rapallo (~4 EUR, 35 min). Total: about 50 minutes.
Option 2 · Overland
Rail connections to Rapallo
Rapallo station sits on the Genoa-La Spezia regional line, frequency every 20-30 minutes. International trains arrive at Genoa Piazza Principe (main hub) or Milan Centrale; from there regional or Intercity trains continue to Rapallo. Allow extra time for connections.
Option 3 · Practical info
Once in Rapallo
Rapallo station is a 5-minute walk from the seafront and the historic centre. ATP buses serve Portofino (line 82) and the surrounding villages. The ferry pier (Servizio Marittimo del Tigullio) is 10 minutes from the station and runs from April to October to Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli.
Pre-opening
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Frequently asked questions
All about transport from Zurich to Rapallo
What is the fastest way to reach Rapallo from Zurich?
It depends on distance. Under 300 km a car or direct train is fastest; from further away a flight to Genoa GOA is the most efficient. Rapallo station sits on the Genoa-La Spezia line, a 5-minute walk from the seafront.
Is there a direct connection from Zurich to Rapallo?
Most travellers fly to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA) and continue with Volabus + regional train (about 50 minutes total) or a taxi (~80 EUR, 45 minutes).
Is it worth driving to Rapallo?
A car is convenient for families with luggage and for exploring the Tigullio villages. However central parking in Rapallo is limited and paid (2 EUR/hour, 24 EUR/day). If you do not strictly need it, the train is almost always the better choice.
What is the closest airport to Rapallo?
Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA), about 50 km from Rapallo, is the main option (35-50 minutes via Volabus + train). Pisa Galilei (PSA) at 150 km and Milan Linate/Malpensa at 200-220 km are alternatives connected by train or car.