From Florence · 230 km
Vacation in Rapallo from Florence: the smart Italian Riviera.
Florentines already know the Cinque Terre as a day trip. Rapallo is a more restful, functional alternative: same train line, but the town is alive year-round, no tourist crowds, and a smart base also for the upper Tigullio (Portofino, Camogli) which from Tuscany is otherwise awkward to reach. Florence-Rapallo in 3h05 by train or 2h45 by car: a practical guide to organising a weekend or longer stay without stress.
By train
Florence-Rapallo: the smartest way
Florence SMN → Pisa Centrale (1h regional) → La Spezia (45 min) → Rapallo (1h regional via Levanto-Sestri Levante). Change at Pisa.
Train is the best option if you don't need a car at destination. In Rapallo, you don't: central FS station, Tigullio trains every 20 minutes, ferries to Portofino from the harbour. Book in advance for the best fares.
By car
Florence-Rapallo: the motorway route
Florence → A11 to Pisa (1h) → A12 to Rapallo (1h45)
Once in Rapallo, park the car in the garage and use trains around the Tigullio: with limited parking and the historic-centre ZTL, the car becomes a burden. Why you don't need a car in Liguria.
Weekend plan
Weekend plan from Florence
Friday
Car recommended: leave Friday afternoon (4-6 PM, avoid commuter traffic), arrive Rapallo 7-9 PM. Train alternative: Frecciarossa Florence SMN-Pisa 50 min, then Regional Pisa-Rapallo 2h05.
Saturday
Morning: seafront, castello sul mare, market. Afternoon: day trip to Portofino (train+boat, 30 min). Evening: aperitivo on the harbour. Portofino guide.
Sunday
Morning: Camogli and Recco focaccia. Afternoon: relax or Portofino-San Fruttuoso trail. Evening return to Florence. Full itinerary.
Comparison
Rapallo vs Versilia coast (Forte dei Marmi, Viareggio): why pick the Tigullio
Versilia: sand beach, well-run beach clubs, but endless sand and little personality. Rapallo: cliffs and coves, ancient villages (Portofino, Camogli), Recco focaccia, seafood different from Tuscan cuisine.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Rapallo from Florence
How long does it take from Florence to Rapallo?
3h05 by train (recommended to avoid parking issues). 2h45 by car via motorway.
Can I book the house?
The property is in pre-launch: not yet bookable online. Join the waitlist to receive opening date and first availability.
Do I need a car in Rapallo?
No. Central FS station, regional trains every 20 minutes across the Tigullio, ferries to Portofino from the harbour. See full guide.
Best season?
May, June, September for best weather. July-August for events (Feste di Luglio, Stella Maris Camogli). April-October for hiking and boats. See seasonal guides.
Pre-launch
Get first availability from Florence.
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