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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Coastal Walk Rapallo Santa Margherita
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the breathtaking Italian Riviera with a scenic coastal walk connecting the charming towns of Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure.
"The Italian Riviera's charm unfolds on this stunning coastal walk, offering sea views and picturesque towns."

👟 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riviera Charm
Beat the Crowds, Savor the Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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.
🚢 Ferry for Portofino
Take the ferry from Rapallo or Santa Margherita to Portofino to avoid traffic and enjoy stunning sea views.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal walk offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone for those postcard-perfect shots!
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.
💰 Rapallo is Budget-Friendly
Rapallo offers a more affordable base than Portofino, with great food and easy access to nearby attractions.
🚢 Ferry for Portofino
Take the ferry from Rapallo or Santa Margherita to Portofino to avoid traffic and enjoy stunning sea views.
📸 Capture the Views
The coastal walk offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone for those postcard-perfect shots!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water as you explore the coastal paths and towns.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
The most scenic and convenient way is by ferry from Rapallo's harbor. It's a short, pleasant ride offering beautiful coastal vistas.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Both Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure are open towns with no general entrance fees. You can wander their streets and harbors freely.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most magical light for capturing the stunning coastal scenery and the charming towns.
Expect breathtaking shots of the Ligurian Sea, colorful boats in the harbors, charming seaside architecture, and panoramic views of the coastline.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Rapallo
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.
Exploring Santa Margherita Ligure
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.
The Iconic Coastal Walk Experience
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit