Tucked between the better-known coastal giants of Portofino and the Cinque Terre lies a town that many travelers skip. And they deeply regret it once they find out what they missed. Sestri Levante, Liguria is a slice of the Italian Riviera where pastel-colored buildings meet tranquil bays, fresh seafood sizzles in beachside trattorias, and legends come alive in the streets.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly seaside holiday, or an active escape with hiking and diving, Sestri Levante offers something extraordinary.
Two Bays, Two Personalities
Bay of Silence (Baia del Silenzio)
The Bay of Silence is Sestri Levante’s most iconic sight. Golden sands curve gently along crystal-clear waters, framed by colorful Ligurian houses. Despite its fame, the beach is public and free—a rare luxury in Italy. Come early, especially in July and August, to secure a spot.
The atmosphere is tranquil. It’s ideal for couples and photographers seeking that perfect shot. Stay for sunset when the sky glows pink and orange behind the silent bay.
Bay of Fables (Baia delle Favole)
Named after Hans Christian Andersen, who briefly lived here, this bay is larger and family-friendly. It offers sunbed rentals, shallow waters, and plenty of space for kids to play.
Get a day pass at Bagni Baia Azzurra or Jimmy’s Beach, then enjoy a stroll along the promenade with a gelato. Each July, the beach becomes the stage for the magical Barcarolata boat parade.
Top Experiences in Sestri Levante
Hike to Punta Manara
Adventure seekers will love the Punta Manara hike. This 2-hour loop winds through Mediterranean scrub to a 176-meter-high promontory. The reward? Sweeping views over both bays and the Ligurian coast.
Start early, bring water, and wear good shoes. The trail begins at Via XXV Aprile, just outside the old town.
Explore the Historic Old Town
Stroll the narrow caruggi of Sestri Levante’s old town. Every corner reveals something new: a baroque church, a hand-painted sign, the scent of freshly baked focaccia. Don’t miss the Convento dell’Annunziata, perched above the Bay of Silence—a prime sunset viewpoint.
Boat Trips to Portofino and Cinque Terre
From April to October, ferries connect Sestri Levante to Portofino and the Cinque Terre. It’s a scenic and stress-free way to explore the coast.
Cinque Terre Super Line: ~€35 round-trip (subject to change)
Boats leave from the harbor between the two bays.
Dive to the Christ of the Abyss
Certified divers can visit the bronze Christ of the Abyss statue submerged in the bay of San Fruttuoso, accessible by boat. At 17 meters deep, it’s one of Europe’s most iconic underwater shrines.
Half-day dive trips include equipment. PADI Open Water certification is usually required.
Festivals That Bring the Town to Life
Andersen Festival
Each summer, Sestri Levante becomes a fairytale setting during the Andersen Festival, Italy’s largest street-theatre and storytelling event. Over 100 performances take place in open-air venues—many free.
It’s ideal for families, with music, puppets, circus acts, and more.
Bagnun Festival
Head to Riva Trigoso in midsummer for a taste of Ligurian tradition. The Bagnun Festival celebrates a humble yet delicious anchovy-tomato stew once eaten by fishermen.
Don’t miss the free mass tasting during the festival, followed by fireworks over the sea. Expect local wine and a festive crowd.
Barcarolata Parade
Each late July, the Bay of Fables hosts the Barcarolata Parade, where illuminated boats drift across the water. It’s one of the town’s most magical summer nights.
Where to Stay in Sestri Levante
From seaside elegance to budget-friendly charm, Sestri Levante has options for every traveler.
Top Rated Hotels in Sestri Levante
🔍Villa Agnese – 9.3/10
A peaceful country-house hotel located 3 km from the town centre, surrounded by vineyards. Guests love the tranquil garden with a pool, free bike rentals, and warm hospitality.🔍Seven Boutique Hotel – 9.1/10
A stylish, family-run hotel right on the seafront promenade. It features individually designed rooms, a generous Ligurian breakfast, and a prime location near the Bay of Silence.🔍Hotel Vis à Vis – 9.0/10
A 4-star hillside retreat offering panoramic views from its rooftop terrace, a hydro-massage pool, and a lift that connects directly to a private beach club.🔍Grand Hotel Dei Castelli – 8.9/10
Set in a 19th-century castle on a wooded peninsula, this romantic hotel includes scenic gardens, an elevator to the harbour, and access to a private beach platform.🔍Hotel Miriam – 8.9/10
A budget-friendly beachfront hotel in Riva Trigoso, offering free parking, hearty breakfasts, and friendly, family-like service.
Top Rated Villas in Sestri Levante
🔍Ca’ Olivella – 9.4/10
A charming stone villa located in the hills of Casarza Ligure (about 5 km from Sestri). Features include a private pool, mountain views, a wood-fired pizza oven, and exceptional privacy.🔍Villa Crassula – 9.4/10
Modern and stylish villa perched above Sestri Bay (≈4 km away). Offers an elevator from the garage, panoramic terrace, and infinity pool with sea views.🔍Appartamento Moneglia – 9.4/10
A spacious villa-apartment in Moneglia (≈10 km), set on a cliff with stunning sea views. Includes a private pool, barbecue area, pizza oven, and immaculately clean interiors.🔍100b – Villa Ginestra – 9.1/10
Located in Sestri Levante itself, this three-bedroom villa is just a 10-minute walk from the beach. It features a large sea-view terrace perfect for outdoor dining.🔍Villa Domus 1938 – 8.7/10
A restored 1930s beachfront villa near the Bay of Silence. Surrounded by lush gardens, it offers a small saltwater pool and a top-rated location.
Top Rated Apartments in Sestri Levante
🔍10 min dal Mare – New York Style – Apartment – 10/10
A stylish two-bedroom loft with a spacious sunset terrace and free parking, located about 600 meters from both the train station and the beach.🔍Da Gio’ e Eli – 9.8/10
Recently renovated ground-floor apartment just 700 meters from the Bay of Silence. Offers a full kitchen, smart TVs, private parking, and a peaceful residential setting.🔍Casa Cetti – 9.6/10
A roomy two-bedroom apartment with a garden, sun terrace, and views of the nearby mountains and river—ideal for travellers with a car (free parking available).🔍Il Giardino Segreto – 9.2/10
A beautifully designed, air-conditioned two-bedroom apartment in the pedestrian centre. Features a private leafy courtyard and is just a 2-minute walk from the Bay of Silence.🔍VistAmare Luxury Retreat – 9.4/10
A beachfront duplex apartment with daily cleaning, a large sea-view terrace, and private garage access via lift. Known for its luxury feel and exceptional service.
Top Rated Campsites in Sestri Levante
🔍Camping Mare Monti – 8.8/10
A hillside campsite about 2 km from the town, offering sea-view pools, air-conditioned mobile homes, and a free shuttle service to the beach.🔍Camping Fossa Lupara – 8.0/10
Set on terraced grounds 2 km from the centre, this site features modern bungalows, an on-site restaurant/bar, and complimentary beach shuttle service.🔍Parco Vacanze Makallè – 7.9/10
A small, family-run campsite located along the historic Via Aurelia. Offers simple mobile homes with scenic valley-to-sea views and easy bus access to Riva Trigoso beach.🔍Tigullio Camping & Resort – (new listing)
A recently listed resort-style campground located 1.9 km from Sestri. Includes an outdoor pool, shuttle to a private beach, and wooden bungalows with kitchenettes and verandas.
Book ahead if you’re coming in summer. Occupancy peaks in June through September.
Getting There and Getting Around
By Train
The easiest way to reach Sestri Levante is by train. Over 50 daily connections from Genoa take just 35 to 56 minutes. Fares start at €5.10.
By Air
Genoa Airport (GOA): 60 km away
Pisa Airport (PSA): 120 km away
Both offer rail links to town in under two hours.
By Foot or E-Bike
The town is compact and walkable. Rent a bike or e-scooter to explore nearby villages like Lavagna and Chiavari.
What to Eat in Sestri Levante
Bagnun
This anchovy-tomato stew began aboard Ligurian fishing boats. It’s now a local staple and festival highlight.
Pesto & Trofie
Liguria is the home of pesto. Try it with trofie pasta, potatoes, and green beans—the traditional way.
Where to Dine
Rezzano Cucina e Vino – Elegant sea-to-table cuisine
Le Cantine – Chargrilled meats and local wine
Baia del Silenzio – Fine dining with waterfront views
Enjoy an aperitivo at Sky Bar Zeus atop Hotel Vis à Vis.
Easy Day Trips from Sestri Levante
Cinque Terre
Reach the famed villages by train (40 minutes) or boat (about 1 hour). Ideal for photos, hikes, and seafood.
Portofino & San Fruttuoso
Chic Portofino and the abbey beach at San Fruttuoso are under an hour away by boat. Don’t forget your swimsuit.
Genoa
Genoa’s medieval old town, palaces, and vibrant port make it perfect for a half-day city break.
When to Visit Sestri Levante
Plan your trip between June and September for sunshine, swimming, and festivals.
Prefer fewer crowds? Try April, May, or late September. The weather is still pleasant.
Average August high: 26°C
FAQs About Sestri Levante
Is Sestri Levante good for families?
Yes. It’s flat, safe, and full of family-friendly activities.
Can I visit Cinque Terre from Sestri Levante?
Absolutely. It’s a common and convenient day trip.
Do I need a car?
No. The train and ferry services make a car unnecessary.
Are the beaches free?
Bay of Silence is public. Bay of Fables offers both free and paid areas.
Start Planning Your Sestri Levante Escape
Sestri Levante brings together everything you want in a Ligurian getaway: scenery, culture, cuisine, and calm.
Avoid the crowds of Cinque Terre and base yourself in Sestri Levante for a memorable summer escape. You won’t regret it.
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