Things To Do
in Recco
Recco is a small Ligurian town perched on the Ligurian Sea, famed for its ultra-thin focaccia di Recco stuffed with cheese. It sits conveniently between Genoa and Portofino, offering easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and the Riviera di Levante. The old town rises above the waterfront with narrow lanes, pastel houses, and abundant seafood eateries that invite both locals and visitors.
It makes a perfect base for exploring the coastline, nearby Portofino Park, and the broader Ligurian region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a beach stroll along the beautiful coastline of Recco. The sun gently rises, casting a golden hue over the calm waters, making for a perfect photo opportunity. Grab a quick breakfast from a local café, enjoying a fresh cornetto with your morning coffee.
After basking in the sun, spend the afternoon at the beach indulging in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking. If you prefer relaxation, find a spot under a parasol to read and unwind. Sample some local seafood at a beachfront restaurant for lunch, savoring the flavors of the Ligurian Sea.
As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk along the promenade to soak in the stunning views over the horizon. Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner in one of the charming trattorias, feasting on Recco's famous focaccia di Recco. End your evening with a gelato, cooling off while you take in the lively atmosphere of this coastal town.
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. The morning light streaming through the stained glass creates a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. Take your time exploring the intricate details of the church and its rich history.
After your visit, head to a nearby café for a leisurely lunch, trying local specialties like the famous pesto pasta. Then, take a stroll through the quaint streets of Recco, browsing local shops that sell handmade crafts and regional delicacies. Visit the nearby historical sites to immerse yourself in the culture of the area.
As the day winds down, settle in for a cooking class that focuses on traditional Ligurian cuisine. Learn to make dishes that are unique to the region, enjoying the fruits of your labor after the class is finished. Wrap up your night with a glass of local wine, mingling with fellow food enthusiasts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or espresso | $2-5 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $120-180 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or small purchase | $5-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible base for exploring the Ligurian Riviera
- Iconic local dish: focaccia di Recco
- Compact, walkable town with scenic coastline
- Good value and proximity to Genoa and Portofino
- Limited nightlife and higher season crowds
- Smaller town feel may lack some big-city amenities
- Parking can be challenging near the old town
- Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Un tavolo per due, per favore" - A table for two, please
- "Mi può consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Recco
Visit one of these nice places.
Seafront promenade with steady light, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography of boats and the coastline.
Narrow, sunlit lanes of the old town with colorful facades and glimpses of the sea—great for street photography.
Historic church overlooking the harbor; classic Ligurian architectural details and a vantage point for city views.
Small pebble beach with scenic sea views; perfect for horizon lines at golden hour.
Trailhead viewpoints along the coast offering expansive shots of the Riviera and distant Portofino.
Food in Recco
Recco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A blisteringly thin cheese-filled focaccia using crescenza or similar cheese; best fresh from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
Twisted pasta tossed with Genovese pesto, often accompanied by potatoes and green beans.
Pockets of pasta filled with ricotta and herbs, served with a walnut sauce.
Lightly fried seafood bites or small fried snacks common along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small daily market offering olives, cheeses, produce, and regional specialties; ideal for sampling local produce and picking up focaccia toppings.
Stalls along the promenade offer warm focaccia, fried snacks, and fresh seafood bites to eat by the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite 'buongiorno' (good morning) or 'buonasera' (good evening). A handshake or light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.
Eat slowly and enjoy the company; keep hands on the table and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Be considerate in churches and residential areas; speak softly and avoid running or loud music.
Casual but neat attire is fine; modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Recco
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, a service charge is often included. A small tip (5-10%) or rounding up is appreciated for good service if no service charge is included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small vendors. Contactless payments are common in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures ideal for hiking and wandering the town; expect intermittent rain showers.
Warm and sunny with sea breezes; beaches and outdoor dining are in full swing; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Pleasant days with golden light; sea remains comfortable for coastal walks and outdoor meals.
Mild coastal winter with shorter daylight hours; many attractions run on reduced hours, but museums and cafes remain welcoming.
Recco at Night
Hiking in Recco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic route through Portofino Regional Park with expansive sea views and pine forests.
Historic coastal path offering rugged cliffs and panoramic sea views.
Green coastal route with coves and medieval abbey ruins along the way.
Airports
How to reach Recco by plane.
The closest major airport; about 40-60 minutes by car or rail link to Recco, with frequent connections to major Italian and European cities.
A longer alternative with rail connections to northern Liguria; about 2-3 hours by rail to Recco depending on connections.
A farther option in the French Riviera with occasional seasonal flights; requires transfer to Genoa or Liguria by train or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional families and retirees with deep roots in the Ligurian coast.
Visitors from Italy and abroad drawn to the coast, cuisine, and proximity to Genoa and Portofino.
A small number of expatriates and seasonal workers attracted to coastal life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Ligurian coast has a strong sailing culture; boat rental and guided trips are available along the shore.
Local matches and clubs; casual games and small tournaments can be found in nearby towns.
Coastal and inland trails in Portofino Regional Park offer scenic routes with varying difficulty.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Recco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ligurian dishes are adaptable for vegetarians (pasta with pesto, vegetable-based dishes). Ask for pesto without meat-based broths and inquire about any meat in fillings. Local cooks are generally accommodating with simple veggie options like vegetable antipasti, caponata-style dishes, and cheese-focused plates.