Things To Do
in Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante is a picturesque Ligurian town perched on the Riviera di Levante, famed for its twin bays and pastel shoreline. Its Bay of Silence and Baia delle Favole provide postcard-perfect backdrops, while the old town lanes reveal a slow, village-like rhythm. The harbor is lively with fishing boats and seaside cafés, and the surrounding hills offer scenic viewpoints.
A relaxed, friendly atmosphere invites visitors to savor seafood, sunsets, and coastal strolls at their own pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Sestri Levante's historic center, where colorful buildings and local shops line the cobblestone paths. Stop by a quaint café to enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast of cornetto and cappuccino while watching the locals go about their morning routines. Don't forget to visit the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria di Nazareth, adorned with beautiful frescoes and an impressive bell tower.
After a delightful morning, head over to the popular seaside promenade, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Tigullio. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside trattoria, savoring freshly caught seafood dishes paired with local wines. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Art Gallery of Sestri Levante, showcasing works from local artists and providing insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, find your way to the enchanting Baia del Silenzio, where the golden hues of the sunset reflect off the tranquil waters. Enjoy a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in authentic Ligurian cuisine, including trofie al pesto or farinata. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Kick off your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Silence, where the soft sand and gentle waves create a perfect beach atmosphere. After your swim, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking, with equipment available for rent right on the beach. Enjoy the invigorating morning sun while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
After a morning of fun in the water, treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch at a nearby beach club, where you can savor dishes made from the freshest local ingredients. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or join a beach volleyball game with friendly locals. For a bit of adventure, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater beauty of the nearby marine reserve.
As evening approaches, gather for an outdoor aperitivo at one of the beachside bars, sipping on a refreshing spritz while enjoying the lively atmosphere. After your drinks, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can taste authentic Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the sounds of the waves and the distant laughter of fellow beachgoers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍝Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🛏️1-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $100-180 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $5-7 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and two bays
- Relaxed Italian beach town with good seafood
- Compact and walkable center
- Great base for day trips to Portofino and Cinque Terre
- Rich local culture and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can be crowded in summer
- Coastal roads can be busy and parking challenging
- Higher season prices during peak months
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sestri Levante
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic crescent-shaped bay with pastel houses and fishing boats; perfect for golden-hour photography.
Bright, perched houses above the water providing vibrant waterfront photos, especially at sunrise.
Charming squares, narrow alleys, and stone arcades ideal for street photography.
Long seaside promenade offering wide-angle sea views and long-exposure possibilities at dusk.
Food in Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand-twisted pasta served with Genovese basil pesto, often with potatoes and green beans.
Must-Try!
Thin, olive-oil-rich focaccia baked to a golden, aromatic crust; great as a snack or accompaniment.
Savory chickpea flatbread baked until crisp and slightly chewy; a popular street-side bite.
Marinated anchovies, typically served with bread or in salads for a salty coastal flavor.
Flat pasta with pesto and tender additions like potatoes and green beans; a Ligurian staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and local snacks to sample along the promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or ciao depending on familiarity; in formal settings, use Lei and a polite tone.
Eat slowly, keep hands visible, and avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces; modest dress at religious sites.
Respect quiet zones, especially near churches; beachwear is appropriate on beaches but not in town streets.
Safety
Tipping in Sestri Levante
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller spots; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak beach season with hot days and crowded waterfronts; bring sun protection, swim early or late, and reserve spots or dinners in advance.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; great for hiking, coastal walks, and seafood tastings, with occasional rain.
Mild but cool; more quiet streets, fewer open terraces, and cozy cafés are ideal for a relaxed visit and photography of night lights.
Blooming hills and comfortable temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities, markets, and scenic walks along the coast.
Sestri Levante at Night
Hiking in Sestri Levante
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of marked routes with panoramic ridge and coastal views.
Coastal ridge walks with sweeping sea vistas and shaded forest sections.
Section of the MareMonti network along the Ligurian coast, suitable for day hikes with varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach Sestri Levante by plane.
The largest nearby airport, about 50-70 minutes by car or train to Sestri Levante.
International connections with longer transfer times; roughly 2.5-3.5 hours by train.
Smaller regional airport near Savona; convenient for light travel; roughly 1.5-2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beaches, safe strolling paths, and kid-friendly dining.
Seasonal residents and fishermen contribute to a welcoming, small-town vibe.
Day-trippers from Genoa and the Cinque Terre region plus longer-stay visitors for relaxation and photos.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong coastal tradition; popular with locals and visitors alike.
Calm bays are perfect for paddling and coastal exploration.
Trails in Beigua Geopark and along the Mare Monti Liguria network offer varied scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sestri Levante.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose farinata, pesto-based dishes (without cheese if preferred), and vegetable-forward plates; ask for seafood-free options when ordering protein.