Sestri Levante turns into a lively hub on the Italian Riviera every August. The warm Mediterranean air and the buzz of summer fill its twin bays. The Bay of Silence and Bay of Fables each have their own vibe—think quiet morning swims and then, by afternoon, a beach scene that’s anything but calm.
August means hot weather and big crowds. Locals know how to handle it, but visitors need a few tricks to find the best spots, eat well, and actually relax. If you want to get the most out of Sestri Levante during the summer rush, a little planning goes a long way.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Let’s get into the essentials—where to stay, how to dodge the busiest hours, and how to find those local gems that aren’t totally overrun. Here’s what you need to know for August 2025.
Essential Travel Tips for August 2025 in Sestri Levante
Summer in Sestri Levante is all about heat, crowds, and that classic Ligurian energy. Trains from cities like Genoa run smoothly, but hotels and rentals get snapped up fast.
Weather and What to Pack
Expect daytime highs around 28-30°C (82-86°F), with nights dropping to a comfortable 20-22°C (68-72°F). Rain is rare, but the humidity can sneak up on you.
Stick to light, breathable clothes—cotton and linen are lifesavers. You’ll want a light sweater for those breezy evenings by the Bay of Silence.
Don’t forget:
- High SPF sunscreen (seriously, you’ll need to reapply)
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Walking shoes with some grip
- Beach sandals or water shoes
- A light rain jacket (just in case)
The sun’s brutal between 11 AM and 4 PM. If you’re wandering the old town or lounging on the sand, find some shade during those hours. The UV index doesn’t mess around here.
How to Get to Sestri Levante
Trains make things easy. From Genoa, you’ll find a train every 30-60 minutes, and the ride takes about 45 minutes. La Spezia is even closer—just half an hour. Milan’s a longer haul, but there are direct trains, usually 6-8 a day, and the trip clocks in at about three hours.
Quick look at routes:
| Route | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Genoa to Sestri Levante | 45 minutes | Every 30-60 minutes |
| La Spezia to Sestri Levante | 30 minutes | Every hour |
| Milan to Sestri Levante | 3 hours | 6-8 daily direct trains |
Grab your train tickets early—August is packed. The station’s close to both bays, so you can walk most places.
Driving? Brace yourself for traffic, and don’t count on finding a parking spot near the beaches after mid-morning. The town center limits cars during the busiest times, so you might end up parking farther out.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodations
Hotels near the bays charge a premium in August, and they book up months ahead. If you want options and better prices, book by May.
Easy booking across stunning accommodations from historic palazzos to modern retreats. Colorful buildings and pristine beaches create the perfect Mediterranean getaway!
Secure Your Italian Retreat
Areas to consider:
- Old Town Center: Right in the action, close to food and the beach
- Via Costantino Raffo: Quieter, just a short walk to Bay of Silence
- Riva Trigoso: More budget-friendly, about 10 minutes by train from the center
Family-run places feel authentic, but don’t expect a long list of amenities. Bigger hotels usually have air conditioning and pools—trust me, that’s a big deal in August. Many spots throw in breakfast, often with local focaccia.
Thinking about staying longer? Vacation rentals with kitchens let you shop at the markets and cook for yourself. Terraces are a bonus for escaping the afternoon heat.
Crowds and Visiting Popular Attractions
August is when Italian families and travelers from all over descend on Sestri Levante. The Bay of Silence gets packed by 10 AM on weekends. If you want a good spot, aim for the beach before 9 AM.
Book restaurant tables ahead—especially for dinner. Waterfront places fill up days in advance. If you’re flexible, lunch between 1 and 3 PM is usually less crowded.
The old town’s narrow streets feel less hectic early in the morning or after the worst of the midday heat. Most people head for the beach or somewhere with air conditioning when the sun’s at its peak.
Tips for dealing with crowds:
- Hit the beach at sunrise or after 5 PM
- Check out hiking trails to escape the masses
- Reserve restaurant tables when you check in at your hotel
- Take photos in the old town during quieter hours
Day trips to Cinque Terre or Portofino? Book your train or boat tickets ahead of time—August is not the month to wing it.
Top Things to Experience During an August Visit
August in Sestri Levante is all about warm days, lively events, and long evenings. The bay’s calm water is perfect for swimming, and the restaurants spill out onto terraces with fresh seafood and local wine.
Exploring the Bay of Silence (Baia del Silenzio)
The Baia del Silenzio really shines in August. Its crescent shape and sheltered waters mean you can swim even if the rest of the coast is choppy.
Locals rent out umbrellas and chairs right on the sand. The water’s shallow, so families with kids can relax a bit.
When to go:
From seaside hotels to charming villas, find your perfect stay in this enchanting two-bay peninsula. Instant booking with best price guarantee!
Browse Accommodations Now
- Early (7-9 AM) for the best light and fewer people
- Late afternoon (4-6 PM) for a swim
- Around sunset (7-8 PM) if you just want to soak in the view
The promenade links up with walking paths toward Genoa. These aren’t tough hikes, but the views are worth it.
Water temperatures hover around 24-26°C (75-79°F) in August. Beach clubs offer showers, changing rooms, and snacks until about 8 PM.
Small boats leave from the eastern end of the bay for coastal tours. These 90-minute rides hit hidden coves between Sestri Levante and nearby fishing spots. Honestly, it’s a great way to get a different perspective.
Art, Culture, and Events
August means outdoor concerts in the historic center—think local musicians and sometimes bigger acts from Genoa or La Spezia.
Weekly events you might catch:
- Thursday night art shows on Via XXV Aprile
- Saturday morning craft markets near the train station
- Sunday classical concerts at Chiesa di San Nicolò
Artisan shops stay open later in August, selling ceramics, textiles, and jewelry made by local artists.
The Palazzo Fascie Rossi runs rotating exhibitions all month. Tickets are €5 for adults, and you can check out the building’s old frescoes too.
Street festivals pop up on most weekends. Expect music, dancing, and food stalls with focaccia and farinata.
Galleries stay open until 10 PM in August, so you can wander in after a day at the beach. Most places have info in both English and Italian.
Local Cuisine and Dining Recommendations
August seafood in Sestri Levante? It’s at its absolute best. Anchovy-based dishes show up everywhere, and you’ll notice chefs stick to those old-school Ligurian techniques—there’s a real sense of tradition here.
Essential dishes to try:
- Trofie al pesto with just-picked basil
- Focaccia col formaggio—best when it’s warm and a little gooey
- Fritto misto loaded with whatever the boats brought in
- Farinata crisped up in wood ovens
If you want a table at one of those waterfront spots along the Bay of Silence, especially with a sea view, you’ll need to book ahead—after 7 PM in August, it gets packed.
At Osteria Mattana, they lean hard into classic recipes, sourcing most of their ingredients from La Spezia’s markets. The anchovy options change daily, depending on what the fishermen bring in that morning.
Gelaterias don’t close until midnight during August. Locals swear by basilico (yes, basil gelato!) and limone di Monterosso—the lemons are truly something else.
On Tuesdays and Fridays, the morning market near the train station buzzes with vendors selling produce, cheese, and ready-to-eat bites. It runs from 8 AM to 1 PM—get there early if you want the best selection.
For wine, you’ll see plenty of Vermentino and Pigato from vineyards just up the road. These crisp whites go hand-in-hand with seafood, and restaurants always serve them nice and cold by the water.
Elegant resorts, waterfront apartments, and vacation rentals with immediate confirmation. Between the Bay of Fables and Bay of Silence, your dream Italian escape awaits!
See Available Properties
Getting to Sestri Levante Ligure
History of Sestri Levante Ligure
Things to Do in Sestri Levante Ligure
