Tucked away on the gorgeous Ligurian coast, Sestri Levante’s Old Town draws you in with its maze of winding alleys and splashes of color on every building. This charming seaside spot isn’t just about pretty beaches—here, history and daily Italian life mix together in a way that feels real, not staged. The Old Town, centered along the pedestrian Via XXV Aprile, rewards curious wanderers with art galleries, local restaurants, and small shops that actually showcase Ligurian culture—not just the usual touristy stuff.
As you stroll through the historic center, you’ll spot all sorts of architectural quirks that hint at the town’s fishing village roots. The area sits on a quirky peninsula with two bays, a geographic twist that’s shaped the town’s character for centuries. Many travelers use Sestri Levante as a base for exploring Cinque Terre, but honestly, the Old Town deserves more than a quick look.
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The slow, relaxed vibe here makes it perfect if you want to take your time. Maybe you’ll start with a coffee at a local café, meander through the winding streets, and wrap up your day with fresh seafood at a cozy restaurant. When you need a break from exploring, the nearby beaches are just right for kicking back before you dive back into Old Town adventures.
Overview of the Old Town of Sestri Levante
The Old Town of Sestri Levante gives you that classic Italian coastal experience: colorful facades, narrow pedestrian lanes, and an authentic vibe that somehow stays intact, even with its growing popularity.
History and Heritage
Sestri Levante started out as a fishing village and slowly turned into the charming place it is now. Its spot on the Ligurian coast made it a key location over the years. As you wander the narrow streets, you’ll see layers of history in the architecture.
Warm yellows, oranges, and pinks line the pathways, and plenty of these old buildings date back to medieval times. They carry stories from the town’s long connection to the sea.
Tradition runs deep here. Fishermen still bring in their catch to the little harbor, keeping alive routines that have shaped this town for ages.
Atmosphere and Mediterranean Charm
Walking through the Old Town feels a bit like stepping into a postcard, honestly. The narrow lanes sometimes open up into tiny piazzas where locals gather for a chat. Because the center is pedestrian-only, you can wander without worrying about cars.
Shops selling handmade crafts and local treats are scattered throughout. Restaurants serve up real Ligurian food, often using seafood caught that same morning.
Life moves slowly here. Mornings start with the sounds of shopkeepers unlocking doors. By afternoon, things quiet down as locals take their riposo (that classic Italian rest).
Evenings bring the streets back to life, with both visitors and locals out enjoying the cooler air and the lively dining scene.
Significance in the Riviera di Levante
Sestri Levante stands out in the Riviera di Levante, perfectly placed between Cinque Terre and Portofino. This makes it a handy base for exploring the coastline.
Unlike some of its glitzier neighbors, Sestri keeps its authentic feel. With nearly 20,000 residents, it’s a real town, not just a tourist stop.
The Old Town sits on a peninsula wedged between two bays—the Bay of Silence and Bay of Fables. This geography gives it a distinct identity compared to other Riviera towns.
You won’t run into as many international tourists here as you might in nearby hotspots, which means you get a more genuine slice of Italian coastal life.
How to Get to Sestri Levante
Getting to Sestri Levante is pretty straightforward, thanks to its spot on the Ligurian coast and good transport links.
Traveling from Genoa and Liguria
Genoa, Liguria’s capital, makes a great jumping-off point for Sestri Levante. It’s just about 50 kilometers (31 miles) away.
If you’re using public transport, regional trains run often from Genoa to Sestri Levante. The ride usually takes 45-60 minutes, depending on which train you catch.
Buses also connect Genoa to Sestri Levante, though trains are more frequent. The bus route gives you some nice views of the coast along the way.
From other Ligurian towns like Rapallo or Santa Margherita Ligure, you can hop on a direct train to Sestri Levante. These short rides come with some pretty sweet sea views.
Arriving by Train and Car
Trains are probably the easiest way to get to Sestri Levante. The town’s train station is close to the center, so you won’t have far to go once you arrive.
If you’re coming from big cities like Milan or Florence, you can take a high-speed train to Genoa and then switch to a regional train for the last leg.
Prefer to drive? Take the A12 Genoa-Livorno highway and exit at Sestri Levante. From there, just follow the signs—it’s about five minutes to the center.
Parking can get tricky in the summer. There are paid lots near the beaches and Old Town, but they fill up fast during peak season.
When you arrive at the train station, you’ll find a taxi stand with local drivers who know all the accommodation options around town.
Exploring the Heart of the Old Town
Sestri Levante’s pedestrian center gives you a genuine taste of Italian coastal life. Narrow cobblestone streets snake between colorful buildings filled with local shops, cafés, and restaurants.
The Pedestrian Zone Experience
The pedestrian zone in Sestri Levante’s Old Town has a calm, inviting feel. With no cars to dodge, you can wander among centuries-old buildings painted in classic Ligurian shades—ochre, pink, yellow.
Artisan shops sell local crafts, ceramics, and handmade jewelry that make for unique souvenirs. Family-run bakeries serve up focaccia, a regional favorite that’s perfect for a snack. In the evenings, the zone buzzes as locals take their passeggiata (evening stroll).
Look up and you’ll spot carved door frames, painted murals, and wrought-iron balconies. Without the usual traffic noise, you actually hear the church bells, lively conversations, and music drifting from cafés.
Corso Colombo Walk
Corso Colombo is the main drag through the historic center. This pedestrian street links the two bays and has some of the best shopping in town.
Along Corso Colombo, you’ll come across:
- Fashion boutiques with Italian and international brands
- Specialty food shops selling local olive oils and wines
- Gelaterias serving homemade ice cream
- Cafés with outdoor tables, perfect for people-watching
The street widens into small piazzas where you can sit on benches under the trees. Historic buildings line both sides, some dating back to the 16th century.
Corso Colombo gets busiest in the late afternoon and evening, when everyone comes out to shop and socialize. Prices here are a bit higher than elsewhere, but you usually get what you pay for.
Top Attractions in Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante’s historic buildings let you peek into the town’s layered past and offer up plenty of architectural eye candy.
Palazzo Fascie Rossi
Palazzo Fascie Rossi stands out as a cultural hub right in the center of Sestri Levante. This bold red building houses the town’s library and cultural center. The Fascie family originally built it in the early 20th century and later donated it to the city.
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Restorers preserved the unique façade while updating the inside. Now, it hosts art shows, literary events, and community gatherings all year.
If you visit, check out the ground floor exhibits—they often focus on local history and art. Since it’s close to Piazza Matteotti, it’s an easy stop on your Old Town walk.
Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini
Palazzo Durazzo-Pallavicini ranks among Sestri Levante’s most important historic sites. This elegant palace dates to the 17th century, built for the noble Durazzo family who later linked up with the Pallavicini clan.
You’ll see classic Ligurian architecture—symmetrical façade, ornate touches. Inside, there are period furnishings and decorated ceilings that take you back in time.
The palace’s spot offers great views of both bays. While much of it is private, guided tours and special events sometimes open up sections for visitors. Check with the tourist office to see if you can get in during your stay.
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi isn’t just a hotel—it’s a local landmark. This former 17th-century noble residence sits perfectly between Baia del Silenzio and Baia delle Favole.
The villa’s architecture shows off traditional Ligurian style, with pastel colors and intricate details. They converted it into a luxury hotel but kept the historic character intact.
Even if you’re not staying there, you can stroll through the gardens or grab a drink at the café. Inside, you’ll find original marble staircases and frescoed ceilings. If you get the chance, walk through the public areas and soak up a bit of Sestri Levante history.
Bays and Beaches of Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante gives you two beautiful bays, each with its own feel, plus other beach options if you want to explore the Ligurian coast.
Bay of Silence (Baia del Silenzio)
The Bay of Silence really lives up to its name. This small, partly enclosed bay on the south side of town has calm, clear water that’s perfect for swimming. Colorful buildings hug the sand, making it a picture-perfect spot.
The beach here is smaller, so it can get packed in summer. If you want peace and quiet, mornings are best—before families arrive.
You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, though prices are a bit steep compared to less famous beaches. Cafés nearby serve coffee or gelato, and you can watch the boats drift by in the gentle waves.
Bay of Fables (Baia delle Favole)
The Bay of Fables (Baia delle Favole) is Sestri Levante’s bigger, north-facing bay. Hans Christian Andersen visited once, and the bay took its name from his fairy tales.
This beach stretches out more than the Bay of Silence and has both free and paid areas with rentals. The water gets deeper slowly, so it’s great for families with kids.
Beach clubs line the shore, offering loungers, umbrellas, and snacks. The promenade behind the beach is perfect for an evening stroll, and you’ll find plenty of seafood spots with bay views.
Bay of Fairy Tales
Locals sometimes call the Bay of Fables the Bay of Fairy Tales—it’s the same bay, just with a different name. This can trip up first-time visitors, but you’re not missing anything.
During summer, this bay hosts water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. The western end gives you a nice view of the peninsula that leads back to the old town.
Early evenings are especially pretty here as the sun sets and the water glows gold. The gentle waves make it a safe spot for swimming, even if you’re not a strong swimmer. Lifeguards are on duty in the busy season.
Riva Trigoso Beach
About 3 km east of Sestri Levante’s center, Riva Trigoso Beach feels more local and less crowded than the main bays. If you want more space, this is your spot.
The pebbly sand stretches for over a kilometer, with both free and equipped areas. The water’s usually clear and great for swimming, with a gentle slope into the sea.
Riva Trigoso keeps its fishing village charm, and you’ll find some fantastic seafood restaurants right by the beach. The nearby train station makes it an easy trip from Sestri Levante, even if you don’t have a car.
Promenades and Scenic Walks
Sestri Levante is perfect for wandering, with lovely paths where you can soak up coastal views and stumble across hidden corners of this Italian gem.
Seaside Promenade
The Lungomare (seafront promenade) really stands out among Sestri Levante’s top attractions. This boardwalk runs along both bays, letting you soak in those endless sea views as you wander.
Start your stroll in the old town center and follow the path along Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables). This bay is bigger, with a long sandy beach and a well-kept promenade lined with palm trees swaying in the breeze.
Along the way, you’ll pass by colorful buildings, little cafes, and benches where you can just sit for a while and watch the world go by. The promenade stays flat and easy, so people of all ages and abilities can enjoy it.
Morning walks here feel especially calm and quiet, but come evening, the place comes alive with locals out for their traditional passeggiata (evening stroll).
Punta Manara Trail
If you like a bit of adventure, the Punta Manara trail offers a proper hiking experience. The path starts right in town—just look for the signs near the old center.
You’ll head up gradually through Mediterranean scrub and pine trees (which, trust me, are a relief on a hot day). The full hike takes about 45-60 minutes each way. It’s not too tough, but you’ll want decent shoes and at least a little fitness.
The payoff at the top? Absolutely stunning panoramic views. From Punta Manara, you can see all of Sestri Levante’s peninsula below, with both bays stretched out on either side.
On clear days, you might spot the coastline stretching toward Portofino one way and Cinque Terre the other. Definitely bring water—and a camera, if you’re into photos. The views are something else.
Historical and Religious Sites
Sestri Levante’s old town is dotted with religious buildings that reveal the area’s deep history. These churches combine artistic flair and centuries of tradition, giving visitors a real sense of the town’s cultural roots.
Church of San Pietro in Vincoli
The Church of San Pietro in Vincoli stands out as one of Sestri Levante’s main religious landmarks. Right in the heart of the old town, this church’s baroque style draws people in year-round.
Inside, you’ll spot impressive artwork and religious artifacts that speak to Sestri Levante’s past. There are beautiful paintings from local artists and some really detailed marble work. The bell tower? You can see it from all over the old town.
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During religious festivals, San Pietro in Vincoli turns into a lively meeting spot for both locals and visitors. The church usually stays open most days, but it’s smart to check the current hours since they can change with the seasons.
Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola
The Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola, built back in 1151, is the oldest church in Sestri Levante. It started out Romanesque, but later Baroque renovations gave it some extra character.
You’ll find this historic church on the isthmus that links the mainland to the Bay of Silence. Its spot near the water made it a key landmark for sailors and fishermen for generations.
Inside, the church blends details from different eras. Check out the frescoes and religious artifacts—they really highlight just how much history this place has seen.
The church grounds offer sweeping sea views. Take your time both inside and outside, since the area around the church is perfect for photos of the two bays that cradle Sestri Levante.
Culinary Experiences and Local Cuisine
Eating in Sestri Levante is a treat—here, you get a taste of real Ligurian flavors, with fresh seafood and local ingredients front and center. The Old Town’s restaurants mix tradition with cozy vibes.
Ligurian Cuisine Highlights
Pesto is the star here, made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Try it with trofie (twisted pasta) or trenette (flat noodles). Focaccia is another must—it’s that fluffy bread topped with olive oil and salt, perfect for a snack or a light bite.
Farinata, a savory pancake from chickpea flour, makes a great starter. Quite a few spots even offer cooking classes, so you can try your hand at making pesto the old-school way.
Most dishes get their flavor from local olive oil. Wines like Vermentino and Pigato, grown nearby, pair beautifully with the food.
Seafood Specialties
Since Sestri Levante hugs the coast, seafood features heavily on local menus. Acciughe (anchovies) come marinated, fried, or stuffed—there’s no shortage of options.
Restaurants serve up the day’s catch—branzino (sea bass), orata (sea bream), and gamberi (shrimp)—usually grilled simply with olive oil, lemon, and herbs to let the flavors shine.
If you want to try a bit of everything, order the fritto misto (mixed fried seafood). Mussels and clams show up in lots of pasta dishes and soups, especially around the Old Town.
Buridda, the traditional fish stew, brings together several kinds of fish with potatoes, tomatoes, and white wine—a real comfort dish.
Notable Restaurants in Old Town
Ristorante Polpo Mario – This family-run spot serves up classic seafood dishes. Their seafood risotto uses rice from the Piedmont region nearby.
Trattoria del Porto – Right by the bay, this place is known for excellent pesto dishes and ultra-fresh daily catches. Their outdoor tables have lovely water views.
Osteria Numero 7 – Cozy and full of character, this osteria serves traditional Ligurian recipes handed down through the family. Their trofie al pesto and seafood antipasti are both worth a try.
For something a little different, check out La Brinca in a nearby village. It’s a Slow Food restaurant with memorable regional dishes and great barbecued meats.
Old Town streets are dotted with cafés and gelaterias—just right for an afternoon break. Look for gelato made with seasonal fruits and nuts for the best flavor.
Shopping and Local Artisans
Shopping in Sestri Levante is a mix of boutiques and artisan crafts along winding streets. You’ll come across everything from stylish clothes to handmade souvenirs as you wander through the center.
Local Shops and Boutiques
The main shopping drag, Via XXV Aprile (locals call it “Caruggio”), is a pedestrian street lined with shops selling clothes, accessories, and home goods.
Idea Casa Casalinghi e Abbigliamento puts household items and clothing under one roof. Art fans should pop into Galleria Rizzi or Creatini & Landriani Fine Art, both featuring works by local artists.
Bottega d’Arte Monica Marcenaro is a can’t-miss if you love unique, handcrafted pieces. The shop highlights local talent and is great for gift shopping.
BAR GELATERIA BACIOLLO in Piazza Matteotti recently refreshed their look but kept that Old Town charm. After shopping, it’s an ideal spot to relax with gelato or coffee.
Markets and Souvenirs
Old Town has plenty of shops for picking up souvenirs. Look for goods made from local materials that capture Liguria’s coastal spirit.
Small artisan workshops fill the narrow side streets. Here, craftspeople sell ceramics, jewelry, and textiles inspired by the sea and local traditions.
For food gifts, local stores stock packaged pesto, olive oils, and wines from nearby vineyards. These make thoughtful presents or just a nice way to remember your trip.
During summer, outdoor markets sometimes pop up along the waterfront. Local vendors sell handmade crafts, fresh produce, and regional specialties you probably won’t find anywhere else.
Day Trips and Nearby Destinations
Sestri Levante sits in a sweet spot on the Ligurian coast—perfect for exploring nearby treasures. You can easily hop on a train or boat to reach several beautiful destinations for unforgettable day trips.
Cinque Terre Excursion
The famous Cinque Terre villages are just a short train ride south. Monterosso, the first village, is only about 30 minutes away. Grab a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train rides between the five villages and access to the hiking trails.
Each village has its own charm. Vernazza has a natural harbor and great seafood spots. Manarola is famous for its terraced vineyards and romantic scenery. Riomaggiore’s main street leads straight to a rocky beach.
If you can, visit in spring or fall to dodge the crowds. Start your day early for more time to explore. Trains run often, so seeing a few villages in one day is totally doable.
Explore Ponente Towns
Head west along the coast to check out the Ponente region. Levanto is just 20 minutes by train and offers wider beaches and a more laid-back vibe than Cinque Terre.
In Levanto, renting bikes and riding the coastal path to Bonassola and Framura is a must. The route follows an old railway tunnel with awesome sea views.
If you feel like a bigger adventure, Genoa (Liguria’s capital) is about an hour away by train. Explore the historic port, wander through the huge medieval center, and maybe pop into Palazzo Rosso or the Aquarium.
Ponente towns give you a glimpse of real Ligurian life with fewer tourists. The seafood is top-notch, and prices are friendlier than in the big-name spots.
Travel Tips for Visiting Sestri Levante
A little planning goes a long way in Sestri Levante. Knowing when to visit and what to expect helps you make the most of the Old Town—and maybe avoid the biggest crowds.
Best Times to Visit
The sweet spot for visiting Sestri Levante is May-June or September-October. You’ll get warm weather (20-25°C) without the crush of summer tourists.
July and August are the busiest and priciest months, but also bring fun festivals and perfect beach days. The sea warms up to 23-25°C—ideal for swimming.
If you come in winter (November-March), you’ll find quieter streets and lower prices, though some restaurants and shops cut back their hours or close in January and February.
The Bay of Silence and Bay of Fables feel most peaceful early in the morning. For Old Town exploring, aim for 9-11am or after 4pm to steer clear of the biggest crowds.
Essential Visitor Information
You’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes—those narrow cobblestone streets in the Old Town can really test your balance, especially if you’re not dressed for it. The area is pretty hilly too, so good mobility definitely helps.
Public transportation works well enough, though it’s not exactly extensive. Trains will get you to and from Sestri Levante and the nearby towns. Just a heads-up: local buses slow down a lot on Sundays and holidays, so don’t count on them too much then.
Most shops take a break for riposo between 1:00 and 3:30pm every day. If you want to shop, mornings or evenings are your best bet.
Bring some cash along—lots of smaller places still don’t take cards. ATMs are around, but watch out for those pesky fees.
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If you need help, swing by the tourist information office on Via XXV Aprile. The staff there speak English and can sort you out with free maps or advice, especially if you’re stuck with transport questions.
Check Out More Things to Do in Sestri Levante:
Andersen Festival Travel Guide
Baia del Silenzio Travel Guide
Baia delle Favole Travel Guide
Barcarolata Travel Guide
Basilica di Santa Maria di Nazareth Travel Guide
Caruggio Travel Guide
Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola Travel Guide
Convento dell’Annunziata Travel Guide
Day Trips from Sestri Levante Ligure
Old Town of Sestri Levante Travel Guide
Palazzo Fascie Rossi Travel Guide
Piazza Matteotti Travel Guide
Porta Romana Travel Guide
Punta Manara Travel Guide
Restaurants in Sestri Levante
