Walking along Caruggio, the main street in Sestri Levante’s Old Town, you really do feel like you’ve wandered into a postcard of Italian coastal life. Locals call it Via XXV Aprile, and this narrow pedestrian lane cuts straight through the heart of town, serving up a true slice of Ligurian culture. The street stays lively, with both residents and visitors popping in and out of boutique shops or pausing at cozy cafés.
Caruggio shows off the authentic charm that sets Sestri Levante apart from other Italian coastal towns. Around every bend, there’s something fresh to discover—colorful old buildings, little shops selling local treats, and unexpected details that just feel so “Italy.” The street links the Bay of Silence to the Bay of Fables, so it’s a great place to start exploring.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Here, you’ll catch the real rhythm of Italian daily life. Mornings are for coffee, afternoons for shopping, and evenings for the classic passeggiata (that leisurely stroll everyone seems to love). Even in the summer heat, the street stays surprisingly comfortable thanks to the shade from the buildings.
Overview of Caruggio in Sestri Levante
Caruggio—officially Via XXV Aprile—serves as the lively core of Sestri Levante’s Old Town. It’s a pedestrian-friendly stretch that fuses old-school Ligurian character with modern shops and restaurants, guiding you through some of the prettiest parts of town.
History and Significance
Caruggios, those narrow Ligurian alleyways, have shaped local life for centuries. Sestri Levante’s main caruggio grew out of the need to build in tricky, hilly terrain, while giving people a break from the blazing summer sun and chilly winter winds.
The name “Via XXV Aprile” honors Italy’s Liberation Day (April 25, 1945), a nod to the country’s history. Over time, this street changed from a simple path to a lively hub for shopping and socializing.
Many of the shops and restaurants here have stayed in the same families for generations. Locals have kept their traditions alive, even as tourism has picked up. The caruggio really shows how Sestri Levante grew from a quiet fishing village into a popular destination—without losing its soul.
Location and Layout
The caruggio slices right through Sestri Levante’s Old Town, connecting the town center with the postcard-perfect Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence). You just can’t miss it if you’re exploring town.
The street runs pretty much straight, but it narrows here and there, with buildings that almost touch overhead. On both sides, you’ll see:
- Shops and places to eat on the ground floor
- Apartments above, with those classic shuttered windows
- Flowering balconies and plants spilling out here and there
Little side alleys branch off the main caruggio, and they’re just begging to be explored. Most of them wind toward either the Bay of Silence or Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables), so you can wander like a local.
Unique Atmosphere
Walking the caruggio is a sensory treat. In the mornings, the smell of fresh bread floats out of bakeries as locals pick up their daily essentials. By afternoon, the street fills with a mix of residents and tourists.
The vibe shifts as the day goes on. Mornings have shopkeepers arranging displays of local products. By afternoon, cafés fill up with people watching the world go by. At night, restaurants open and warm lights spill out into the narrow street.
Shops here sell everything from handmade foods to locally crafted souvenirs. You’ll find gelaterias with real-deal Italian flavors, boutiques with Ligurian fashion, and specialty stores stocked with olive oils and pesto.
Some parts of the street are covered, which means you get a cool, shaded spot even when the sun is blazing.
Planning Your Visit
If you want to make the most of your stroll down Caruggio, a little planning helps. Picking the right time and figuring out how you’ll get there can make your visit that much better.
Best Time to Visit
May through September brings the best weather for wandering Caruggio. Summer (June-August) gets hot—think 75-85°F—and pretty crowded, especially in July and August when Italians are on holiday.
If you’d rather skip the crowds, try May or September. The weather hovers around 65-75°F, and there are way fewer tourists. Shops and restaurants mostly stay open, but things feel more relaxed.
Winter (November-March) offers a peek at everyday local life, though some places might keep shorter hours. Just keep in mind that not everything will be open.
Caruggio really comes alive during local festivals, like the “Barcarolata” in July and the Andersen Festival in June, which celebrates the Danish author who nicknamed Sestri Levante “The Bay of Fables.”
How to Get There
Getting to Caruggio is pretty straightforward whether you’re coming by train, car, or bus. Genoa (40 miles) and Pisa (70 miles) have the closest major airports.
By Train:
- Regional trains link Sestri Levante to Genoa (about an hour) and La Spezia (40 minutes)
- The train station sits just a 10-minute walk from Caruggio
- Trains run hourly and usually arrive on time
By Car:
- Take the A12 highway between Genoa and La Spezia
- Exit at Sestri Levante and follow signs for “Centro”
- Paid parking is available at Piazza Stazione, near the train station
If you’re staying elsewhere in Sestri Levante, you can easily walk to Caruggio. The old town is compact, so you won’t need a car once you arrive.
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
Buses from nearby towns run regularly, though they cut back on Sundays and holidays. You can always check the latest schedules at the tourist office in Piazza Matteotti.
Accommodation Options Near Caruggio
Staying near Caruggio in Sestri Levante lets you soak up the town’s charm day and night. There’s a solid mix of places to stay, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, all within walking distance of the historic center.
Hotels and Guesthouses
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi is one of the top picks near Caruggio, with elegant rooms and a touch of old-world Italian style. It’s a favorite for travelers who want a bit of comfort and history.
Hotel Miramare & Spa gives you luxury with sea views and a wellness center. It’s close to Caruggio and the beaches, so you get the best of both worlds.
If you’re after something mid-range, Suite Hotel Nettuno offers good value and plenty of space. Carruggio 151-2 is just 1.5 miles from La Goletta Beach, making it a handy base for exploring.
Travelers on a budget might want to check out Agriturismo Uliveto Bartolomeo, starting around $174 per night and earning high guest ratings (9.7/10). It’s in the countryside, so you’ll see a different side of the region, but Caruggio remains within easy reach.
Booking and Reservations
Room rates in Sestri Levante start at about $82, but prices swing with the seasons. Summer (June-August) is the priciest, while May and September offer better deals and nice weather.
A few tips for booking:
- Book early: Reserve 3-6 months ahead if you’re coming in summer
- Bring your documents: You’ll need a credit card and photo ID to check in
- Special requests: Call ahead if you need sea views or accessible rooms
- Extra fees: Some places add a city tax (€1-3 per person, per night)
Most hotels and guesthouses offer flexible cancellation through sites like Booking.com. Lots of places let you cancel for free if you do it 24-48 hours before arrival.
To get the best price, compare different booking sites and check the hotel’s own website—sometimes they offer special rates or packages.
What to See and Do in Caruggio
Caruggio, the main pedestrian street, gives you a real taste of Ligurian culture. It’s the town’s social and commercial heartbeat, and there’s plenty to see and do.
Architectural Highlights
As you wander down Caruggio (officially Via XXV Aprile), keep an eye out for the colorful old buildings in classic Ligurian style. Many have trompe l’oeil paintings and fancy details that go back centuries.
Look up—you’ll spot ornate balconies and unique touches that hint at the town’s maritime history. Some buildings still have their original stone archways at street level.
The street’s paved with smooth stones, making it easy to walk. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon little piazzas branching off the main path.
Local Shops and Boutiques
Shopping here is a mix of old and new. Family-run boutiques sell locally made clothes, while artisanal shops offer handcrafted souvenirs.
Foodies should check out the specialty shops for:
- Local olive oils and pesto
- Ligurian wines and liqueurs
- Handmade chocolates and sweets
Don’t miss the gelaterias serving real Italian ice cream in seasonal flavors. Grabbing a gelato and people-watching is practically a must here.
When you need a break, grab a seat at one of the cafés and just watch daily Italian life roll by.
Dining in Sestri Levante’s Caruggio
Caruggio packs in some of the best places to eat in Sestri Levante. This narrow street is lined with restaurants dishing up fresh local food in inviting settings.
Traditional Ligurian Cuisine
Ligurian food is all about simple, fresh ingredients from the sea and hills. Seafood is everywhere, with daily catches cooked up in classic styles.
Pesto started here, and you’ll find the real thing—made with local basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil—served with trofie or trenette pasta.
You can’t skip the focaccia. In Liguria, it’s thin, crisp, and soaked in olive oil. Sometimes you’ll find onions or olives baked in.
Other local favorites:
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
- Farinata (chickpea flatbread)
- Pansoti (ravioli with walnut sauce)
- Muscoli ripieni (stuffed mussels)
- Ciuppin (fish soup)
Recommended Restaurants
Pesce Balla stands out with a 4.8 rating and some of the best seafood around. The menu changes with the day’s catch, so you always get something fresh.
Aragosta D’oro (4.7 rating) offers elegant dining and both traditional and creative seafood. Their outdoor tables are great for soaking up the atmosphere.
Il Bargonello does pizza and Mediterranean dishes, including vegetarian and Ligurian options. It’s a solid choice for lunch, dinner, or even a late bite.
For a truly regional meal, you might want to head out to La Brinca in a nearby village. They’re known for grilled meats and a strong lineup of traditional foods.
If you’re visiting in peak season (June-September), it’s smart to book a table ahead, especially for dinner.
Day Trips from Caruggio
Caruggio’s central spot in Sestri Levante makes it easy to explore the Ligurian coast. Two nearby spots really stand out for their scenery and culture.
Exploring Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre—five colorful fishing villages—sits just an hour away by train. Each village has its own vibe: Monterosso is great for beaches, Vernazza has a natural harbor, and Manarola’s stacked houses tumble down to the sea.
Hiking the trails between the villages is the best way to see Cinque Terre. The Blue Path (Sentiero Azzurro) gives you jaw-dropping coastal views, though some parts might require a permit or be closed for repairs.
A few tips:
- Grab a Cinque Terre Card for easy train travel between villages
- Start early to dodge the biggest crowds
- Bring water and good walking shoes
- Spring and fall have the nicest weather for hiking
Visiting Portovenere
Locals often call Portovenere the “sixth village” of Cinque Terre. It hugs the southern tip of the Gulf of La Spezia and feels like a step back into medieval times. You’ll wander through narrow lanes squeezed between tall, colorful houses, and probably end up at the Church of San Pietro perched right on the rocky cliffs.
Getting to Portovenere isn’t tricky. Just hop on a train to La Spezia, then catch a 30-minute bus. If you’re up for it, grab a boat from Sestri Levante and watch the coastline drift by—honestly, the views from the water are something else.
Byron’s Grotto waits for those who love a bit of literary history or just want to see where Lord Byron supposedly swam. And if you have a free afternoon, the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto sit nearby, perfect for a quick escape.
Portovenere usually feels quieter than the Cinque Terre villages. You get more elbow room, plus a chance to sit down at a local seafood spot without battling crowds. That alone makes it worth the trip if you ask me.
Nearby Destinations Worth Visiting
Sestri Levante makes a great base for exploring other gems along the Ligurian coast. Each nearby town brings its own vibe, and you can reach most of them in a day.
Portofino Experiences
Portofino sits about 23 km from Sestri Levante—a short journey, but the change in scenery is striking. This fishing village, now a playground for the rich and famous, still keeps its charm with a harbor full of pastel buildings.
You can catch a boat from Sestri Levante when the season’s right, or take the train to Santa Margherita and finish the trip by bus. I’d say the boat ride is the way to go if you want those jaw-dropping coastal views.
Once you arrive, climb up to Castello Brown. The fortress offers sweeping views of the harbor and the sea that you’ll probably want to photograph a dozen times. There’s a bit of history inside too, if that’s your thing.
If you’re up for a walk, follow the scenic path to the Portofino Lighthouse. The Mediterranean vegetation and the blue water below make it a classic Ligurian experience. On a hot day, you might just want to head down for a swim.
Santa Margherita’s Attractions
Santa Margherita Ligure is about 20 km from Sestri Levante and tends to feel more laid-back than Portofino, but it still has plenty of elegance.
You’ll find a lovely seafront promenade lined with palm trees and those beautiful Belle Époque buildings. Villa Durazzo, with its terraced gardens, gives you a peaceful retreat when you need a break from the buzzier parts of town.
Trains from Sestri Levante get you there in under 30 minutes. The town’s small enough that you can just wander everywhere on foot.
Grab a seat at a waterfront café, order some fresh seafood, and watch the fishing boats drift in and out. If you like a bit of art and architecture, the Church of Santa Margherita has a baroque interior that’s definitely worth a look.
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Honestly, the sweet spot for visiting Caruggio and Sestri Levante falls between May and September. The sun’s out, the water’s warm, and you can really enjoy the beaches. If you can, try to skip August—Italians flock here for their holidays then, and, well, prices shoot up.
Getting to Sestri Levante is pretty straightforward. Hop on a train from Genoa and you’ll be there in about 45 minutes. Coming from Cinque Terre? That’s even quicker—usually 30 to 40 minutes. Once you step off the train, it’s just a 10-minute walk to Caruggio.
Practical Tips:
- Comfortable shoes make a world of difference on those cobblestone streets
- A water bottle is a must in the summer heat
- Shops usually shut down for riposo (that afternoon break) from 1:00 to 4:00 PM
- Credit cards work in most places, but it’s smart to have some cash just in case
Language Basics:
| Italian | English |
|---|---|
| Buongiorno | Good day |
| Grazie | Thank you |
| Per favore | Please |
| Quanto costa? | How much? |
Thinking of checking out the smaller villages nearby? Local buses can get you there. Just grab your ticket at a tobacco shop (tabacchi)—it’s the usual spot.
Public beaches around town won’t cost you anything, but if you want a lounger and umbrella, you’ll need to pay (€15-25 per day at private beaches). Baia del Silenzio’s public stretch fills up fast when it’s hot, so showing up early gives you a better chance at a spot.
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
Planning to eat out in Caruggio? Definitely book ahead if you’re going during the busy season, especially for dinner between 8:00 and 9:30 PM—that’s when locals like to dine.
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
