June in Sestri Levante turns this coastal spot into a lively hub packed with cultural events and prime beach weather. The Andersen Festival (June 5-9, 2025) transforms the whole town into a stage, with fairy tales brought to life through performances and all sorts of happenings. If you’re planning a June trip, you’ll want to book your stay early—this festival draws big crowds eager for both the shows and the gorgeous beaches.
But it’s not just about the festival. June is a sweet spot for soaking up Sestri Levante’s natural beauty. A walk from the town center up to the hilltop takes about half an hour, and the views of the coastline up there? Absolutely worth it. Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence) offers one of those rare free beach experiences in Italy—golden sand, pastel buildings, and a vibe that’s hard to beat.
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Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
There’s more going on too. Father’s Day, Pride Month, and yoga gatherings pop up all over town in June. It all comes together with that warm, early summer weather—perfect for tasting real Italian coastal life before the high season crowds hit in July and August.
Essential June 2025 Travel Tips for Sestri Levante
June really is the time to explore Sestri Levante: warm weather, fewer crowds, and loads of outdoor things to do along the Ligurian coast.
Weather Expectations and What to Pack
Expect lovely summer temps—usually 18°C (64°F) at night and up to 26°C (79°F) during the day. The sea warms up to about 22°C (72°F), so swimming’s a pleasure.
Rain? Not much. Maybe three or four days all month, and humidity stays pretty manageable.
Packing essentials:
- Light clothes, breathable fabrics
- Swimsuit and beach towel
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Light jacket or sweater for those breezy evenings
- Comfy walking shoes (cobblestones everywhere)
- Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
If you’re eyeing a fancy dinner or any Pride Month events, toss in something a bit dressier.
Best Beaches and Outdoor Activities
June is when Sestri Levante’s twin bays really shine. Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence) has crystal-clear water and that classic pastel backdrop. It fills up fast, so if you want a spot, try to get there before 10 AM.
Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables) gives you more space and some stretches of free beach. Want something quieter? Head over to Riva Trigoso—just a quick bus ride away.
Top June outdoor activities:
- Early morning walks along the promontory trail—killer views
- Kayak rentals at both main bays (€15-20/hour)
- Snorkeling by the rocks at Baia del Silenzio
- Day trips to Cinque Terre or Portofino
- Hiking the green hills around town
Yoga fans, you’re in luck: sunrise sessions on the beach pop up throughout June. Not a bad way to start the day.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Sestri Levante! Look for deals here:
Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Transportation and Getting Around
Sestri Levante’s connected. The train station sits right on the main Genoa-La Spezia line, so day trips are easy.
From Genoa Airport, hop on the Volabus to Genoa Piazza Principe (€6), then grab a regional train to Sestri Levante (€5.90, about 50 minutes). Private transfers run about €120 if you want to splurge.
Most things in Sestri Levante are walkable. The Old Town’s compact, with pedestrian streets and not much traffic.
Local transport options:
- Trains to Cinque Terre (20-40 minutes)
- Buses to Portofino and Rapallo (check the tourist office for schedules)
- Ferries to Portovenere and Cinque Terre (June 2025: daily at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM)
- Scooter rentals (€40-50/day) if you want to zip along the coast
Grab the Trenitalia app for real-time train info and tickets—it’ll make your life easier on the Ligurian coast.
Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore in Sestri Levante
Sestri Levante hits that sweet spot of comfy places to stay, great food, and a hefty dose of Italian Riviera culture. The two bays wrapping around a postcard-perfect peninsula set the scene for a June 2025 trip you’ll remember.
Top Accommodation Choices
Hotel Helvetia nails it for location and perks: a heated pool, rooftop sun terrace, and a solid breakfast to kick off your day.
Grand Hotel dei Castelli sits right on the peninsula between the Bay of Silence and Bay of Fables. The place oozes history, with elegant rooms and knockout sea views.
If you’re watching your budget, Pensione Souvenir offers simple, clean rooms in the heart of the old town—easy walks to beaches and restaurants.
Villa Balbi is a charming mid-range pick in a restored 17th-century building, with a garden that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Apartment rentals are a hit for longer stays, with plenty of options through local agencies or online.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Sestri Levante! Look for deals here:
Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Must-Try Restaurants and Ligurian Cuisine
Polpo Mario is a standout for seafood, with daily catches straight from local boats. Their fritto misto and seafood risotto are local favorites. Book ahead for dinner—seats go fast.
Ristorante Portobello, right by the Bay of Silence, serves up trofie al pesto (the Ligurian classic) with a sunset view from the terrace that’s hard to beat.
Osteria Cigà le is your spot for authentic Ligurian food that won’t break the bank. The focaccia col formaggio and pansoti in walnut sauce are both worth a try.
For farinata (that crispy chickpea pancake), check out Da U Giancu—a family-run place where the menu changes with whatever’s fresh at the market.
Gelateria Golosi makes creative gelato flavors—basil, honey-lavender—ideal for cooling off on a hot June day.
Sightseeing Highlights and Local Culture
The Bay of Silence (Baia del Silenzio) is the crown jewel—curved beach, colorful buildings, and a peaceful vibe if you go early before the crowds.
Palazzo Fascie Rossi doubles as the cultural center and museum, with exhibits on local history. Keep an eye on their June 2025 calendar—sometimes they host special shows.
The Basilica of Santa Maria of Nazareth sits right in the center, showing off baroque architecture and religious art. It’s an easy stop while you wander the old town.
If you’re up for a walk, the trail to Punta Manara takes about 45 minutes and pays off with sweeping coastal views—bring your camera.
Wander the narrow old town streets for quirky shops, tucked-away courtyards, and fishing boats still working the harbor. There’s a real sense that old traditions are alive and well here.
Cultural Events and Vibrant History
June 2025 brings the Andersen Festival, celebrating Sestri Levante’s ties to Hans Christian Andersen, who once called its bay the “Bay of Fables.” Expect storytelling, theater, and a bunch of children’s activities popping up all over town.
The Summer Jazz Festival usually lights up weekend evenings in June, filling the piazzas with music. It’s worth checking the official schedule as your trip gets closer—sometimes dates shift.
You can still spot Sestri Levante’s maritime roots down at the harbor, where traditional wooden boats line the docks. Some local fishermen, proud of their craft, will even show off old-school fishing techniques if you ask.
If you want to branch out, day trips are easy. The Aquarium of Genoa sits just 50 minutes away by train—it’s the biggest in Italy, and honestly, the marine life there is wild.
And of course, the Cinque Terre villages are close enough for a spontaneous train ride. They’re perfect for a quick adventure along the Riviera.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Sestri Levante! Look for deals here:
Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Things to Do in Sestri Levante Ligure
Where to Stay in Sestri Levante Ligure – Hotels, Vacation Rentals, BnBs
Getting to Sestri Levante Ligure
