Have you heard of Sestri Levante, a quaint town located on the Italian Riviera? This seaside beauty is well-known for some epic hikes, its great location between Portofino and Cinque Terre, and the picturesque bay. Grab a swimsuit, some hiking shoes, and your camera. Keep reading my travel guide on how to spend on day in Sestri Levante, Italy.
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Arrive in Sestri Levante
As mentioned above, Sestri Levante sits in the perfect location if you want to add on some day trips to your Ligurian holiday. It is an approximate 20-45 minute train ride (depending on which ticket you book and from which station) from either Santa Margherita-Portofino and Cinque Terre.
You can book a ticket directly through Trenitalia and it should cost less than €5. Keep in mind, it is a regional train so you have to validate your ticket before the train departure time. Not doing so could get you a €50 fine!
Once you arrive at the station it only takes about 10 minutes to walk to the town’s main pedestrian road, Via XXV Aprile.
Now, let’s see what there is to do here during your Sestri Levante day trip!
Complete a Hike
Despite having only one day in Sestri Levante, there is time to see the entire city and do a hike! There are a variety of hiking trails that actually depart directly off the main street. Just turn off onto Via Palestro which quickly turns into Via Via Cappuccini.
The initial part of the trail is brick steps (as it is on hotel property) and then will turn into more typical hiking terrain and you can begin!
I opted for the Torre di Punta Manara hike. The trails are clearly marked, so continue to follow the signs and then you can take the loop back to the city center.
This hike took about 2-2.5 hours in total, but you can make it longer or shorter depending on the additional trails you take.
If you enjoy Ligurian hikes and walking, you may also want to see my post about the Walk from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino.
Grab a Ligurian Meal
While in town make sure you stop and have some traditional Ligurian dishes. There are a couple options – you can either stop by a local restaurant or pick up something to go and eat at the beach.
You can read all about What to Eat in Liguria – you don’t want to miss any of these yummy dishes.
For a sit-down meal, La Sciamadda dei Vinaccieri Ballerini is a popular spot. They even offer cooking classes that range from making pesto to focaccia to pasta and more!
If you prefer something on-the-go then Le Delizie della Baia is popular amongst locals to grab slices of focaccia or make-your-own sandwiches.
Dip in the Bay of Silence
With one day in Sestri Levante, one of the must-sees is the Baia del Silenzio, Bay of Silence. It is a rather rare SANDY beach for this region. Many of the coastal beaches in Liguria are rocks and pebbles.
The beach is mostly free, but prepare to get cozy with your neighbors on a nice day; it is only about 300 meters long.
I hope you enjoy your one day in Sestri Levante! There are so many villages to explore along the Italian Riviera – let me know your favorites in the comments!
You may also be interested in my other Ligurian content. Check out some of these posts: