Have you heard of Sestri Levante, a quaint town located on the Italian Riviera? This seaside beauty is well-known for some epic hikes, a key location between Portofino and Cinque Terre, and its picturesque bay. Grab a swimsuit, some hiking shoes, and your camera. Save this travel guide to help plan how spend one 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 the towns of Santa Margherita and Portofino but also the other direction, Cinque Terre.
You can book a ticket directly through Trenitalia. This is a budget-friendly trip! The ticket should be less than €5. Keep in mind, this 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! Definitely not worth it when the ticket is so affordable!
Once you arrive at the Sestri Levante train station, head to the town’s main pedestrian road, Via XXV Aprile. It’s only about 10 minutes from the station.
Now, let’s see what there is to do here during your Sestri Levante day trip!
Complete a Hike
Even with only one day in Sestri Levante it is possible to see the entire city and do a hike! There are a variety of hiking trails that depart directly off the main street. To arrive: turn onto Via Palestro and note it will quickly change into Via Cappuccini.
The initial part of the trail is brick steps (as it is on hotel property) and then transitions into the real deal: stones, dirt, sand, etc.
For the best panorama, I suggest to take the Torre di Punta Manara hike. The trails are clearly marked, the path is clear, and the views are soooo good. so continue to follow the signs and then you can take the loop back to the city center.
The hike takes about 2-2.5 hours in total, but you can make it longer or shorter depending if you stop to eat or add additional trails.
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 or Take a Cooking Class
While in town make sure you stop and have some traditional Ligurian dishes. You can either stop by a local restaurant or pick up something to go and eat at the beach.
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!
For the adults, indulge in their wine tasting workshop – book your wine experience here.
Want to learn how to make your own pesto? Book their cooking workshop to make pesto or focaccia on-site! It is family friendly.
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 to bring directly to the beach.
Dip in the Bay of Silence
With only one day in Sestri Levante, you must-see the Baia del Silenzio, Bay of Silence. It is a rather rare SANDY beach for this region of Italy. Many of the coastal beaches in Liguria are made up of rocks and pebbles. Even if I couldn’t see the view, this beach would already be rated an A- for the sand alone.
It truly gets its A rating from the atmosphere though. Since you’re situated in a bay, the water is very calm.
The beach is free, but prepare to get cozy with your neighbors on a nice day; it is only about 300 meters long. As you can see, there won’t be much personal space. It’s a small price to pay to relax on the Italian Riviera if you ask me.
If you want a break from tanning, you can even book paddleboards and SUP in the Bay of Silence.
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 Italy content. Check out some of these posts: