A visit to the Italian Riviera is a dreamy fantasy come to life. Bopping along the coast you’ll find colorful coastal villages, turquoise waters begging you for a dip, and delicious Ligurian pasta dishes calling your name. To add to a wonderful trip, you’ll want to ensure the accomodation matches the vibe. I recommend you stay at the Excelsior Palace Hotel in Rapallo. It is best type of mix of classic, old-school Italian charm and has an epic beach club on the cliffside.
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The Hotel
Tucked between sky and sea on the Ligurian coast, the 5-star Excelsior Palace Hotel in Rapallo offers a front-row seat to the magic of the Portofino Riviera. I stayed here during a coastal getaway and was struck not only by the elegance of the property but by the feeling of timeless Italian glamour. It’s like stepping back int time to the prime La Dolce Vita era of the ’60s – in a good way! Here’s what stood out and why I’d recommend this stay to anyone craving Italian Riviera luxury with authentic character.
Rooms and suites here are elegantly old-world. They are decked out with antique furnishings, hardwood floors, and balconies overlooking the glistening Ligurian Sea and Rapallo bay.
The Beach Club
I’d be amiss to not mention the beach club first. It is set amongst the cliffs and boats several pools, hot tubs, a restaurant, a beach bar, and direct access into the sea. When you arrive, pick up your towels from the attendants and then choose one of the available lounge chairs.
You don’t have to choose between reading a book, sipping a spritz, or completing some yacht-watching because you’ll have plenty of time to do it all! The daily hours are from 10am – 7pm.
Do you have friends nearby who are not guests of the hotel? Contact the conierage because when there is space the beach club is open to outside guests.
Breakfast & Aperitivo with a Riviera Backdrop
Besides the beach club, one of the highlights for me was the morning breakfast. It is served on the panoramic terrace and is truly an experience. You can choose from freshly baked focaccia, fruit, and a spread of meats, cheeses, and pastries. And yes, that bottle of Prosecco is begging you to make a mimosa.
For apertivo, you don’t want to miss The Yachting Bar. It feels like you’re truly entering an old-school yacht club – wooden walls with maritime memorobilia. The bonus? The cocktails are fantastic.
If you want a delicious dinner recommendation just a 5-minute walk from the hotel, I encourage you to try ö Magazín Al Pörto. You’ll find good service, good views, and good food. Really, it’s a 10/10 experience. Don’t forget to ask for the soufflé.
Perfect Base Location to Explore the Coast
The Excelsior Palace Hotel is only a 15-minute walk from the Rapallo train station. You can easily arrive directly from Milan or Genova, but you are also easily connected to the various coastal towns. In fact, it is a great base for exploring the Portofino coast without the price tag of Portofino itself. You can take a quick ferry or drive to Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino to shop. Otherwise, by boat, you can even explore Camogli and San Fruttuoso.
You can even rent Vespas through the hotel if you are up for a thrilling adventure of the winding road along the seaside. Maybe you’ll even drive up to Recco for the cheesy focaccia speciality!
Want to explore Liguria beyond the Excelsior Palace Hotel and its beach club? Check out my Top 10 Things to Do in Liguria.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
The Excelsior Palace Hotel offers a rare balance: classic Riviera elegance with genuine warmth and access to some of Liguria’s best-kept coastal secrets. If you’re seeking five-star relaxation with views and privacy without losing touch with local culture and feeling down-to-earth, this hotel is worth the splurge.
For honeymooners, friends, or even solo travelers looking to unwind by the sea with a glass of wine and a view? This place delivers.
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