Experience Rapallo & Santa Margherita

Revel in the charms and flavors of two wonderfully complementary seaside towns on the Italian Riviera, inspiring Rapallo and quaint Santa Margherita Ligure. Cruise along the captivating coastline to Rapallo, where you’ll be welcomed by the compact castle that stands guard in the harbor. After learning about the intriguing fortification and some of the town’s notable denizens, such as Ezra Pound and D.H. Lawrence, you’ll walk into the historical town center and visit an enticing shop that specializes in regional foods. Observe the welcoming owner creating Rapallo-style pesto, which you’ll have an opportunity to savor along with focaccia, bruschetta, black olives and a glass of vermentino or pigato white wine, all local products. Reboard your boat for the journey to palm-dotted Santa Margherita, where you’ll view the magnificent Baroque Chiesa di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia. Stand in awe within the church, where seemingly every square inch has been extravagantly decorated with gilded stucco and woodwork, vivid frescoes and expressive sculptures. You’ll relish time on your own to dip into the boutiques lining the waterfront promenade or mingle with the locals in one of the town’s lively seaside piazzas.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Dress appropriately for a religious venue; shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.