Rapallo, Italy

Rapallo Castle

This small but beautiful castle right by the water is a symbol of Rapallo. Funds for its construction were collected literally by everyone in the world: first, local residents donated voluntarily, and then-under coercion. The construction was preceded by rather unpleasant events-on July 4, 1549, the city was attacked by the Saracens. And the authorities decided to build a defensive fortification. Over nearly five centuries of its existence, the fortress has undergone many reconstructions and even managed to serve as a prison. In 1950, the city authorities acquired the building for holding exhibitions, which take place here regularly. Also, every year, according to an established tradition, fireworks are launched in the Castle of Rapallo, simulating a fire and a cascading waterfall of fire.

The Church of Our Lady of Montallegro

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montallegro is situated at an altitude of 612 meters above sea level. According to legend, on 2 July 1557, a young peasant returning from the market was overcome by the heat and exhaustion. He fell asleep, but was awakened by the appearance of the Virgin Mary herself. She gave him an icon depicting the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and instructed him to go to the town to spread the good news. Immediately after the Virgin Mary disappeared, a spring began to flow at the spot she had indicated. The peasant went to Rapallo and told everyone about the miracle he had witnessed. By 1558, a church had been built here using the funds of local residents. And at the site of the spring, a small fountain was created. In 1896, the appearance of the building was completely changed by the architect Luigi Rovelli. It is thanks to him that the church has its current neo-Gothic look.

Beaches

Almost the entire coastline of the city is private, closed territory, so almost all beaches are paid and, for many, quite expensive: prices range around 15-25 euros for a whole day. But such beaches have a clear advantage, because they are fully equipped with everything needed for a comfortable vacation-there are separate lockers and even turnkey cabins so there is somewhere to change and leave your belongings. On the beach, there are cafés, water activities, a toilet, a shower, and much more. There is also a free public city beach within the city, but it has practically no infrastructure.

Lace Museum

The famous Lace Museum has been operating since 1990. The foundation of its collection is a set of lace pieces acquired by the city authorities from Mario Dzennaro. It was this man who owned the most successful lace-making business in Italy, operating from 1908 to 1968. Supplies were even sent to Latin American countries! The museum itself is located in a magnificent setting-at the Villa Tigullio, surrounded by a park home to rare birds and plants. In the past, it belonged to the powerful Genoese Spinola family, who came here in the summer as if “for a country retreat.” From the villa, you can enjoy wonderful views of the Tigullio Gulf. In eight museum halls, you can see more than 1400 lace and textile exhibits, 5500 drawings, patterns and schemes for lace and embroidery, and much more.

Cable Car

A cable car takes you to the Monastery of Montallegro, as well as to the hotel “Dom Pilgrims” (Casa del Pellegrino). The lower station is just a few minutes’ walk from the railway station. The ascent takes about ten minutes, and from the top you can enjoy wonderful views of the Tigullio Gulf and the surrounding area, including Portofino (if there is no haze).

San Michele di Pagana

San Michele di Pagana - another luxurious resort on the Italian Riviera, on the shore of the Tigullio Gulf, located 15 minutes by car from Rapallo. This is a wonderful place for a beach holiday: exotic vegetation, beautiful and clean sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and well-developed infrastructure will provide unforgettable impressions. In San Michele di Pagana, there is a wonderful church-museum of San Michele with works by Guido Reni and Van Dyck. Special attention should be paid to the painting by Antonis van Dyck depicting the Crucifixion. The painter created it during his stay in San Michele di Pagana, in 1621-1624.

Cinque Terre Excursion

Cinque Terre, or 5 lands - a truly amazing region! These are several small ancient settlements in the east of the Ligurian coast. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso - charming old towns connected by picturesque trails that run directly over the mountains, above the sea. Thanks to its uniqueness and unusual beauty, Cinque Terre was declared by UNESCO a “World Heritage Site”.

Magnificent Genoa

This extraordinary city captivates with its delightful architecture and traditions, deeply rooted in antiquity. The historic center is threaded with an intricate network of narrow streets-karudji. Strolling along them to this day, we can still feel the former grandeur of the ancient city. Turning a corner, we never know what awaits us- a small Gothic church, an aristocratic palace in the Baroque style, or an exquisite little café where the great Giuseppe Verdi used to relax. By traveling through the city’s streets, you’ll be enchanted by its picturesque sights-Victory Square with its majestic Triumphal Arch, an ancient lighthouse, the city promenade, impressive Soprano Gates, the elegant Doge’s Palace, and much more.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can view them after booking your cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.