Sestri Levante Travel Guide 2025: Best Things to Do, Eat & Drink on the Italian Riviera

Things to do in Sestri Levante: Sun, sea & a little Italian magic

Sestri Levante isn’t just a pretty face on the Italian Riviera—it’s a town that knows how to do life well. Between two breathtaking bays, colorful streets, and a coastline that practically begs for a boat ride, this is where you’ll find your perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor.

Hike through fragrant pine forests, sip wine while pretending you own the vineyard, lounge at a beach club until spritz-o’clock, or learn to make pesto like a pro (yes, fresh pasta included). This guide highlights the best activities, spots to eat and drink, and hidden gems that’ll make your stay unforgettable—and maybe a little addictive.

Hike Punta Manara

Start right from the city center and climb through pine forests to reach stunning views of Sestri Levante and its two bays. The trail can continue to Riva Trigoso, or you can turn back for a shorter hike. Avoid after heavy rains, as it gets slippery.

Walk up to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata (dei Cappuccini)

Follow the path up to this 17th-century Capuchin church for one of the best views in town. From the churchyard you’ll see the Bay of Silence, and inside you’ll find beautiful artwork including paintings by Domenico Fiasella. It’s a quick climb that rewards you with history and unforgettable scenery.

Relax at the Vis à Vis pool

Even if you’re not staying here, a day pass lets you enjoy the pool and lunch on the terrace with breathtaking coastal views. The vibe is upscale but welcoming, perfect for a low-key day away from the crowded beaches. Kids are welcome, making it a relaxing spot for the whole family.

Stroll along the promenade

Join locals in their favorite pastime and take a leisurely walk along Sestri Levante’s promenade. Stretching from the port to the tunnel, it offers beautiful views of the coastline and is perfect after a meal or for a casual chat with friends—or even your dog.

Pro tip: Stop at Il Chiosco delle Ragazze for a coffee or aperitivo with beach views.

Charter a boat for the day

Choose between hopping aboard a catamaran to swim in secluded spots between Sestri Levante and Riva Trigoso, or renting a speed boat to cruise toward Portofino, passing charming towns like Zoagli and Santa Margherita Ligure. Either way, enjoy the coastline from the sea and arrive in Portofino in style—sun, water, and stunning views included.

Take a pesto-making class

Learn to make Liguria’s famous pesto, the perfect souvenir for your taste buds. Join a class at a local trattoria like Trattoria Turin, or hire a private chef such as Nicole from Tasting Liguria to come to your villa.

Pro tip: With either option, you can also learn how to make fresh pasta.

Visit Agriturismo Monte Pu

Experience the charm of a Ligurian agriturismo, where farm life meets cozy accommodations. Spend a day or stay overnight to enjoy lunch, take a cooking class, hike the surrounding hills, or simply relax on the property. It’s a full countryside experience just outside Sestri Levante.

Go olive oil tasting

Discover Sestri Levante’s local olive oils at a mill and tasting room right in town. Stop by for a free tasting or book a full experience to tour the mill and enjoy snacks alongside your samples. It’s a delicious way to taste the flavors of the region.

Wine tasting at Bisson

Visit Bisson, a unique winery on the outskirts of Sestri Levante where some wines are aged in barrels submerged underwater. Enjoy tastings and guided tours of their innovative cellar, and in summer, savor an aperitivo or apericena right in the vineyards for an extra magical touch. It’s a scenic and memorable way to experience the flavors of the region.

Spend a full day at a beach club

Start your morning at a beach club with breakfast by the sea, then spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Enjoy lunch, take a nap, swim again, and watch the day slip by until it’s spritz-o’clock.

Pro tip: On the Bay of Silence, try Bistro Mare or Marina di Levante—they rent chairs and umbrellas and each has its own restaurant. For a lively vibe, head to Sottomarino on Baia delle Favole.

Balin

For an upscale twist on traditional Italian, Balin Cuisine is a must. Run by a passionate power couple, the chef brings inspiration from travels around the world, while the maître d pairs each dish with a warm smile and impeccable wines. Sophisticated flavors, attentive service, and a dining experience that feels both elevated and personal.

Rezzano Cucina e Vino

For an adventurous Michelin-style experience, head to Rezzano, a family-run restaurant passed down through generations. Opt for one of their tasting menus and let the chefs take you on a culinary journey full of unexpected flavors and creative presentations. Don’t forget to explore their impressive cantina—it’s worth bragging about.

Trattoria Angiolina

This gorgeous trattoria feels a step above the usual, bringing traditional Ligurian cuisine to life. Enjoy fresh seafood, incredible risotto and pastas, and a thoughtfully curated wine selection. Every dish is a chance to experience the local culture through flavor and hospitality.

Osteria Mattana

If you want simple, local, and seriously delicious, Osteria Mattana is your spot. No-frills but absolutely amazing, they serve Ligurian classics like sea bass, minestrone, and trofie al pesto. Picnic-style seating out front and traditional tables in the back make it charmingly casual—just know there’s usually a line, and it’s worth the wait.

L’Articiocca

You may have spotted this gem in my Ligurian guide, and yes—you’ll hear about it again. L’Articiocca is a charming bodega that gives you all the feel of dining out in Italy. Walls lined with homemade goodies and local products, a takeaway station in the back, and a chef bringing a modern twist to traditional cuisine make it a spot you’ll likely visit more than once.

Cantina del Polpo

Tucked away in the heart of Sestri Levante, Cantina del Polpo serves up incredible pastas, tartares, and other Italian classics. The old-school vibe inside, plus seating on a cozy veranda, makes it a charming spot to linger over good food and a glass of wine.

Ristorante Mapi

Located in Hotel Celeste, Mapi serves up local favorites like fritto misto and cappon magro with flair. The seaside section of the restaurant, decorated with twinkling string lights, looks out over the sparkling water, creating a unique and charming atmosphere for the area—perfect for a relaxed, scenic dinner.

Drink

Chiosco Duro

This lively chiosco on the promenade gives a modern twist to an old-school bar. Sip classic cocktails while enjoying a great playlist—or catch a live DJ—and keep an eye on the TVs for important soccer matches.

Tip: Expect it to get busy on weekends and summer nights—arrive early for a spot.

Xola Bar

As a Californian living in Italy, this is one of my personal favorites. With Italian and Mexican owners, Xola Bar serves a fusion you didn’t know you needed. When spritzes start to feel familiar, sip a margarita or paloma and snack on guac and al pastor tacos—it’s playful, flavorful, and totally addictive.

Capocotta

For great cocktails, head to Capocotta, tucked away in the heart of Sestri Levante. This cozy lounge offers a menu with fresh fish and pasta dishes, plus local and international wines.

Pro tip: If you're a passion fruit lover, get the Zen! It gets really busy on weekends and summer nights, so plan ahead.

Citto Bar

Set on a deck at Hotel Helvetia, Citto Bar is perfect for a relaxed drink with panoramic bay views. Sip cocktails, beer, or wine alongside a classic aperitivo plate while enjoying the serene surroundings. Simple pleasures, elevated.