Recco Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Nestled along the stunning Riviera di Levante, Recco is a charming seaside town in Liguria, Italy, promising an unforgettable travel experience. Known for its beautiful bayfront, Recco offers picturesque views, a rich culinary scene, and a strategic location for exploring the surrounding regions. Recco is famous for its delicious focaccia, a must-try local delicacy, making every meal a delightful experience.

Recco lies in the Golfo Paradiso, making it an excellent base for exploring other parts of the Italian Riviera. With easy access via the A12 highway and its train station on the Genoa-La Spezia line, getting here is convenient and stress-free. Once you arrive, the town’s pastel-colored buildings and inviting landscapes immediately captivate the senses.

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Capture glimpses of tranquil coastal life while soaking in the natural beauty of this lesser-known Italian gem. Its proximity to vibrant cities like Genoa, combined with its tranquil charm, makes Recco a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

How To Get To Recco

To reach Recco, you have several convenient options.

By Train: The town has its own train station on the Genoa-La Spezia line. Frequent trains run, making it a quick journey from Genoa. The ride takes about 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the coast.

By Car: For a road trip, drive along the A12 highway and take the Recco exit. This route provides a picturesque drive through the Ligurian region. If you are close, the Aurelia road is a scenic alternative, winding through coastal villages.

We recommend booking a rental car in advance to ensure you have a car waiting for you.

By Bus: Recco is accessible by bus from major locations in Liguria. Buses are a budget-friendly way to travel while enjoying the local scenery.

Additional Tips: Consider renting a bike or car for more flexibility once you arrive in Recco. This allows you to explore nearby attractions at your own pace.

To make your arrival hassle-free, we recommend booking a private taxi.

What To See In Recco

The centerpiece of culture here is the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora del Suffragio. The church is easily accessible, requiring only a stroll along Via Roma, about 300 meters from the seafront. Recco Beach is famous among surfers. You can relax on the sandy shores or engage in water sports like surfing and swimming. Nearby, there’s a lively promenade lined with bars, ice cream parlors, and playgrounds for kids.

Focaccia enthusiasts must try the local specialty, focaccia con formaggio, at restaurants like Da O’ Vittorio and La Baita. The Michelin-starred cuisine here includes delicious options like pansoti with pesto sauce. If you’re into seafood, don’t miss the Mediterranean dishes at Ristorante Locanda Borgo Antico.

For a bit of adventure, consider a day trip to nearby villages like Camogli and Sori. Each offers a unique glimpse into Ligurian culture. You might also want to explore the scenic trails leading to Portofino and San Fruttuoso for stunning views. For a quick bite, Teo’s Restaurant and Da Lino serve up some delectable pizzas and fast food options. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, take a Cooking Class.

Check out our articles on the best things to do in Recco, Italy and best restaurants in Recco, Italy for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Recco

Read our article on hotels near Recco, Italy for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Recco, Italy, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History Of Recco

Recco, a charming town in Liguria, Italy, boasts a rich history. The Romans named it “Recina,” recognizing its strategic location along the Riviera di Levante. The town’s favorable position made it a key point on ancient trade routes.

During the Middle Ages, Recco became part of the Republic of Genoa. This period saw the town flourish, benefiting from Genoa’s maritime prowess. As you wander its streets, imagine traders from centuries past, bustling through these very paths.

In more modern times, Recco endured significant damage during World War II. Nearly 90% of the town was destroyed. Despite this, Recco’s resilient spirit led to its swift reconstruction, and today it thrives as a vibrant community.

A highlight in Recco’s cultural history is the September fireworks festival, held in honor of the Virgin Mary. This annual event attracts visitors from across Italy and beyond, filling the town with festive cheer.

Recco is also renowned for its culinary heritage. You cannot miss tasting its famous cheese focaccia, a local delicacy that has put this town on the culinary map. Treat yourself to this delicious dish while exploring this historic place.

Nearby Towns to Recco

Recco, a coastal town on the Ligurian Riviera, is surrounded by several larger towns that offer a variety of attractions and experiences. Here are five of the closest big towns to Recco:

Genoa: Genoa, the capital of Liguria, is known for its rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Key attractions include the historic port, the Aquarium of Genoa, and the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.
Rapallo: Rapallo is a popular resort town known for its scenic waterfront, historic castles, and vibrant marina. The town offers a blend of cultural attractions, including the ancient Castello sul Mare and the nearby sanctuary of Montallegro.
Santa Margherita Ligure: Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming coastal town known for its elegant villas, beautiful gardens, and lively marina. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping options.
Chiavari: Chiavari is a charming town with a well-preserved historic center, featuring arcaded streets and elegant palaces. The town is known for its vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Camogli: Camogli is a picturesque fishing village known for its colorful buildings, beautiful waterfront, and historic sites. It offers a quaint atmosphere with plenty of dining and shopping options, as well as access to scenic hiking trails.