Known as the “City of Two Seas” and the “City of Fairy Tales,” Sestri Levante is one of the most beloved destinations on the eastern Ligurian Riviera. Beyond the poetic nicknames, Sestri Levante with kids is a fantastic choice for families. You’ll find sandy beaches, easy walks, and plenty of experiences designed for all ages.
Lively and charming in every season, Sestri Levante works year-round. Unlike many seaside towns along the Riviera, it doesn’t completely shut down in winter. Even outside peak season, it keeps its authentic atmosphere.
If you’re planning a summer vacation or simply passing through, this family travel guide–style overview will help you discover the best things to do in Sestri Levante with kids, from beach days to scenic walks and family-friendly activities.
Things to Do in Sestri Levante with Kids: Two Beautiful Bays
In Sestri Levante, you don’t just get one beach—you get two.
On one side, there’s Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence). It’s intimate and postcard-perfect, framed by colorful Ligurian houses. It has even ranked among the top ten most beautiful beaches in Italy.
On the other side, you’ll find the larger Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fairy Tales). It offers several beach clubs as well as free public areas. The name honors Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen, who stayed here for a long time. Every early summer, the town hosts a children’s literature festival dedicated to him.
Both bays feature sandy beaches and gently sloping seabeds. That’s quite rare in Liguria and ideal for families. Baia del Silenzio is also accessible for people with disabilities. In both areas, you’ll enjoy clear water, beautiful scenery, and good facilities—perfect for family things to do in Sestri Levante.
Gelato and Focaccia in Sestri Levante
Traveling with kids means snack breaks are essential. In Sestri Levante, you’ll find plenty of artisan gelato shops in the town center.
Among the most popular is Il Baciollo in Piazza Matteotti, known for its rich cream flavors and creative combinations. Another favorite is 100% naturale, perfect for fruit lovers, granitas, and homemade popsicles. Tama is also worth a stop, offering gelato, yogurt, and fresh fruit salads.
If you’re craving something savory, focaccia is a local institution. According to tradition, one of the best spots is Antico Forno on Via Vincenzo Fascie. Throughout the historic center, you’ll also find bakeries and delis that are ideal for grabbing a quick snack to enjoy at the beach.
Special Experiences for Families in Sestri Levante
Beyond the beach, there are unique experiences to make your trip even more memorable.
One of the most fun activities is joining a cooking class to learn how to make fresh pasta. Many workshops are designed with children in mind. Kids can literally get their hands in the dough and discover Italian cuisine in a playful way.
Another traditional Ligurian experience is learning how to make pesto using a mortar and fresh local ingredients. It’s engaging for children and introduces them to one of the region’s most iconic dishes.
If your family loves active adventures, consider kayaking in Baia delle Favole. Paddling along the coast lets you admire Sestri Levante from a different perspective. The setting is safe and suitable for families.
Evening Walks and Playgrounds in Sestri Levante
One of the things we love most about Sestri Levante is its relaxed atmosphere. It makes you feel on vacation, even if you’re just a short drive from home and visiting in spring or late summer.
An evening stroll along the waterfront is a must. The promenade is wide and scenic, lined with flower beds and benches.
At the far end, you’ll find a small open area with rides and games for children: mini carousels, small roller rides, trampolines, and other simple attractions. They’ll happily play for half an hour, while you enjoy a well-deserved break.
A Scenic Hike to Punta Manara
If you’re looking for a scenic walk, the trail to Punta Manara is one of the most beautiful in the area. It’s very popular with families.
The hike is relatively easy and suitable for children who are used to walking. After an initial uphill stretch, the path becomes mostly flat and offers stunning views of the Ligurian coastline.
If you have more time, you can continue down to Riva Trigoso and then return to Sestri Levante by bus.
Once you reach Punta Manara, especially on hot days, the temptation to swim is strong. However, with kids, it’s not recommended. The area is rocky, there are no lifeguards, and the water gets deep quickly. It’s better to enjoy the view and head back to the beach for a safe swim.
- Here you can read our article about the hike to Punta Manara
Biking by the Sea in Sestri Levante
Getting around by bike in Sestri Levante is easy and enjoyable. There are two bike paths in town. One runs along the sea, next to the road. The other starts in the center and heads inland for about 3 miles toward Casarza.
Between Riva Trigoso and Moneglia, the road passes through cool, scenic tunnels. However, this stretch is shared with cars. If you’re biking with children, it’s less suitable and requires extra caution.
For a truly special experience, consider the Maremonti cycling and pedestrian path. It connects the villages of Framura, Bonassola, and Levanto along a former railway line that once linked Genoa to Pisa. It’s panoramic, safe, and ideal for families.
Visiting MuSel with Kids
Inside Palazzo Fascie, you’ll find MuSel, the archaeological and historical museum of Sestri Levante. It’s an interesting visit, especially if combined with outdoor activities.
The museum displays artifacts that tell the story of the area, from prehistory to Roman times, the Middle Ages, and modern history. One of the most significant pieces is the Monte Ramaceto stone marker, which documents the presence of Roman imperial estates in the region.
The MuSel often offers activities and workshops dedicated to children and families. Before planning your visit, we suggest checking the official website for special events. The museum is generally open daily with morning and afternoon hours, but it is always best to check for updates before you go.
Best Places to Stay in Sestri Levante for Families
There are many accommodation options in Sestri Levante, making it easy to find the right solution for your family. From a hospitality standpoint, it’s a very family-friendly destination.
In the town center and nearby areas, you’ll find hotels, residence-style properties, and apartments within walking distance of the beaches.
Families with younger children may prefer hotels with family rooms or apartments with kitchenettes. These options make it easier to manage daily routines without stress. Staying close to the center or the waterfront is convenient, especially with strollers.
If you’re looking for quieter surroundings or more budget-friendly options, consider slightly out-of-town areas or the nearby inland villages, which are well connected to Sestri Levante.
Day Trips from Sestri Levante with Kids
Sestri Levante is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.
You can visit the Cinque Terre—best visited by train—as well as Levanto, Camogli, or San Fruttuoso.
If you’d like to discover a less touristy and truly beautiful natural area, drive less than 30 minutes to Val di Vara. This lush, fairy-tale valley behind the Gulf of La Spezia is perfect for outdoor activities, farm experiences with animals, scenic walks, and memorable meals in charming villages.
Did you enjoy this mini-guide to visiting Sestri Levante with kids?
