Rapallo

Last fall, I was very happy with the price, location, and comfort of Residence Il Convento in Rapallo. The Scottish-Italian desk manager was full of information. Cheese shop on the shopping street had a lovely selection.

I stayed a little over a week there a few years ago at the Exelsior Palace, great place. It's a beautiful little town with gorgeous painted buildings. Not a whole lot to do in the town itself but I'd just ride the train and get off when I felt like it and made a couple of boat trips. Santa Margherita Ligure was my favorite dinner stop, least impressed with the Cinque Terre, but that's just my own humble opinion. In Rapallo, there was a great pizza place on the harbor. I can't remember the name but it was packed every night when other places weren't. I honestly never had a bad meal in the town. I just followed the crowds and shop owner recommendations. There is probably one of the best gourmet grocery stores I have been in on the way from the harbor to the train station. That may be what Laura is talking about too as their cheese selection is huge. I can't comment on the beach as it was only warm a couple of days I was there and only a few brave souls in the water. Looked fun though! Enjoy it. Planning a trip back soon.

Hotel Italia Lido has an excellent location and price. It has its own small beach. The room I stayed in was plain, but had a small balcony and a water view. Some rooms have a better view of the castle. The breakfast was quite good. http://www.italiaelido.com/ Be sure to ask for a view if you want to be away from the street which can be a bit noisy.