The Barcarolata is one of the most iconic and festive events in Sestri Levante, Liguria. This unique boat parade, held annually in the stunning Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence), combines local traditions with a magical nighttime spectacle.
Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you experience the Barcarolata in Sestri Levante.
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History
The Barcarolata has been a cherished tradition in Sestri Levante for many years, celebrating the town’s maritime heritage and community spirit. The event takes place on the last Sunday of July and features a parade of beautifully decorated boats, each adorned with lights and thematic decorations.
The parade is followed by a spectacular fireworks display, making it a highlight of the summer season in Sestri Levante.
Getting There
By Train: Sestri Levante is well-connected by train. From the Sestri Levante train station, Baia del Silenzio is a short 15-minute walk through the town center.
By Car: If you’re driving, take the A12 Genoa-Livorno motorway and exit at Sestri Levante. There are several public parking areas in the town, but they can fill up quickly during the event, so arriving early is recommended.
Event Highlights
- Boat Parade: The main attraction of the Barcarolata is the parade of elaborately decorated boats. Local participants and organizations spend weeks preparing their boats, each designed around a specific theme. The boats are illuminated and sail slowly across Baia del Silenzio, creating a magical scene.
- Fireworks Display: Following the boat parade, a stunning fireworks display lights up the sky over the bay. The reflections on the water add to the spectacle, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
- Live Music and Entertainment: The event often features live music performances and entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere. Local bands and artists perform on stages set up near the bay.
- Food and Drink Stalls: Enjoy a variety of local food and drink stalls set up around Baia del Silenzio. You can sample traditional Ligurian cuisine, including fresh seafood, focaccia, and local wines.
Nearby Attractions
- Baia del Silenzio: The picturesque bay is the heart of the Barcarolata event. During the day, it’s perfect for a relaxing beach visit or a scenic stroll.
- Baia delle Favole: Another beautiful bay nearby, offering a longer stretch of beach and various water sports activities.
- Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola: Visit this historic church, dating back to 1151, which offers a glimpse into the town’s medieval past and stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
- Palazzo Fascie Rossi: Explore this early 20th-century building that houses the town’s municipal library, historical archives, and the Archaeological Museum of the City.
- Old Town of Sestri Levante: Wander through the narrow streets of the historic center with its colorful buildings, shops, and cafes. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk and shopping.
There are also plenty of great tours for you to book on GetYourGuide.com.
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Dining and Cuisine
- Local Restaurants: Enjoy traditional Ligurian cuisine at one of the many restaurants near Baia del Silenzio. Fresh seafood, pesto, and focaccia are must-try dishes.
- Cafes and Gelaterias: Take a break at one of the charming cafes or enjoy a delicious gelato as you explore the area.
- Wine Bars: Sample local wines at one of the wine bars in the vicinity. Liguria is known for its excellent white wines, such as Vermentino and Pigato.
Accommodation
Here are some nearby Sestri Levante Ligure hotels:
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi: A historic hotel set in an 18th-century villa, surrounded by lush gardens and offering luxurious accommodations.
Hotel Vis à Vis: Perched on a hill with panoramic views of the sea, this hotel features a rooftop terrace, a spa, and stylish accommodations.
Hotel Miramare & Spa: Located directly on the Bay of Silence, this hotel offers modern rooms, a private beach, and a wellness center.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive Early: The Barcarolata attracts a large number of visitors, so arriving early can help you secure a good spot to view the parade and fireworks.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The event involves a lot of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you plan to spend the day at the beach before the event.
- Check the Schedule: Review the event schedule in advance to plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss any of the key events.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
The Barcarolata is a magical and festive event that showcases the community spirit and maritime heritage of Sestri Levante. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the boat parade and fireworks display offer a memorable experience against the stunning backdrop of Baia del Silenzio. Enjoy your visit to Sestri Levante and the enchanting Barcarolata!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Sestri Levante! Look for deals here:
Sestri Levante Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
Check Out More Things to Do in Sestri Levante:
Andersen Festival Travel Guide
Baia del Silenzio Travel Guide
Baia delle Favole Travel Guide
Barcarolata Travel Guide
Basilica di Santa Maria di Nazareth Travel Guide
Caruggio Travel Guide
Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola Travel Guide
Convento dell’Annunziata Travel Guide
Day Trips from Sestri Levante Ligure
Old Town of Sestri Levante Travel Guide
Palazzo Fascie Rossi Travel Guide
Piazza Matteotti Travel Guide
Porta Romana Travel Guide
Punta Manara Travel Guide
