What a wonderful trip. I've really enjoyed your detailed report and will make use of it when planning my own trip for next year.

Thank you shandy, and best wishes for your trip.

Ciao ANUJ…

A truly inspiring TR. We are also fans of the Italian Riviera and are returning late August. We are seniors now and our style is more laid back at this point! Could you please be so kind as to list the places you stayed in Rapallo, Lerici and Portovenere? While we do not cook while visiting this region, it would be lovely to enjoy a place to ourselves, near a beach and close to town. For Lerici and Portovenere, we would have a car. For Rapallo, we would not. We then head off to Milan by train and then to the Lakes.
— We have stayed near the Castle in Rapallo in a hotel, but wanted to try for an apartment this time: with a balcony and like yours, sea facing! A washer would be nice. We have not had much luck.
— In Lerici, we see many nice-looking apartments and B&Bs — but not close to town or to the beach.We don’t mind driving to beaches and town…but, parking and the ZTLs!

Like you, no CT this time: did that years ago! Just relaxing, strolling and…. Eating!!
Appreciate your recommendations! Grazie!

Thanks arb152. I've sent you a private message with the details you requested, to your Fodors inbox. Just a point to note : we did not have a car in Liguria at all, just in Piedmont, so no personal experience with parking in those towns, but your hosts will be able guide you.

Just reread this. Outstanding, and makes me want to return to Italy. I've marked down I need to try Bicerin. Thanks for the enlightening report.

Thanks so much ANUJ for such a well-written, detailed TR. I took notes. We’re planning a guided hiking tour of Valsesia next year, with a short time in Milan, and we’re considering which other area to spend a few days following the hike. It’s going to be a tough decision between one of the Lakes or Turin/Piedmont! Your TR provided useful input:)