Rapallo is on the main Genoa–La Spezia coastal railway line. Trains from Genoa Brignole take around 30 minutes; there are frequent departures throughout the day. From Milan, change at Genoa; from Florence, change at La Spezia or travel via Pisa and the coast. The station is central, five minutes on foot from the seafront.
By car, Rapallo is on the A12 motorway (Genova–Livorno), exit Rapallo. The drive from Genoa takes about 35 minutes outside of summer traffic. Parking in the centre is limited and metered; the car parks near the marina are the most convenient.
In summer, Tigullio ferries connect Rapallo with Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and — on longer runs — the Cinque Terre. The ferry to Portofino takes about 15 minutes and is a more enjoyable approach than the road. Check Tigullio ferry timetables at the embarcadero on the promenade.