Visit Levanto Italy: Explore the Italian Riviera

Visit Levanto and discover the kind of place that makes you want to stay longer than planned. Tucked between the mountains and the Ligurian Sea, this easygoing town on the Italian Riviera is full of charm, minus the Cinque Terre crowds. Just north of Monterosso al Mare and well-connected by train, Levanto is known for its sandy beach, colorful piazzas, and a slower pace that instantly feels like a break. It’s a favorite among food lovers, hikers, and anyone chasing a more local vibe. You can spend your days tasting fresh pesto, relaxing at the beach, hiking coastal trails, or diving into Liguria wine tours in the nearby hills.

Visit Levanto and the best things to do

Wander the streets and visit the Church of San Andrea

If you’re into dramatic architecture (or just love a good black-and-white aesthetic), head up to the Church of San Andrea in Levanto. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic beauty looks like it was designed by someone who couldn’t pick between stripes or stone, so they went with both. Inside, it’s calm, a little mysterious, and filled with old-world charm. Right next door, you’ll spot a medieval loggia and fortress-like buildings that whisper back to the days when Levanto was a rich trading town with serious sea power.

Step back in time at Levanto’s medieval loggia

Levanto’s medieval loggia is a striking reminder of the town’s historic roots as a bustling trade hub. Built in the 13th century, this elegant open-air structure once hosted merchant gatherings, town meetings, and market exchanges. Today, it stands quietly beneath ancient stone arches, offering a shady spot to pause and imagine life in Liguria during the Middle Ages. With its weathered columns and view of the surrounding lanes, the loggia adds a touch of quiet grandeur to Levanto’s charming old town.

Visit the Castle of Levanto

Rising above the rooftops of Levanto, the medieval castle offers a panoramic lookout over the town, its beach, and the surrounding hills. Once a key defensive outpost guarding the Ligurian coast, it now stands as a quiet reminder of the town’s strategic past. The walk up from the main square winds through narrow lanes and stone passageways, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. With its elevated views and historic atmosphere, the castle is a rewarding stop for anyone exploring the upper part of Levanto.

Stretch out on the sandy beach

Levanto’s beach is one of the best sandy stretches in Liguria, wide, welcoming, and just steps from the town’s lively promenade. With clear waters, a mix of free areas and beach clubs, and plenty of space to stretch out, it’s a favorite for both sunseekers and surfers. In fact, Levanto has quietly built a reputation as a local surf spot, especially when the waves pick up in autumn and winter.

Cycle the coast through Levanto’s seaside railway tunnels

Once part of an old coastal railway line, the tunnel path connecting Levanto, Bonassola, and Framura has been transformed into one of Liguria’s most scenic cycling and walking routes. Carved through cliffs and opening up to sweeping views of the sea, this flat, paved trail winds through ancient railway tunnels, quiet coves, and shaded passages. It’s ideal for a relaxed morning ride or a sunset stroll, with plenty of spots to stop for a swim or a photo.

Enjoy the sunset from Punta Mesco

Punta Mesco marks the rugged cape that separates Levanto from Monterosso, and reaching its summit is one of the most rewarding hikes in the area. The trail winds through pine forests and hillside vineyards before opening up to a panoramic viewpoint over the Ligurian Sea. As the sun sinks into the horizon, the sky turns gold, then fiery red, a perfect backdrop for a quiet moment with a view.

Visit Levanto and the best things to do around it

Explore the timeless charm of Monterosso al Mare

Looking for a beach day with a side of history? Monterosso al Mare is your move. Just a 5-minute train ride (or a breezy 1.5-hour coastal hike) from Levanto, this is the biggest of the Cinque Terre villages, and it shows. You’ve got a proper sandy beach (yes, actual sand!), lemon trees that smell like summer, and medieval towers that make you feel like you stumbled into a postcard. Climb up to the Aurora Tower, peek into the 13th-century Church of San Giovanni, then reward yourself with a plate of trofie al pesto at one of the restaurants near the piazza. Want to arrive in style? Hop on a ferry from Levanto and sail in like the Riviera legend you were born to be.

Visit the picturesque wine terraces of Vernazza

Just 15 minutes by train from Levanto, Vernazza feels like it was designed by a travel photographer with a flair for drama. With steep cliffs, vineyard-covered hills, and houses tumbling down to a small harbor, this Cinque Terre village is effortlessly stunning. Climb up to Castello Doria for the kind of coastal view that makes your phone run out of storage, snack on warm focaccia with anchovies, and sip local white wine while boats drift in the harbor below. The olive groves and terraced vineyards surrounding Vernazza make it a dream for slow travelers and wine lovers alike.

Ready to go beyond the postcard? Explore our offbeat guide to the best things to do in Vernazza, the views are just the beginning.

Wander through the historical streets of La Spezia

About 30 minutes from Levanto by intercity train, La Spezia brings the city buzz to your Cinque Terre getaway. It’s got a totally different vibe, more espresso, less hiking boots. Browse the covered market for fresh seafood and ravioli like a local, swing by the Naval Museum, and wander the pedestrian streets lined with shops and gelaterias. Via Dante Alighieri and the main piazza are perfect for people-watching with a cappuccino in hand. It’s also the launchpad for ferries to Porto Venere, a picture-perfect escape just across the water.

Think Cinque Terre’s cool cousin with better shopping? Check out our guide to the best things to do in La Spezia, there’s more here than just a train transfer.

Sip wine and admire the sunset

Perched above Manarola in the quiet village of Volastra, Cantina Capellini offers a wine tasting experience that’s all about good views, great stories, and even better wine. This family-run winery has been working the Cinque Terre’s iconic terraced vineyards for generations, and their tasting experience blends tradition with laid-back charm. You’ll walk through the vines, learn how Cinque Terre DOC and Sciacchetrà are made, then relax with four wines and some local bites on a sea-view terrace.

Walk to Bonassola for a peaceful escape

The path from Levanto to Bonassola is part coastal stroll, part time machine, and a favorite for both hikers and beach lovers. You can get there in 10 minutes by train or take the scenic route: a 30-minute walk through pine trees and old railway tunnels that now serve as a breezy bike and foot path. Once you arrive, Bonassola feels like the quieter, cooler cousin of the Cinque Terre crowd. Think pebble beaches, pastel villas, and seafood so fresh it might’ve just jumped on the plate. Stay for a swim, a slow lunch by the water, or just a peaceful break from the Cinque Terre buzz.

Explore the Cinq Terre villages

Imagine walking through pastel-colored lanes, glass of crisp Cinque Terre DOC in hand, with vineyards clinging to cliffs and tiny boats bobbing in the harbor, that’s Vernazza, distilled into one unforgettable experience. This coastal gem blends medieval charm with hillside vineyards and fresh local flavors. Climb to Doria Castle for panoramic views, nibble on anchovy-fresh focaccia by the water, and wind through olive groves that feel like they’re painted into the landscape. Then dive into Liguria wine tours to get up close with the area’s boutique wineries and taste the coastal whites that put Vernazza and Cinque Terre, on the map. With hidden beaches, scenic trails, and incredible views at every turn, this is your gateway to the heart and soul of the Italian Riviera.

Check out the full article on things to do in Cinque Terre for local tips, wine stops, and photo spots you won’t want to miss.

Good to Know before visiting Levanto, Italy