When travellers think of visiting the Cinque Terre, they often search for the nearest and most convenient base — and Levanto naturally pops up. But here’s a little secret: Levanto is much more than just a starting point for exploring the five famous villages. It's a charming, welcoming destination all on its own, brimming with character, flavour, and genuine Italian charm.
Why Choose Levanto?
Nestled between rolling green hills and the glittering Ligurian Sea, Levanto offers the best of both worlds — easy access to the Cinque Terre (just one stop away by train or a scenic ferry ride) and a peaceful, uncrowded retreat to return to at the end of the day.
Whether you’re planning a beach holiday, a foodie escape, or a laid-back cultural getaway, Levanto delivers all this and more.
Sun, Sea & Sand: Levanto’s Beaches
Levanto boasts one of the largest and most accessible beaches in the area — perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Unlike the pebbly coves of its famous neighbours, here you’ll find long stretches of sandy and mixed coastline, ideal for families, couples and solo travellers alike.
There’s even a historic promenade where locals and visitors come together for leisurely evening strolls (la passeggiata), gelato in hand 🍦.
Authentic Flavours at Every Corner
Levanto is a haven for food lovers. From simple seaside trattorias to vibrant aperitivo bars and elegant dining spots, the town offers a delicious blend of Ligurian traditions and creative flair.
Don’t leave without tasting:
- Focaccia genovese, fresh from the oven
- Trofie al pesto, made with local basil and pine nuts
- Fresh anchovies, caught right off the coast
- A glass (or two) of crisp Vermentino or sweet Sciacchetrà
👉 Need restaurant ideas? Check out our blog post on where to eat in Levanto
Discover Levanto’s Hidden Gems
Beyond its beach and food, Levanto is home to historic churches, colourful frescoed villas, and quiet, cobbled streets that invite you to slow down and soak up the local vibe.
Some highlights:
- The 13th-century church of Sant’Andrea, with its striking black-and-white stripes
- A scenic walk to Punta Mesco, offering panoramic views of the entire coast
- The old railway tunnels, now transformed into a stunning pedestrian and cycling path that connects Levanto to Bonassola and Framura 🚲
A Relaxed Alternative to the Crowds
One of Levanto’s biggest advantages? Its calm, authentic atmosphere.
Here, life moves at a gentler pace. There’s room to breathe, space to explore, and plenty of opportunities to connect with locals, artisans, and fellow travellers.
And when you're ready to visit the Cinque Terre, the train station is just a short walk away — with regular departures to Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Manarola and beyond. You can even hop on a ferry from the harbour for a stunning sea-view approach to the villages.
Stay Local, Live Like a Local
Choosing Levanto means choosing an Italian experience that feels real and unrushed. It’s ideal for those who want to discover the magic of Liguria without the overwhelm, and perfect for travellers who value charm, authenticity, and a slower kind of luxury.
Looking for a place to stay? Our colourful and cosy rooms at Oasi Boutique Hotel are just a few minutes’ walk from the beach, station and all the best spots in town. We’d love to welcome you!
Levanto isn’t just where your Cinque Terre adventure begins — it’s where your love affair with Liguria truly starts.