Slow Travel Guide to Levanto, Italy: Best Places to Stay, Eat & Stroll
Imagine a small, easygoing town on the Ligurian coast where things move at their own pace. That’s Levanto. It’s close enough to hop on a train and visit the five villages of Cinque Terre when you feel like it, but it’s far enough away that you can come back and enjoy some real peace and quiet.
Levanto doesn’t feel like a tourist hotspot. It’s the kind of place where you can wake up without an alarm, wander into town for a coffee and pastry at one of the small cafés, and then see where the day takes you. The narrow streets are lined with local shops and restaurants, so you can take your time browsing without worrying about crowds. The beach is long and spacious (easy to find a spot to yourself ) and the waterfront is just a short walk from town.
If you like to stay active, you’ll find easy trails up into the hills behind town that take you past olive trees and vineyards. But you can also do absolutely nothing: read a book by the water, take an afternoon nap, or go for a slow walk along the promenade as the sun goes down. Levanto is all about doing things on your own schedule.
Getting there is simple too. From Genoa’s airport it’s about an hour and a half by car or train, and from Pisa it’s around 1.5 to 2 hours. The train station is just a few minutes’ walk from the center, so once you arrive you can leave the car behind and explore on foot. Everything (cafés, shops, the beach) is close by.
That’s what makes Levanto special. It’s not flashy or packed with sights you feel you have to check off a list. It’s the kind of town where you can settle in for a few days, slow down, and enjoy the simple things: good food, quiet streets, sea views - without feeling rushed.
Where to Stay in Levanto: Cozy and Authentic Retreats
Hotel Al Terra di Mare
Levanto
When you’re deciding where to stay in Levanto, you’ll find a nice mix of options - whether you want to be up in the hills, closer to the beach, or right in the middle of town. The best part? Many of these spots feel personal and welcoming, which is exactly what you want if you’re looking for a slower, more local experience.
Hotel Al Terra di Mare
Just outside town, this hillside hotel is a lovely retreat if you like a bit of peace and a view. You can sip your morning coffee in the garden looking out over the sea, then spend the day by the pool or head off on one of the hiking trails that pass nearby (the path up to the Sanctuary of Soviore is a favorite). Even though it feels tucked away, Levanto is only a few minutes’ drive, so you get the best of both worlds. It’s an easy choice if you want a quiet spot surrounded by nature without feeling too remote.
Affittacamere Da Cesare
If you’d rather stay right in town, this simple guesthouse is perfect. Run by locals who go out of their way to make you feel welcome, it’s an easy place to come back to after a day of exploring. Nothing is fancy, but the rooms are clean and comfortable, and you can walk to cafés, restaurants, and the beach in just a few minutes. Guests often say they appreciate the friendly owners who are always ready with tips or a good chat.
Hotel Palazzo Vannoni
For a bit more style, Hotel Palazzo Vannoni is a great find. Set in a 16th-century palazzo, it mixes historic details (like high ceilings and big windows) with comfortable, modern rooms. Even though it’s in the center of town, it feels quiet and intimate, and you can easily step outside and wander to dinner or the beach. The terrace is a nice touch too - a good spot to end the day with a glass of local wine and views across Levanto’s rooftops. It’s perfect if you want something a bit special, without losing that warm, small-town feel.
Where to Eat: Simple, Delicious & Authentic Ligurian Fare
Levanto’s food scene is all about enjoying the flavors of the region: fresh, seasonal, and prepared without too much fuss. Whether you’re craving pasta, seafood, or just a good coffee, there are plenty of cozy places where you can settle in and take your time.
If you’re near the promenade, you can’t go wrong with Ristorante La Picea. It’s a small, family-run place just a short stroll from the beach. The pizza, baked in a wood-fired oven, is a local favorite! Crispy, flavorful, and topped with quality ingredients. But most people come back for the trofie al pesto. It’s simple, homemade, and exactly what you’d hope to taste in Liguria. The whole restaurant has a very relaxed, friendly feel, so there’s never a rush to leave.
For seafood, make your way to Trattoria La Loggia, tucked up a few streets from the center. Grab a table on the terrace if you can - you’ll have views of Levanto’s rooftops and hillsides while you eat. The seafood risotto is a standout, and it’s hard to say no to the anchovies or grilled octopus. The menu changes with whatever’s freshest that day, so you know you’re getting the good stuff. Plus, the staff are easygoing and will happily help you pick out something if you can’t decide.
Trattoria La Loggia
Ristorante La Picea
And for a quick coffee or a sweet bite, Caffè del Mar Levanto is a perfect stop. Right in the heart of town, this café has a laid-back atmosphere and seriously good espresso. It’s an easy place to slow down. Just take your coffee outside, sit on the steps, and just enjoy watching the village wake up around you. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their pastries made with vegetable charcoal! They’re surprisingly tasty and give you a fun twist on a classic treat.
Wherever you go, meals in Levanto tend to stretch out comfortably - and that’s exactly the point.
What to Do in Levanto: Embrace the Slow Pace of Levanto
Levanto invites you to slow right down and enjoy the simple pleasures. There’s no need to rush - just go with the town’s easy rhythm and take time to explore at your own pace.
Start your day with a walk along the seafront promenade. The ocean views, the salty air, and the quiet sound of waves hitting the shore make this a peaceful way to ease into the morning. Pick up a warm croissant or focaccia from a nearby bakery, wander down to the beach, and take a seat while you watch the town wake up around you.
If you’re in the mood to stretch your legs, follow the trail up to the Sanctuary of Soviore. The hike takes about an hour, and although it’s a steady climb, it’s more than worth it. The path winds through shady forest, olive groves, and small vineyards before reaching the sanctuary, which looks out over hills and ocean. It’s a quiet, almost hidden spot that feels far away from any crowds: perfect for catching your breath and soaking up the view.
And for something a bit more adventurous, take the coastal path toward Monterosso. This two-hour walk rewards you with beautiful ocean panoramas and pockets of silence where all you’ll hear is the wind and waves. It’s one of those routes that reminds you what slow travel is all about: moving at your own pace and really seeing where you are.
Sanctuary of Soviore
Coastal path to Monterosso
The Levanto Market: A Weekly Routine
Every Saturday morning, Levanto’s local market brings the town to life. Unlike touristy food halls you might find elsewhere, this feels like a real neighborhood market: locals shop here for their weekly vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and cured meats, and there’s always a bit of friendly chat going on at every stall. The produce is super fresh and mostly sourced from small farms in the region.
You’ll also find stalls with homemade preserves, olives, nuts, and good olive oil you can take home. Don’t be shy about chatting with the vendors - they’re usually happy to recommend their favorite items or explain where something was grown. Wander around with a canvas tote, taste some seasonal peaches or a hunk of pecorino, and let the pace of the morning pull you into Levanto’s everyday life. It’s a great way to stock up for a picnic or simply get a feel for the local flavors and the people who make this town special.
How to Get to Levanto, Italy
Levanto sits on the Ligurian coast, just north of the famous Cinque Terre. It’s well-connected but still feels like a small town, which makes getting there surprisingly straightforward.
By Train:
The easiest way to reach Levanto is by train. From Genoa, the direct regional trains take about 1.5–2 hours, running frequently throughout the day. If you’re coming from Pisa or Florence, you’ll usually change trains in La Spezia, with the whole journey taking about 2–3 hours. Trains drop you right in town, a short walk from most hotels, the beach, and the start of coastal hiking trails.
By Car:
If you prefer to drive, Levanto is about 1.5 hours from Genoa or 1 hour from La Spezia via the A12 autostrada. Keep in mind that parking in Levanto (and in the Cinque Terre villages) can be limited, especially in summer. Some hotels provide guest parking, but if yours doesn’t, look for the larger lots on the edge of town and explore on foot.
By Plane:
The nearest airports are Genoa Cristoforo Colombo (GOA) and Pisa International (PSA). Both are small but well-served by European airlines. From either airport, the simplest route is to take a train into Levanto.
Getting Around Once You’re There:
One of the perks of staying in Levanto is how easy it is to move around without a car. Regional trains connect Levanto with the five Cinque Terre villages in minutes, and ferries run along the coast in warmer months. If you’re here for hiking, many trails start directly from Levanto, so you can lace up your boots and head out without needing any transport at all.
If Levanto’s laid-back vibe is calling your name, you might also love the Cilento Coast: a stunning stretch of Italy’s southern coast that’s as serene as it gets. It’s a place where you can escape the crowds and immerse yourself in natural beauty, just like Levanto. You can read all about it in our Cilento Coast Travel Guide and discover why it’s one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Or, if you’re dreaming of another quiet Italian getaway, don’t miss our Slow Travel Guide to Ponza Island—it’s a peaceful island escape with rugged beauty and far fewer tourists, perfect for a relaxing, unplugged trip.
If you’re looking for more ideas for your next slow travel adventure, check out our Summer Market Guide to discover more hidden gems across Europe. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter—it’s filled with travel tips and inspiration for more peaceful, introvert-friendly escapes!
FAQ: All you need to know about visiting Levanto
Is Levanto a good base for visiting Cinque Terre?
Yes! Levanto is one of the best bases for exploring the Cinque Terre. It’s just a 5-minute train ride to Monterosso, the first of the five villages, and from there you can continue down the line. Staying in Levanto means you get more space, slightly lower prices, and fewer crowds, while still being right next to all the action.
Is it better to stay in Levanto or Monterosso?
If you want the convenience of being inside the Cinque Terre, Monterosso is great - but it’s busier and pricier. Levanto is better if you prefer a quieter, less touristy atmosphere, with a sandy beach, excellent restaurants, and easy train connections. Many slow travelers prefer Levanto because it feels more authentic and relaxed.
Can you walk from Levanto to Cinque Terre?
Yes, you can! One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Levanto to Monterosso trail, which takes around 2.5–3 hours depending on pace. It’s a scenic coastal walk through olive groves, forest, and clifftop viewpoints, and a lovely way to arrive in the Cinque Terre on foot.
What is the nearest airport to Levanto?
The closest airports are Genoa (about 1.5–2 hours by train) and Pisa (around 2–3 hours by train via La Spezia). Florence is also an option if you don’t mind a longer journey.
Is Levanto cheaper than Cinque Terre?
Generally, yes. Hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in Levanto are often more affordable than in the Cinque Terre villages, especially in peak summer. You’ll also find more options for larger hotels and apartments, making it ideal for longer stays.
Does Levanto have a beach?
Yes - Levanto has one of the best sandy beaches in the area, which is rare on this rocky coastline. It’s wide, family-friendly, and has both free and serviced areas with umbrellas and sunbeds. It’s a big reason why many travelers choose Levanto over the Cinque Terre villages.
When’s the best time to visit Levanto?
Spring and early autumn are perfect: think April to June or September to October. The weather’s warm but not too hot, the crowds are lighter, and it’s much easier to soak up Levanto’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Is Levanto good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. If you like going at your own speed and enjoy quiet, friendly places, you’ll feel right at home here. Levanto is small and safe, and you can easily explore on foot, whether you’re heading to a café, the beach, or one of the nearby trails.
How do I get to Levanto?
Levanto is super easy to reach. You can hop on a train from Genoa or La Spezia and be there in about an hour - the station is just a short walk to the center and the beach. It’s also close enough to Cinque Terre that you can base yourself here and take day trips without the crowds.
What should I pack?
Comfortable shoes for wandering the town and hiking the nearby hills, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings. And don’t forget your camera! There are so many beautiful little corners and ocean views that you’ll want to remember.
Ready to Slow Down in Levanto?
Levanto isn’t just a stop on the map: it’s the kind of town where you can set your own pace. Sure, it can get busy in summer, especially around the beach and town center, but it never feels rushed. Whether you’re enjoying a simple seafood lunch, browsing the local shops, or sitting on a café terrace watching people go by, there’s an easy, comfortable rhythm to life here.
And when you do want some quiet, it’s not hard to find - walk a few streets back from the beach, hop on a trail into the hills, or visit outside the peak months to have more of the place to yourself. Levanto is the perfect spot to take a breather, enjoy the little things, and leave the usual rush behind, even if just for a few days.
