Walking through Levanto, you will realise that it has something different compared to other Ligurian villages. Here, in fact, you will not find busy tourists and crowded beaches, but a gentle sense of tranquillity that will allow you to enjoy your trip at a more relaxed pace, perfectly suited to your own rhythm.
Traces of the ancient village of Levanto can already be found in Roman times, when it served as a passage along the commercial routes. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, it came under several different dominations before becoming part of the Republic of Genoa. Thanks to this, Levanto became an important commercial port, also due to its proximity to the Via Francigena, which facilitated trade and exchanges. From then on, the town enjoyed considerable prosperity until it fell under Napoleonic rule.
What to see in Levanto
Levanto is particularly suited to those looking for a holiday immersed in nature, with opportunities for hiking or long walks by the sea, while still appreciating art and culture. Walking through Levanto and its carrugi, in fact, you can admire numerous interesting buildings.
Why not spend a carefree day discovering the beauty of this fascinating medieval village in the Cinque Terre area?
If you want to spend a day in Levanto, we have prepared a list of the things to see and visit at your leisure:
- Parish Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo
- The Medieval Loggia
- San Giorgio Castle
And now let's set off together to discover Levanto's most distinctive places!
Parish Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo
Built in 1222, it is a wonderful example of Gothic architecture, also thanks to its façade featuring characteristic horizontal stripes of white and black marble. The five naves are particularly distinctive, decorated with paintings and sculptures, including a work by Andrea Semino.
The Medieval Loggia
It is an imposing building that is easy to spot while exploring Levanto's historic centre on foot. Built in the 13th century on the banks of the river-port, it once served as a centre for trade and is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
San Giorgio Castle
It is an ancient military structure built in 1265 to protect the village of Levanto. It has an elongated shape that follows the coastline and a tower from which the town walls once extended. Unfortunately, although the castle is still completely intact and well preserved today, the tower cannot be visited.
What to do in Levanto - the Slow Active Tours proposal
Once you have discovered the hidden wonders among Levanto's narrow streets, it is time to immerse yourself in the sounds and scents of this ancient village.
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MareMonti cycle and pedestrian path
A beautiful and scenic cycle path starts right from Levanto, following the route of the former railway line that connects the small villages of Bonassola and Framura. The scenic route stretches for around 6 km, alternating long sections through tunnels with panoramic views whose colours stretch towards the horizon.
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Beaches
One of Levanto's defining features is undoubtedly its long stretches of beaches along the coast. Unlike the typical Ligurian beaches, Levanto's beach is sandy. Here you can spend a relaxing afternoon strolling along the seafront or simply enjoying the sun at one of the local beach resorts.
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Discover the beautiful historic centre
Walking through Levanto and its historic centre, you will realise that some of its most evocative features are its small narrow streets, lined with workshops belonging to local artisans and little shops selling traditional Ligurian products.
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Exploring Liguria: Cinque Terre and Portofino Trekking
If you feel like enjoying a more engaging holiday, you cannot miss Levanto's wonderful hiking trails. Numerous paths suitable for all levels of fitness start from the town. One of the most characteristic is certainly the trail leading to Punta Mesco, a magnificent promontory crowned by an ancient castle.
In the shade of Levanto's characteristic and picturesque houses, an incredible walking journey begins, which we at Slow Active Tours offer to help you discover the stunning and exciting views of the Ligurian Riviera.
Are you reading the article and can't wait to visit Levanto and Liguria?
Discover our travel proposals and set off on your next adventure!
Walking holiday in Liguria
Individual walking holiday
Exploring Liguria
Cinque Terre and Portofino trekking
Festivals and Popular Events in Levanto
If you are in Levanto in summer, you absolutely cannot miss the Festival Massimo Amfiteatrof. Dedicated to the cellist of the same name, the festival features live performances, meetings and conversations about the wonderful world of classical music. All events are organised in the village's most evocative cloisters, making the experience truly magical and unforgettable.
On 25 July, Saint James the Apostle is celebrated, an occasion that brings together confraternities from across Liguria. The celebrations begin a few days earlier, when cheerful tamburellasti are heard through the streets of the town, accompanied by flag throwers. The festivities culminate in the solemn procession through the town, carrying the effigy of Saint James the Apostle, and end with a blessing at the Pietra rock.
At the beginning of autumn, an event that has now become a regular fixture for the Levanto community takes place. We are talking about De Gustibus, a festival founded in 2002 with the aim of promoting knowledge of the local area and its high-quality traditional products through cultural and food and wine events. Between September and October, Levanto's historic centre becomes a cultural salon where local culture and gastronomy come together to celebrate the charm of this land.
The Festa di Sant'Andrea, held on 30 November, is considered by everyone to be Levanto's main patron saint festival. In addition to the religious celebrations, over the years several awards and recognitions have been established and presented to individuals who have distinguished themselves during the year.
Traditional Dishes of Levanto
Walking through Levanto, you will come across numerous small shops and local eateries where you can try traditional dishes.
Levanto's signature dish is gattafin, fried ravioli filled with herbs.
Fish is an essential element of the local cuisine and can be found in starters, first courses and main courses alike. In addition, in Levanto you can taste all the dishes belonging to the regional tradition, such as marinated anchovies and Liguria-style rabbit. Stockfish is also available, although it is not caught locally.
In autumn, traditional dishes are enriched with mushrooms, skilfully gathered in the hills around Levanto. One example? funghi ovoli e patate cooked in a pan!
Eating and Drinking in Levanto
Here are some local suggestions:
Gattabriga at Via Guani, 47. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly dining room staff provide the perfect setting for delicate dishes that bring out the excellent flavour of the fish. The excellent grouper parcel is highly recommended. Closed on Mondays.
Le clarisse Levanto in Piazza Cavour. A must-visit if you are in Levanto. The limited menu features only traditional, high-quality dishes. Friendly staff and excellent wine complete the gastronomic experience. The first courses and homemade desserts are particularly recommended.
La Picea at Via della Concia, 18. Particularly specialised in pizza-making. What makes it stand out is its light dough and the possibility of choosing from a wide variety of flours and ingredients. Also suitable for guests with coeliac disease.
So, what are you waiting for? Backpack on and let's go!
