RIVIERA DI LEVANTE
The Riviera di Levante is the spectacular eastern coastline of Liguria, a dramatic sweep of colorful villages and rugged cliffs where mountains plunge directly into the sea. It’s the home of the glamorous Portofino and the iconic, terraced landscapes of the Cinque Terre.
This region is Italy’s coastal gem, blending elegant seaside resorts with the raw beauty of its national parks. From Genoa’s grand port to the poets’ retreat of La Spezia, it offers an unforgettable taste of the Italian Riviera.
Most Popular Attractions
The Cinque Terre & Poet’s Gulf:
Cinque Terre (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore): The five iconic, brightly-colored fishing villages perched precariously on the cliffs, connected by hiking trails and rail.
Via dell’Amore (Riomaggiore to Manarola): A famously scenic, easy-walking coastal path (check for opening status).
Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): The primary path connecting all five Cinque Terre villages, offering breathtaking views.
Portovenere: A stunning, often-overlooked village at the southern tip, famous for its colorful harbor, the Church of St. Peter, and views of the islands.
Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Islands: Three beautiful, protected islands off the coast of Portovenere.
Lerici: An elegant town on the Gulf of Poets, known for its medieval castle and literary connections to Shelley and Byron.
Tino Island Lighthouse: A prominent, active lighthouse on the rugged Tino Island.
The Tigullio Gulf & Portofino Coast:
Portofino: The world-famous, exclusive harbor village with colorful houses, chic boutiques, and the iconic Piazzetta.
Castello Brown (Portofino): A 16th-century fortress offering spectacular panoramic views of the village and the Ligurian Sea.
San Fruttuoso Abbey: A stunning 10th-century Benedictine abbey nestled in a tiny cove, accessible only by boat or a challenging hike.
Christ of the Abyss (San Fruttuoso): A bronze statue of Jesus Christ submerged 17 meters underwater, popular with divers.
Santa Margherita Ligure: An elegant, sophisticated coastal town with a beautiful harbor, painted facades, and palm-lined promenade.
Rapallo: A larger, lively resort town known for its seaside castle and the cable car up to the sanctuary of Montallegro.
Sestri Levante: Famous for its two picturesque bays: the lively Bay of Silence and the larger Bay of Fables.
Chiavari: A town with a well-preserved medieval arcaded center and a beautiful coastal promenade.
La Spezia & The Eastern Coast:
La Spezia Naval Museum (Museo Navale): A comprehensive museum dedicated to Italian naval history, located in the main city of the province.
Castello San Giorgio (La Spezia): A medieval castle offering views over the city and the Gulf of Poets.
Sarzana: An inland town known for its medieval history, historic center, and two impressive castles: Sarzanello and the Firmafede Fortress.
Tellaro: A tiny, idyllic fishing village perched on a cliffside, officially listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Varese Ligure: Known as the “Round Town” for its unique, circular-shaped historic center and commitment to organic agriculture.
Brugnato Outlet Village: A destination for shoppers looking for designer brands at discount prices.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Cinque Terre Trails: Walk the famous network of coastal paths connecting the five colorful villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a Pesto Making Class: Learn to make the authentic Ligurian pesto with a mortar and pestle using local basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano Reggiano, often in a village setting.
Boat Trip to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso: Take a scenic boat trip from Camogli or Portofino to this tiny, secluded beach and its medieval Benedictine abbey.
Explore the Gulf of Poets by Kayak or SUP: Rent a kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) in a town like Lerici or Portovenere to explore the hidden coves and dramatic cliffs of the “Golfo dei Poeti.”
Go Wine Tasting at a Terraced Vineyard: Visit a small, local winery in the Cinque Terre or the surrounding hills to taste the local Sciacchetrà dessert wine and crisp white wines like Vermentino.
Stroll the Colorful Harbor of Portofino: Enjoy the glamorous atmosphere, luxury yachts, and designer boutiques in the world-famous fishing village of Portofino.
Hike to the Faro di Portofino (Lighthouse): Take a beautiful, easy hike from the harbor of Portofino up to the lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the coast.
Visit the Historic Castle Doria in Portovenere: Explore this imposing fortress overlooking the sea and the picturesque Church of San Pietro on the peninsula’s tip.
Walk the Promenade in Santa Margherita Ligure: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the elegant seafront promenade of this charming town, pausing for a gelato or a focaccia break.
Take a Street Food Tour in La Spezia: Discover the authentic local flavors of the largest city in the region, sampling specialties like farinata (chickpea flatbread) and local focaccia.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in a Marine Protected Area: Explore the clear waters and vibrant marine life in the protected areas off Portofino or the Cinque Terre.
Local Tips & Transport
Trains are Essential: The most efficient way to travel the length of the Riviera di Levante, especially to the Cinque Terre, is by the regional train service (Trenitalia).
Cinque Terre Train Card: This is highly recommended for visiting the Cinque Terre, as it includes unlimited use of the regional trains between Levanto and La Spezia (stopping at all five villages) and access to the hiking trails.
Driving is Discouraged: Driving within the Cinque Terre is heavily restricted, and parking is scarce, expensive, and often far from the villages. Leave your car in La Spezia or Levanto and take the train.
Ferry/Boat Services: During the warmer months, a comprehensive ferry service connects La Spezia, Portovenere, and the Cinque Terre (except Corniglia). This is the most scenic way to view the coastline. Ferries also connect the towns in the Gulf of Tigullio (Santa Margherita, Rapallo, Portofino).
Local Buses: Local buses connect some of the smaller, higher villages and towns to the train stations, but for inter-town travel, the train is generally faster.
Embrace the Hike: The defining characteristic of the region is its rugged terrain. Even getting around the villages involves stairs and steep slopes. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes—flip-flops are a poor choice, especially for the trails.
Focaccia is the Local Bread: Liguria is the birthplace of focaccia. You’ll find it sold everywhere, from bakeries (panetterie) to bars. Try the classic focaccia ligure with olive oil and salt, or the local variations like focaccia with onions or focaccia di Recco (a thin, cheese-filled variety).
The Magic of Pesto: Pesto Genovese is a point of pride. Be sure to order trofie al pesto (a short, twisted pasta) or trenette al pesto to taste the authentic local dish.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner starts around 7:30 PM, but locals often eat later, closer to 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM. Many restaurants close their kitchens between lunch and dinner.
The Cinque Terre Crowds: These villages are immensely popular. To avoid the worst of the crowds, plan your major activities and popular trail sections for the early morning (before 10 AM) or the late afternoon (after 4 PM).
Hidden Gems
Camogli: An incredibly picturesque fishing village in the Gulf of Tigullio that maintains a more authentic, less-touristed atmosphere than Portofino or the Cinque Terre.
Tellaro: A tiny, quiet hamlet near Lerici in the Gulf of Poets, often overlooked, with a small, dramatic church perched right on the water’s edge.
Via dell’Amore (Manarola-Riomaggiore): This famous, paved path is often closed due to landslides. Always check the Cinque Terre National Park website for the current status of all trails before you set out.
The Carrugi of Genoa: The dense, medieval alleyways of Liguria’s capital, Genoa, are full of history, small shops, and authentic street food. While not technically the Riviera di Levante, it’s a worthwhile day trip and the true hub of the region’s culture.
Top Restaurants
Osteria Mattana [$20-$30] – Located in Sestri Levante, this osteria offers unpretentious local cuisine with a modern twist in a visually appealing setting.
Trattoria Mainolla [$20-$30] – A well-regarded Sestri Levante trattoria popular for its seafood dishes, including stuffed mussels, squid ink seafood pasta, and fresh catches of the day.
Antica Trattoria Centro [$20-$35] – A favorite in Levanto for typical Ligurian cuisine, fish, pansoti with walnut sauce, and excellent stuffed mussels (“muscoli”).
Il Gattabriga [$25-$35] – Located in the historic part of Levanto, this spot offers traditional Ligurian cuisine, as well as meat, fish, and seasonal dishes, featuring local porcini mushrooms when in season.
Osteria Tumelin [$25-$40] – Known in Levanto since 1970 for its seafood specialties and traditional Ligurian cuisine, situated in the old “Casa del Capitano” dating back to 1400.
Trattoria Da Pezzi [$20-$30] – An informal restaurant in Santa Margherita Ligure offering traditional Italian Riviera cuisine with a good value for money, specializing in trofie al pesto and farinata.
La Sciamadda dei Vinaccieri Ballerini [$25-$35] – A popular Sestri Levante spot known for its zuppu di pesce (seafood soup) and lively, local atmosphere.
Trattoria Il Portico [$30-$45] – Located in Chiavari, this is a great place for really fresh, unadulterated seafood and simple but delicious Ligurian dishes.
La Cantina del Polpo [$25-$40] – A Sestri Levante spot known for a friendly atmosphere and seafood-focused tasting menus at affordable prices.
Trattoria del Turin [$20-$30] – A meeting point for locals and visitors in Sestri Levante since the 1950s, priding itself on traditional Ligurian cuisine.
Ostaia da ò Sigù [$25-$40] – Situated on the main promenade of Camogli, offering tables overlooking the sea and typical Ligurian fare.
Antico Tannino Restaurant [$20-$35] – Highly recommended in Sestri Levante for its homemade pasta and generous portions.
Trattoria Arvigo [$25-$40] – Located in Genoa (accessible from Riviera di Levante), praised for its traditional Ligurian dishes, notably the excellent minestrone and fritto misto.
Osteria La Piccola [$25-$40] – A small, traditional osteria in Sestri Levante with a reputation for classic Ligurian flavors.
La Madia [$30-$50] – A traditional restaurant in Santa Margherita Ligure blending Ligurian and Sardinian culinary traditions with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and gluten-free options.
Oca Bianca [$30-$45] – A traditional restaurant in Santa Margherita Ligure known for classic Italian Riviera dishes.
Orto Ritrovato [$40-$60] – Located in Ne, this restaurant focuses on authentic Ligurian cuisine, creatively reimagined using homegrown, seasonal ingredients from their culinary garden.
Cantina del Polpo [$30-$50] – A Sestri Levante spot offering creative seafood-focused tasting menus and a wine list featuring hard-to-find regional wines.
Ristorante L’Isola [$35-$55] – A hidden gem in Sestri Levante, often overlooked by tourists, known for a welcoming atmosphere and high-quality dishes.
Don Luigi [$35-$55] – A charming and intimate Sestri Levante establishment offering delectable, high-quality cuisine with a wide selection of seafood dishes.
Il Bargonello [$25-$40] – A cool bar in Sestri Levante that is a fantastic aperitivo spot, serving a decent spritz alongside excellent light fare and an extensive wine list.
Ristorante Portobello [$60-$90] – Located in Sestri Levante on a peninsula overlooking the Baia del Silenzio, this restaurant serves exquisite European-inspired cuisine focusing on authentic Ligurian flavors.
Ristorante Ai Castelli [$50-$80] – Overlooking Sestri Levante, this restaurant offers exquisite European-inspired cuisine at a very high quality, with stunning views.
Vistamare [$70-$100] – Located within Hotel Helvetia in Sestri Levante, featuring premium ingredients and culinary creativity in its authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Rezzano cucina e vino [$70-$100] – A Michelin Selected restaurant in Sestri Levante known for its high quality, refined Italian cuisine.
Ristorante Olimpo [$70-$100] – Located in the Hotel Vis a Vis in Sestri Levante, offering breathtaking 180-degree views and an excellent fine dining experience.
Ristorante La Bilaia – 1° Agri Ristorante Gourmet d’Italia [$70-$110] – A gourmet Agri Ristorante in Lavagna focused on farm-to-table cuisine with refined presentation.
La Locanda Restaurant (Hotel Miramare) [$70-$100] – Situated in Sestri Levante, this restaurant is featured in the Michelin Guide, offering Mediterranean cuisine that respects Ligurian tradition, with spectacular sea views.
DaV Mare [$120-$200] – Located in Portofino, this is a very high-end restaurant offering contemporary Italian cuisine within the Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel.
Cracco Portofino [$150-$250] – A very high-end restaurant in Portofino by the acclaimed Chef Carlo Cracco, featuring elevated seafood and a sophisticated dining experience.
La Brinca [$40-$70] – Located in Ne, this renowned spot is famous for reviving traditional Ligurian hill-country dishes (“cucina povera”) with strong local and family tradition, paired with an incredible wine list.
Il Timone [$20-$30] – An airy, affordable, and casual portside restaurant in Portovenere with typical Ligurian dishes, including farinata, focaccia, and seafood pasta.
Il Bargonello [$15-$25] – A very cool little bar in Sestri Levante, known as a fantastic aperitivo spot with a decent spritz and excellent snacks.
Antica Trattoria dei Mosto [$30-$50] – Located in the hills above Chiavari, this very traditional osteria is known for simple, old-school Ligurian dishes based on what is available seasonally, with an incredible wine list.
Osteria Luchin [$15-$25] – Located in Chiavari, an osteria in a basic setting, famous for its excellent farinata (chickpea flatbread) and other Genovese specialties.
Ristorante L’Isola [$25-$45] – A Sestri Levante hidden gem, praised for its welcoming owner and overlooked location away from the main tourist crowds.
Bontà Nascoste [$35-$60] – A “hidden goodness” in Lerici, tucked away in a back-alleyway, known for consistently delicious, inventive seafood dishes and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Da u Giancu [$30-$50] – An unusual country restaurant in San Massimo with an interior decorated with original comics drawings from all over the world, serving homemade Ligurian food.
La Locanda Carmagnini [$40-$60] – A highly-regarded spot in Sestri Levante with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a pleasant, non-touristic atmosphere.
Picea [$20-$35] – Located in Levanto, this pizzeria is known for its gourmet pizzas and is a past winner of the world pizza championships.
Pesce Balla [$30-$50] – A delightful Sestri Levante gem that perfectly captures the essence of the Italian Riviera with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Covo Di Nord-Est: While famous as a club, its location near Paraggi Beach (between Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure) includes indoor bar sections offering high-end drinks, making it a sophisticated spot for cocktails and people-watching before the dancing begins.
Bar Morena: Nestled in Portofino’s famous Piazzetta (main square), this vibrant bar captures the essence of coastal life, known for signature cocktails like the ‘Portofino Spritz’ and its bustling social scene.
Al Faro di Portofino Lounge Bar: Located just below the Portofino lighthouse, accessible via a scenic uphill walk, this hidden gem offers refreshing drinks and cocktails on a terrace with arguably the best panoramic views of the Italian Riviera.
La Gritta: Situated right on the water in Portofino, this classic American bar features a floating terrace that can be booked for events, serving champagne-based cocktails and fresh-fruit drinks with a spectacular harbor view.
Illusion Stone Bar: A modern American bar in Santa Margherita Ligure, located within the Santa Margherita Palace & Spa. It’s a refined spot for pre-dinner aperitivi or an after-dinner drink, featuring a creative cocktail selection in a trendy design environment.
Terrazza Bagni Sirena: Found on the beach of Santa Margherita Ligure, this exclusive venue lights up as the sun goes down. It’s the perfect spot for a cocktail with music, offering a dreamy atmosphere with the Gulf of Tigullio as a backdrop.
Bar Piscina 360° (Grande Albergo): Located on the rooftop of the Grande Albergo in Sestri Levante, this bar offers a pool-side experience and stunning 360-degree views, ideal for a memorable sunset aperitivo over the Bay of Favole and the Gulf of Portofino.
Karma Lounge Bar & Snack (Hotel Miramare): An elegant lounge bar situated in the Hotel Miramare in Sestri Levante, known for its selection of quality cocktails in a sophisticated setting overlooking the Bay of Silence.
Nomad Bar La Spezia: Highly-rated in La Spezia’s nightlife scene, this stylish and energetic spot in the city center is celebrated for its expertly crafted, designer cocktails, with new flavors introduced seasonally by skilled mixologists.
Emporium 87: Tucked away in La Spezia, this unique bar focuses on a personalized cocktail experience with no printed menu. Guests are encouraged to sit at the counter to discuss their preferences with the friendly, professional bartenders for a tailored drink.
Accanto: A chic lounge bar in La Spezia with an up-market, art deco-styled interior. It is known for its expertly mixed cocktails, making it a fashionable choice for a refined evening.
La Rosa Blu: A well-loved, chill, and eclectic wine bar in a little laneway of La Spezia, popular with locals. It offers a selection of local Ligurian wines like Cinque Terre Vermentino, along with cocktails and appetizing plates.
Portofino Bistrot: Although named after the town, this bar is located within the Grande Albergo complex in Sestri Levante. It offers a vibrant spot for a light meal and refreshing drinks.
Mariuccia Bar: This bar in Portofino offers a veranda view of both the docked boats and the bustling main square, making it an excellent location for an Italian classic like an Aperol Spritz.
Winterose Bar: Found away from Portofino’s most crowded alleyways, this bar provides a front-row view of the bay. It’s a great place to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail paired with Ligurian appetizers.
Covo Di Nord-Est: The Riviera’s most legendary nightclub, situated on Paraggi Beach, close to Portofino. It features a spectacular outdoor section with a dance floor and sofas, as well as an indoor bar, hosting local and internationally known DJs, an institution of Ligurian clubbing.
Piscina dei Castelli: An exclusive venue in Sestri Levante, known for its summer nightlife. The name refers to the location, as it is set near the historic Castelli (castles), and it transforms into a discotheque on select nights, often with a seasonal outdoor feel.
Vogue Discoteque: Located in Rapallo, this is a known disco bar in the area, contributing to the town’s nightlife with a typical club atmosphere, featuring music and a space to dance.
GROOVE Waterfront: Situated close to the cruise terminal in La Spezia, this mixed-venue offers an outdoor dance floor right on the harbor with views of the Gulf. It hosts live music, DJ sets, and rock and retro nights, ensuring a vibrant club atmosphere by the water.
PIN La Spezia: A unique outdoor venue near La Spezia’s harbor, set under giant pine trees. It transforms into a live music and dance venue later in the evening, with a revolving door of entertainment and a street-food vibe earlier on.
La Skaletta Rock Club: A historic venue in La Spezia that has been the home of rock, punk, and blues music in the area since 1994, offering a strong alternative to the traditional club scene.
California Lounge Bar: Located in Sestri Levante, this establishment is listed among the local nightlife spots, likely providing a mix of bar and late-night music for dancing and socializing.
Club Axe Mondo Pazzo: Another spot identified as a night club in Sestri Levante, suggesting a dedicated venue for late-night music and dancing.
City Night Club: Found in Sestri Levante, this club is one of the destinations for those looking for traditional nightlife and dancing after the seaside bars close.
Cubilla Disco Bar: Located in Rapallo, this venue is a local disco bar, providing a lively atmosphere with music and drinks for a late-night crowd in the area.