The first time I laid eyes on the Riviera di Levante, I knew I had found a slice of Mediterranean paradise. Dramatic cliffs plunge into crystal-clear waters, creating a coastline dotted with colorful fishing villages and hidden coves.
What makes this eastern Italian Riviera truly special is the perfect blend of natural beauty and authentic Italian culture. This part of the coast hasn’t been overwhelmed by mass tourism, especially when you venture beyond famous spots like Cinque Terre and Portofino.
My journey along this stunning coastline revealed a world where centuries-old traditions still thrive alongside modern comforts. I wandered through narrow medieval streets, savoring fresh seafood at family-run trattorias, and swimming in secluded bays where the water sparkles in shades of turquoise and emerald.
Unlike its more developed western counterpart, the Riviera di Ponente, this eastern stretch offers a more intimate experience with nature.
As I explored lesser-known villages nestled between the mountains and sea, I discovered that the Riviera di Levante isn’t just about picturesque views—it’s about a way of life. Locals greet visitors with genuine warmth, proud to share their corner of paradise. The region’s unique geography creates a microclimate that feels magical, where lemon trees grow alongside pine forests and the scent of herbs fills the air during coastal hikes.
The Allure of the Riviera di Levante
The Riviera di Levante stole my heart the moment I first glimpsed its dramatic coastline. Stretching east from Genoa to the border of Tuscany, this eastern section of the Italian Riviera presents a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.
What makes this coastal paradise so special is the stunning contrast between azure Mediterranean waters and steep, lush hillsides. The crystal-clear sea crashes against dramatic cliffs, creating a landscape that seems almost too beautiful to be real.
During my travels through Liguria, I discovered that the Riviera di Levante offers much more than just pretty views. This stretch of coastline houses some of Italy’s most famous destinations, including the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre and the elegant harbor of Portofino.
The region’s hiking trails deserve special mention. Walking along paths that cling to coastal cliffs, I enjoyed panoramic views that stopped me in my tracks. The scent of lemon groves and pine forests filled the air with every step.
Must-See Locations in Riviera di Levante:
- Cinque Terre (Five Towns)
- Portofino
- Gulf of Poets
- Genoa’s historic center
- Santa Margherita Ligure
What truly captivated me was how this part of Italy balances natural splendor with authentic coastal living. Local fishing boats still dot the harbors each morning, while centuries-old buildings cling impossibly to hillsides.
History Whispers from Every Corner
Walking through the Riviera di Levante feels like stepping into a living history book. Ancient stones and faded frescoes tell stories of maritime glory, conquests, and artistic achievements that shaped this stunning coastline over millennia.
The Maritime Republic’s Legacy
The powerful Maritime Republic of Genoa once ruled these azure waters, leaving an indelible mark on the Riviera di Levante. I was fascinated to learn how Genoa controlled vital Mediterranean trade routes from the 11th to the 18th centuries, amassing incredible wealth that funded the palaces and churches I admired throughout my journey.
Genoa’s influence is unmistakable in the region’s architecture and culture. The republic built impressive defensive towers along the coast to protect against pirate raids. These watchtowers still dot the landscape, silent sentinels overlooking the sea.
The maritime heritage lives on in the colorful fishing traditions and seafaring vocabulary that locals still use today. I noticed how proud Ligurians remain of their seafaring ancestors who ventured to distant shores and established trading posts across the Mediterranean.
Traces of Roman Ruins and Medieval Past
Beyond Genoa’s influence, I discovered even older layers of history throughout the eastern Riviera. Roman ruins appear unexpectedly – ancient stone bridges spanning crystal streams and remnants of roads that once connected this rugged coastline to Rome.
Medieval villages perch dramatically on hillsides, their narrow caruggi (alleyways) barely wide enough for two people to pass. These winding streets protected residents from both invaders and the fierce Ligurian winds.
The medieval churches contain artistic treasures that took my breath away. In tiny village chapels, I found frescoes dating back to the 13th century, their colors still vibrant despite the passage of time.
The strategic importance of this coastline is evident in the castles that crown nearly every promontory. From these fortified positions, local lords could spot approaching danger from the sea and protect their territories from rival families and foreign powers.
Architectural Marvels: From Castles to Palazzos
Liguria’s eastern coastline showcases an incredible blend of defensive structures and ornate palaces that tell stories of its maritime past. The region’s architectural treasures range from medieval fortifications perched on dramatic cliffs to elegant urban palazzos.
Baroque Elegance and Vernacular Charm
Walking through Levanto’s narrow streets, I discovered ornate Baroque palazzos with intricately decorated façades. These buildings feature stunning frescoed ceilings and marble staircases that speak to the region’s historical wealth.
The colorful homes of Tellaro particularly caught my eye. Their striking hues create a postcard-perfect scene against the blue Mediterranean backdrop.
What fascinated me most was how seamlessly grand architectural styles blend with humble fishermen’s cottages. Many buildings showcase traditional Ligurian architectural elements:
- Trompe l’oeil decorations
- Pastel color schemes
- Shuttered windows
- Wrought iron balconies
In smaller villages, I noticed how even modest structures incorporate elegant architectural details. This mix of grandeur and simplicity creates Liguria’s distinct visual character.
Portovenere’s Timeless Appeal
Portovenere stands as a magnificent example of medieval military architecture. The imposing Doria Castle dominates the skyline, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Poets. Built in the 12th century, this fortress protected the village from sea invaders for centuries.
Below the castle, a row of tall, narrow houses creates the iconic “palazzata” – a wall of buildings facing the sea. Each structure displays unique Gothic and Romanesque elements while forming a cohesive defensive line.
The Church of San Pietro, perched dramatically on a rocky promontory, blends religious architecture with military functionality. Its black and white striped façade showcases the distinctive Genoese style that influenced much of Liguria’s religious buildings.
What makes Portovenere truly special is how its architecture harmonizes with the natural landscape. The buildings seem to grow organically from the cliffs, creating a timeless scene that has captivated visitors for centuries.
A Gastronomic Journey Through Eastern Liguria
The flavors of Eastern Liguria captivated my palate with their simplicity and bold Mediterranean character. This coastal paradise offers dishes that perfectly capture the essence of land and sea, accompanied by wines that tell the story of this rugged, beautiful region.
Savoring Ligurian Cuisine
The Eastern Riviera’s food scene stole my heart from the first bite. Pesto alla Genovese, arguably Liguria’s most famous export, tastes entirely different here – fresher and more vibrant when drizzled over handmade trofie pasta.
I discovered that seafood dominates coastal menus, with anchovies prepared in countless ways. The acciughe al limone (lemon-marinated anchovies) became my afternoon staple, perfect with a slice of local focaccia.
One tiny trattoria in Camogli served me the best pansoti con salsa di noci – walnut sauce covering delicate pasta parcels filled with herbs and greens foraged from the hillsides.
Olive oil here deserves special mention – Taggiasca olives produce a light, fruity oil that enhances every dish. The locals drizzle it liberally on everything!
The Quintessential Wines of the Region
Liguria’s challenging terraced landscapes produce remarkable wines with distinct personalities. Vermentino quickly became my go-to white wine, offering crisp minerality that perfectly complements seafood dishes.
The region’s signature wine, however, is Sciacchetrà – a sweet passito made from Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes grown in the Cinque Terre. I savored this amber nectar slowly, appreciating how it captured sunshine in a glass.
During my journey, I visited small vineyards clinging to impossibly steep cliffs. One producer explained how their challenging terrain creates wines with remarkable salinity and character not found elsewhere.
The Bianchetta Genovese surprised me with its versatility – a lesser-known variety that locals pair with everything from appetizers to main courses.
Local wine bars often offer flights of regional wines, allowing me to taste several varieties while watching the Mediterranean sunset.
The Charms of Cinque Terre and Beyond
The Italian Riviera unfolds like a colorful tapestry along the Ligurian coast, with Cinque Terre as its crown jewel and neighboring gems that deserve equal attention.
Corniglia’s Clifftop Serenity
Perched high above the Ligurian Sea, Corniglia offers a different experience from its Cinque Terre siblings. Unlike the other four villages, this gem sits atop a cliff rather than at sea level, rewarding my climb of 382 steps with breathtaking panoramic views.
The village feels more secluded and authentic. Walking through its narrow lanes, I discovered small vineyards clinging to terraced hillsides and locals going about their daily routines unbothered by tourist crowds.
What struck me most was the peaceful atmosphere. While enjoying a glass of local white wine at a small terrace café, I watched the sun cast golden light across the Mediterranean. The vista stretched along the rugged coastline, revealing glimpses of neighboring Vernazza and Manarola in the distance.
Exploring the Colorful Houses of Portofino
Just beyond Cinque Terre lies glamorous Portofino, where fishing-village charm meets luxury. The harbor is lined with tall houses painted in traditional Ligurian colors – warm ochres, soft pinks, and gentle yellows that create a perfect backdrop for yachts bobbing in the harbor.
I spent a morning wandering through narrow lanes that climb from the harbor. Each turn revealed another photo-worthy view of pastel buildings stacked against the hillside.
The colorful facades aren’t just pretty – they once helped fishermen identify their homes when returning from sea. Today, they house upscale boutiques and restaurants that attract visitors from around the world.
For the best views, I hiked to Castello Brown above the town. From this vantage point, Portofino’s famous color palette spread below me like an artist’s canvas, with the turquoise Mediterranean framing this picture-perfect Italian Riviera scene.
Embracing Adventure Along the Levantine Coast
The Riviera di Levante offers countless opportunities for adventure seekers who want to experience both land and sea. The dramatic landscape creates the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts like myself.
Hiking Trails with Breathtaking Vistas
The network of hiking paths along the Levantine coast literally took my breath away – both from exertion and stunning views!
The most famous trail is undoubtedly the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path) connecting the five villages of Cinque Terre. This moderate hike rewards walkers with panoramic vistas of colorful villages clinging to rugged cliffs.
For a more challenging adventure, I tackled the Alta Via delle Cinque Terre, which runs along the ridge high above the coast. The elevation gain is significant but worth every drop of sweat.
Don’t miss the trails around Portofino promontory either. The path from Portofino to San Fruttuoso Abbey cuts through Mediterranean pine forests before revealing a hidden beach accessible only by foot or boat.
Waterfront Leisure and Maritime Activities
The azure Mediterranean waters of the Riviera di Levante aren’t just for admiring – they’re for exploring!
Renting a small boat gave me freedom to discover hidden coves and secret swimming spots unreachable by land.
Kayaking proved perfect for exploring the dramatic coastline up close.
Paddling along the rocky shores near Portovenere, I discovered sea caves and got a unique perspective of the colorful buildings from the water.
The region’s maritime heritage is evident everywhere.
In Sestri Levante, I joined locals for afternoon sailing lessons, learning about sea traditions passed down through generations.
Snorkeling in the protected marine area around Portofino revealed vibrant underwater ecosystems.
The crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot colorful fish darting among rocks and seagrass.
