Levanto is a gem on Italy’s Ligurian coast, perfectly suited for active travelers who want more than just a postcard view. Its proximity to the Cinque Terre means it’s often overlooked for the crowds, but that’s part of its charm. You can explore quiet trails, paddle along hidden coves, or even craft your own artwork inspired by nature—all with local guides who know the area inside out. We particularly love tours like the Hiking Tour with a Creative Workshop, which combines outdoor activity with hands-on art, and the Kayak Tour Between Levanto and the Cinque Terre, which offers a unique way to see this stunning coastline. Whether you want to snorkel the clear waters or hike to a medieval hermitage, Levanto offers a variety of options to suit different interests and fitness levels.
If you’re wondering which tour best suits your style, this guide will walk you through each one in detail. We’ll cover what makes each experience special, the highlights, and who it’s perfect for. So, read on to find your ideal adventure in Levanto.
Quick Overview
Our list features five of the best tours in Levanto, each with a unique focus—from scenic hikes and underwater exploration to sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The tours include:
- A Hiking Tour with a Creative Workshop that combines nature walks with cyanotype art []
- An immersive Snorkeling Tour designed for marine life lovers []
- A lively Kayak Tour exploring coastlines only accessible from the water []
- A Paddleboard and Snorkeling Excursion along the coast for nature lovers []
- An adventurous Hiking Tour from Levanto to Monterosso, passing through scenic spots and a medieval hermitage []
Now, let’s dive into each one with the details you need to choose the best fit.
1. Levanto: Hiking Tour with Creative Workshop!
This 5-hour outdoor experience blends a scenic hike with a creative cyanotype art workshop, making it ideal for those who want a combination of nature, culture, and hands-on creativity. The tour begins in Levanto, leading you along a quiet trail toward Bonassola, away from the crowds that flock to Cinque Terre. The hike takes about 2 hours, during which your local guide shares stories about the area’s landscape and history, making the journey as educational as it is beautiful.
What sets this tour apart is the creative workshop held in nature. You’ll create your own cyanotype prints—an old photographic process using natural elements like leaves and shells to produce stunning blue-toned artwork. This is perfect if you love blending art and nature, and it provides a meaningful souvenir from your trip. The experience also includes tasting fresh Ligurian focaccia with a sea view, adding a delicious local touch.
The return walk along scenic tunnels offers sweeping coastal views, and the entire experience has received glowing reviews, especially for Eleonora’s friendly guidance. She makes the day memorable with her local insights and personal touches.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for active travelers who want to combine light hiking, local flavors, and creative expression in a peaceful setting.
2. Snorkeling Tour in Levanto: Discover the Wonders of the Sea!
For those fascinated by marine life, this 1.5-hour snorkeling tour offers an immersive glimpse into Levanto’s underwater world. Led by an expert marine ecologist, the tour starts with a brief demonstration on mask, snorkel, and fins—ensuring everyone is comfortable before hitting the water. The guided snorkeling session takes about 45 minutes, during which you’ll explore Levanto’s protected seabeds and discover colorful fish, sea urchins, and perhaps even some octopus.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on marine conservation. Snacks with local products are included, giving you a taste of Liguria after your underwater adventure. Guests often mention the personalized attention and Ellenora’s patience, especially for first-time snorkelers. As one review states, “Elenora took so much time for me! It was a really great experience! I can only recommend it!”
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with education, and it suits all levels of experience. Since it’s relatively short, it’s a good option if you’re tight on time but still want to get a taste of the local marine ecosystem.
Bottom Line: A rewarding activity for sea lovers, beginners, and those interested in learning about marine conservation while exploring Levanto’s waters.
3. Kayak Tour Between Levanto and the Cinque Terre
If you’re craving a unique perspective of Liguria’s coast, this 2.5-hour kayak tour is a must-do. Paddling in the open sea, guided by experienced instructors, you’ll explore secluded coves and hidden beaches inaccessible by land. The guided experience emphasizes sustainable tourism—your guides are certified and respectful of the environment, making this an eco-friendly way to see the coastline.
The itinerary includes paddling from Levanto along the coast toward the iconic Cinque Terre, with plenty of opportunities to stop, photograph, and admire the views. The tour suits most fitness levels, but some paddling experience is helpful. Guests mention the professionalism of the guides and the chance to capture incredible photos of the rugged coastline.
This adventure is perfect for active travelers who enjoy water sports and want to experience the coast from a different angle. The only potential drawback is that wind and sea conditions can affect the experience, so check availability and weather forecasts.
Bottom Line: An engaging, eco-conscious activity ideal for those who want to combine exercise with sightseeing in a dynamic outdoor setting.
4. Levanto: Paddleboard Tours and Snorkeling Along the Coast
For lovers of calm waters and a gentle way to connect with nature, this 2.5-hour paddleboard and snorkeling tour offers a relaxing way to enjoy Levanto’s coastline. The tour explores coves and caves along the stretch between Bonassola and Monterosso, giving you access to some of the most scenic spots only reachable from the sea.
The experience is best suited for those with some paddleboarding experience, but beginners can often join if comfortable on water. The focus is on discovering beautiful inlets, caves, and quiet moments of serenity. Many participants remark that the calm sea makes this a peaceful, almost meditative experience.
Snorkeling gear is provided, and the tour ends with plenty of time to enjoy the sunset or simply soak in the surroundings. The tour has excellent reviews, especially for its focus on nature and the tranquil atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for peaceful nature lovers and those who want a low-impact, restorative activity with the chance to explore coastal caves and coves.
5. Monterosso Hiking Tour: Discover the Best Trails of 5 Terre
This 4-hour hike from Levanto to Monterosso combines breathtaking coastal scenery with cultural insights. The trek begins with a safety briefing, then takes you along the trails of the Cinque Terre National Park, offering panoramic views and passes through a medieval hermitage with a panoramic bay.
The highlight is the visit to Punta Mesco, where a break with traditional Ligurian focaccia is included. The trail requires a medium fitness level due to steps and elevation changes, but the reward is the stunning landscape and the sense of accomplishment at the end of the hike. The route ends in Monterosso’s beach area, perfect for relaxing after your walk.
Guests appreciate the local guide’s knowledge, especially the stories about the hermitage and the natural environment. The combination of physical activity, scenic vistas, and cultural stops makes this tour a top choice for active travelers and nature enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Best suited for fit travelers eager to combine physical activity with spectacular views and cultural visits.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting from these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re an art lover or want a gentle activity, the Hiking with Creative Workshop offers a creative twist. For marine enthusiasts, the Snorkeling Tour is ideal. Water sports fans who want a full coastal experience should look into the Kayak Tour. If you prefer a quieter, meditative activity, the Paddleboard and Snorkeling could be perfect. Lastly, for those who love hiking and want to see the best of the Cinque Terre scenery, the Montorosso Hiking Tour offers a rewarding experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and activity.
Final Thoughts
Levanto offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours for outdoor, cultural, and underwater explorers alike. Whether you choose a peaceful walk with a creative twist, paddle around secret coves, or take on a more challenging hike, each experience provides a different way to connect with Liguria’s stunning coastline. For a relaxing, art-filled day, the Hiking Tour with a Creative Workshop is a standout. If marine adventures are your thing, snorkel or paddleboard along the coast for memorable moments and photo opportunities.
No matter which you pick, each experience highlights the area’s beauty and local charm. Remember to book in advance during busy months, and enjoy your adventure in Levanto—it’s a place that truly offers something special for every type of traveler.