Ligurian Riviera alternatives to Cinque Terre

Tourism promoters on Italy’s Ligurian coast have begun highlighting quieter towns as substitutes for the heavily visited Cinque Terre villages. In mid‑July, Levanto—a small town of about 5,000 residents—was presented as a relaxed seaside option, offering a wide beach, historic sites, a local market, and boat tours that connect to nearby ports while avoiding congested train routes. The coverage also noted recent shoreline changes and safety measures along the rail line.

A few weeks later, attention shifted to Portovenere, located further south on the same coast. The town’s pastel‑colored houses, a less crowded harbor, and attractions such as the Gothic‑style Church of San Pietro and the Byron Cave were promoted as a tranquil alternative, emphasizing authentic atmosphere and relaxed dining.

Together, these reports illustrate an ongoing effort to redirect visitors toward less‑crowded Ligurian destinations, diversifying the tourist experience beyond the traditional Cinque Terre circuit.