Compare · Riviera di Levante vs Riviera di Ponente
Eastern or Western Ligurian Riviera: which to choose 2026
Liguria splits in two halves around Genoa: the Eastern Riviera (Levante, towards La Spezia) and the Western Riviera (Ponente, towards Ventimiglia). They are different worlds. Levante is glamorous, scenic, expensive: Portofino, Cinque Terre, Camogli. Ponente is more popular, sandy, accessible: Sanremo, Alassio, Finale Ligure. Choose by holiday type, not by chance.
Side by side
Riviera di Levante versus Riviera di Ponente
| Dimension | Riviera di Levante | Riviera di Ponente |
|---|---|---|
| Iconic villages | Portofino, Cinque Terre, Camogli, Sestri | Sanremo, Alassio, Cervo, Noli, Finale |
| Coastline | Cliffs, rocky shores, few sandy stretches | Long sandy beaches, lower coast |
| Prices | Mid-upper, extreme peaks at Portofino | Mid-range, more families and average budgets |
| Train | Genoa-La Spezia line, frequent | Genoa-Ventimiglia line, regular |
| Vibe | Postcard, photography, luxury | Family holiday, classic seaside |
| Top events | Stella Maris Camogli, Sestri Festival | Sanremo Festival, Aspettando il Festival |
Your call
When to choose Riviera di Levante, when to choose Riviera di Ponente
Riviera di Levante
Choose Levante if: you want photogenic scenic landscapes, are interested in Portofino/Cinque Terre, travel without small kids (many stairs), accept mid-to-upper prices, want a mix of villages and trails.
Riviera di Ponente
Choose Ponente if: you want long sandy beaches, travel with small kids or strollers, look for more affordable prices, are happy with classic seaside without extreme scenery.
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FAQ
Riviera di Levante or Riviera di Ponente: common questions
Should I choose Riviera di Levante or Riviera di Ponente?
It depends on the holiday type. Liguria splits in two halves around Genoa: the Eastern Riviera (Levante, towards La Spezia) and the Western Riviera (Ponente, towards Ventimiglia). They are different worlds. Levante is glamorous, sce
Which is cheaper between Riviera di Levante and Riviera di Ponente?
Average prices differ: Riviera di Levante prices are Cliffs, Riviera di Ponente prices are Long sandy beaches. The gap can reach 30-50% in high season.
Can I visit both on the same trip?
Yes, if you have at least 5-7 days. A base in the Tigullio (e.g. Rapallo) lets you explore nearby villages on day trips and then move on to further destinations. Train and ferry make a car unnecessary for most journeys.
Which is better for families with kids?
Choose Levante if: you want photogenic scenic landscapes, are interested in Portofino/Cinque Terre, travel without small kids (many stairs), accept mid-to-upper prices, want a mix of villages and trails.