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Levanto: An Eclectic Italian Beach Town Near Cinque Terre Full of Surprises

While researching accommodations near Cinque Terre, we discovered Levanto via an online travel forum. Fellow travelers recommended it as an excellent alternative to the five iconic villages.

We had planned to stay in Riomaggiore, but limited availability led us elsewhere.

Levanto instantly felt like Italy's answer to Amsterdam. Laid-back locals zip around on bikes or pint-sized pickup trucks with cabs no larger than a golf cart's front seat.

Charming markets overflow with fresh fruits, Italian and French cheeses, local wines, and delectable prosciutto. It was a foodie and wine lover's haven for our three glorious days—a welcome break from constant restaurant meals.

We encountered our first jellyfish resembling blue condoms, swarming the beach and waters that day.

Levanto: An Eclectic Italian Beach Town Near Cinque Terre Full of Surprises

Levanto drew us in as Italy's surf hub—unexpected on this coast, but YouTube footage confirms reliable swells.

No waves during our visit, yet we found something better: authentic local vibes, a refreshing contrast to Taormina, Sicily's tourist hustle.

Levanto: An Eclectic Italian Beach Town Near Cinque Terre Full of Surprises

Levanto is the kind of spot you'd linger in long-term—though surfing amid those jellyfish might require adjustment.

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