Levanto or Vernazza

Levanto isn't one of the five sites one normally associates with the Cinque Terra, but I can't think of reason to not stay there. Probably less crowded and less expensive. On the other hand, Vernazza in one of the quintessential spots one envisions when thinking about the CT. Don't think you can go wrong with either.

Levanto is much quieter & has a lovely beach with little beach houses & is a quick trip via train. Vernazza is a mad house. Just my humble opinion,

The advantage of staying in Vernazza is that you will be there when the daytrippers leave. So you can see the town at its quietest. Of course the disadvantage may be that in August it will be very busy all the time. If you stay in Levanto and are truly wanting to explore the CT you will be training in all the time, but may have a quieter place.

SD,

What size of group are you travelling with and how many rooms will you need? A few points to consider.....

• Vernazza has mostly small private rooms, with those on upper floors only accessible by stairs. Not all provide a breakfast.
• Levanto has a better selection of more conventional hotels. However keep in mind that there will be a short walk from hotels to the station there.
• Have you also considered Monterosso? It's the largest of the five towns and therefore has the largest selection of hotels and other tourist amenities. It also has at least one direct train each day from Milano Centrale.

For travel this August, it's normallly necessary to book anywhere in that area several months in advance as it's going to be busy. It may be difficult to find something now, but you can certainly try. Check the RS Italy guidebook for a list of recommended hotels and other accommodations in the Cinque Terre and Levanto.

I stayed in Levanto 7 nights as a base for touring the The Cinque Terre. I agree with Laurie, it's a delightful town. We stayed in a quaint hotel. Hotel Villa Margherita, Theres an excellent train and ferry service. Also a great variety of restaurants.

We stayed in Vernazza and loved it. I think there is something special about staying in one of the five villages, and it is so easy to visit the other four.