Things To Do
in Loano

Loano is a charming coastal town located in the Liguria region of Italy, known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque old town. The town is nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the surrounding hills, offering stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to its rich history, vibrant local culture, and delightful Mediterranean cuisine.

With its mild climate and friendly locals, Loano is a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Loano's Coastal Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll along the beautiful Loano beach. Enjoy the golden sands and clear waters while soaking up the sun.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Old Town (Centro Storico) where you can explore charming narrow streets, ancient churches, and local shops. Don't forget to stop by the Castello di Loano for panoramic views of the coastline.

evening
:

Dine at Ristorante Da Gigi, known for its fresh seafood, and enjoy a pleasant walk along the promenade, where you can take in the sunset over the sea.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, visit the Museo del Mare to learn about the maritime history of the region. Then, head to the nearby town of Pietra Ligure to explore its castle and beach.

afternoon
:

Try your hand at paddleboarding or rent a bike to explore the coastal paths. The scenic views are a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Trattoria A’ Funtanin, where you can savor traditional pasta dishes. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
🍝Pasta Dish$12
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich local culture and cuisine
  • Pleasant Mediterranean climate
  • Can be crowded during the summer months
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some areas may require walking uphill
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Loano

Visit one of these nice places.

Loano Beach

Capture stunning seascapes and sunset views at Loano Beach, a picturesque spot perfect for photography.

Castello di Loano

The castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and is an excellent backdrop for photos.

Piazza Italia

A vibrant square featuring colorful buildings and local life, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Loano

Loano offers a delightful culinary experience with its mix of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Italian dishes. Visitors can enjoy local specialties that reflect the region's Mediterranean flavors.

Loano Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Trofie al Pesto

A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta, fresh basil pesto, and often served with green beans and potatoes.

Must-Try!

Frittura di Pesce

A mixed fried seafood platter featuring local fish, squid, and shrimp, served with lemon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Loano

A bustling market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Loano enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically hover around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is most common in the autumn and winter months, while summers are generally sunny and dry.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet locals with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out; casual beachwear is acceptable at the beach but not in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Loano is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Loano

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists; be prepared for crowded beaches but enjoy lively events and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, providing a peaceful atmosphere for exploring the town and local vineyards.

Winter

Winters are mild but can be rainy; it’s a quieter time to visit, ideal for enjoying local culture and cuisine without the crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Loano at Night

Loano has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially during the summer months when the town comes alive with bars, clubs, and outdoor events. The promenade is lined with lively bars offering cocktails, live music, and dancing. For a more relaxed evening, enjoy a glass of local wine at a wine bar while soaking in the atmosphere.

Hiking in Loano

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero degli Olivi

A scenic hiking trail that winds through olive groves and offers stunning views of the coastline and nearby hills.

Monte Carmo

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and sea.

Airports

How to reach Loano by plane.

Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)

Located approximately 80 km from Loano, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Loano is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short walking distance from each other. The flat coastal promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the old town's narrow streets add charm and character.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

A significant portion of Loano's population during summer consists of tourists, primarily from Italy and neighboring European countries.

Local Residents

The local community is made up of friendly residents who are engaged in tourism, fishing, and agriculture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular in Italy, and local teams often play in regional leagues.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and scuba diving are very popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Loano is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns, and many visitors prefer walking or cycling to explore the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Loano.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants offer gluten-free options, especially for pasta and pizza.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian dishes are widely available, with many focusing on fresh vegetables and local cheeses.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Loano are accessible, with a public hospital and several clinics available for emergencies and routine care. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card for coverage, while travelers from non-EU countries are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide