Things To Do
in San Lorenzo della Costa
San Lorenzo della Costa is a tiny hillside hamlet perched above the Ligurian coast near Genoa. Its stone houses wind through narrow lanes, offering an intimate glimpse of authentic Ligurian life. From elevated terraces you can catch glimpses of the sea and the olive groves painting the hills in green and gold.
The area serves as a convenient base for day trips to Genoa, Portofino, and the Beigua Geopark while preserving a distinct village charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming village of San Lorenzo della Costa, nestled in the hills overlooking the Ligurian coast. Take some time to unwind and acclimate to the serene surroundings, soaking in the picturesque views. A leisurely stroll through the quaint streets will give you a taste of local life and culture.
Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at a family-owned trattoria, where you can savor fresh, homemade pasta and local wines. Post-lunch, explore the nearby olive groves, learning about the region's olive oil production and perhaps indulging in a tasting session. Embrace the tranquility of nature as you hike the scenic trails that promise stunning panoramic views.
As the sun sets, head back to the village for an evening of relaxation. Dine in a cozy restaurant, indulging in local seafood dishes paired with a glass of regional wine. End the night with a leisurely stroll under the starry skies, taking in the peaceful ambiance of San Lorenzo della Costa.
Begin your day with a short drive to Santa Margherita Ligure, a nearby coastal gem. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh cornetti and coffee at a café overlooking the marina, where sailing boats bob gently in the water. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, admiring the colorful seaside villas.
After wandering through the vibrant market, treat yourself to a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the ocean breeze. Spend your afternoon visiting the historic Villa Durazzo and Gardens, where you can explore beautiful landscapes and art collections. Alternatively, take a boat tour along the coast for a different perspective of the stunning Cilento coastline.
Return to San Lorenzo della Costa for dinner, where you can try a regional specialty like trofie al pesto. The atmosphere is perfect for engaging in conversation with friendly locals and fellow travelers. After dinner, soak in the village’s nightlife, perhaps enjoying a gelato while you explore more of the charming streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cappuccino or coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚍Local transportation | $4-8 |
| 🏨Lodging per night (budget hotel) | $70-120 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic hillside setting with coastal views
- Relaxed pace of life and authentic Ligurian culture
- Limited nightlife within the village
- Some services farther away in Genoa or Sant'Olcese
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Buonasera" - Good evening
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Mi dispiace" - I'm sorry
- "Il menù in inglese?" - Menu in English?
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in San Lorenzo della Costa
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic terrace overlooking the Ligurian Sea with views toward Genoa and the coastline.
Historic church façade and winding stone lanes ideal for moody afternoon shots.
Old stone terraces with olive trees and narrow paths; captures the hill-country charm.
Golden hour photos with the sea in the background from terraced dining spots.
Photogenic stone staircases and archways typical of Ligurian villages.
Food in San Lorenzo della Costa
San Lorenzo della Costa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Trofie pasta tossed with Genovese pesto (basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil) – a Ligurian classic often enjoyed with potatoes and green beans.
Must-Try!
Large ravioli-like dumplings filled with herbs and ricotta, served with walnut sauce.
Savory chickpea pancake baked crisp, a common snack on the Ligurian coast.
Thin, olive oil-rich focaccia with cheese; perfect for a light snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers' markets in the surrounding towns offer fresh vegetables, olives, cheese, and bread.
Mobile stalls and bakeries offer focaccia, fried seafood bites, and small pastries along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' and use 'Lei' for formal address with elders; shake hands in greeting.
Dress modestly; speak softly in churches and respect local sacred spaces.
Meals are social; avoid rushing; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Keep voices moderate in public; avoid loud conversation in narrow lanes late at night.
Safety
Tipping in San Lorenzo della Costa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service is often included; if not, a small tip (5-10%) or rounding up is appreciated but not required.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted in towns and eateries; cash is handy for small markets and rural places; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sea breezes; expect crowds on the coast and in Genoa; bring sun protection and water.
Milder temperatures, harvest season; more frequent showers; good for hiking with fewer crowds.
Cool to mild; occasional rain and fog; quieter; some businesses may have shorter hours.
Blooming countryside; good for hiking and photography; occasional rain showers.
San Lorenzo della Costa at Night
Hiking in San Lorenzo della Costa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of well-marked trails in the Beigua Geopark offering coastal and landscape viewpoints.
Gentle to moderate loops through olive groves and shady forests with sea glimpses.
Several routes along the eastern Ligurian hills with panoramic vantage points.
Airports
How to reach San Lorenzo della Costa by plane.
The closest major airport to the Genoa area; about 30-60 minutes by car depending on traffic; connects to major European cities.
A larger international hub about 1.5-2 hours by road/train; offers extensive European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-time families living in the hillside communities; many commute to Genoa or other towns for work.
Day visitors and weekend travelers exploring hill towns and coastal routes.
Temporary residents during harvests or local events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport nationwide and widely followed in Liguria; local clubs and matches can be watched in nearby towns.
The Ligurian Sea offers opportunities for sailing and kayaking near the coast; rentals are available in Genoa and other coastal towns.
Hilly routes around Sant'Olcese attract cyclists seeking scenic climbs and coastal views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Lorenzo della Costa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ligurian dishes can be vegetarian; ask for pesto without cheese if you're vegan or lactose-free, and look for vegetarian pasta options.
Avoid cheese and animal products; focus on vegetables, legumes, olive oil, and bread—many places can accommodate with advance notice.