Castelletto Elevator Ascensore Levante - a stainless steel wall with a clock and thermometer
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Castelletto Elevator Ascensore Levante

4.2
·96 reviews·Genova, Italy

Ride a historic Liberty elevator to Genoa's Spianata Castelletto for breathtaking panoramic city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic over Genoa

CrowdMedium
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Castelletto Elevator Ascensore Levante - a stainless steel wall with a clock and thermometer

Castelletto Elevator Ascensore Levante

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour magic over Genoa

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride a historic Liberty elevator to Genoa's Spianata Castelletto for breathtaking panoramic city views.

4.2
(96 reviews)

"Stunning views from a charming, historic elevator - a must-visit in Genoa!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Beware of Scammers

Be cautious of individuals posing as police demanding fines. Buy tickets only from official machines.

Sunset Views are Unbeatable

The view at sunset is spectacular! Save this reel for your trip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Spianata Castelletto

Soak in breathtaking, unobstructed vistas of Genoa's rooftops and harbor. A must-see for any visitor!

Historic Liberty-Style Elevator

Historic Liberty-Style Elevator

Ascensore Levante

Ride in a charming, antique elevator built in 1910, offering a unique journey to the viewpoint.

Spianata Castelletto Promenade

Spianata Castelletto Promenade

Spianata Castelletto

Stroll along the wide promenade, enjoying the cityscape and vibrant atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Breathtaking Views

The Castelletto Elevator (Ascensore Levante) offers stunning panoramic views of Genoa. To avoid crowds and capture the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons, especially during sunset. Be aware of potential scams; only purchase tickets from official machines or personnel.

Navigating Tickets and Access

While the elevator itself is a quick ride, understanding ticket options is key. The elevator costs a small fare, but it saves a significant climb. Some visitors mention taking the stairs as an alternative if they are able. Always verify ticket prices and purchase from official sources to avoid scams.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic over Genoa
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

VISTA PAZZESCA SU GENOVA? Da Piazza Portello prendiamo l’ascensore di Levante, costruito nel 1910 in stile Liberty. La salita è completamente gratuita e in un attimo arriviamo alla spianata del Castelletto, un belvedere sulla città 🏙️ Vi consiglio di salire al tramonto, ma è bello a tutte le ore! Salva il reel per non perderlo:) Grazie @its_the_traveling_foodie ========= Citazione e tag si riferis...
@infogenova
3.5K likes • 86.8K views

Beware of Scammers

Be cautious of individuals posing as police demanding fines. Buy tickets only from official machines. Reddit

Sunset Views are Unbeatable

The view at sunset is spectacular! Save this reel for your trip. TikTok

Genova - Spianata Castelletto #zena #genova #genoa #bresh #visitgenova #liguria #lamialiguria
@genovachannel
2.4K likes • 33.3K views
You must go here if you visit Genoa!#genova🇮🇹💙 #italytraveldestinations #visitgenoa #genovaitaly #panoramicviews #traveltips2022 #italianhiddengems #hiddengemsitaly #travelbloggertips #exploreitalia
@thepassepartout
2.3K likes • 110.7K views

Affordable Panoramic Ride

The elevator ride is very cheap, around €0.90, and offers amazing views. Reddit

Consider the Stairs

If you're able, the stairs offer an alternative to the elevator and a bit of exercise. Reddit

reddit.com

What to do in Genova in 5 days?

Tips

from all over the internet

Beware of Scammers

Be cautious of individuals posing as police demanding fines. Buy tickets only from official machines. Reddit

Sunset Views are Unbeatable

The view at sunset is spectacular! Save this reel for your trip. TikTok

Affordable Panoramic Ride

The elevator ride is very cheap, around €0.90, and offers amazing views. Reddit

Consider the Stairs

If you're able, the stairs offer an alternative to the elevator and a bit of exercise. Reddit

Hidden Gem Alert!

This is a must-visit spot in Genoa for incredible panoramic views. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(96 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from the Spianata Castelletto, easily accessible via the historic Liberty-style elevator. It's praised as an affordable and convenient way to see Genoa's beauty. However, a significant concern raised is the presence of scammers posing as police, demanding fines from tourists. Visitors are strongly advised to be vigilant and only purchase tickets from official sources.

"Take the stairs if possible, otherwise if you can't of course the lift is an easy option."

Michi Ob (Michi)

"There are people pretending to be policemen here who are defrauding tourists of their money. As long as you take the elevator and you are not a local of Genoa, there will be four or five tall and strong people holding POS machines behind the elevator asking you to pay a fine of 42 euros per person. There is a ticket machine behind it, but they don't let you buy tickets, and they also ask you to show your ID, similar to your passport. Please don't show your passport when you see it, because they will immediately confiscate your ID until you pay 42 euros per person. They pretend to be policemen, but when I called the police, they started to delay. If they still do this, please call 113 or leave immediately."

Christina Hu

"Requires transit fare to go up, but will save you a climb up the hill if you don't want to hike up for a view. Has a nice antique wooden interior as well."

samuraiaccountant

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Historic Liberty elevator
Affordable and convenient

What People Dislike

Scammers demanding fines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Castelletto Elevator (Ascensore Levante) is easily accessible from Piazza Portello. You can also reach the Spianata Castelletto viewpoint by walking up, but the elevator offers a quick and comfortable ascent. Public transport in Genoa is generally good, and you can purchase tickets for buses and elevators at tabacchi shops or ticket machines. TikTokReddit

Yes, Genoa has a decent public transport system including buses and elevators. You'll need to buy tickets before boarding, which can be done at various points of sale. Reddit

Yes, you can walk to the Spianata Castelletto, but it involves a climb. The elevator is a convenient option if you prefer to save your energy for enjoying the views. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The elevator ride is very affordable, typically costing around €0.90 per person. It's a small price to pay for the convenience and the stunning views. Reddit

Purchase tickets from the official ticket machines located near the elevator. Be wary of individuals demanding payment or claiming to be police officers, as these are often scams. Reddit

The Spianata Castelletto viewpoint itself is free to access. The only cost associated is for the elevator ride if you choose to use it. TikTok

Operating hours can vary, but the elevator generally runs throughout the day. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire on-site for the most up-to-date information, especially if visiting during holidays. TikTok

No, advance booking is typically not required for the Castelletto Elevator. Tickets can be purchased on the spot from the ticket machines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For the best photographic opportunities, aim for sunset when the city is bathed in golden light. Early mornings also offer beautiful light with fewer people in your shots. TikTok

You can capture stunning panoramic views of Genoa's historic center, the port, and the surrounding hills. It's a fantastic spot for cityscape photography. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged at Spianata Castelletto. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Castelletto Elevator and Spianata Castelletto are great for families. The short, fun elevator ride is an adventure in itself for children, and the wide-open space of the Spianata allows them to move around safely while enjoying the views. TikTok It's a low-cost activity that offers a big visual reward without requiring extensive walking or strenuous activity, making it ideal for younger children or those with limited mobility. Pack some snacks and water, and let the kids marvel at the city spread out below them.

💰 Budget Travelers

This is a fantastic budget-friendly attraction in Genoa. The elevator ride costs a mere €0.90, and the panoramic views from the Spianata Castelletto are absolutely free. Reddit It's an excellent way to experience a significant highlight of the city without spending much money. You can easily combine this visit with exploring the surrounding historic streets on foot, making for a rich and affordable day out.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Spianata Castelletto is a dream. The panoramic views offer endless opportunities for cityscape shots, capturing the unique architecture and vibrant life of Genoa. TikTok Visiting during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) will provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Be sure to bring your wide-angle lens to capture the full sweep of the city and the harbor. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Ascensore Levante

The Ascensore Levante, also known as the Castelletto Elevator, is more than just a way to reach a viewpoint; it's a piece of Genoa's history. Built in 1910 in the elegant Liberty style, this elevator has been transporting locals and tourists alike for over a century. Its charming, antique wooden interior adds to the experience, making the short ride a journey back in time. TikTok The elevator connects the lower part of the city near Piazza Portello to the Spianata Castelletto, a wide, flat terrace offering unparalleled views.

Many visitors appreciate the elevator for its convenience, especially for those who may find the climb challenging. It provides easy access to one of Genoa's most iconic panoramic spots. The cost is minimal, making it an accessible attraction for all travelers. Reddit The elevator's presence is integral to the experience of reaching the Spianata, blending historical charm with practical utility for modern visitors.

When planning your visit, remember that while the elevator is a highlight, the Spianata Castelletto itself is the main draw. The elevator is simply the delightful gateway to this expansive viewing platform. It’s a testament to early 20th-century engineering and a beloved feature of the Genoese urban landscape. TikTok

Navigating the Spianata Castelletto Viewpoint

Upon exiting the Ascensore Levante, you'll find yourself on the Spianata Castelletto, a spacious promenade offering a spectacular 360-degree view of Genoa. The viewpoint is divided into sections, with the most expansive vistas available to the right as you arrive. From here, you can admire the terracotta rooftops of the historic center, the bustling port, and the rolling hills that cradle the city. TikTok It's a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant Italian port city.

Many visitors recommend visiting during sunset for a truly magical experience. The warm, golden light illuminates the city, creating a breathtaking panorama that is ideal for photography and romantic moments. TikTok However, the views are impressive at any time of day, offering a different perspective depending on the light and activity below. Be prepared for a moderate number of visitors, especially during peak hours and weekends, as it's a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

While the elevator is the most common way to reach the Spianata, some reviews mention the option of taking the stairs if you're feeling energetic. This can be a good alternative if the elevator is busy or if you simply prefer a more active approach. Reddit Regardless of how you arrive, the Spianata Castelletto promises an unforgettable visual experience of Genoa.