Cinque Terre: a first-timer’s guide
Apr 8, 2024 • 13 min read
The Cinque Terre villages are unforgettable – here's how to build a perfect first trip © melis82 / Getty Images
So pretty that it inspired a Disney movie ( Luca ), Cinque Terre ("five lands") consists of five startlingly photogenic fishing villages on Italy's northwest coast, their candy-colored houses stacked down the sides of ravines and on top of cliffs. With sea, great food and wine, jaw-dropping views and photo opportunities at every turn, this is everything people love about Italy.
Today, however, that beauty is also its curse – it's one of the most overtouristed parts of the Bel Paese, with thousands of daytrippers crowding into the narrow streets, eager to take a couple of quick shots for the 'Gram and then leave. Is Cinque Terre overcrowded? Absolutely. Does that limit your enjoyment? Not if you take your time. Most people day-trip around the five villages, but stay longer – even three or four days – and you'll get a real appreciation of this extraordinary landscape.
One of the most remote parts of Italy – the single road arrived in the 1960s, and the railway a century earlier – Cinque Terre has always been a place of visceral beauty. Look up beyond those colored houses: for over 1,000 years, the residents have terraced the cliff sides and cultivated olives and wine that were once the toast of Europe's top tables.
Today, the entire area is a national park that celebrates human ingenuity as well as Mother Nature, with around 120km (75mi) of footpaths allowing you to explore it in the raw. But as well as a place to walk, this is also a place to relax. Watch the waves beat against the rocks from one of the medieval castles scattered along the coast – a hallmark of Liguria , the wider region. Drink a glass of wine cultivated on those very cliffs. Watch the sunset set the sea aflame. And rejoice that you chose more than a day trip.
This guide to Cinque Terre shows you how to make the best of your trip to this bucket-list Italian destination.
Want more Italian seaside fun? Head to these beautiful beaches
Introducing Cinque Terre's five villages
Riomaggiore.
Vibes: The southernmost village packs fine-dining restaurants and good bars into its teeny terraces. If you're wondering where to start in Cinque Terre, this is your best bet.
See: Castello di Riomaggiore, the clifftop castle overlooking the village
Eat: In the mornings or for lunch on the run, grab a pastry or piece of focaccia at Panificio Rosi . The best views in town are from A Pié de Ma , a superb wine bar and restaurant on the cliffs that has an unbeatable selection of local wines by the glass. Run by Sicilian brothers, La Lampara is a superb seafood restaurant.
Stay: Locanda Ca da Iride has simple, comfortable rooms (but no breakfast) in the higher part of the village.
Vibes: Arguably the prettiest part of Cinque Terre, cutesy Manarola has cottages stacked up and over the cliffs, as well as the area's loveliest main street, which spirals down a canyon to the water's edge.
See: Take the footpath forking upwards from the north side of the village to find yourself immersed in cliffside vineyards with spectacular sea views.
Eat: From breakfast to late lunches, Cappun Magru is the place for exceptional sandwiches, pastries and cakes, all washed down with local wine. You can't beat Nessun Dorma for an aperitivo with a view – it's jammed onto the cliffside and delivers sunset views. Da Aristide is a lovely family-run restaurant in the heart of the village. Try the muscoli ripieni – mussels stuffed with mortadella, parmesan and egg by nonna Grazia.
Stay: Posidonia is a sweet guesthouse with wonderful owners in the quiet, higher part of the village.
Vibes: Tiny Corniglia , perched high above the seas, is the only clifftop village in the region. From up here, you can see all of Cinque Terre.
See: Take in the views as you climb (or, easier, descend) the 383 steps between the sea-level train station and the village.
Eat: Dai Luca offers panini, foccacia and street food for snacks or meals on the run, while the wine bar Terra Rossa has a lovely selection of local dishes and drinks overlooking a pretty garden. A Cantina de Mananan is a lovely osteria (cafe) in the village serving the best Cinque Terre ingredients.
Stay: Il Carugio di Corniglia has rooms and apartments overlooking the sea.
Vibes: The busiest village, Vernazza was the most important in the past – though it's crowded, head up the steep staircases to quiet medieval alleyways – as twisty and atmospheric as the caruggi of regional capital Genoa.
See: Wander round the small harbor and step into the atmospheric 13th-century church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia .
Eat: Top breakfast spot Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre has Sicilian granita and pastries in the morning, as well as excellent lunch and dinner. Grab a snack or pasta box at Pippo a Vernazza and wash it down with a wine tasting at nearby Cantina Cheo . Ristorante La Torre has spectacular views of the sea (though it's a hike to get there).
Stay: Restaurant Gianni Franzi also has rooms scattered throughout the village, most of which have spectacular sea views.
Monterosso al Mare
Vibes: With its long, sandy beach, this – usually known as plain " Monterosso " – is the largest village and the one that most resembles a regular beach resort.
See: Wander through the warren of the old town and head up to the humbug-striped Convento dei Cappuccini to see a Crucifixion by Van Dyck.
Eat: Start the day with pastries from Pasticceria Laura ; to go all out, try the torta monterossina , stuffed with jam and chocolate. You could spend a whole day at Buranco – an agriturismo, vineyard and restaurant just outside the center. Take a bottle for a wander round the vineyard, then settle down to a superb home-cooked lunch. Local legend Miky Ristorante has been a must-visit since 1980.
Stay: Friendly Hotel Marina is near Buranco, just outside the historic center of the village.
When should I go to Cinque Terre?
Like the rest of Liguria, Cinque Terre enjoys beautiful, not-too-hot summers. Unlike nearby resorts along the Italian Riviera, however, this isn't really somewhere to flop on a beach – not least because Monterosso has the only real beach, with sand and small pebbles. The other villages either have rocky coves, boulders doubling as diving boards or harbors to swim in. Since most visitors come for an active trip with plenty of hiking, spring and fall are a better bet. Crowded throughout the year – unbearably so in summer – the area is quieter in winter, though it's not always possible to hike due to the weather. Cross-reference your dates with Italian public holidays, as the villages can be impossibly busy with daytrippers.
Italian locals share their favorite places to avoid the crowds on vacation
How much time should I spend in Cinque Terre?
The vast majority of visitors come here for a day trip, and while it's possible to visit all five villages in a day, to do so is to completely miss the beauty of the area. Rather like Venice, Cinque Terre is so popular, and so crowded, that if you just have a quick glimpse, you're likely to end up disappointed.
Instead, you probably need at least three or four full days in Cinque Terre to get a true taste. That gives you time to see the villages, walk some of the Sentiero Azzurro paths, sit back with some of the local wine as you take in the views, and even visit some of the villages further up the cliff sides. Spend a week, and you can add lesser-known hikes and visit some of Italy's most spectacular vineyards. Even longer is better – I spent two weeks on my first trip and enjoyed every minute.
Is it easy to get into and around Cinque Terre?
This is a relatively tough-to-reach location, which makes it even more important to spend as long as you can here. The closest airports are Genoa and Pisa – both are around 1-2 hours by train from Cinque Terre, depending on connections.
One extremely important point: driving here is absolutely to be avoided. Parking is extremely limited, expensive, and usually a long, steep climb outside the villages (only residents are allowed to park inside). The narrow, clifftop roads can also be frightening for newcomers to the area – the Amalfi Coast has nothing on these lanes, and even as a seasoned Italian cliffside driver, one time in Cinque Terre was one time too many for me. Even if you already have a car on your trip, it's best parking outside Cinque Terre (try La Spezia or Levanto) and coming in on the train. You have my word on this.
The best way to travel between the villages is definitely by rail. Trains run around every 15-20 minutes throughout the day, stopping at each of the five villages – the journey time between each stop is only a couple of minutes. Tickets cost €5-10 per journey (even if you're just doing a two-minute hop) depending on the season, and it's often better value to buy a timed Cinque Terre Card , which allows unlimited train travel between Levanto and La Spezia (the cities north and south of the area). The card also includes hiking fees, as well as bus travel to the more remote villages. Proceeds go to the national park.
You can also get around by boat. Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti runs between La Spezia and Levanto, calling at all the villages. Golfo Paradiso has a line from Genoa. Services can be suspended in bad weather, however, and boarding with a lot of luggage can be tricky.
In the villages themselves, the only real option is walking – and they are steep. Those with mobility issues will certainly find it difficult. The centers of Corniglia and Vernazza are largely flat, as is the beach area of Monterosso. Manarola and Riomaggiore are trickier for anyone with mobility issues.
Top things to do in Cinque Terre
Hike (some of) the sentiero azzurro.
The most famous of Cinque Terre's paths is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which links all five villages across the cliff sides (it's marked as SVA on maps). In recent years, it's been rare that you'll find it fully open – winter storm damage means that some long stretches are closed. The easiest stretch – which is actually more of a moderate level – is Corniglia to Vernazza (2.5 miles, with a steep downhill section at the end). To get updates on closures, check the national park website before you head out.
See the coastline from the sea
Take a boat with Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti to see Cinque Terre's extraordinary landscape from the sea. It gives you an idea of the remoteness of the place – there wasn't a road here until the 1960s – and of how the locals have sculpted terraces from the sheer cliffs, making an uninhabitable landscape productive. Docking at the villages' tiny harbors is a memorable experience, and you can go onwards to La Spezia or (my pick) Levanto.
Walk the Via dell'Amore
Cinque Terre's most famous walk has always been the Via dell'Amore – the flat, accessible, 1km (half-mile) path between Riomaggiore and Manarola. Closed since 2012 due to landslide damage, it's due to reopen in July 2024 for guided tours only. I got a sneak peek last year and was impressed – the tours explain the rich history of the area and make you look beyond those color-popping houses.
Taste the local wine
For centuries, Cinque Terre has been known for its wine: sea-flecked salty whites grown along the cliffs. Try it by the glass at bars like A Pié de Ma in Riomaggiore or Cappun Magru in Manarola – both of these offer wine flights and tastings.
My favorite thing to do in Cinque Terre
Time for more wine: for me, nothing tells you more about Cinque Terre than perching high up in the hills, hearing how the locals have produced bottles that, in the Renaissance period, were so famous that they graced the tables of kings and popes. Tilling those cliffsides is backbreaking manual work, and while the vineyards are a fraction of what they were, they're important for stabilizing the increasingly fragile landscape and warding off the effects of climate change.
The best – and most fun – way to understand this is with a vineyard tour. You'll catch me high up on the hills above Vernazza on a tour from Cheo – from the vineyards, there are jaw-dropper views of the village, castle and sea below. Don't forget to try the heavenly sweet sciacchetrà wine that Cinque Terre is famous for – that sea-salt breeze adds an incredible tang.
How much money do I need for Cinque Terre?
Cinque Terre is expensive by Italian standards – visit in the high season or on a weekend, and you can expect to see prices double. Accommodation is particularly expensive in relation to the quality of what's on offer – there are very few hotels here, and usually your best bet is an affittacamere – room rental without breakfast. Accommodation in La Spezia or Levanto is usually cheaper and less problematic in terms of homeowners turfing out local renters to create Airbnbs, a major issue in the villages. Having said that, Cinque Terre's magic is especially strong at night.
You won't find any bargain restaurants or trattorias – prices are up there with high-end joints in major cities – but on the plus side, Liguria is the home of Italian street food, and there are plenty of small bakeries offering tasty snacks like focaccia that are good for lunch.
Average daily cost for:
- Hostel room €20-40 (dorm spot)
- Basic room for two €130-250
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb) €150-250
- Public transport ticket €5-10
- Coffee €1-4
- Sandwich €6-12
- Dinner for two €60-150
- Glass of Cinque Terre wine €6-15
Bring layers, no matter the season
Weather changes fast on the Liguria coast, and even in the hottest summer months, you'll probably need a jacket or sweater at night – as well as if you go out on a boat during the day.
Be prepared to walk… a lot
Don't underestimate how challenging the villages can be for those with mobility problems. Even if you're not planning to hike, Manarola and Riomaggiore are extremely steep. Be aware of that when you book your accommodation, too – there are limited porter services, and you should be prepared to cart your luggage up the cliffside.
Buy a Cinque Terre card
Village hop without counting the cost. The card includes access to all the hiking trails and allows you onto the bus routes to villages higher up on the cliffs. The proceeds go to the national park.
If availability is limited in the villages, stay in Levanto or La Spezia
Levanto and La Spezia bookend Cinque Terre and are included in Cinque Terre train tickets, so if you're booking last minute and the villages are sold out, try here (I prefer Levanto – La Spezia is a bigger city).
Support local businesses
Like all overtouristed areas, Cinque Terre's future depends on how tourists treat it. Shop at local artisan shops for souvenirs and eat at restaurants that utilize local products like marinated anchovies and regional wine. The latter is an important one – young locals replanting vineyards are helping to stabilize the fragile cliff terraces.
Take care on the trails
Cinque Terre's footpaths are so famous that you can often feel cushioned against nature, but these are vertiginous, cliffside trails that at times are lethally narrow. Always stop to take a photo, rather than walking with your camera, to avoid missteps. Wear decent shoes (flip flops are banned and there are checks at the trailheads) and bring plenty of water, as there's very little shade. Always stick to the designated path – this is an exceptionally fragile environment. And, of course, don't litter.
This article was first published March 2018 and updated 1 day ago
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A Complete Guide to Visiting Cinque Terre, Italy’s Hidden Gem
Nestled on the rugged Ligurian coast of Italy, the Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming seaside villages that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations. The name “Cinque Terre” translates to “ Five Lands,” and each of the five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – is unique in its own way, yet all offer a glimpse into a simpler, more traditional way of life.
In this travel guide, we’ll take a deep dive into each of the five villages, exploring their individual charms, must-see sights, and hidden gems. We’ll also cover the best ways to get to the Cinque Terre, how to get around once you’re there, where to eat and drink, and other useful tips for making the most of your visit.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, the Cinque Terre is a destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the magic of the Cinque Terre together!
The five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Liguria, the Cinque Terre is a collection of five picturesque villages that have captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. The name “Cinque Terre” means “Five Lands” in Italian, and the villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are each unique in their own way.
The history of the Cinque Terre dates back centuries, with the earliest settlements believed to have been established by the Ligurian people in the pre-Roman era. Over time, the villages became important centers of trade and commerce, thanks to their strategic location along the coast. Fishing, wine-making, and agriculture were the primary industries of the area, with each village specializing in its own unique products.
The rugged terrain of the Cinque Terre made it difficult to access the villages by land, and for centuries, the only way to reach them was by boat. This isolation helped to preserve the traditional way of life in the villages, and even today, visitors can still glimpse the authentic charm of a bygone era.
In more recent times, the Cinque Terre has become an important tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, in recognition of its unique cultural and natural significance.
So what makes the Cinque Terre so special? For starters, it’s the natural beauty of the area. The rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation make for breathtaking views at every turn. The colorful houses and narrow alleyways of the villages only add to the charm of the area, creating a sense of timeless beauty that’s hard to resist.
But it’s not just the natural beauty of the area that draws visitors. The villages themselves are steeped in history and tradition, with centuries-old churches, castles, and fortresses to explore. Each village has its own unique character, from the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor of Vernazza to the quiet, peaceful streets of Corniglia.
And of course, the culinary delights of the Cinque Terre are an essential part of any visit to the area. Italian cuisine is known for its exquisite flavors and the Cinque Terre is no exception. The region is renowned for its fresh seafood, caught daily and prepared in a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as anchovies, octopus salad, and seafood risotto.
In addition to its seafood, the Cinque Terre is also famous for its wine. The area’s terraced vineyards produce some of Italy’s most beloved wines, including Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine made from late-harvested grapes. Wine enthusiasts can explore the vineyards and cellars of the area, tasting and learning about the winemaking process from local producers.
Basic facts about Cinque Terre
How to pronounce cinque terre.
The name is pronounced as “CHINK-weh TEHR-reh” in Italian. The “ch” sound is similar to the “ch” in “church”, while the “eh” sound is similar to the “e” in “pet”. The emphasis should be on the second syllable of “Terre”.
It’s important to know the correct pronunciation of Cinque Terre when traveling to the area, as it helps you communicate more effectively with locals and avoid any misunderstandings.
Legends around Cinque Terre
The legend of the giant and the creation of the Cinque Terre is a popular tale that has been passed down through generations in the region.
According to the legend, there was once a giant who lived in the hills above the Cinque Terre. He was a solitary figure who rarely ventured down into the villages below, but he was known for his incredible strength and his ability to move massive boulders with ease.
One day, as the giant was wandering the hills, he caught sight of a beautiful young woman from the area. She was tending to her family’s fields, and the giant was immediately smitten. He knew that he had to do something special to win her heart, and so he set to work creating a paradise for her.
Using his immense strength, the giant began to carve out the cliffs and build the terraced fields that are now used for grape cultivation. He worked tirelessly day and night, moving massive boulders and shaping the landscape until the five villages of the Cinque Terre were created.
Despite his efforts, however, the young woman did not return the giant’s love. Heartbroken, the giant eventually left the area, leaving behind the beautiful villages he had built.
While the legend of the giant is not supported by historical records, it remains a popular story in the area and is often used to explain the origin of the Cinque Terre. The tale adds to the charm and mystique of this beautiful part of Italy and is a testament to the enduring power of folklore and myth.
Tips for visiting Cinque Terre
If you’re planning a trip to the Cinque Terre in Italy, there are a few tips that can help you make the most of your visit. Here are our top tips for visiting this beautiful region:
- Buy the Cinque Terre Train Pass : This pass allows you to take unlimited train rides between the towns of Cinque Terre and can help you save money. You can purchase the pass at any train station in the area.
- Stay in La Spezia : La Spezia is a great option for accommodation as it’s the closest large town to the Cinque Terre region. Plus, it’s much cheaper than staying in one of the five towns. It’s only a 5-minute train ride to Riomaggiore, which is one of the five towns.
- Bring good walking shoes : Cinque Terre is very hilly, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking up and down stairs. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the area. If you’re interested in hiking, be sure to bring appropriate gear as well.
- Get seafood : One of the highlights of visiting Cinque Terre is trying the delicious seafood. Make sure you try the street fried calamari and other fresh seafood dishes while you’re there.
- Spend at least 2 days here : To truly experience the beauty and charm of Cinque Terre, we recommend spending at least two days here. Each of the five towns has something unique to offer, and you won’t want to miss any of them.
How to reach Cinque Terre (Map)
Getting to Cinque Terre can be an adventure in itself! The region is accessible by car, train, and bus. Here’s a breakdown of each option:
- By Train : The easiest way to reach Cinque Terre is by train. There is a train station in each of the five towns, making it convenient to get around. The nearest major city is La Spezia, which is well-connected by train to other cities in Italy, including Florence and Rome.
- By Car : While it’s possible to drive to Cinque Terre, it’s not recommended. The roads are narrow, winding, and often congested. Plus, parking can be difficult to find and expensive. If you do decide to drive, keep in mind that only residents are allowed to drive within the towns of Cinque Terre. You’ll need to park outside of the towns and take a shuttle or walk in.
- By Bus : There are also several bus companies that offer service to Cinque Terre, including Flixbus and Eurolines. However, keep in mind that the buses may not stop in all five towns, and may only run during certain times of the day.
No matter which transportation option you choose, be sure to check schedules and fares in advance to ensure a smooth journey. And don’t forget to bring a map or use GPS to navigate the winding roads and picturesque landscape!
When to visit Cinque Terre
Deciding when to visit Cinque Terre depends on personal preferences and what you want to do there. Summer is the high season, with longer days and warmer weather, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. However, it can also be very crowded, with long lines and high prices.
Spring and autumn are great alternatives, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists. The landscapes are also at their most beautiful during these seasons, with blooming flowers and colorful foliage. Winter is the low season, with cooler temperatures and fewer services available, but it can still be a charming time to visit if you enjoy the peace and quiet.
The best time of day to visit Cinque Terre really depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to capture stunning photos of the towns and landscapes, then early morning or late afternoon light can be especially beautiful. If you prefer to experience the nightlife and dining scene, then evening is the best time to visit. Regardless of when you choose to visit, it’s important to plan ahead and make reservations for accommodations and activities, especially during the high season.
Accommodations near Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination, and finding the right accommodation can make your trip more enjoyable. There are two main options for accommodations when visiting Cinque Terre: staying in one of the five towns or staying in the nearby city of La Spezia.
Staying in one of the five towns can be more expensive and limited in options, but it can offer a more authentic experience. Each town has its own charm, and staying there can allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. However, keep in mind that the towns can be quite hilly and may not be the best option for those with mobility issues.
On the other hand, staying in La Spezia can be more budget-friendly and offer more options for accommodations. It’s a larger city with a train station that connects to Cinque Terre, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. You’ll also have access to more restaurants, shops, and amenities in La Spezia compared to the smaller towns of Cinque Terre.
Some of the best options for accommodations in the five towns include family-run bed and breakfasts and small hotels with stunning views of the sea. In La Spezia, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some recommended places to stay in Cinque Terre include:
- Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso al Mare : a luxurious hotel with breathtaking sea views
- La Casa di Venere in Riomaggiore : a charming bed and breakfast with a terrace overlooking the sea
- Affittacamere Alle 5 Terre in La Spezia : a budget-friendly guesthouse with clean and comfortable rooms
Regardless of where you choose to stay, it’s important to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best prices.
What to do at Cinque Terre
There are plenty of activities to do at the Cinque Terre and in the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions:
- Hiking : The Cinque Terre is famous for its hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Azzurro, which connects all five towns. Make sure to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water!
- Beaches : The Cinque Terre has several beaches where you can soak up the sun and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Monterosso has the largest beach, while Vernazza and Corniglia have smaller rocky beaches.
- Boating : You can rent a boat or take a boat tour to explore the coastline from a different perspective. This is a great way to see the villages from the sea and take some amazing photos.
- Wine Tasting : The Cinque Terre is known for its delicious wines, particularly the white wine called Sciacchetrà . There are several wineries in the area where you can sample and purchase the local wines.
- Local Cuisine : Make sure to try the local seafood, including anchovies and octopus, and the delicious pesto sauce made from basil grown in the region. There are also plenty of gelato shops where you can indulge in some sweet treats.
Other attractions near Cinque Terre
There are plenty of other attractions near Cinque Terre that are worth visiting, and one of them is the geothermal spa known as Bagni di Pisa. Located just an hour away from Cinque Terre, this spa offers a unique experience for travelers looking to relax and unwind.
The Bagni di Pisa spa is located in the town of San Giuliano Terme, and it’s known for its hot springs that have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. The spa has a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, as well as indoor thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms.
For photographers, the Bagni di Pisa spa offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots. From the beautiful architecture of the building to the serene landscapes surrounding the pools, there are plenty of photo-worthy moments waiting to be captured.
Aside from the geothermal spa, other attractions near Cinque Terre include the beautiful town of Portovenere, the historic city of Lucca, and the picturesque town of Lerici. Each of these places offers its unique charm and plenty of things to see and do, from visiting historic landmarks to trying delicious local cuisine.
If you’re looking for other activities in the surrounding area, here are some options:
- Visit Portovenere : This charming town is just a short boat ride or drive from the Cinque Terre and is definitely worth a visit. It has a beautiful harbor, colorful houses, and a stunning castle.
- Explore La Spezia : La Spezia is the largest city in the area and is a great place to explore if you’re looking for more nightlife, shopping, and cultural activities. It’s also where you can catch a train to the Cinque Terre.
- Visit the Gulf of Poets : This picturesque area is located just south of La Spezia and is known for inspiring famous poets like Lord Byron and Percy Shelley. You can explore the towns of Lerici and San Terenzo, as well as take a boat tour to see the area from the sea.
Photographing Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a breathtakingly beautiful region in Italy that offers stunning views and picturesque landscapes. If you’re planning on photographing this area, there are some essential things to consider.
Firstly, it’s important to note that droning is not allowed in the Cinque Terre. The use of drones is strictly prohibited, and it’s enforced to protect the natural environment and the safety of the visitors. It’s important to respect these rules and capture your shots from the ground level.
When it comes to camera gear, it’s best to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes and seascapes. A tripod is also highly recommended to help stabilize your camera and capture sharp images, especially during low-light situations. Gimbal stabilizers are also great for creating smooth video footage.
Regarding camera settings, it’s best to shoot in manual mode, allowing you to have full control over exposure, aperture, and shutter speed. It’s essential to balance the exposure and the contrast, especially when shooting against the bright blue sky and the dark rocks. Shooting in RAW format also provides more flexibility in post-processing and ensures the best quality of your images.
The best time to photograph Cinque Terre is during the golden hours, which is typically the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The soft and warm light during this time enhances the colors and textures of the landscapes, making for more dramatic and stunning images. It’s also a good idea to visit during the offseason to avoid crowds and capture more unique shots.
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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.
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CINQUE TERRE Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)
Cinque Terre, Italy is one of those rare destinations that enchants you easily — once you arriver, you instantly know your time there will special! After all, having survived years of conflict and isolation, Cinque Terre’s enduring beauty and grace is almost miraculous. Our Cinque Terre itinerary will help you find that magic for yourself.
From vibrant Riomaggiore in the south to trendy Monterosso in the north, the villages of Cinque Terre each bring something unique! There are also some epic hiking trails connecting the five village of Cinque Terres attracting eager hikers year after year.
You know, there’s something truly satisfying about walking for hours and hours and rewarding yourself with an Italian pasta classic — an irresistible potion of indulgence that encapsulates our Cinque Terre itinerary!
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Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre
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Knowing when to visit Cinque Terre is key to having an amazing trip! It’s also important to know which Cinque Terre attractions you’re visiting. Are you looking forward to long days spent beachside? Or is it the invigorating hikes between the mountains that call you to vacation in Cinque Terre?
If it’s beach time that you’re after, then June to September is your best bet. Temperatures can reach as high as 90°F, but you’ll also have to contend with the crowds and steep prices!
Shoulder season tends to be the best time to visit Cinque Terre, especially for hikers. This runs from March to May and September to October. We recommend going in September when the crowds are sparser and prices fall. Apart from a few rainy days, the weather is perfect for long days hiking!
November to February is low season in Cinque Terre and the frequent rainfall means neither the beaches nor the mountain trails are appealing. If you travel to Cinque Terre in December, though, there is a stunning nativity scene on display in Manarola, as well as a beautiful Christmas atmosphere!
First things first, there are five Cinque Terre towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Together, the towns and the surrounding countryside form the area of Cinque Terre — which literally means “five villages!” Knowing where to stay in Cinque Terre can be tricky but we’ve got insider access to make your choice so much easier!
No matter how many days in Cinque Terre you plan on spending, we recommend choosing one or two towns as a base and visiting the others. Looking at a Cinque Terre map, you’ll see that the Cinque Terre towns run in a row from Monterosso al Mare in the north-west to Riomaggiore in the south-east.
Monterosso is the largest of the villages, making it an ideal base when touring Cinque Terre! From budget hotels to luxury resorts, it has a range of accommodation options to suit all travelers! Monterosso also boasts a lovely sandy beach and is close to the Cinque Terre National Park for stunning hikes.
Our itinerary for Cinque Terre recommends that you spend the second night in Vernazza. Most of the hotels are right on the piazza and have harbor views! There are also some of the best hostels in Cinque Terre based here. It’s also one of the more peaceful towns since most visitors tend to be there on a day trip.
If you’re fortunate enough to have 3 days in Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is the natural finishing point. It has a lively nightlife scene and doesn’t compromise on that Riviera charm!
Best Hostel in Cinque Terre – Mar-Mar
Mar-Mar is the undisputed winner when it comes to the best place to stay in Cinque Terre on a budget! It’s located in Riomaggiore, with easy access to the town’s attractions, train station, and shops. The dormitories have large beds and the hosts are very welcoming!
Best Airbnb in Cinque Terre: Self contained spot overlooking the Med!
This authentic stone-clad and low timber beamed villa overlooking the Med is a great way to sample life in Cinque Terre. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the town center if you start to get bored with the atmosphere on your private balcony and fancy something a little more bombastic.
Best Budget Hotel in Cinque Terre – Albergo Barbara
It’s impossible to beat Albergo Barbara for luxury on a shoestring! Rooms are spacious, comfortable and inviting, many with sea or mountain views! The staff is warm and helpful, and everything is kept in perfect shape. The hotel is in the heart of Vernazza, on the waterfront, an unbeatable location!
Best Luxury Hotel in Cinque Terre – Hotel Porto Roca
Hotel Porto Roca is the closest Cinque Terre’s villages to come to luxury! This four-star hotel in Monterosso is situated in a villa high up on the cliff, offering sublime views. The rooms are comfortable and most have private balconies with sea views. The hotel also has a gourmet restaurant and a number of free services, like transfers and beach chairs!
Many visitors wonder how long to spend in Cinque Terre, but trust us when we say you can do the area in a few hours or you can it in a few days depending on what you want from it. However, we recommend spending at least one night in this unique region as a day trip doesn’t really capture its quintessence.
Our 3-day itinerary in Cinque Terre starts in Monterosso and finishes in Riomaggiore but this can easily be customized to accommodate your own ideas on how many days to spend in Cinque Terre!
For those who arrive by car, Monterosso is the best place to start your Cinque Terre itinerary since it has a relatively affordable parking lot. Riomaggiore and Manarola also have parking lots but they are outside the towns. Corniglia and Vernazza, meanwhile, have very narrow roads and even fewer parking spaces. You could also park your car in La Spezia and then use the train to get around your Cinque Terre itinerary!
The train is a lifesaver for most tourists on a trip to Cinque Terre! It runs between all the villages and La Spezia, meaning you can always just walk to one village and take the train back to your base town!
The classic way to get around is, of course, walking! The trail between the villages is just under eight miles which can comfortably be done in even a half-day if you are remotely fit. However, make sure to research your path since parts of the trails are often damaged and impassable.
Monterosso Town | Monterosso-Levanto Trail | Paragliding/Boat trip | Monterosso Beaches | Sunset and Dinner
Our itinerary for Cinque Terre starts by introducing you to Monterosso, the biggest of the Cinque Terre villages! Whether you’re hiking to Levante or paragliding over the town, you’re guaranteed to have a marvelous time!
Day 1 / Stop 1 – Monterosso Town
- Why it’s awesome: With Monterosso’s pretty medieval architecture and stunning sea views, you’ll feel like you fell into a fairytale!
- Cost: Free!
- Food nearby: Stock up on some sweet energy at Wonderland Bakery! There are also a number of yummy savories like fresh focaccia and panini!
Monterosso may have a small population (under 2000 people) but it certainly isn’t short on charm! The village is full of quaint Cinque Terre landmarks and authentic Italian traditions so it’s important to soak it all in during your Cinque Terre Itinerary!
Start this short Cinque Terre walking tour with the Church of Saint John the Baptist. You’ll easily recognize this landmark by its striped marble exterior. It’s been in use since the 14th century! Many of the paintings, as well as the baptismal font, are from this period. The large altar was an addition in the 18th century.
The Oratorio Mortis et Orationis is located off the same square as the cathedral. It’s home to a religious brotherhood founded in the 17th century to assist widows, orphans and castaways. Oratorio Santa Croce, on the other hand, is an older order which ran the local hospital until the mid-17th century.
There’s a short walk to Torre Aurora which was originally a Genoese lookout tower in the 13th century! It was renovated to become the Church of Saint John the Baptist’s belltower in the 16th century. From this area, you’ll be afforded panoramic views of the other four Cinque Terre villages!
Just a bit further up is the Monastery of the Capucines and the Church of San Francesco. The church originated in the 17th century and has some fabulous artworks, including a painting of the crucifixion by Flemish artist Antoon van Dyck!
Insider Tip: Many of the churches you’ll visit are still functional and hold mass for the local community. Why not check the times when you’re there and see if you can make it for the next mass? It’s a great way of experiencing local life!
Day 1 / Stop 2 – Monterosso – Levanto Trail
- Why it’s awesome: This trail stands out from its peers due to its tranquility and beauty!
- Food nearby: Make sure to carry enough water for your hike, especially during summer! It may also be worth it to take an apple or orange with you. You’ll find plenty of eateries in Levante — we recommend Trattoria Antico Tannino!
Not one day in Cinque Terre should go by without a walk and this is the perfect trail to take out of Monterosso! It takes around two or three hours. The trail starts at the end of Fegina Beach and is well-marked throughout. The paths are a bit narrow but this is not a problem since there are fewer people here than on the other Cinque Terre trails!
The views of the Cinque Terre towns, as well as the glimpses of the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, are worth the effort! At parts of the trail, you’ll walk on top of sheer cliffs so you’ll see more of the open sea than the Cinque Terre shoreline. On the clearest days, you may even see Portofino and the Maritime Alps!
At about 980 feet above sea level, there’s a sign pointing to San Antonio del Mesce, an ancient church that’s further. It offers splendid views if you’re willing to take the trip! Casa Lovara is another landmark that you can visit. It occupies a slopeside position, surrounded by terraced fields!
Insider Tip: There is a number of steep steps on the Monterosso side of the trail. To avoid climbing them, turn the trail around by taking the train to Levanto and then walking back to Monterosso! Remember to wear sturdy shoes and take lots of water!
Day 1 / Stop 3 – Paragliding/Boat trip
- Why it’s awesome: Admire Cinque Terre with a bird’s eye view while getting your heart rate pounding!
- Cost: Paragliding is around $190 USD, while a two-hour boat trip costs around $100 USD.
- Food nearby: Most boat trips will include snacks and even prosecco! Paragliding trips may do likewise but for those which don’t, take water with you.
If we’re honest, views of Cinque Terre are key to a great Cinque Terre itinerary! You’ll get plenty from the mountain trails but for new perspectives, book a paragliding or boat tour!
There are a few options for paragliding in Monterosso depending on the season. The fall starts at the top of one of the nearby hills and lasts 15 to 20 minutes before you land on the beach in Monterosso. During that time, the views of the town, the sea, and the other Cinque Terre towns are breathtaking! The cost generally includes transport to the starting point and insurance.
Boat trips are one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre so it’s no surprise that there are multiple companies offering this activity! In around two hours, you can cruise all the way to Riomaggiore, bypassing the other three Cinque Terre towns. One of the highlights of these boat rides is the stops at beaches which can only be reached by boat!
Insider Tip: If you’re on a budget, swap a pricey boat trip for a quick ferry ride to nearby Vernazza! The journey will take just ten minutes, but it will allow you views of Cinque Terre from the sea at a much more affordable cost!
Day 1 / Stop 4 – Monterosso Beaches
- Why it’s awesome: There’s no better place to cool off from hiking than the sublime beaches of Monterosso!
- Cost: Free ($9 USD for a sunbed and around $28 USD for two sunbeds and an umbrella for the day)
- Food nearby: Head to Slurp! Gelato Artigianale for the literal cherry on top of your beach time! La Cantina Di Miky has a menu of local cuisine and offers great views!
After such a busy day exploring the area, it’s time to put beach time on the Cinque Terre itinerary! Monterosso may be squeezed between the hillside and the Ligurian sea, but it still manages to have the best beach in Cinque Terre, Italy, so don’t miss out!
The public beaches of Monterosso don’t have any facilities and aren’t as popular as the nearby private beaches. These resort-style beaches charge you to use the beach in the form of hiring out sunbeds and umbrellas.
For a typical sandy beach, head to Fegina Beach opposite the train station. It’s in the newer part of the village and has all the facilities to make your afternoon by the sea comfortable and fun! You’ll find restaurants, bars, and gelato parlors along the promenade!
Another good choice is Old Town Beach. It’s the starting point for the hiking trail to Vernazza and also a center to hire boats. Nevertheless, it’s sandy and quite pleasant.
Day 1 / Stop 5 – Sunset and Dinner
- Why it’s awesome: The combination of the mountain, the colorful village and the glistening sea is ideal for a picturesque sunset!
- Cost: Free (plus the cost of dinner)!
- Food nearby: Bar Bagni Alga is ideal for drinks before dinner. It’s right on the seafront so you’ll have a great sunset view! For a gourmet dinner, you can’t go wrong with Il Casello with its sea views and expert Ligurian cuisine!
Most tourists tend to spend sunset in Manarola, but if you’re not doing the Cinque Terre in one day, then it’s worth watching the sunset in Monterosso! Since it’s also dinnertime, we recommend getting a table with a view and toasting your first day on vacation in Cinque Terre as the sun sets!
If you’re looking for a vantage point to see the town in the fading light, you could retrace your steps towards the Torre Aurora, which will offer you the desired views. However, it’s worth remembering that the sun in Monterosso sort-of “disappears” around the mountain, rather than vanish low on the horizon. This means you’ll get the most atmosphere and best photos watching the sunset on the sea.
There are many seaside bars, gelaterias, and restaurants for you to choose from. Choose one with hearty local Ligurian specialties like fish fry, pesto Genovese, and salted pies! There isn’t a better conclusion to day one of your Cinque Terre itinerary!
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Vernazza Town | Vernazza to Corniglia Trail | Corniglia Town | Corniglia to Manarola Trail | Sunset in Manarola
Our 2-day itinerary in Cinque Terre recommends that you spend your second day in Vernazza. It’s an ideal base for exploring an additional two Cinque Terre villages. With this quaint village, today’s itinerary will read like a Cinque Terre Italy map to paradise!
Day 2 / Stop 1 – Vernazza Town
- Why it’s awesome: Few would disagree when we say that Vernazza is the most charming of all the Cinque Terre towns!
- Food nearby: Gelateria Il Porticciolo should be your go-to for a generous scoop of homemade gelato! If you need a larger meal, try Piadiamo Vernazza, which sells an Italian spin on wraps.
Vernazza is the only village in Cinque Terre with a proper harbor, and this shabby-chic area is only a taste of all the town has to offer! It’s a postcard-perfect town of Genovese, with alleyways and pastel-colored buildings that will fill your weekend in Cinque Terre with wonder and adventure!
The town is best explored with another DIY Cinque Terre walking tour since it is traffic-free and has accumulated so many historic monuments since it was first documented in 1080!
Start with the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia. Its fairytale octagonal tower and romantic peach facade make it a popular choice for local brides, as well as a favorite with visitors! Saint Margherita is the town’s patron saint whose bones washed ashore in Vernazza! The relic was later lost and refound, incentivizing the townspeople to build a church on the site her bones were found!
Next up, wander down the cobbled Via Roma towards Piazza Marconi on the seaside. Here, pull up a chair at one of the charming cafes as you soak in the atmosphere!
Day 2 / Stop 2 – Vernazza to Corniglia Trail
- Why it’s awesome: The allure of incredible photographs of both Vernazza and Corniglia is a major drawcard!
- Cost: $8 USD for a day pass to the Cinque Terre National Park.
- Food nearby: Unbelievable views and scrumptious Italian food is what you’ll find at Camere La Torre, which is on the Vernazza hillside, along the trail!
Those touring Cinque Terre in a rush tend to forget Corniglia, but this is such a rookie mistake! Corniglia has plenty of amazing Cinque Terre attractions and the walk from Vernazza is just incredible!
The trail between Vernazza and Corniglia reaches around 700 feet above sea level, the highest point on the Cinque Terre coastal trail! This means that the views on the hike are out of this world! The hike starts with a steep incline and passes a fortification tower where you can get stunning views of Vernazza, as well as Monterosso in the background.
The landscape of the trail makes for wonderful surroundings as you pass cypresses and prickly pears. You can also spot the village of San Bernadina higher up on the mountain and the sight of approaching Corniglia is magnificent! Manarola also makes a background appearance.
Insider Tip: It’s likely that your 2-day itinerary in Cinque Terre includes lots of walking so you may want to buy the Cinque Terre Card for 2 days at $16 USD. It includes the parks shuttle bus and Wifi. Additionally, unless you’re willing to make return trips for your hikes, you will be using the train so we recommend that you purchase a Cinque Terre Train Card from $25 USD. This allows you access to the Cinque Terre National Park, as well as unlimited travel on the Levanto-La Spezia line that connects the Cinque Terre towns. You can buy the Cinque Terre Card online or at any of the train stations.
Day 2 / Stop 3 – Corniglia Town
- Why it’s awesome: Corniglia is seldom visited, so you’ll have this precious town almost to yourself!
- Food nearby: Alberto’s Gelateria should be your first stop for some refreshing ice cream! Have a hearty lunch of pasta and pizza at Food and Sea in the main square.
Corniglia, surrounded by vineyards, sits majestically on a hill that seems to tumble into the sea! As you enter Corniglia on foot, be thankful that you are not hiking up the 377 steps from the railway station!
Corniglia is the most underrated town in Cinque Terre. Although many skip it, the village has plenty of charm with its own narrow alleys and colorful houses that have a timeless appeal! Corniglia also has the rarest of all Cinque Terre attractions: silence! Corniglia is naturally sleepy but still has a number of things to see at a leisurely pace.
The main landmark is the Church of Saint Peter. It was built in the Gothic style but also has some elegant baroque additions to admire! The highlight is the gorgeous stained glass window behind the altar.
The Oratory of Saint Catherine is another key religious attraction in Corniglia, but if we’re being honest, it’s the views from the terrace at the back that we love! It’s in the heart of Corniglia in the Largo Taragio Square and was built in the 18th century.
Insider Tip: If you’d like to cool down before the next leg of the hike, you can climb all the way down to the seaside where you’ll find a small pebbled cove that’s good for swimming!
Day 2 / Stop 4 – Corniglia to Manarola Trail
- Why it’s awesome: An invigorating walk in nature with a break in a medieval town is always a winner!
- Food nearby: L’Arcobaleno in Volastra will give you a hearty welcome and generous helpings of pasta and seafood!
The famous Azure Trail may be closed due to landslides, but the alternative route is almost as good to put on your Cinque Terre itinerary! It veers deeper into the countryside, away from the seaside, but still has those picture-perfect vistas you’ve come to expect from Cinque Terre!
The first part of the trail is quite steep for around 30 minutes, but the next hour and a half is thankfully flat! The rocks are painted with directions; be sure to head in the direction of Volastra. Once you’ve turned off in this direction, the path is quite narrow and rocky and features sharp drops into the sea, so take it slow!
Volastra is a small town occupying a splendid hilltop position! This is a heavenly pitstop for water. The town is surrounded by olive groves that produce Cinque Terre’s olive oil, so you’ll even have the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping!
Day 2 / Stop 5 – Sunset in Manarola
- Why it’s awesome: Manarola’s mountainside position gives it lots of character, as well as the best sunsets in Cinque Terre!
- Food nearby: Nessun Dorma, nestled on the hillside, offers the iconic view of Manarola (some say it’s the best view in Cinque Terre)! It also serves quality local wine and bruschetta (small pieces of bread with toppings).
Manarola is thought to be the oldest of the Cinque Terre villages and produces the region’s sweet wines! It’s no surprise, then, that it’s one of the most popular Cinque Terre points of interest!
If you have enough energy on arrival in Manarola, take a stroll through the town and visit the Church of San Lorenzo. It was built in 1338 to honor the town’s patron saint. While the building is small and unassuming from the exterior, it conceals beautiful Baroque features like vaulted ceilings! The adjoining bell tower was originally built for defensive purposes.
The essential thing to do in Manarola is to watch the sunset before taking the train back to Vernazza. Photographers flock to Manarola for this event and you should, too, so time your arrival! If you can bear a bit more hiking, take the first 980 feet from Manarola on the Azure Trail towards Corniglia (the only part that is open to the public). It culminates in a panoramic viewing point of the region which is the absolute best place to watch the sunset behind Manarola!
Otherwise, grab a table at one of the trendy bars or restaurants. Nessun Dorma is our favorite, but you’ll easily find more central options!
Mar-Mar is the undisputed winner when it comes to the best place to stay in Cinque Terre on a budget! It’s located in Riomaggiore, with easy access to the town’s attractions, train station, and shops.
- Linen Included
Vernazza Buildings | Cinque Terre Wine Tour | Via Del’Amore | Riomaggiore Ring Trail | Riomaggiore Nightlife
After two days in Cinque Terre some visitors are at a loss of what to do in Cinque Terre next, but there’s no need for you to feel that way — not with our exciting Cinque Terre itinerary! Today you’ll spend the morning in Vernazza and the night in Riomaggiore!
Vernazza Historic Buildings
- Vernazza’s charming buildings are full of history!
- Be sure to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Regio to visit an icon dating from the crusades!
- The atmospheric castle ruins are also worth exploring!
Having seen almost the entire region with your 2 days in Cinque Terre, you’ll probably agree that Vernazza is the best place to wake up on the final day of your Cinque Terre itinerary! Before departing the town, take a few hours to explore the parts you didn’t manage to see already, especially the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Regio.
This rustic institution is just over a mile from the train station in an area thought to be the original location of Vernazza before it moved closer to the sea. The trail will take you around 45 minutes. The sanctuary dates from the 11th century and is home to the somewhat famous Madonna di Reggio. This black-skinned Madonna is also often called l’Africana and, according to legend, arrived in Vernazza during one of the crusades! If you happen to be here on August 1st, the festival of Madonna di Reggio is truly something to experience!
In the Luvegu part of Vernazza, you’ll find the remains of a once-mighty castle! Since the castle was a look-out point for incoming pirate attacks, the tower and grassy park provide excellent views of the area!
Cinque Terre Wine Tour With Tasting and Snacks
- The vineyards of Manarola are responsible for Cinque Terre’s excellent wines!
- You’ll learn all about the process of winemaking in Cinque Terre!
- Best of all, this tour includes wine tastings alongside snacks!
Cinque Terre may be situated on a precarious mountain slope, but that hasn’t stopped locals from producing a variety of first-class wines! This laidback tour is the perfect treat to put on a 3-day itinerary in Cinque Terre since it allows you to explore more of the region’s rich culture!
Cinque Terre produces white and red wines, as well as Sciacchetrà, a sweet wine. This tour will give you insider access to the production of white wine in the area. There are three different white wines to taste and the vineyard will also provide local snacks like focaccia and local cheese. If you find yourself falling for any of the wines, you’ll be able to purchase a bottle or two to enjoy at home!
The vineyard itself is also an attraction in its own right. It’s tranquil and offers spectacular views of the seaside. The guide will also take you to a nearby hill for even better views of the sea and countryside!
The Via Dell’Amore From Manarola
- This so-called “lover’s lane” is the most romantic and famous part of the Cinque Terre trails!
- The trail connects Manarola and Riomaggiore in just under one mile!
- Due to landslides, only a small part is open to the public but it is worthwhile!
During the construction of the railroad between Manarola and Riomaggiore, the Via Dell’Amore was a footpath for workers. Legend has it that the path soon became a secret meeting place for lovers from the two towns!
A 2012 landslide resulted in the closing of the trail, but it has been under restoration and the first part was opened to the public in 2015. The rest will only open in 2021, but there is a small part of around 650 feet that you can visit on the Manarola side, so you’ll have to take the train to Manarola.
The trail starts right at the Manarola train station, running until the Bar Via Dell’Amore (which is, unfortunately, still closed). A wonderful bonus is that wheelchair users can visit since it has been smoothed into a ramp! The small section that you can visit allows beautiful views of the mountains and the sea! There is a door with clear signage to tell you when it’s time to turn around. On the upside, there are a few chairs for visitors to sit back and take in the view!
Riomaggiore Ring Trail
- This easy trail offers fantastic views of the seaside and mountains of Cinque Terre!
- At just over 2 miles, you can complete this trail in just an hour and a half!
- The trail also bypasses the serene Sanctuary of Montenero!
The Riomaggiore Ring Trail is one of the most rewarding places to visit in Cinque Terre! It has views, shade, and a cultural attraction — what more could you ask for from our Cinque Terre itinerary?
We recommend that you start this trail at Riomaggiore’s parking lot. This way, the path will rise more gently than if you walked in an anti-clockwise direction on the loop!
After an hour of passing dense foliage, you’ll reach the Sanctuary of Montenero, one of the Cinque Terre landmarks that dominates Riomaggiore. It was a parish church built in the 11th century to protect an icon of the Madonna and was later renovated into the pretty structure you see today.
The church sits at 1100 feet above sea level, allowing sweeping views of Liguria! From the Maritime Alps to the island of Corsica, there are a lot of natural landmarks to spot! The walk downhill to Riomaggiore also offers charming leaf-fringed sea views.
Riomaggiore Nightlife
- It might not be anything like the nightlife you’re used to, but Riomaggiore still makes a decent effort!
- The beaches and seafront bars are some of the most stunning party venues you’ll ever visit!
- If you’re in Riomaggiore, you should definitely add some nightlife to your Cinque Terre trip itinerary!
Riomaggiore is the only one of the Cinque Terre towns to offer anything close to a nightlife scene, meaning it’s the perfect place to celebrate the end of your Cinque Terre itinerary with a night out!
Bar La Conchiglia is a clear favorite with tourists on vacation in Cinque Terre! It’s right in the heart of town, in the harbor, so try to come earlier in the evening if you’d like to witness a picturesque sunset! Alongside a range of alcohol, it also has a menu of tasty snacks.
Another popular watering hole is Bar Centrale. It’s also centrally-located and stays open until late. Pie’ de Ma, meanwhile, is a somewhat classier establishment that specializes in quality wine. If the vibe still isn’t for you after a few hours, you could easily take the 10-minute train trip to La Spezia which has a number of clubs!
Planning a trip to Cinque Terre is one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do and it just gets better when we tell you that there’s very little to worry about in Cinque Terre, safety-wise!
Generally speaking Italy is safe for travellers . Crime is practically non-existent in Cinque Terre! The main concern about staying safe in Cinque Terre revolves around your health when walking on the mountainside!
Most of the trails are easy to moderate; however, you should always research the trail before you start walking. Some of the trails are quite steep and have stairs, so many visitors bring large walking sticks with them! Comfortable walking shoes are also a must — some tourists have gone walking in flip-flops and ended up being rescued by helicopters! If you’re not experienced with hiking, try to train before your trip to Cinque Terre, or take an easier walk.
Another thing to consider, especially in the hot summers, is water. You need to carry water with you and stay hydrated throughout your hike. Be aware, though, that there aren’t any toilets along the hikes. This isn’t generally a problem, but it can be tough if you’re taking a long hike. Your best bet will be restaurants in villages, but be prepared to pay.
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With so many hiking trails around the villages, every day in Cinque Terre will feel like a day trip! Believe it or not, though, there are so many other nearby attractions so you could totally use Cinque Terre as a base and take a few day trips from Cinque Terre! This way you will get to experience some more of the highlights of Italy .
Private Tour of the Shelleys in Lerici Nearby Cinque Terre
Many of us are familiar with Lord Byron, and Mary and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s works, so why not take the opportunity to explore the Italian hidden gems that inspired these two artists?
This day trip visits Lerici and Portovenere, as well as a couple of other places loved by the pair! You’ll meet your guide in La Spezia (which is quickly reached by train from any of the Cinque Terre towns) and then take a taxi to Lerici.
This village was the home of the Shelleys in the early 1800s and the lake also the scene of his tragic passing in 1822 .
Portovenere, meanwhile, was home to Lord Byron! The trip will introduce you to the pretty village, as well as the nearby UNESCO World Heritage islands!
La Spezia: Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in a Local Home
If you’re looking to get involved in some of the delicious meals you’ve had while touring Cinque Terre, then a cooking class in La Spezia is a must!
A local cook and host will take you to the buzzing market and show you how to recognize the best local products. Back at the chef’s home, you’ll transform these ingredients into three delicious Italian meals! To reward your efforts, celebrate your newfound skill with local wines alongside your home-cooked lunch!
From Monterosso: Cinque Terre Kayak Tour
After admiring Cinque Terre from the mountainside, make sure to see it from the seaside with this epic Cinque Terre kayak tour!
The trip departs Monterosso and ends at Corniglia, with a stop at Vernazza along the way. Your guide will be able to point out the coves and cliffs that you can’t see from any other viewpoints! A break on Guvano Beach is also included!
If you choose the full-day option during the summer, there’s also time to discover the Cinque Terre seabed with a snorkeling excursion! The half-day excursion, meanwhile, will explore the Cinque Terre National Park with a lunch break in Vernazza!
From Genoa: Full-Day Tour of Genoa and Portofino
For something a little bit more urban than the rustic Cinque Terre villages, take the 2-hour train ride to Genoa via La Spezia and sign up for this day tour!
Pretty Genoa is the largest medieval town in Europe and was also the birthplace of Christopher Columbus! The tour starts in the harbor, which was renovated in 1992, with the town’s naval history. There is also a walking tour of the old town and a lunch break.
The coach ride to Santa Margherita Ligure will take you around the aptly-named Bay of Dolphins for some gorgeous views. Finally, it’s on to Portofino by boat! This small fishing village has garnered an array of famous admirers, such as Guy de Maupassant — don’t miss out!
All-Inclusive Guided Tour: Baptistery, Cathedral and Tower
Also within a 2-hour journey from Cinque Terre is the legendary town of Pisa! This is one of the best day trips from Cinque Terre!
The majority of attractions found in Pisa are located around the Piazza dei Miracoli and Piazza del Duomo . Looming large over the square is a magnificent cathedral. Your guide will explain the cathedral’s impressive Romanesque architecture, as well as the Baptistry, which is the largest in the Catholic world and has an awesome echo!
Finally, you’ll come to the stellar Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can take all the optical illusion photos you want but don’t forget to learn just how the tower came to get its signature tilt!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Find out what people want to know when planning their Cinque Terre itinerary.
How many days are enough in Cinque Terre?
Spending 3-5 days in Cinque Terre will give you plenty of time to explore each town.
Where is the best place to stay in Cinque Terre for 3 nights?
Monterosso is the ideal base as it offers heaps of accommodation options and access to hikes, beaches, and more. However, we recommend exploring each town and staying in each as you go.
What should you include on a 7 day Cinque Terre itinerary?
7 days in Cinque Terre will give you enough time to explore each town. Make sure to check out Vernazza’s Historic Buildings and Monterosso’s Beaches!
Is Cinque Terre worth visiting?
Absolutely! Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s biggest gems, offering picturesque scenery, rich culture, and excellent cuisine.
Conclusion of Cinque Terre Itinerary
Despite all the charms and delights of Italy, Cinque Terre stands out for the way it seamlessly blends outstanding natural beauty with rich local culture! Since Cinque Terre’s villages are so small and well linked by the railway, the entire region feels like your playground! With our Cinque Terre itinerary, you can breakfast in Vernazza, lunch in Corniglia and dine in Manarola as easily as if you had walked down the street!
With gourmet restaurants along hiking paths and gelaterias along the beach promenades, getting back to nature could not be easier or more alluring than it is in Cinque Terre! By turning long mountainside walks into the best detoxes and finding all the best eateries around, our Cinque Terre itinerary leaves travelers refreshed and invigorated!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
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Large of the CT trail aren’t set to open again until 2025. Now the shortest hike possible includes a lot of less scenic views. This will be the case for a few years.
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This Popular Italian Destination Is Home to Scenic Small Towns — and You Can Hike Between Them All
The dramatic scenery and laid-back lifestyle of Italy’s Cinque Terre has made it a must-see destination, on par with Florence, Rome, and Venice.
Cinque Terre comprises five villages (hence the name, which translates to "Five Lands") on the northwestern coast of Italy in the region of Liguria. A national park, it is characterized by terraced agricultural land and colorful houses tumbling down cliffsides into the Mediterranean Sea. The area is home to some 4,000 inhabitants, but attracts around three million tourists every year, many of whom are day-trippers. But the villages, and hiking trails that unite them, deserve a longer visit. Stay for three nights to really absorb the area.
Cinque Terre Towns
Riomaggiore.
The southernmost village, and the first you'll encounter if coming from La Spezia, Riomaggioreis breathtaking — its tiny harbor wedged between the houses is one of the area's most famous sites. Compared to neighboring Manarola (equally pretty), it's a bit more lively, with a roster of excellent restaurants squeezed into the narrow town, though beware as it's incredibly hilly. This is the start of the Via dell'Amore (Road of Love), which curls around the cliff between Riomaggiore and Manarola. Though it's been closed since a 2012 landslide, there are hopes to reopen it in 2024. A 45-minute hike up above town brings you to Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, a church perched at the edge of the cliff with spectacular views of Cinque Terre.
That iconic photo of Cinque Terre, with a cascade of colorful houses tumbling toward a little harbor? That's Manarola, in the cove just north of Riomaggiore. There's no beach here — instead, people hop into the sea from the rocks around the village. As hilly as Riomaggiore, Manarola is famous for its sunsets, best seen from its small cliffside park below the cemetery, or from Nessun Dorma , the bar right below. It's also where you can catch the bus to Volastra, high on the cliff above, where the hiking trail to Corniglia begins. Grab one of the best sandwiches you'll ever eat at Cappun Magru before heading up.
Corniglia is the smallest of the Cinque Terre villages, and the only one perched on a cliff — it's a 377-step climb (or an easy bus ride) from the train station to the village. That helps it stay slightly less touristy than the other villages. It's a gorgeous little place, though, with pretty churches, a locals-filled square, and plenty of panoramic lookout points. The Corniglia to Vernazza section of the Sentiero Azzurro is the most well-known — it's best started from Corniglia to avoid the long ascent from Vernazza.
Vernazza, with its small sand beach, is the most popular of the villages — not least, perhaps, because the center is relatively flat. Where Riomaggiore and Manarola are crammed between the cliffs, Vernazza is more open, with a promontory curling round its pretty harbor, which also doubles as a beach. There's a ruined castle, an atmospheric church, and another beach on the other side of the promontory.
Monterosso al Mare
The biggest of the Cinque Terre settlements, and more of a small town than a village, Monterosso al Mare is the closest you'll get to a regular beach resort here. It's relatively flat, with a cute center (full of shops and cafes) opening onto a large, sandy beach. The "modern" town and historic center sit on either side of a cliff.
How to Get to Cinque Terre
Part of Cinque Terre's charm is its relative inaccessibility — originally, the villages were accessed either by sea or trail. Although there's now a road, parking is limited, making driving stressful. Instead, take the train — the Cinque Terre Express runs from La Spezia in the south to Levanto in the north three times an hour, stopping at all the villages with just a few minutes between each. Tickets cost €5 per journey or from €18.20 per day (from €14.80 per day in the low season, from January to March).
The nearest international airports are Pisa and Genoa. From there, you can take the train to La Spezia (from Pisa) or Levanto (from Genoa).
You can also access Cinque Terre the way they were meant to be seen — from the water. From March to November, ferries depart from La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere, and Levanto in the summer, stopping at all the villages. Finally, there's a tourist minibus serving the coast, Explora 5 Terre . The hop-on, hop-off service can get you to the hamlets further up the cliffs, though travel times by road are much longer than going by train or boat. Tickets start at €18.50.
Best Times to Visit Cinque Terre
High season begins after Easter weekend and lasts through October, with May to August being the busiest period of all.The high season gets crowded, so try and book accommodations at least three months in advance. May is a pretty perfect time to visit — though you can find rainy days, it tends to be warm, with wildflowers blooming on the trails — with September being a close second. Be aware that it's very hot and humid in the summer, and the trails have little shade. During the off-season months, you'll experience the villages as the locals do, but rain is common — the worst month is November. In heavy rain, hiking trails may be closed for safety reasons.
Where to Hike in Cinque Terre
In the past, locals got around by boat or on foot via the mule paths running between the villages. Today, there are 75 miles of trails, but the best known is the 592, known as the Sentiero Azzurro (or Blue Path), a 7.5-mile stretch between the villages, from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare. You need a Cinque Terre Card (€7.50 per day) to access the trails. Note that as of summer 2022, the Riomaggiore to Manarola (Via dell'Amore), and Manarola to Corniglia sections are closed. You can, however, hike through vineyards higher up the cliff, from Volastra to Corniglia (part of the terraced vineyards trail), and pick up the 592 from there — the Corniglia-Vernazza and Vernazza-Monterosso sections are open.
There are also themed trails, covering churches and clifftop sanctuaries, vineyards, and ancient settlements. Note that you must wear suitable footwear (hiking boots or sneakers) to access the trails — you will be turned away if you're in flip-flops or sandals. Be aware, too, that the trails are moderate to difficult — the easiest section is Riomaggiore to Manarola, which is closed. Although the views are breathtaking, the paths can be narrow in places, with vertical drops, and involve a lot of up and down, including hundreds of stairs at times. Always take water and sunscreen on a hike. See all the trails here .
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
The five villages are very close to one another, so there's no need to stay in a different one every night. Choose one as a base, and visit the others by train or foot. Keep in mind that most of the lodging available in Cinque Terre is in privately run bed-and-breakfasts or rentals.
Riomaggiore: I Limoni di Thule is off the main drag and has a spectacular sea view through a garden of fruit trees and flowers. If you want an authentic Italian experience, but love communicating with someone who speaks your language, get in touch with Californian transplant Amy at Riomaggiore Reservations for an assortment of apartment options.
Manarola: Stylish decor and top-notch customer service make La Torretta Lodge one of Manarola's classiest acts. Up at the top of the village in a quiet, residential area is B&B Da Baranin , a cozy inn run by two sisters who bend over backwards to make your stay memorable.
Corniglia: Corte del Gallo is a charming little B&B, far from the hubbub of the high season. L'Agave is like having a little villa all to yourself, as it's tucked away amid narrow laneways and offers a private rooftop terrace. If you want to stay on the Sentiero Azzurro, try Leo's Lodge , with boho rooms and slick mini apartments on the cliff in Prevo, located on the trail between Corniglia and Vernazza.
Vernazza: La Malà 's bright, breezy rooms are fresh and modern, and the service is impeccable. If you're up for a bit of a hike toward Corniglia, consider L'Eremo sul Mare (or the Hermitage Over the Sea). It's the perfect retreat away from the crowds and has a huge terrace with a sea view.
Monterosso: You'll find a few hotels here, like Porto Roca , one of the only ones within the national park offering a pool and room service. Located above the village in one of the most scenic locations in the entire area is the elegant La Cabana .
Additional reporting by Kiiri Sandy.
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Cinque Terre Itinerary 2024 – the most complete travel guide
We lived for more than one year in Parma , and Cinque Terre was basically our courtyard! In this Cinque Terre itinerary, you find all you need to know, such as where to stay in the Cinque Terre, what to do in one, two or three days, how to get around and what do to in Cinque Terre. Plus tips and recommendations from who has visited there a few times, to make you visit to Cinque Terre remarkable!
On this Cinque Terre Itinerary:
- What are the Cinque Terre ?
- Where to stay in Cinque Terre
- Monterosso al Mare
Riomaggiore
- How to Get to Cinque Terre
- By walk, train or bus
Cinque Terre in one day
- Cinque Terre itinerary for your trip (for 3, 2 or 1 day)
- Where to eat in the Cinque Terre
What are the Cinque Terre?
The Cinque Terre (five villages, literally translated) are five fishing villages on the Italian Riviera, Liguria region. Just a bit below the Cinque Terre, you find Tuscany , the land of the sunflowers. Anyway, the villages of the Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore .
The “Five Villages” are a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as a National Park protected and preserved by the government and it’s definitely a must-see for all travellers going to Italy. We have already seen hundreds of pictures of the colourful houses built on top of the rocks of the Mediterranean Sea, a very typical scenario of the Italian Coast. Yet, seeing the Cinque Terre in person is always impressive. The whole region exceeded our expectations not just by its architecture, but also for its great atmosphere.
Where to stay in Cinque Terre
Considering that you are not going to make your Cinque Terre itinerary in one day, finding where to stay in Cinque Terre might make a difference in your trip.
All of the “Five villages” have great infrastructure for tourism, with many options of hotels, hostels and apartments. As the towns are smalls, the places get booked up quite quickly, particularly during the high season in Cinque Terre , which is July to September.
Some of the best hotels in Cinque Terre are the Hotel Porto Roca and the Alla Marina . However, these are expensive as they are very well-known. There are some other most affordable options such as the Bed and Breakfast da Beppe .
A cheaper option for the Cinque Terre is to do like we did. We stay over in one of the neighbour cities, La Spezia . Another option is to stay in Levanto .
The Cinque Terre best village – exploring the villages
It is hard to pick the best Cinque Terre village as all of them are really interesting, but anyway, here it goes our impression of each one of them .
By the way, you might be interested in also reading:
- Find a wine fountain in Italy
- What to do in Mantua
- Rome for 3 days
Monterosso Al Mare
The furthest village from La Spezia, Monterosso is more about resorts and less about charm. Here you will find the largest beach, though most of the beach is private and you have to pay hotels and bars to use their space with chairs and sunshades. But there is a small public area, which is always crowded.
It is worth including Monterosso Al Mare in your Cinque Terre itinerary, but this was the village that least caught our attention.
If we must have to pick the best Cinque Terre village, that will be Vernazza! The narrow alleys, restaurants, the sea, the shower by the sea in a cave… all of it. You absolutely must visit Vernazza.
The village of Corniglia is the highest of the Cinque Terre villages, about 200m. So, if you take the train, get your legs ready to go up a massive stair. There is a van that can take you up the town, free for those with the Cinque Terre Pass (more on it below). However, they were not working when we were there – note we were during low season. This village is really charming and offers awesome views of the blue sea.
Manarola is another beautiful place and a must-see on your Cinque Terre itinerary! This village is extremely charming and it is worth exploring the region and the allyways that surround it, as there are many spots that offer privileged views of the fishing village.
The only downside of Manarola was the dirty sea. Even though it has many great spots for diving, the dirty on the sea (and on the rocks too) was such that we couldn’t enjoy swimming in there.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to go over there, so we invited our friend Camila Cesarino to tell us about Riomaggiore:
“ Riomaggiore is such a charming village. It has stairs and hidden alleys amongst pastel shade’s houses, a small but pleasant beach, let alone the most charming port of the region, from where you can take the boat which connects the 5 Italian lands “.
Bonus village: the Portovenere village
Portovenere is not part of the Cinque Terre National Park, but is just as beautiful and charming as the others. It was one of the greatest surprises of the trip. The sunset seen from the top of the fortress is stunning. So, if you are staying more than one day, find the time to add a visit to Portovenere on your Cinque Terre itinerary!
How to get to Cinque Terre
The starting point for the Cinque Terre is normally La Spezia Town , the largest and most developed village of the region. La Spezia is accessible by train from all over Italy. You can find direct trains from the many main Italian cities – check the availability of tickets here . You can also look at the best options using Omio , a search tool. It has really saved us in Europe sometimes.
Also, if you haven’t got your flight tickets already, we recommend use Skyscanner to look for the best deals . We always found the best prices and use Skyscanner as our main tool to find our flights.
- From Milan to Cinque Terre = 250 km / 155 mi
- From Genoa to Cinque Terre = 101 km / 62 mi
- From Pisa to Cinque Terre = 77 km / 47 mi
- From Florence to Cinque Terre = 151 km / 93 mi
- From Parma to Cinque Terre = 123 km / 76 mi
You can also have as a final destination one of the five fishing villages , as all of them have its own train station . However, you will very likely have to change trains in La Spezia anyway.
The advantage of going first to La Spezia is that you can stop at the Tourism Office on platform 1 and get all the information you need. There, you can also buy the Cinque Terre Pass and the Cinque Terre Express , which we will get into a bit later.
How to go from one village to the other
You can travel in between the Cinque Terre by trekking, train, bus, boat or car (we actually don’t recommend driving within the Cinque Terre, but we will talk about that below).
For those planning on getting around the Cinque Terre by train, bus or walking, you have three options of passes to choose from:
- The Cinque Terre Treno Card: gives you access to the trekking paths and to the trains;
- The Cinque Terre trekking Card : gives you access to the trekking paths and to the local buses;
- Cinque Terre Express : these are basically the single train fairs. Ideal for those not planning to move much around.
You could, in theory, do all the Cinque Terre by foot. However, the trail between Riomaggiore, Manarola and Corniglia are closed, so connection is via train only. That means, from the 4 existing trekking routes, only 2 are currently open to the public:
- from Monterosso to Vernazza (distance: 3,5 Km/3,1 mi; duration: 1h30);
- from Vernazza to Corniglia (distance: 4 Km/2,4 mi; duration: 1h30).
By the way, even though the trekking is quite tiring, we really recommend it as the view is breathtaking!
There are also a non-official trek that goes through the mountain and does not require a pass. We, for instance, didn’t do it, but we met some tourists who did it and said it was extremely tiring (lots of ups) and the view wasn’t that exciting, as you go through the mountains and not by the sea.
Cinque Terre Treno Card
The Cinque Terre Treno Card is a day pass that costs € 19.50 (adults) and € 12.50 (children between 4 and 11) and includes:
- Anytime trains from La Spezia to Levanto , which means to any of the Cinque Terre . The trains work from 4am to midnight;
- Anytime town buses (work only within the town, not from one town to another). You will hardly need to use them. Unless you are in Corniglia , where the station is quite far and really down below;
- WiFi of the National Park (not so great though, but helps for whatsapp conversation);
- Use of the toilets with a fee on the train stations (in good and clean conditions);
- The trekking between the fishing villages.
Cinque Terre Trekking Card
The Cinque Terre Trekking Card is a day pass that costs € 7.50 (adults) and € 4.50 (children between 4 and 12) and includes:
Cinque Terre Express Trains
If you do not plan to go up and down among the villages, it is possible to buy a single journey of the train instead. It costs €4 each single journey (€2 for children). Therefore, you will need to buy the ticket for each journey you make and it does not allow you to do the trekking. You will find the machine to buy them at each station.
It’s great to combine with the trekking card, if you don’t plan to take many journeys. For instance, you can have the trekking card for one day and a single journey for the next day to relax in one of the village only.
Cinque Terre by boat
Something we really recommend doing is the Cinque Terre boat tour ! There are stops on every village, including La Spezia and Portovenere , towards the Cinque Terre and Levanto. You just cannot stop in Corniglia as it is above the sea level. We recommend buying the day pass for the boat tour, which can be the whole day or just the afternoon. It is not the cheapest option, but surely the most beautiful.
Prices for doing Cinque Terre by boat
-Daily ticket:
- Children (6 to 11 y.o.): €15
-Afternoon ticket:
Check their website for the boat timetable and prices, or just buy them at the port. We bought ours at Portovenere Port.
A great option is to take a tour . Have a look at this trip that takes you from La Spezia and put you on a wooden boat, provide lunch and wine and goes through the five villages. Alternatively, you can rent a private boat and enjoy the Cinque Terre as you should! See how to rent your private boat tour to Cinque terre here .
Did you know that public museums in Italy are free of entrance on the first Sunday of each month?
Cinque Terre by car
If you are planning to drive from one village to the other, ask first if it is worth driving to Cinque Terre? We actually thought about renting a car to Cinque Terre, but after reading a lot and talking to people who did that way, we realised we would get into a mess.
We definitely don’t recommend travelling by car to Cinque Terre . It is a nightmare to find a parking spot, let alone being quite expensive. In addition, it is quite a walk from the car parkings to the towns, making you go up and down the hill all the time.
On the other hand, however, Aline Cinelli, a Brazilian-Italian who’s been living in Italy for the past years, visited Cinque Terre by car and told us about her experience:
Message from Aline about car hire in Cinque Terre
“We decided at the last minute to go to Monterosso. As we have two children, we thought it would be more comfortable to drive over there, as we heard the way back from the beach by train, on some weekends, can be quite cramped. We agreed that the view from the way was beautiful. We stopped in a few places just to admire the landscape and also stopped in some small towns in the mountains that take you to Monterosso. I also felt sick, lol (that is important, though: if you don’t like the car turning all the time, well, there will be many going up and down).
We managed to park the car at the nearest car park on the beach, which was not cheap: €17 to stay about 5 hours (the price has definitely gone up, expect something around € 22). But it was all worth it, though, mainly because when you are going back home tired from a whole afternoon at the beach and have quite a way back.
I think if you stay more days, to leave the car parked is not worth it, as you will pay for it through your nose and will not use the car. It is possible to park the car in one of the Cinque Terre and make the others by train, so to see them quickly. I think, if you are going to spend a day only, it is worth driving over there, as it is more comfortable, particularly if you have children.”
Therefore, if you are thinking on finding a Cinque Terre car hire company, have a look here .
Can you visit Cinque Terre in one day is one question we get all the time. Well, It depends… yes and no. It is like asking “can we see London in one day?” Yes, but you will miss out on many things. And the same goes for Cinque Terre. Regardless though, one day is better than no day at all, and if it is what you got, then do it!
We visited Cinque Terre twice. The first time, we did it in one day, leaving from Parma in the morning and back at night. It was great! But we visited three of the villages only, which just made us more excited to come back, as we did two weeks after. Then, we spent 4 days to better exploring the region.
If you don’t have much time, we recommend to focus on three of the villages too and see them well, instead of jumping from town to town and not really enjoying any of them. Below, we will give you the Cinque Terre itineraries, including Cinque Terre in one day itinerary. So, keep on going!
Itinerary for Cinque Terre
- Buy the Cinque Terre Trekking Pass in La Spezia and take a train to the furthest village, Monterosso .
- Go on a trekking to Vernazza. Enjoy the village for a few hours.
- Go on a trekking to Corniglia . Walk around and take a single journey train back to La Spezia .
Cinque Terre in two days
- Checking in a hotel and buy the Cinque Terre Trekking Pass
- Take a train to the furthest village, Monterosso .
- Buy Cinque Terre Treno Pass and visit Riomaggiore
- Take a train to Manarola and then to another city you liked the most from the day before
Cinque Terre in three days
- Day one + day two
- Take the Cinque Terre boat tour from Portovenere in the afternoon (or the full day) and be back to see the sunset in Portovenere.
Where to eat in Cinque Terre
All villages have many options of restaurants and to find one that fits your taste and pocket won’t be a problem.
Something that caught our attention was the price of the restaurants and markets. Unlike we thought, it wasn’t a rip off and it is totally possible to find meals for €8-12 in nice restaurants in any of the villages.
If you are travelling on a budget though, take sandwiches and a bottle of water on a backpack for the afternoon snacks. You can fill up your bottle on public fountains almost everywhere, for instance.
And you, have you been to Cinque Terre? Did you like it? What do you recommend?! Tell us, I look forward to hear your experience over there too!
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* Article originally written in August 2017 and updated in Abril 2024 *
BRAVI that you posted also about Portovenere
I know, it is not so famous as other similar destinations but I truly think it could be the most outstanding hidden gem in this blog.
Please be my guest at my boutique hotel. http://www.capitolare.com . No charge, all offered by the house. Please contact me at my mail and come to visit portovenere.
Ciao Andrea!!! We absolutely loved Portovenere and it has an amazing sunset too! Thank you very much for the invite! I will make sure to pay you a visit soon. We would love to see your boutique hotel. Ci veddiamo in Portovenere 🙂
Cinque Terre is still a dream for me. I have been fascinated by the charm of these five fishing villages and literally want to go and live there for some time. This is one of the picture postcard destinations in the world for sure. Thank you so much for the detailed post. Its really helpful to plan my vacation there.
Thank you, Parnashree! It makes us really happy you can help somehow! Indeed, it is a postcard destination, I am sure you will have a great time on your vacation there. 😉
This is such a great guide – good job! I love that the Cinque Terre pass includes FREE RESTROOMS! That’s something you can’t find anywhere else in Italy haha. I love that you included the bonus village as well because, why stop with just five? lol 🙂
Hahahaha five is not enough for Cinque Terre!! Thank you, Ashley! That free restrooms comes really handy, doesn’t it? 😉
This is a really useful overview of all the villages – they all look so beautiful and charming! Thanks for sharing insight on the best ways of getting there – I think a lot of people would try driving and then regret it. This is another place I need to visit!
Thank you, Zainab. That’s right, people normally rent a car a drive to there. Well, in fact, rent a car and driving in Italy deserves a whole post (which is on its way btw 😉 ) but for Cinque Terre, is just not worth the hassle. We are sure you will love over there and let us know when you go!!
This travel guide is packed with information and tips for travelers. I’d love to visit all the villages as they all look gorgeous. I would love to try the boat ride, too.
Thank you, Jing. We are sure you will not regret. The boat ride is great as it gives you a different view of the villages that the trekking and the train does not provide 😉
This is a place I really want to visit. I think I would like to spend at least 4 days so I can hike it all and stay in some of the villages. I like the idea of seeing some of it by boat as the perspective must be different and beautiful. Not to keen on driving in narrow streets with no parking or expensive parking so I would stick to your recommendations. Thanks for the detailed post.
Thank you, Rovingjo. We are glad it helped. You plan seems spot on. 4 days, staying in some of the villages and take a boat. You will love. Just don’t forget Portovenere, it is really worth going 😉 Safe travels
What a charming place! I especially loved the picture of the trail leading down to the water. I hope I get to explore the Italian Riveria someday!
Thank you, Stacey. It is really charming, you will love it. Let us know when you go 😉
I think that trekking is definitely the way to explore and that it would be well worth cost of your ticket. The ocean views look beautiful but what really entices me is the connection you would feel with the land and people. Travelling the five lands by foot seems like the way people have been doing it for centuries.
Is definitely the way to explore for us too, Jenn. About the trekking, though, we heard that it was made in order to construct the railway. Before, the access was through the sea or the road up in the mountain. We are just not so sure how accurate is this information. Nevertheless, the connection with the nature when doing the trekking is awesome! Thanks
This is one of the places I really can’t wait to visit! I think I’d rent a car like that family did. With a small child, it’s easier to have a car and be able to explore along the way. Great post!
Good to hear that, Maggie. We wanted to included that insight just because we knew there were people who would feel the same way. We are glad that the car will do for you (and the child 😉 ) Thanks
This brought me back! We visited Monterosso al Mare when I was pregnant with my oldest and it was really beautiful! The ferry to visit the other little towns was definitely a highlight. And I ate my weight in fresh mussels! I really want to go back to explore each town. Great guide!
So glad to know it brought back good memories to you, Marcie! We were to order fresh mussels a couple of times but changed last minute. Kind of regret right now, lol. Thank you!
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Visiting the Cinque Terre, Italy: Everything you need to know
Posted on Last updated: March 7, 2023
All you need to know before visiting the beautiful Cinque Terre region in Northern Italy – the first-time visitor’s guide to when to go, where to stay, what to do and how to get around the Cinque Terre.
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From five sleepy Italian fishing villages to one of the most famous coastal landscapes in the world – the Cinque Terre has been through a few changes over the years, but it still looks every bit as gorgeous as you’d imagine. It’s now a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with up to 2.4 million people a year visiting the Cinque Terre to walk, boat and train their way through its dramatic cliffs and pretty coastal villages.
But what do you need to know if you want to tick a Cinque Terre trip off your travel wishlist? This Cinque Terre travel guide has everything you need to know to plan your holiday and make the most of your time visiting this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Read more: The Cinque Terre in one day: A day trip itinerary
What you need to know about visiting the Cinque Terre
What and where is the Cinque Terre?
The Cinque Terre National Park is the smallest and oldest National Park in Italy , and was designated back in 1999. It covers an area of only 15 square miles but packs plenty of gorgeous scenery into a small space, with a mix of rocky cliffs, scenic coves, clear blue waters, terraced vineyards and olive groves linked by a network of footpaths.
The Cinque Terre is located just south of Genoa in northwest Italy. It’s within easy reach of the airports at Genoa, Pisa, Rome, Florence and Nice by mainline train, and there’s a local train between La Spezia and Levanto which stops at each of the villages.
People often talk about the Cinque Terre like it’s one place, but it’s actually a stretch of Italian Riveira coastline made up of five separate villages – known as the Five Lands or Cinque Terre in Italian (which is pronounced cheen-kweh teh-rreh ).
Running from north to south the villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia , Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each one of the five is a beauty, with pastel buildings tumbling down the hillsides and sparkling sea views, but each has its own different character.
How long should I spend there?
If you’re tight on time, it’s possible to get a taste of the Cinque Terre in one day by taking the train or boat from one village to the next and spend around an hour in each. Or starting early and walking straight through from one end to the other. There are also day tours * available from other Italian cities like Florence or Pisa which include travel.
But you wouldn’t be really doing it justice, and you’d be missing out on the best time of day. Between 10am and 4pm villages are packed with day-trippers – the train platform in Monterosso at 4pm took me right back to commuting on the London Tube in rush hour. But come the evenings things calm down and there’s much more of a relaxed feel.
Ideally you’d want to spend three or four nights visiting the Cinque Terre to give you time to explore each village, do a couple of half-day walks and a boat trip along the coast. The villages have a different atmosphere at different times of day, so staying for a few days gives you time to decide on your favourite and go back for sunset or dinner.
And if you’ve got more time, there are plenty more walks you can do, or you could travel further afield and visit the neighbouring towns of Portovenere, Levanto or La Spezia.
When’s the best time to visit the Cinque Terre?
The Cinque Terre’s never exactly quiet – peak season runs all the way from Easter until October. But to avoid the worst of the crowds, steer clear of July and August. Accommodation gets booked up really far in advance in the summer and it can be really hot and dry, with average highs of 29ºC/84ºF, so isn’t the best time for walking.
Shoulder season – May and September – is a good time for visiting the Cinque Terre, with warm days around and fewer people than in peak season. Spring sees average high temperatures around 17–21ºC/63–70ºF and is mostly dry. October and November are the wettest months and there’s a risk of heavy thunderstorms causing landslips.
Or if you want to risk the off-season you can get a bargain and have the paths to yourself in December and January. Though some restaurants and accommodation closes down in winter, and you risk boats being suspended and hiking trails closed in bad weather.
Where should I stay in the Cinque Terre?
Staying in one of the five villages means you don’t have to travel in each day and can soak up the atmosphere in the evenings. But because it’s so popular, accommodation is pricey – even for pretty uninspiring places – so book early. There aren’t many hotels except in larger villages Monterosso and Riomaggiore, so it’s mostly guesthouses and apartment rentals.
The villages are so close together that there isn’t really any one with a better position than the others. And as you can get between them so easily it’s not really worth moving around and staying in a couple of different villages if you’re just staying for a few days.
It’s more a case of picking the village which has the right character (and has the best accommodation available to suit your budget) for you.
The largest and furthest north of the villages, Monterosso is the easiest to get to so can be very busy – especially at weekends. It’s split into two sections linked by a short tunnel with an old town and resort-style beachfront area. Monterosso is the only Cinque Terre village with a proper beach and seafront promenade. It has the widest selection of accommodation and best hotels *, and is the least hilly so it’s the most accessible, but can be expensive.
At the other end of the Cinque Terre is Riomaggiore , another larger village which has a gorgeous setting with brightly coloured houses set around the harbour. Riomaggiore has a good selection of places to stay, with a couple of hotels. It also has lots of restaurants and the best nightlife – though it’s still fairly relaxed – but brace yourself for plenty of hills.
Vernazza and Manarola are both smaller and are arguably the most beautiful of the Cinque Terre villages. Manarola is surrounded by vineyards and has is a good place to watch sunset, and Vernazza has a pretty harbour and tiny beach. Neither have hotels so you’re looking at guesthouses or self-catering accommodation.
Finally Corniglia is the central village of the five. It’s the smallest village and the hardest to get to, as there’s no sea access and a huge flight of steps leads up to the village from the train station. This makes it the quietest – especially in the evenings – and its position high up on the rocks means you get great views (I stayed here and loved it).
Otherwise a cheaper option is to stay in neighbouring Levanto * or La Spezia *. Both of these towns are on the Cinque Terre train line so it’s easy to get around, but accommodation, food and pretty much everything else is cheaper as you’re not in the ‘proper’ Cinque Terre. They also have a more authentic, local feel as they’re not so overrun with visitors.
Looking for somewhere to stay in the Cinque Terre?*
How hard are the Cinque Terre hikes?
For centuries, the only way you could get between the Cinque Terre villages was on foot, and it’s still the best way to get around, with a constant stream of gorgeous sea views. There’s a mix of coastal and hillside paths to choose from. Though the coast paths aren’t just a walk along the seafront – at least not the part that’s open.
The one flat stretch of coast path from Corniglia to Riomaggiore is closed for the foreseeable future after it was damaged in landslips back in 2011. Other paths involve lots of ups and downs with some rocky ground with a few big drops and steps.
You don’t need to be really fit but do need to be be comfortable walking uphill and have decent shoes – most people were wearing hiking boots or sturdy trainers.
The distances involved aren’t huge, but it can take longer than you’d guess from the distance as it’s so hilly. Plus you often end up waiting for people to pass on narrow stretches which slows things down. So start early or late if you can to miss the peak of walkers.
The Sentiero Azzurro or Blue Trail starts from Monterosso and takes around two hours to reach Vernazza and another 45 minutes on to Corniglia. From Corniglia to Manarola you have to take the high route via Volastra – it takes around three hours and involves some serious climbs but the views at the top through the vineyards are well worth it.
Then from Manarola you can walk on to Riomagiorre via Beccara in around 90 minutes, though there’s another big climb to start with.
As well as the main walks there are quieter hill paths, like the Sentiero Rosso or Red Trail from Portvenere to Levanto. Shorter sanctuary walks also run steeply uphill from the villages. And even if you’re not hiking there are lots of hills and steps in the villages.
Do I need a permit?
To walk the coast path from Monterosso to Corniglia you need a Cinque Terre Card . You can get them in villages and from huts at the start of each section of the path. If you’re walking between Corniglia and Riomaggiore via the hill path you don’t need a permit.
Cinque Terre Cards cost €7.50 (1 day) or €14.50 (2 days). They include free wifi, local buses and toilets (€1 otherwise). Or there’s a train version which also includes unlimited train travel on the Cinque Terre line between Levanto and La Spezia. They cost €18.20 (1 day), €33 (2 days) or €47 (3 days), with discounts for children, families and off season.
How do I get around the Cinque Terre?
The Cinque Terre is a National Park, so vehicle traffic is restricted to residents only in the villages and it’s best to avoid taking a car if you can (not least because the roads are terrifyingly narrow and winding with sheer drops). If you are driving around, you can park in La Spezia or Levanto then catch the train into the Cinque Terre.
Trains are the easiest way to get to and around the Cinque Terre, running between La Spezia and Levanto and stopping at each village. You can also connect to Genoa, Pisa, Rome and beyond. It only takes about five minutes from one village to the next. Tickets cost €5 for a single journey (free with the Cinque Terre Train Card), irrespective of how far you go.
You can’t reserve seats and the queues on the platforms can be crazy, but trains are long and they often use double-decker carriages so can squeeze a lot of people in. Trains run up to three times an hour in each direction from 5am–11.30pm, and you can pick up or print out a timetable . And don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding.
There’s also a ferry connecting the villages (other than Corniglia) with Portovenere, La Spezia and Levanto from March to November. It’s worth a trip to check out the views. A day ticket with unlimited journeys costs €35 adults/€20 children, or you can get cheaper afternoon or single tickets. You can also rent a boat or take a sailing trip.
Book your travel to the Cinque Terre*
What else is there to do?
There are a few churches and monuments you can visit around the Cinque Terre but it’s mostly all about the outdoors. As well as walking you can get out on the water – go sailing *, swimming, take a kayaking trip * or go diving and snorkelling from Riomaggiore.
Don’t miss trying the local seafood, with cones of fried calamari, shrimp and anchovies available everywhere. It goes brilliantly with the local white wine. The hills behind the villages are covered in vineyard terraces and you can do a tasting at some of the wineries.
And look out for some of the annual festivals, like Saints’ Days, Easter processions, the lemon festival in May and anchovy festival in June, the grape harvest festival and Monterosso’s bizarre cuckold festival in November.
What should I bring with me?
Not too much! Chances are you’ll have to climb a hill or a flight of stairs to reach your accommodation, so try to bring as little as possible. If you’re walking don’t forget decent shoes as well as a hat of scarf in summer, as there’s not a lot of shade on the paths. Also pack a water bottle as there are free water taps in each village where you can refill.
Although Monterosso’s the only village with a real beach, you can swim from each of the villages – amazing after a hot day walking – so bring your swimmers. If you forget sunscreen etc there are shops in each village, but because it’s a touristy area they do charge a premium. And if you’re stuck English is widely spoken around the Cinque Terre.
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The Cinque Terre in one day: Cinque Terre day trip itinerary
A guide to Corniglia: The quiet heart of Italy’s Cinque Terre
How much does it cost to visit the Cinque Terre? 5-day budget breakdown
Thursday 8th of February 2024
Hi - thanks for this great resource! I'm going to be staying in Vernazza and concerned there doesn't seem to be much by way of grocery shopping - is that right?
Lucy Dodsworth
Wednesday 14th of February 2024
Hi, there are a few small corner shops in the villages but not a huge range of products, so if you're staying for a few days you might be better off stocking up before you arrive in the Cinque Terre.
Friday 5th of January 2024
Hi. Thankyou for the very informative site. We are cruising with Royal Caribbean and will dock for the day in August. Would you recommend catching the boat or train to the CT for the day. We are mindful that we don't want to miss the cruise departing! Which three of the CT would you suggest we visit if we are short of time. We are a family of 6 with children ranging in age from 10 to 22. Thank you.
Monday 22nd of January 2024
Hi, if you're docking in La Spezia then either the train or the boat would be fine – there are more trains so that might be easiest, or you could do one each way. If short on time you might want to check out this post with some itinerary suggestions for one day in the Cinque Terre: https://www.ontheluce.com/cinque-terre-in-one-day/
Wednesday 3rd of January 2024
Wonderful site with a lot of good information. I have a few questions. I am in the process of planning a trip to Italy this year that hopefully will include the CT. Is it too late to book a trip to the area? If not where do you suggest we stay on relatively short notice. I hope to travel in late August or early September. Also, the boat trip sounds interesting, can you tell me more about what that. I will be traveling with my husband and probably three adult children. Thanks!
Thursday 4th of January 2024
Hi Carol, if you're booking at short notice then Levanto or La Spezia are a good option to stay in – they aren't in the 'proper' Cinque Terre but are on the train line so you can easily visit the villages but there is more choice of accommodation and it doesn't get quite so booked up. Ferries run March–November, the new timetable isn't out yet but you can get an idea from last year's here: https://www.cinqueterre.eu.com/en/boat-excursions
Wednesday 22nd of November 2023
Will be in port of La Spezia for a day. Want to tour Cinque Terre for the day. One tour offers all van travel, another tour company offers train and boat to the cities. Which is easiest on a tourist?
Thursday 23rd of November 2023
I would recommend a tour by train and boat over the one by van as the roads are very winding and slow to get around the Cinque Terre. Thsi post might be useful to help you choose: https://www.ontheluce.com/cinque-terre-in-one-day/
Wednesday 30th of August 2023
I'm gonna be based in Florence in October but I really really want to do this one day tour to Cinque Terre. Do you know what are the best alternatives to get to La Spezia, to get the train?
Thanks in advance :)
Tuesday 5th of September 2023
Hi Isadora, the quickest trains from Florence to La Spezia are around 2 hours so if you start very early it should be possible in one day.
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Cinque Terre in Italy
Sitting along the Italian Riviera, the Cinque Terre is a stunning outdoor destination with plenty of magnificent coastal scenery. For those looking to stretch their legs after days admiring churches and museums in Florence or Milan, visiting Cinque Terre can be a refreshing experience. It’s ideal for those looking to hike in Italy, people who can’t put their camera down and anyone who enjoys fresh seafood.
One of Italy’s most impossibly beautiful corners, here’s our guide to the Cinque Terre, full of travel tips for the Cinque Terre and how to make the most of a visit.
A Brief Background of Cinque Terre
The name Cinque Terre means “Five Lands”, referring to five beautiful villages that sit along the coast of Liguria, often referred to as the Italian Riviera. Nestled within the hilly coastal terrain, these villages were quite remote for much of their lives. Over the centuries, locals built terraces into the hillside to help them farm against their steep hill backdrop.
Although the villages overlook the Ligurian Sea, traditionally fishing was not the main trade for the villages of Cinque Terre. Instead, the main trade in Cinque Terre was growing olives and winemaking. These practices were only possible due to the manmade terraces, as they created the right conditions for the grapes and olives to grow.
Today, the Cinque Terre relies a lot on the money brought in by tourism. The area around the villages and surrounding country with its many hiking trails has been made a national park and offers some of the best hiking in the world . And, for its significant cultural and environmental importance, the Cinque Terre was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
How to Get to Cinque Terre
Situated on Italy’s western coast in Liguria, the Cinque Terre is roughly halfway between the cities of Genoa and Pisa. As far as the closest airports go, flying to either Pisa or Genoa are your best bets. Both airports cater to many domestic and international destinations, although Pisa has a much bigger airport.
This is because the Cinque Terre and the neighboring towns are simply too small to justify their own airport. Once in Italy, the best way to travel to Cinque Terre is by train. To reach the Cinque Terre by train, you first have to reach the town of Levanto along the coast to the north or the city of La Spezia to the east. These two places bookend the five villages of the Cinque Terre and are the last stops at either end of the Cinque Terre’s local train. With La Spezia being the only city in the area, it tends to act as a local hub of sorts.
Train travel is a popular way to get around Italy, and since you need seat reservations on the Le Frecce and Intercity trains, it’s best to book in advance. Leave it until too late, especially in the summer, and all the seats may be taken. The other way to go is with the slower regional trains which don’t have seat reservations.
How to Get Around the Cinque Terre
When planning a trip to Cinque Terre, you’ll need to decide how you’re going to get around. That’s because it will impact how long you need to see the region and where you choose to stay. The three main ways to get around the Cinque Terre are either by train, boat or hiking.
1. By Train
Running from La Spezia to Levanto and stopping at each of the five villages is a regular regional train that takes 30 minute end-to-end. The more interesting and enjoyable way to explore the Cinque Terre though is to take the scenic coastal trails that link up the five villages.
Working out the best train ticket will depend on how much you plan to take the train in the Cinque Terre. If you plan to go everywhere by train, then consider buying the 1 or 2-day Cinque Terre Card Treno at any station along the line for unlimited train travel. Otherwise, simply look at individual trip tickets, as they may be cheaper.
If you fancy seeing the Cinque Terre by boat, you’re in luck, as ferry services link up the villages with neighbouring Levanto and Portovenere. This is definitely a more expensive option than the train, but a cheaper option is to take one boat trip between villages. Ferry timetables, routes and costs can be found here .
As for seeing the Cinque Terre by car, it comes with some complications. Although it may be a fun and scenic drive for some, the roads throughout the national park are windy and quite technical. It also can be particularly bad for people who get car sick. Plus, the roads are often only wide enough for a single car, so you’ll need to drive with caution.
Once you’ve arrived in a village, only local cars may enter. Instead, you’ll need to park on the edge of the village. Each car park has its own hourly or daily rates, generally ranging from 15€ to 25€ per day. Alternatively, parking in La Spezia or Levanto is typically cheaper and you can take the train in from there.
Best Time to Visit the Cinque Terre
Working out the best time to visit Cinque Terre will depend on whether you want to hike, swim or just go sightseeing. If you’d like to spend time at the beach and go swimming, then summer is when the water is warmest.
The trouble is that the Cinque Terre is busiest in the summer months of July and August. What’s more, the Italian sun can be quite strong then, and hiking in that heat can be rough. Then there’s the matter that many things close down in August when Italians go on holidays.
For comfortable weather and good hiking conditions, it’s better to consider planning to visit Cinque Terre in the shoulder season months of April, May and September.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
If you’re planning your first trip to Cinque Terre, you may rightly be wondering what the best town to stay in Cinque Terre is. After all, with five villages to choose from and other towns nearby, working it all out can be a nightmare. Essentially though, you have one main decision to make: whether to stay in one of the Cinque Terre villages or in a nearby spot like Levanto , Portovenere and La Spezia .
Naturally, the first thought is going to be to stay in one of the five villages. When it comes to ambience and having everything at your doorstep, the villages are the best places to stay in Cinque Terre. But they’re also likely to be the first accommodations snapped up and potentially quite expensive come high season.
Towns like Levanto and Portovenere are in many ways very similar in look and feel to the villages of Cinque Terre. But since they’re not actually part of the Cinque Terre, you should find them less booked out and potentially a little cheaper.
Then there’s La Spezia, a fairly unassuming city, but a great place to go for affordable accommodation and easy access.
https://www.roadaffair.com/visiting-cinque-terre/
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The Perfect One Day in Cinque Terre Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)
Magnificent coastal views, colorful boats bobbing in harbors, pastel villages that climb high into the cliffs, and delicious food: is it any surprise that spending at least one day in Cinque Terre is on just about everyone’s Italy bucket list?
These five gorgeous villages on the Ligurian coast are as lovely as they are popular, and even if you can only squeeze in one day in Cinque Terre, they are worth the trek to visit.
Trying to see Cinque Terre in one day?
We’ve had a chance to visit Cinque Terre several times, both on day trips and on longer, multi-day stays.
We designed this Cinque Terre itinerary to give you a taste of all five villages–and if you’re anything like us, there’s a good chance you’ll leave Cinque Terre already clamoring to come back.
Table of Contents
Is One Day in Cinque Terre Enough?
Planning a day trip to cinque terre, the perfect one day cinque terre itinerary, where to stay in cinque terre, italy, getting around when visiting cinque terre, is a cinque terre tour necessary, what to pack for one day in cinque terre.
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One of the most common questions from people considering a day trip to Cinque Terre is whether or not one day in Cinque Terre is enough time to justify the hassle of traveling to the villages–and it absolutely is!
Whether you want to squeeze in a brief taste of all five villages or explore 2-3 of them more deeply, one day in Cinque Terre is long enough to appreciate the beauty of the region.
(… A nd to devour at least one serving of trofie al pesto , a very important inclusion on any Cinque Terre itinerary).
That being said, if you can squeeze in more time in Cinque Terre, you absolutely should!
We’ve visited the villages both as day trips and over a multi-day stay, and can absolutely attest that a few days in Cinque Terre is even better than one.
While this itinerary for Cinque Terre can work for both a day trip or an overnight one, it’s more geared toward someone who has a long day to work with, either by spending the night or staying nearby.
If you’re planning to take a day trip to Cinque Terre from Florence or Milan, we recommend booking a well-reviewed tour like this in order to make the most of your time!
We go through the reasons why in more detail in this blog post, but essentially, Cinque Terre is a bit too far from Florence (or Milan) to make a practical independent day trip.
If you’re staying a bit closer to the villages–say, in Genoa, Pisa, or even Lucca –an independent day trip becomes more feasible.
Book your day trip to Cinque Terre today!
Start your morning in Monterosso al Mare.
As the largest village in Cinque Terre (by area, anyway–Riomaggiore has the highest population) and the only village with a sandy beach, Monterosso al Mare is the perfect place to kick off your one day in Cinque Terre.
Grab a coffee and cornetto at the bar , stroll through the shops, and, if it interests you, duck into the highly memorable Oratorio dei Neri , which is a church decorated with human skeletons.
After getting your fill of the town, head down to Monterosso al Mare’s sandy beach, which is the main beach of Cinque Terre.
Depending on what kind of day you have planned (and how early you started your day!), you may want to rent one of the colorful umbrellas at the lido (beach club) and enjoy the water for a couple of hours… or you may want to move on.
Just be sure that if you do stop to swim that you don’t stick around too long, because several other villages are calling!
Head to our favorite village in Cinque Terre: Vernazza.
Colorful, busy, brilliant Vernazza is our personal favorite village in Cinque Terre!
E verything from its harbor to its small castle to its beautiful viewpoints to its tiny back streets is a delight, and no one day in Cinque Terre is complete without seeing it.
However, depending on what kind of day you have planned for yourself, there are two ways to consider reaching Vernazza from Monterosso al Mare.
Option 1: Hike to Vernazza.
The hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza is considered one of the most difficult sections of the famous Blue Path in Cinque Terre due to its elevation changes.
… B ut it’s also considered one of the most rewarding, particularly the first glimpses you get of Vernazza as you approach the village from above.
The views are truly stunning (you can get a glimpse of what I’m talking about in the top photo of this blog post), so if you’re hoping for an active day in Cinque Terre, absolutely consider the hike!
Hiking from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza takes about 2 hours, give or take.
On the far side of Vernazza from Monterosso al Mare, before the official paid hike to Corniglia starts but after quite a steep climb, you’ll come to another stunning view of Vernazza.
E ven if you’re not hiking much during your day in Cinque Terre, we recommend taking 10 minutes to climb up and admire this view!
Option 2: Take the train or boat to Vernazza.
Not much of a hiker, or just want to save time for other adventures during your one day in Cinque Terre?
If so, opt for taking public transportation to Vernazza!
The train (under 5 minutes of travel time) is the most popular public transportation option between the two villages.
If you’re visiting during the summer/high season, you can also take a ferry !
The ferry is slower–it takes 15 minutes or so–but the trade-off is getting to enjoy gorgeous views of Cinque Terre from the water.
Make your way to Corniglia.
As the highest set of the Cinque Terre’s five villages and the only one without a harbor, Corniglia has a bit of a different vibe than the other four villages.
The views, especially of the surrounding vineyards and cliffs, are gorgeous, and the tiny, winding streets are lovely to explore.
If you’d like to hike to Corniglia from Vernazza, it will take about 90 minutes, and alternatively, you can take the train (no boats stop in Corniglia due to its location and lack of a harbor).
Bear in mind that even if you travel to Corniglia by train or bus, you’ll still need to either climb a steep staircase up to the village or wait for an (often extremely crowded) shuttle to take you to the top.
While Corniglia is beautiful, if you’re running out of time and absolutely have to cut one village from your Cinque Terre itinerary, we’d probably recommend cutting this one–but that’s not to say it’s not lovely and worth seeing during your day in Cinque Terre.
Hop the train to Riomaggiore.
At this point on your one day in Cinque Terre, we recommend skipping past Manarola and heading right to Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of Cinque Terre, via train.
Riomaggiore is home to the largest population of the five villages (around 1500 people), and yet it feels delightfully tiny.
In Riomaggiore, you’ll find postcard-worthy views, tasty seafood, and even a few places to (carefully) cliff jump if you feel so inclined!
Double back to Manarola for sunset.
We’ve saved the most iconic for last: Manarola, with its lovely promenade, oodles of restaurants, and charming harbor perfect for swimming, is arguably the most popular village in Cinque Terre.
If you’ve seen one photo from the villages, it was probably one taken here !
Manarola’s promenade is the perfect place to watch the sunset in Cinque Terre–witnessing the changing light softening the pastel colors of the buildings is such a peaceful way to end one day in Cinque Terre.
If you want to enjoy the sunset while soaking up unforgettable views over Manarola, you’ll want to pay a visit to the much-photographed and tasty Nessun Dorma (reservations are a must).
They don’t serve a full menu, so you’ll need to move on for dinner–but it’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting for your early-evening aperitivo .
Planning to spend the night in Cinque Terre?
Of the 5 villages, the only one we would recommend not staying in is Corniglia, as it’s the most difficult to get in and out of.
Other than that, all the villages have their perks–Monterosso al Mare has the biggest beach, Manarola has the most Instagram-famous viewpoint, and Vernazza and Riomaggiore are simply drop-dead gorgeous.
Bear in mind that many properties in Cinque Terre can involve a climb to reach them, so if mobility is a concern, be sure to double-check the location.
Most properties will offer porters to carry your luggage for you for a small fee, so if clamoring through town with your luggage doesn’t sound like fun, be sure to ask your hotel about their services!
Here are a few very well-reviewed properties to consider during your time in Cinque Terre:
Luciano Guesthouse (Riomaggiore) — This is where we stayed during our most recent visit to Cinque Terre, and we can’t recommend it enough!
The property was clean and lovely, and the customer service offered by Francesco and his wife during our stay was absolutely top-notch. We would be thrilled to stay again!
Check rates & book your stay at Luciano Guesthouse!
Scorci di Mare (Riomaggiore) — Want to stay a 3-minute walk from the beach and see the sea from your window?
If so, the popular Scorci di Mare is the perfect spot for you!
Check rates & book your stay at Scorci di Mare!
Da Baranin (Manarola) — Cinque Terre is expensive, there’s no getting around it.
For a budget option, consider Da Baranin–you’ll need to climb up and down a steep hill as a trade-off, but you’ll get to stay in Manarola for a very affordable price tag!
Check rates & book your stay at Da Baranin!
Use the Cinque Terre card.
If there’s one tip we can give for getting around Cinque Terre, it’s this: purchasing a Cinque Terre card will make your day in Cinque Terre go much more smoothly than it would otherwise.
The Cinque Terre card will allow you to use the trails, the wifi network in the villages, and the buses, and also allow entrance to the toilets at the train stations in the villages (sounds silly, but at 1 Euro/use, those costs can add up!).
You can also add on an option to your Cinque Terre card to use the trains, which we highly recommend with this one day Cinque Terre itinerary.
As of the time of writing, a one day Cinque Terre card runs 7.5 Euros for adults or 18.2 Euros with train access.
You can check updated prices and information here .
Tips for Riding the Trains in Cinque Terre
Train service runs between all five villages at a rapid pace–you’ll never need to wait more than a few minutes for a train during the day.
It only takes 15 minutes by train to travel between Monterosso al Mare and Riomaggiore, the two villages at either end of Cinque Terre, so you’ll never be on the train for long!
Only downside? Strikes.
Train strikes are an occasional issue in Cinque Terre–we got caught by one on our first trip to the villages, and we have friends who have run into the problem as well.
While it’s unlikely you’ll run into an issue if you hope to rely on train service in Cinque Terre, keep an eye out for planned strikes.
Y ou can use this website to check for strike information (though fair warning, it is in Italian!).
Tips for Hiking in Cinque Terre
Obviously, hiking between the villages of Cinque Terre is one of the most popular ways to travel between the five towns and is a huge draw for visitors to the area!
Unfortunately, rock slides and other environmental changes can cause regular shifts in which trails are open to visitors at any given time , so plan to do some research before committing to a certain route during your day in Cinque Terre!
If you’re planning on hiking during your day trip , we recommend double-checking your plan with a local (the tourism offices in the train stations are always a reliable option) once you arrive in Cinque Terre, as the trails are known to open and close due to landslides, storms, etc.
You can also check the updated status of the various Cinque Terre trails on this website .
Keep in mind that the availability of the trails is also weather-dependent–we have seen them closed for safety due to rain in the past.
Tips for Taking the Ferry in Cinque Terre
During the summer/high season, you can also travel between the villages of Cinque Terre by boat!
The only one of the 5 villages not connected to the others via ferry is Corniglia, which doesn’t have a harbor.
If you have a bit longer to spend visiting Cinque Terre, you can also take the ferry to Portovenere, the beautiful “sixth town” of Cinque Terre that receives a fraction of the visitors that the main five do!
You can check the timetable and fares here .
We covered this a bit above, but if you’re on the fence about booking an organized day trip to Cinque Terre for a day, here’s a good rule of thumb: if you’re not spending the night and you’re staying more than 1.5 hours away from Cinque Terre, book a tour.
Otherwise, it’s not necessary.
However, Cinque Terre is a bit of a pain to get to, especially if you’re talking about taking public transportation from major cities like Florence and Milan.
If you’re planning a day trip to Cinque Terre from one of these cities, it’s absolutely in your best interest to book a tour that will handle transportation and logistics for you.
Florence and Milan are both so far from the villages that taking a day trip to Cinque Terre is just barely feasible .
This day trip from Florence and this day trip from Milan are both well-reviewed and popular !
Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance, and visiting Cinque Terre, especially if you plan on hiking and/or swimming, is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.
Water Shoes — Planning to go swimming in the harbor of Manarola and/or Riomaggiore? It’s tons of fun, but the sharp rocks can definitely be hard on your feet.
You’ll be SO much more comfortable by bringing water shoes along for the ride!
Sunglasses — You’ll be glad you put these on your packing list for Cinque Terre!
About Kate Storm
In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.
18 thoughts on “The Perfect One Day in Cinque Terre Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)”
Hi Jeremy and Kate! Thank you so much for all your travel tips and itinerary you have posted. You made my trip planning to Italy SO much easier! Love your recommendations! Please keep travelling and posting!
Thanks so much, Cherry! Hope you have an amazing trip!
Hi Kate and Jeremy ! Thanks for such a comprehensive article. We (we’re Americans) actually live in Cannes France, so not that far away, but finally, after living here 6 years, will be taking our first trip to Cinque Terre next month. We’ll take a train from Cannes and plan a 4 day visit so we’re hoping to do everything you recommended at a more leisurely pace than your well-laid out one-day itinerary. Really appreciate all your recommendations. So happy that we are finally allowed to travel again and so excited to finally get to Cinque Terre !
Thanks, Michele! Sounds like a great trip you guys have planned–we’ll never get tired of revisiting Cinque Terre (or the coast of France, for that matter!).
Hi Kate and Jeremy ! Thanks for such a informative article. I visited Italy (1979) from Venice all the way to Capri. But I’m interested in the Tuscany Area, do you have anything on that area? Thanks!
Thanks, Ramon!
We have quite a bit on Tuscany, it’s one of our favorite places! This article is a great starting place: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/tuscany-road-trip-itinerary/
Hi Kate and Jeremy, I just discovered your One Day Cinque Terre recommendations and really like your information! I am actually planning for September of 2022 as our 2020, 40th anniversary trip from the U.S was canceled from Covid. I love your thoughts on starting in Monterosso al Mare and hiking to Vernazza, omitting Corniglia, and continuing on as you describe. My concern is we would be coming from Florence and you strongly suggested doing an organized tour. I had been thinking we would do the first train out on our own but now I am questioning that. What are your thoughts? Thanks for all of your wonderful insights. Looking forward to reading more of your discoveries.
Congratulations on 40 years, even if it is a bit belated!
Unfortunately, the complication of visiting Cinque Terre for the day by train from Florence is that most trains aren’t direct–so even if you catch a direct route one way, you can’t count on getting back as quickly. Add in that even once you “arrive” in La Spezia or Levanto you have to board yet another train to Cinque Terre itself, plus trains or hikes between the villages, and the time disappears very quickly.
It’s not physically impossible, but it’s very logistically challenging and a real headache by the end of the day! Generally, you won’t end up seeing as much that way.
I don’t know how but I actually didn’t see your reply until just now! Thank you for getting back to me and I do truly appreciate your input. I wish it was something I could have worked out. As it stands, we are planning 5 nights in Rome then rent a car and depart for hopefully a good agriturismo near Pienza. Planning 5 nights there and then another 5 nights near Gaiole in Chianti. 4 nights in Florence and then finish with 3 in Venice. I really want to enjoy the countryside but I am concerned my hubby might start to feel like all of the hill towns are running together. lol That’s why I thought of the Cinque Terre idea. If you have any other input, I am open.
I love that you both travel as your way of life. What a DREAM!!
Thanks again for your wonderful guidance and for the 40 year wishes, Susie
I completely understand about the countryside! If you want to mix it up a bit, you may want to add a day or so in Florence, even if it’s just a day trip, and potentially a tour that will show you another side of the countryside (we’re partial to food and wine tours ourselves).
If you’re driving from Rome to Pienza, you also wouldn’t have to go far out of your way to see the Gardens of Bomarzo which definitely don’t blend together with anything else!
Hi Kate, I will check out the Gardens, I’ve not heard of them. Also, looks like you missed that we will be staying 4 nights in Florence, that was where I was hoping to do the day trip to Cinque Terre from. I checked out your tour recommendation and it sounds like that may be our answer! Gives us an opportunity to see the villages without the stress of travel restrictions.
I am going to read all of your Italy blogs and imagine I’m going to gain a wealth of information. Thank you!
The tour absolutely is so convenient! Not dealing with transportation alone is such a game-changer with that day trip in particular.
Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!
Hi, we will be in the port of Livorno on a cruise ship this October 6 and 7. We would love to spend 1 day in Cinque Terre. How would you recommend that we do it?
Hi Betsi! You can definitely take a train from Livorno to Cinque Terre (should take around 2 hours if I remember correctly), but it depends on your cruise schedule. I’d make sure to leave LOTS of extra time to get from place to place.
Hi! I’m going to be in Alba with my family and we’re considering driving to cinque terre for a day. Where do you recommend we park and explore on foot? I recognize it will be a long day but it’s too tempting to pass this up
You’ll most likely want to drive as far as Levanto, park in the garage at the train station, and then take the train over to Monterosso al Mare and start your visit to Cinque Terre. You’re right, it is a very long day!
There’s really no way to explore Cinque Terre entirely on foot–you can hike between the villages, but they are hikes, not brief strolls. Other than that, you’ll want to take the train or ferry between each village.
We are staying in Fezzano- how difficult is it to get to cinque Terre? 9/29-10/2/23
It’s doable, just takes a few steps!
You’ll need to take a bus (or drive, if you have a rental car) to the La Spezia Train Station. There’s parking there if you have a car. From there, you can hop on a train to Cinque Terre.
The trains stop at all 5 villages, Riomaggiore will be the closest to you and Monterosso al Mare the furthest.
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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Cinque Terre Itinerary
Last Updated on January 26, 2024
by Olivia Ellis
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.
Mapping out a 2 to 3 days in Cinque Terre itinerary is an excellent way to ensure you see the best of these gorgeous villages on the Italian Riviera.
While most people tend to go to the Amalfi Coast while searching for the famously beautiful views of the Italian seaside, Cinque Terre is a fiercely charming competitor located in the Liguria region. Translating to “5 Towns,” this area is a gorgeous and colorful collection of 5 villages lining the coast and it is a truly breathtaking corner of Northern Italy .
Table of Contents
How Many Days in Cinque Terre?
Deciding how many days to spend in Cinque Terre depends on a few factors; how much time you have to begin with, your interest in each particular town, and whether you’d want or not want to visit all 5 villages in Cinque Terre National Park.
If you’re interested in spending a little time in each of the 5 towns, 3 days would be ideal.
For travelers who’d prefer just to see the most popular towns, seeing Cinque Terre in 2 days would probably be sufficient. If you’re only taking a day trip to Cinque Terre , you’ll only be able to see a couple of the towns.
If you’re someone looking to spend at least a day in each town and maybe go on a day trip nearby, a week minimum is how long you’d want to plan for your trip.
Getting To & Around Cinque Terre
The most convenient way to get to Cinque Terre is by train. So if you’re flying into one of the major cities in Italy that’s nearby, you’ll want to make your way to the central train station of the city that you’ve flown into.
From there, you’ll take the most convenient train to La Spezia, the second largest city in the Liguria region (after Genoa ) that also sits around the corner from Cinque Terre. From La Spezia, take the train line Cinque Terre Express in the direction of Levanto, (when you leave, you’ll go the other direction towards La Spezia).
The Cinque Terre Express runs through each of the centers of the 5 towns, making it super easy to travel between them. The time it takes between towns varies from 5 to 15 minutes, making each trip a quick one. With trains running about 4 times every hour, you also don’t need to worry if you miss a train. You can view schedules here .
If you know that you’ll be traveling between the towns frequently on your trip or you’ll be staying outside of the Cinque Terre, you have the option to purchase the Cinque Terre Card. The card allows for unlimited access to the Cinque Terre Express as well as entry to any of the many trails and paths within the Cinque Terre.
There are three ways of getting around Cinque Terre, by train, by boat, and by foot. Depending on your route, you may want to just get around by one mode of transport or a combination.
If you choose to get around by train, the Cinque Terre Express is your only option. For those that are interested in more of a physically demanding trip, you can hike between each town. The distance between all five villages is 7.5 miles and consists of various routes depending on where you’re going to and from.
Many of the pathways are quite rugged so it’s important to be prepared with the correct clothing and shoes. If you choose this way, it’s going to give you some of the most breathtaking views of the coast and is completely worth it.
The final way to travel between the towns is by boat. This is likely the most scenic way but is also going to be the most expensive. The cost will vary depending on where you’re starting and going to and there are even options for sailing tours that cover a number of towns. If it’s within your budget, try to at least take one boat ride during your time in Cinque Terre.
If you’re someone who likes to travel by car, it’s extremely important to note that cars are prohibited within the towns so you won’t be able to travel within or between the Cinque Terre by car.
2 to 3-Day Cinque Terre Itinerary
Whether you’re looking to spend the day lounging at the beach, eating vibrant pesto in its homeland, or getting lost in alleys dating back to the 11th century, you’re bound to have an unrivalled trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cinque Terre.
Day 1 – La Spezia, Riomaggiore & Manarola
Your trip to Cinque Terre will begin in the city of La Spezia, which in itself is also quite an interesting city to spend some time in.
You’re also likely going to be thinking about where you should stay during your time in Cinque Terre. The 5 towns of the Cinque Terre are ideal spots for your accommodation but are going to be on the higher end for costs.
La Spezia is a great option for accommodation if you’re on a budget but still want to be close to the towns. Most places if you stay within the city are within walking distance from the train station to take the Cinque Terre Express.
The San Giorgio Castle in La Spezia is worth a visit as it’s one of the major sites of La Spezia going back to the 13th century as the city’s fortification defence system. Within the castle’s archaeological museum you can find traces of the region’s history going back to the Copper Age and Ancient Rome!
The Naval Technical Museum in La Spezia is the biggest in Italy and quite interesting even if you aren’t someone inclined towards the Naval world. The museum offers a great insight into the Italian Navy in modern days as well as its history.
If you’re feeling jet lagged or rather tired, a great place to grab a coffee by the train station in La Spezia is Caffetteria Orefici . Enjoy a hot and creamy espresso with a true fluffy Genovese Focaccia before making your way to Cinque Terre.
Explore Riomaggiore
The first town in the Cinque Terre after leaving La Spezia is Riomaggiore. Riomaggiore is known for its lovely pastel buildings perched high on the cliffs that tower over the Mediterranean as well as its magical sunsets almost every night.
If you’re looking to stay within the Cinque Terre during your trip, Riomaggiore is a great option to have as your base in Cinque Terre.
The old town of Riomaggiore is quite small but can’t be missed, literally and figuratively. From the train station, you’ll be just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque historic centre.
The best way to take in the town is to slowly stroll down Via Colombo and maybe grab an ice cream or pop into one of the many artisanal shops lining the street. You can also do a pasta-making class here!
Fritto Misto
Something that can’t and shouldn’t be missed when spending time on the Italian Riviera, is classic, fresh seafood. One of the most common ways to enjoy salty seafood by the sea in Italy is to eat a various selection of seafood fried and then placed in a cone for your enjoyment.
A great spot for fritto misto in Riomaggiore on Via Colombo is Il Pescato Cucinato. The seafood is all fresh and is likely the spot locals would send you to if you were to ask them for the best fritto misto.
Castello di Riomaggiore
A superb way to get idyllic views from Riomaggiore is from the castle located within the town. From Via Colombo, you’ll walk to the end of the street and find a staircase that will take you to the top and then to the castle.
It will take about 45 minutes to reach the top but you won’t regret it once you’re surrounded by the most breathtaking views. The castle itself doesn’t offer much today as it’s pretty much a shell of what was, but the once fortress is still quite interesting to see.
Head to Manarola
The second town that you’ll visit today, is Manarola. The train from Riomaggiore to Manarola takes no less than 3 minutes and about a 30-minute hike if you’re up for it and the paths are open.
Manarola is likely the most recognizable of the 5 towns and what some would also call the most romantic. Manarola was built on a high rock over 70 meters above sea level giving it extreme views but also many stairs and inclines!
If you choose to take the hiking trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola, you’ll want to take the famously romantic Via Dell’Amore, or “Love Alley”. The Via dell’Amore is likely the easiest part of the entire trail that connects the 5 towns of Cinque Terre.
So if you want to hike at least one part of the park, this is the easiest. The trail is only 1 km and offers amazing scenery between towns.
With a short time in Manarola, one of the best ways to get a feel of the town and also spend some time relaxing by the sea is to hang out at the Marina. Spend time watching fishing boats be brought into the harbor, sipping granita, and taking in the sweet Mediterranean sun. You can also go wine tasting if you want to wind down at the end of the day.
As Manarola doesn’t have many spots to swim, the Marina is also the perfect place to spend some time in the water while taking in the beautifully colorful town from above.
The Sunset Spot
One of the best look-out points and sunset view spots in all of Cinque Terre is likely from Punta Bonfiglio’s viewpoint in Manarola. Any famous photos from Cinque Terre that you’ve probably seen have likely been taken from here!
From the seaside point at the Marina, you’ll follow the walkway on the right side that will bring you to the bar, Nessun Dorma. Here you’ll have the perfect opportunity to enjoy an aperitivo or just a drink and watch the sunset on one of the most marvellous spots in the Cinque Terre.
Day 2 – Vernazza & Monterosso
Visit monterosso.
If you’re following a 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary, this will be the last day of your trip and will bring you to the town of Monterosso.
Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the 5 towns and is the best town to visit if you want to spend time lounging at the beach due to its large stretches of sand and crystal clear waters.
The town is also a great town to make as your base if you’re looking to stay within Cinque Terre during your trip. The town consists of two parts; the old town and the new town.
The old town is the more “beautiful” part that you’re likely more familiar with and will want to wander around, and the new town consists of a train station, some beaches, and a few car parks.
Fegina Beach
Fegina Beach is located in the new part of the town and is the largest sandy beach in the town of Monterosso as well as the only sandy beach in Cinque Terre.
The beach has gorgeous rocks hugging the coast, aquamarine waters, and also probably the cleanest waters of Cinque Terre.
Due to its popularity especially in the peak of summer, you’ll want to reserve chairs and parasols ahead of time so you don’t arrive and are without a space. If you want to be more active, you can go on a kayaking tour or a boat tour.
If there’s no space upon arrival, continue onward to Spiaggia Il Gigante which is also a great option considering Monterosso is also known for having the best beaches in Cinque Terre.
Statue of the Giant
Located at the end of Fegina at the beginning of the marina, “il Gigante” or the Giant, is one of the most unique statues and sculptures in Cinque Terre.
Built from reinforced concrete and iron and 14 meters high, the statue represents Neptune holding the waves of the sea away from the town of Monterosso. Unfortunately, due to allied bombings in 1937, the Giant took a large hit and lost a large part of its makeup.
Today the body and head of Neptune still stand strong but continue to weather over time due to the water. Due to its fleeting nature, the Giant is quite an interesting feature of the town to visit and take in from the crystalline water of the Mediterranean.
Wander the Old Town
Wandering through the “caruggi” or small colorful alleys of any Cinque Terre town is truly an enchanting experience. Monterosso has one of the most beautiful historic areas of Cinque Terre and should be on your itinerary.
While wandering the magical medieval streets of the “borgo antico” or old town, you’ll come across many restaurants, gelato shops, and artisanal souvenir shops if you’re looking to bring home souvenirs either for yourself or others.
Make sure to stop in the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista from the 14th century with its unique black and white stripes, unlike any other church design.
Explore Vernazza
No 2 days in Cinque Terre are complete without heading to the town of Vernazza. Vernazza is a fortified town with evidence of its existence going back as early as 1048. Vernazza is also known by some to be the most beautiful village in Italy and is worth the visit for you to decide for yourself.
Santa Margherita d’Antiochia
The church of Santa Margherita was constructed in the 13th century in the typical Gothic-Ligurian style of the time, with an octagonal tower, small arches, and domes. Much of the church was destroyed in later years and then was renovated in 1750 with classic Renaissance architecture.
The church is located by the small piazza in the center of the town and is interesting to visit with the mix of architecture, as well as the uniquely stunning views as it’s directly on the sea.
Sunset Boat Trip or Dinner on Land
A great way to end the day depending on your budget is to either take a sunset boat trip or enjoy a delicious dinner in Vernazza with sublime views of the town and the sea.
There are various tour groups and boat companies offering boat tours that lead you around the pristine Cinque Terre coastline and also offer snacks and drinks while on board. If you’re looking for a cheaper option or an option on the land, head to one of Vernazza’s incredible restaurants with memorable views.
Ristorante Belforte is a favourite but due to its popularity because of its impeccable views and food, reservations in advance are recommended.
Day 3 – Corniglia or Portofino
If you’re spending 3 days exploring Cinque Terre, your final day will either be in the 5th and final Cinque Terre village of Corniglia, or on a day trip to Portofino, another stunning and well-known town on the Italian Riviera.
Corniglia is the smallest, middlemost, and also most underrated town located within the Cinque Terre National Park and is perched high on the hilltops. One of the biggest benefits of it being the most underrated town is that there are way fewer tourists and way more space for you to explore.
Wander the streets of the town, grab an artisanal gelato at Gelateria Corniglia and take in the stunning views in the direction of Manarola from La Torre. In Corniglia, the amount of locals to tourists is a lot higher than in the other towns, so if you’re looking for more of a local feel in Cinque Terre, Corniglia is the town for you.
If on your third and final day in Cinque Terre you’re looking to get out of the area and discover a different part of the Italian Riviera, the town of Portofino is a lovely option. There are no direct trains from La Spezia to Portofino, so you’ll also need to take a bus.
From La Spezia train station it takes a little over an hour to arrive at Santa Margherita Ligure. From Santa Margherita Ligure you’ll then take the 787 bus to Portofino. The bus ride takes 15 minutes.
Portofino is a fishing village of just around 400 people that sits close to Genoa. While it’s become a bit of a jet-setting destination for the rich and famous, there’s still so much to offer off the beaten path and away from the glitz and glam.
Although due to its popularity, costs are quite expensive which makes Portofino a great stop for a day trip.
Spend time wandering within the gorgeously colored “Piazzetta” , people-watching with the locals and taking in the colorful houses. We can thank the ancient Italian traditions for these colored buildings we have to bring us joy.
The San Martino Church goes back to 1100 CE, making it one of the most ancient churches in the region, and inside you’ll find a plethora of gorgeous paintings.
Before you leave, don’t forget to make the short climb to the ancient Portofino Lighthouse giving stunning views of the Riviera. To this day, the lighthouse is still active with its gatekeeper still in residence!
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
L’Approdo Dell’Ammiraglio – If you’re looking for a good, mid-range base for exploring Cinque Terre, then this cosy guesthouse in La Spezia is an excellent option. They have a number of bright and clean rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the area.
Miramare Apartments&Suites – If you’re looking for a suite or a fully-furnished apartment, then this aparthotel in La Spezia is an excellent choice for you. They have a range of different places to choose from and a fantastic location perfect for seeing the beautiful towns of Cinque Terre.
La Serra Sul Mare – For those who want to stay within Cinque Terre itself, this luxury hotel in Monterosso is an excellent option. They have a wonderful location within five minutes from the beach, comfortable rooms on offer (all with their own balcony!) and there is even a free shuttle service from the centre of the village.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cinque Terre hotels!
Each town within the Cinque Terre has an abundance of things to offer. Whether you find yourself in Riomaggiore or Corniglia, there’s certainly going to be something to suit you. You’re bound to have an incredible trip on this breathtaking stretch of the Italian Riviera that makes up Cinque Terre National Park.
Are you planning to visit Cinque Terre? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!
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About Olivia Ellis
Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.
Hi Olivia, your articles on Northern Italy are very interesting and helpful, and a lot of thought and preparation has gone into them. We are still exploring the various options for 3-4 weeks next May/June including Milan, Cinque Terra, Lake Garda, Verona, and then maybe over the border into Switzerland. I would recommend to anyone planning a holiday in the region. Thank you. Regards, Geoff
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Cinque Terre National Park: ULTIMATE Guide + Tips
Home » Blog » Europe » Italy » Cinque Terre National Park: ULTIMATE Guide + Tips
The most famous slice of the Italian Riviera is the charming, pastel-painted Cinque Terre National Park. In this detailed guide, we dish out everything you need to know to visit all five of the Cinque Terre villages, including things to do, where to stay, and essential tips.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site overflowing with all the key ingredients to an Italian summer, Cinque Terre National Park is a cherished travel destination for sun worshipers, wine lovers, and those that are chasing “ la dolce vita ”.
Pronounced “chin-kwah teh-r-eh”, the park is deeply rooted in antiquity and ancient, medieval roots that are on display in the cliff-bound fishing villages.
Each connected by dusty trails lined with coastal vistas and rolling vineyards, there is something to uncover even in the most hidden corners of this storybook location.
In this guide, we give you all the information you need to plan the perfect escape to Cinque Terre National Park including the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and insider tips for your trip.
Cinque Terre Travel Guide
- Cinque Terre overview
- Things to do in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre villages
- Hiking the Blue Trail between the villages
- Best time to visit Cinque Terre
- How many days do you need
- How to get there
- How to get around
The Cinque Terre Card
- Tips for visiting Cinque Terre
- Where to stay
- What to pack
Want to save time and energy on planning?
We’ve spent a collective 6+ months living in and traveling around Italy, and we’ve been able to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!
We’ve compiled our experience to create a classic Italy itinerary that hits the top destinations for first time visitors. Our itinerary is spread out over 10 days and includes the highlights of Rome, Cinque Terre, Florence and Venice .
We’ll send you our complete 10-day itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your classic Italy itinerary today!
Overview of Cinque Terre National Park
- Location: Italy
- Established: 1999
- Size: 15 square miles (39 km sq)
Cinque Terre is a historic and cultural treasure of Italy known for its significant atmospheric, agricultural, and cultural value.
Beyond its roots, the park is filled with colorful towns, jagged cliffs, and intimate coves along the Ligurian Coast that make up Italy’s first National Park and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cinque Terre, meaning “ five lands ”, refers to the five villages that the park encompasses: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Each with their own charm, fame, and pristine natural beauty, there are a variety of ways you can experience the Cinque Terre villages.
Top things to do in Cinque Terre National Park
If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Cinque Terre, here are our top recommendations:
- Hike the Blue Trail between the Cinque Terre villages
- Find a swimming spot and take a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea
- Catch the sunset from a viewpoint overlooking one of the villages
- Enjoy an aperitivo at the cliffside Nessun Dorma overlooking Manarola
- Rent kayaks and get out on the water
Scroll down to the section for each of the individual villages to find out more about these and other things to do in Cinque Terre.
Lining the coast are the famous rainbow-painted villages that cascade down steep cliff sides.
Although they may seem indistinguishable to passerbys, you’ll discover they each have distinct personalities, activities, and amenities that will shape your experience.
- Monterosso al Mare: The largest, northernmost village with the only proper stretch of beach. It’s divided in two, old and new, linked by an underground tunnel or seaside walkway.
- Vernazza: Trademark Genoa-style streets, a social port, and quaint atmosphere create one of the smallest and steepest villages.
- Corniglia: The smallest clifftop village with no sea access. Where it lacks in coast, it makes up for it in charm, authenticity and bird’s eye views.
- Manarola: Fantastic restaurants, endless grapevines, prime sunbathing spots, and spectacular viewpoints make this village a popular base camp.
- Riomaggiore: The southernmost village that has a lively atmosphere, easy access to water, and a plethora of activities offered.
Monterosso al Mare
Flanked by the region’s only stretch of sandy beach, travelers flock to Monterosso for its individuality and resort-atmosphere. A much different feel than the other four Cinque Terre villages.
It’s ideal for perfecting the art of the Italian lido (beach club), beginning your hike along the Blue Trail, and celebrating the union of ancient and modern development.
Given that Monterosso is the most trafficked, it has led to fantastic opportunities for dining. It is particularly known for its acclaimed Monterosso anchovies and regional wines.
When you’re not refueling, take to Old Monterosso for ancient fortresses and the splashes of color Cinque Terre is famous for. Or travel through the tunnel below the San Cristoforo promontory to explore the beaches of New Monterosso.
Best things to do in Monterosso
These are some of the best ways you can experience Monterosso by indulging in the flavors, sights, and sandy stretches this village is most famous for.
- Get your tan on at the beach: It’s hard to resist the colorful parasols lining the beach. Set up your beach bag at the small free sections or post up at the lidos at Spiaggia Fegina or Spiaggia Il Gigante .
- Hop on a boat tour: MonteRosso Boat has snorkeling and sunset tours where you can admire the cliffside village from crystal clear waters.
- Go souvenir shopping: The old part of town is filled with everything from handmade ceramics to local wines.
- Hike to Vernazza : One of the most scenic sections of the Blue Trail begins in Monterosso and leads to “nextdoor” Vernazza.
- Try the wine: The landscapes of Monterosso make for a special pour of wine as everything is cultivated by hand. There are wine bars and vineyards dotted around where you can try the two local varieties, Cinque Terre DOC and Sciacchetrà DOC.
- Dine with a view: Enjoy some of the best views while filling up on homemade pasta and fresh seafood at Ristorante L’Ancora della Tortuga .
Cradled by a lively harbor and steep, vineyard cliffs, Vernazza’s adornments offer it as one of the most picturesque villages out of the five.
The small fishing village is best admired from the various viewpoints around town or indulged in along two stretches of beach, making it the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation.
The piazza in Old Town is surrounded by colorful Ligurian houses and littered with cheap bites, handmade gelato, and wine bars to sample local pours.
Best things to do in Vernazza
Filling up your time in Vernazza is by no means difficult. These are some of the best ways to admire the village.
- Relax at the harbor or Vernazza Beach : These two hotspots are the best places in town to sunbathe. Visit the harbor where you can people watch, dine on great seafood, and relax on the small beach. Or visit the lowkey beach via a small cave.
- Wander the Old Town: A quintessential stop of the day in this village as you’ll find historic centers, artisan shops, and photogenic buildings. Fill up on fish n’ chips or focaccia (two of the region’s specialties), but save room for a scoop from Gelateria Vernazza .
- Take in the view from various viewpoints over the city: This view is one of the most famous views in the region. It’s especially beautiful during golden hour. And you can catch the village from another angle over here .
- Visit the Church of St. Margaret of Antioch : This 14th-century, octagonal tower overlooks the harbor. Inside is decorated with minimalistic, dark stone and an organ.
- Hike part of the Blue Trail. Beginning in Vernazza you can hike in either direction to Monterosso or Corniglia with sweeping views of each town. These are both some of the best sections of the Blue Trail.
Both unassuming and overshadowed by the surrounding villages cascading into the sea, Corniglia hums to a different tune than the rest of the Cinque Terre.
As it’s perched high on a cliff and inaccessible by boat, this village has a fraction of the visitors, restaurants, activities, and accommodations as other Cinque Terre Villages.
Without the high influx of tourists, this village has been able to retain its authentic Italian charm. The people are more willing to take the time to talk and the hiking in this area attracts a different type of traveler.
Best things to do in Corniglia
These are some of the most spectacular corners of Corniglia you don’t want to miss.
- Explore the streets: Hidden corners, local wine, viewpoints , and authentic Italian dishes fill the Corniglia’s narrow passageways.
- Treat yourself to some gelato: When the sun sets and the dinner plates are cleared, everyone flocks to Alberto Gelateria .
- Relax on the beach: Pebbled, parasol-less, with a steep concrete staircase to the sea, this beach is a quintessential Italian summer experience.
- Kayak to Guvano Beach: A scenic paddle is now the only way to access this unspoiled beach. Grab your rental at the marina in town.
Romantic, dressed in vineyards, and famous for its Sciacchetrà wine, it’s not hard to fall in love with Manarola. Especially considering it boasts one of the most spectacular and recognized views in all of Cinque Terre.
It’s claimed to be the oldest of the Cinque Terre villages as you can find priceless medieval relics all over town. The centerpiece of town is San Lorenzo Church, which dates back to the 14th-century.
While it lacks in lidos, the swimming spots in town are some of the best as far as other spots on the coast go, and the dining options sit on both sides of the spectrum from fancier sit-ins to casual focaccia and pizza by the slice.
Best things to do in Manarola
There are endless ways to discover this picturesque village shaped by fishing and wine.
- Hike to a viewpoint for sunset: As THE postcard image for Cinque Terre, there’s no better place to be than this viewpoint when the sun is going down.
- Enjoy an aperitivo: The famous cliffside Nessun Dorma is where you can enjoy the quintessential Cinque Terre view overlooking Manarola while sipping a spritz and enjoying some delicious snacks.
- Wander the Old Town: Don’t miss Chiesa di San Lorenzo, Upper Manarola, Via Renato Birolli, and Via Antonio Discovolo (don’t forget to get a little lost along the way!).
- Swim in the marina: Grab your towel and beach essentials to swim and sunbathe from the rocky marina shores.
- Sip on wine. Vineyards surround Manarola and you can sip on their pours right in town or along the Manarola Vineyard Walk.
- Note: This portion of the Blue Trail is currently closed due to landslides and set to reopen in 2024.
Riomaggiore
As the grand finale, or spectacular beginning to any trip through Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is the southernmost village known for its pastel buildings framing a steep ravine and quaint harbor filled with charming fishing boats.
The village was originally established during the 8th-century, but what can be explored today dates back to the 13th-century. Many of the historical buildings in town offer the best views over the vineyard-dressed cliff sides.
The harbor is the perfect departure point for water sports like kayaking, boat tours, and even scuba diving. After a day in the sun, follow the Via Colombo to wine, dine, and visit artisan shops.
Best things to do in Riomaggiore
As an ideal basecamp for exploring Cinque Terre National Park, Riomaggiore is filled with exciting ways to spend your time.
- Climb to the top of Castello di Riomaggiore : Explore the rotating art inside this fortress and admire sweeping coastal views of town.
- Rent a kayak: Scour for companies in and around the harbor to grab a kayak and paddle around the cerulean coast.
- Relax on the beach: Riomaggiore Beach and just in front of the harbor are the best spots in town to lay your towel and catch some rays.
- Walk up the Sanctuary of Montenero : Follow a 3.5 km (2.17 mile) loop trail and you’ll be rewarded with the liquid sun of golden hour drenching the village’s vineyards.
- Explore the historic center: Stop into the Church of San Giovanni Battista, Oratorio di Santa Maria Assunta, and explore the Piazza Vignaioli as you wander.
- Catch a sunset from the famous viewpoint .
- Walk the cliffside path from the train station into the historic center near the marina.
Hiking the Blue Trail between the Cinque Terre villages
The most scenic way to see all of Cinque Terre National Park is by hiking along the Blue Trail that connects the five villages.
The trail is 12 km (7.5 miles) in total and has a lot of variety in terms of terrain. You’ll encounter everything from flat-paved trails to steep and rugged climbs, so do know it’s not a casual stroll.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what each section is like:
- Riomaggiore to Manarola (known as Via dell’Amore or “Lover’s Lane”): 1.5 km (0.9 miles); easy
- Manarola to Corniglia : 3 km (1.86 miles); easy
- Corniglia to Vernazza : 4 km (2.48 miles); moderate
- Vernazza to Monterosso : 3.5 km (2.17 miles); moderate
Important note : The trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola, and Manarola to Corniglia is closed due to rockslide and due to open in 2024. Get updates here .
Each section of the trail has various terrain and levels of difficulty. We cover all the essential know-how in our guide to hiking the Blue Trail in Cinque Terre .
Best time to visit Cinque Terre National Park
From April to October, Cinque Terre is at its peak when the weather is favorable, water is warm, and all the restaurants and shops are open.
The shoulder months of April/May and September/October are the best times to visit Cinque Terre because everything is still open and lively, but the peak summer crowds have died down.
If you can, I recommend avoiding peak season from June to August as it gets extremely hot and the villages and trains will be packed with tourists.
Psst! Find out the best time to visit Italy based on seasonal weather patterns in each region and your personal travel style.
How many days do you need in Cinque Terre?
You can see Cinque Terre on a day trip, but you really won’t be able to appreciate the area as you’ll be speeding through trying to see everything.
With that, I think 2-3 days is an ideal amount of time to explore Cinque Terre . It gives you plenty of time to be more thorough and relaxed in the villages and maybe get in a hike or two.
How to get to Cinque Terre National Park
The two most common places people travel from to get to Cinque Terre are Florence and Milan. They each have a handful of transport options to get to the villages.
The easiest and most common way to get to Cinque Terre is by train. No matter which direction you are coming from, you’ll need to connect through La Spezia—the ‘gateway’ to Cinque Terre.
Another option to arrive in Cinque Terre is through private transfer or self-driving. Note that private cars are not allowed in the Cinque Terre villages. You’ll most likely want to park your car in La Spezia and transit in.
Once you’ve arrived in La Spezia, you can get individual train tickets, or a train pass (more on this below), or take the ferry to any of the Cinque Terre villages.
Getting to Cinque Terre from La Spezia by train
The Cinque Terre Express train is the best way to get to Cinque Terre from La Spezia , and stops at each of the five villages.
The train runs every 20-minutes* from La Spezia. You’ll want to look for the train to either Sestri Levante or Levanto. Both these routes stop in all five Cinque Terre villages. View the timetables here .
*Note that during the winter the train only runs once or twice each hour and ticket prices are reduced.
A one-way train ticket from La Spezia to any one of the villages is €5 (double that for round trip) and can be purchased in the Tabaccheria inside the train terminal in La Spezia.
You’ll have to purchase separate tickets (at €5 each) to ride the train between any of the villages. And your tickets must be validated at each train stop or you’ll risk paying a major fine.
If you’re riding the train at least 3-4 times, it’s worth looking into the Cinque Terre Train Card as it’s €18.20 for unlimited rides and you won’t have to wait in the ticket lines. (More on this below.)
Getting to Cinque Terre from La Spezia by ferry
There are also regular ferries that traverse from La Spezia to all five villages multiple times daily.
To take the ferry, head down to the port in La Spezia and look for the Cinque Terre Line 2 ferry dock .
You can purchase one way tickets to any of the Cinque Terre villages for €25.
How to get around Cinque Terre
There are very efficient transportation options for transiting between the Cinque Terre villages, so getting around is really straightforward.
Once you arrive in each village, the only way to get around is by walking since cars aren’t allowed. Each village is cliffside, so the walking paths will have plenty of stairs and hills.
There are hiking trails that connect each of the five villages.
This is actually a common and scenic way to see all five villages , especially if you’re on a budget, but it’s better for those that have multiple days in Cinque Terre.
The Cinque Terre Express train is the most convenient way to travel between villages. It runs every 20-minutes from each town and costs €5 for a one-way ride. It takes just 5 minutes on the train between each village.
Outside of wintertime, the train runs from early in the morning (just before 5 a.m.) until just before midnight (11:40 p.m.). You can purchase one-way train tickets from kiosks at each train station.
Ferry
Ferries are another option if you want to take a more scenic route between villages.
Every day they run frequently from the ports in Levanto, La Spezia, and Portovenere to Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore . Corniglia is not accessible by water, so the ferries do not stop there.
Since ferries can be canceled due to weather or sea conditions, it’s advised not to book in advance. You’ll want to pick up your tickets at the docking points at the villages instead. A roundtrip ticket for one day is €39 and gives you unlimited rides.
Using the Explora 5 Terra buses, you can travel between villages and some hamlets of Cinque Terre seamlessly and comfortably.
They run from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. everyday and can be a nice breather from crowded trains since each bus only sits around 22 people. Day-use tickets can be purchased online , directly on board, or at info points in the villages for around €18.50.
The Cinque Terre Card comes in two variants: “trekking” and “treno”.
- One day: €7.50
- Two days: €14.50
This card makes the most sense if you’re planning on hiking between the villages along the Blue Trail.
- One day: €18.20
- Two days: €33
- Three days: €47
If you plan to take the train more than twice in a day, it’s worth purchasing this card. Also, if you’re training to and from La Spezia, it’s also worth buying to avoid the long lines at the train station.
Good to know : A single train ride from one village to another costs €5 which can add up quickly if you plan to stop in more than one village.
How to purchase the Cinque Terre Card
Either of the Cinque Terre Cards can be purchased in-person at a few locations : The tourist information offices at the train stations along the Cinque Terre Express Network or at the Blue Trail hike checkpoints as you enter or exit a village (using cash).
If you’re using the treno card, be sure to validate your card at one of the machines before you get on, otherwise you’ll be charged a fee. Look for the green machines in the stairs on the way to the platforms to get the date and time stamped onto your ticket.
Otherwise, you can purchase a Cinque Terre Card online , in advance . Do note, if you purchased yours online, you don’t need to validate your ticket at the station before each ride.
Tips for visiting Cinque Terre National Park
Keep these tips in your back pocket when planning your trip and after you arrive to have a comfortable and stress-free visit to Cinque Terre.
- Hiking trails close frequently. This is due to landslides and other natural phenomena, so be sure to check all trail conditions before you set out.
- Start your days early. To avoid crowds and the heat of the Italian coast!
- Practice Leave No Trace. As with any natural place, leave it how you found it.
- Pack light and expect lots of stairs. Your accommodation will likely be up one, or many, flights of stairs. Keep this in mind when packing your suitcase.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. I cannot stress this enough. You will be walking a lot and there are lots of stairs and cobblestones to navigate.
- Book accommodations well in advance. Cinque Terre isn’t the off-beat gem it once was so book 6+ months in advance, especially for high season to avoid premium pricing and limited options.
- Book your Cinque Terre train pass online ahead of time to avoid standing in lines at the stations. This way you also won’t need to remember to validate your ticket each time you board a train.
Where to stay in Cinque Terre
Each of the five villages has it’s own charm and draw, so you really can’t go wrong with whichever one you choose.
However, know that staying inside the towns will be expensive since there are severely limited options and high demand, especially during the summer season.
Budget studio apartment : Cozy Studio
Location: Riomaggiore
This modern and clean apartment is on a scenic cliffside overlooking all of town. It’s in a historic building with stone archway detailing, a double bedroom, small kitchen area, and a relaxing terrace and garden. It’s the perfect place to unwind or get the day started.
Mid-range budget option: Villino Caterina
The location, intimate setting, and jaw-dropping views are highlights of this cliffside stay. It comes with everything you need for a comfortable stay: full-service kitchen, washer, private patio, workspace, free Wifi, and your own private backyard.
Mid-range budget: Locanda A Cà Du Gigante
Location: Monterosso al Mare
A beautiful property facing the sea in Monterosso al Mare. Each studio has an ensuite bathroom and is equipped with A/C and a kitchenette. Some units even have a private balcony.
Mid-range budget: Casa Cato
Location: Vernazza
Situated just 100 meters from the sandy beach in Vernazza, this beautiful guesthouse is perfectly located for your Cinque Terre adventure. The air conditioned rooms each have a private bath and sea view. Some even have their own balcony.
Splurge hotel: Amanarola
Location: Manarola
One of the nicest stays in Cinque Terre is on the cliffs of Manarola. The modern and luxurious rooms have fabulous views from the private terrace and have a coffee machine, fridge, optional kitchen, and free Wifi. It’s located near the train station, which makes exploring very seamless to other towns.
Alternative: Stay in La Spezia
Just south of Cinque Terre is La Spezia, a larger city that most travelers pass through before continuing to one of the villages.
It’s an affordable place to base yourself (this is what I did!) and Riomaggiore (the closest village) is only a 10-minute train ride away.
So while it’s not as captivating as staying in one of the Cinque Terre villages, it’s a great option for staying within budget. And just as easy to hop on the train into the villages each morning.
Budget hostel: Ostello Tramonti
This hostel has a garden, shared lounge, free Wifi, and onsite bar. It’s the most budget-friendly place to stay near Cinque Terre with great amenities and the coast is just a short train away.
Budget option: Silver Pearl
This clean and modern apartment is only a 5-minute walk to the train station. There are two spacious bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and everything you’ll need for a comfortable few days in Cinque Terre.
Mid-range budget option: Hip, Minimalist Apartment
Surrounded by fantastic shopping, dining, cafes, and the train station, this apartment is in an ideal location near the city center. The apartment is spacious, clean, and updated with a well-equipped kitchen, washer, free Wifi, and quaint patio.
What to pack for Cinque Terre National Park
To travel around the five villages comfortably, here are some essentials you don’t want to forget.
- Insulated water bottle
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Microfiber travel towel
- Camera & tripod (this is our favorite one for travel)
- Day pack for exploring
- Sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes
- Hiking poles (optional)
- Dry bag – if you plan to do any kayaking or boating
Be sure to download our complete packing list for Italy ! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your Italy trip. And it’s completely FREE , so why not!?
Cinque Terre National Park FAQs
We’ve covered a TON in this guide, but here are more answers to some popular questions people have about visiting Cinque Terre National Park.
Is it worth it to go to Cinque Terre?
Absolutely! It’s considered one of the most breathtaking parts of Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Can you visit all 5 towns in Cinque Terre in one day?
Yes. However, if you choose to do this, I recommend having a solid plan. It’s a full day feat and you’ll only be able to get a taste of each village within a single day.
Do you have to pay to walk Cinque Terre?
Yes and no. Access to the Cinque Terre villages is free. However, you will need to purchase a trekking card to hike between the villages, including on the Blue Trail.
You can purchase this €7.50 card online , or at the checkpoints on the trails (with cash!).
How long does it take to walk the 5 villages of Cinque Terre?
Each of the trails between the villages is a bit different in length and difficulty. The shorter/easier routes are between Riomaggiore to Manarola, and Manarola to Corniglia. Since these trails were closed during my visit, I wasn’t able to time these out.
It took us 2 hours to hike from Monterroso to Vernazza , and 1.5 hours to hike from Vernazza to Corniglia .
You can expect it to take around 5 hours to walk between each of the villages if you are doing the full Blue Trail, not including the time you stop to explore.
Which is the most beautiful Cinque Terre village?
You can find something beautiful in each village. However, many fall in love with Manarola or Vernazza as they have the most recognizable and postcard-worthy views.
Which village in Cinque Terre is a must visit?
All of the Cinque Terre villages have a unique charm and reason to visit. If you had to pick just one, I’d suggest Manarola for the sunset views. It is maybe just slightly less crowded than Vernazza.
Which village to skip in Cinque Terre?
Most visitors choose to skip Corniglia as it’s the hardest to access (it involves climbing A LOT of stairs if you take the train), and has the least to do. However, you may prefer this village above the others for its lack of tourism and more authentic charm.
Which is better, Amalfi or Cinque Terre?
This answer will depend on your interests as the two destinations are quite similar, but oh so different!
Cinque Terre is a bit more straightforward to access, getting to the Amalfi coast from Naples involves a bit more logistics.
Both are equally as touristed, and likely to be quite crowded during the summer season. Both offer some incredible hiking opportunities as well.
Luckily, we have plenty of detailed articles you can browse to decide which is best for your interests and travel style.
- Things to Do in Positano
- Path of the Gods Hike
- Blue Trail Cinque Terre Hike
Are you planning a trip to Italy?
We have lots of resources on travel in Italy and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Italy Homepage for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Italy articles here:
- Classic 10-day Italy Itinerary
- The Blue Trail Cinque Terre Hike: Guide + Tips
- Best Things to Do in Rome (on your first visit!)
- Best Things to Do in Florence You Won’t Want to Miss!
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Cinque Terre: Exploring the Five Villages (Guide + Planning Tips)
Planning a trip to the Cinque Terre region in Northern Italy ? Then, this ultimate guide is a comprehensive starter pack – including when to go, where to stay, things to do, and how to get around in the Cinque Terre.
The Italian Riveria is already known for its dramatic scenery and laid-back lifestyle, but the five exciting fishing communities of Cinque Terre have made it look notable, and special in every sense. Its rugged coastline, romantic towns & villages, market areas have gone through a few changes over a period of time, but it still looks every bit as gorgeous as you’d picture Cinque Terre.
Cinque Terre in the Northern Italy region has been deemed a ‘National Park’ and a ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’. It’s truly an impressive feat for a community, that still grows in number to be known for its global tourism. Over 2.5 million tourists visit the Cinque Terre to either hike, walk, boat, or train their way up to these gorgeous cliffs and coastal villages.
The five beautiful villages of Cinque Terre (often referred to as the “ Five Lands “) are home to 4,000 inhabitants. These villages are no longer an isolated hamlet they once used to be, with tourism bustling in and out every year. The local culture, its agricultural terraced lands, and their traditional day-to-day practices still feel very authentic and true to the Italian culture we know. And with perfectly preserved architecture and excellent mountain trails, you wouldn’t be disappointed with what Cinque Terre has to offer.
But there’s a good amount of things you need to know before you tick off Cinque Terre from your bucket list. This guide has everything you need to know about Cinque Terre’s villages, attractions & experiences, and how to spend an ideal vacation on your first visit.
GET TO KNOW CINQUE TERRE’S FIVE VILLAGES
Riomaggiore.
Cinque Terre’s popular village, Riomaggiore is the largest of all five in the region. Its pastel-hued buildings run down the steep mountains to a tiny harbor – known for its sweeping coastline view. Riomaggiore is famous for its romantic sunsets, best appreciated by spending some time via boat trip. You also have a botanical garden and a bird-watching observatory nestled on a rocky promontory.
Being the most photographed town of all, Manarola is truly one of Cinque Terre’s picturesque villages. It’s well-known for its delicious Sciacchetrà wine – often found in any restaurants or pubs in Cinque Terre. The village still carries out old traditional activities for their day-to-day chores, and often takes you back to the medieval era. The main street in Manarola has got some incredible food scenes to check out, with amazing Italian food being served. You can also explore Punta Bonfiglio, leisure uphill hikes, to enjoy panoramic views of the bright blue Ligurian Sea.
Nestled on a high rocky promontory, is the quaintest village of Corniglia . It sits right in the middle of all five villages, making it accessible to hike or explore other surroundings. Corniglia is the only settlement with no direct access to the seafront. But you can reach down the harbor via rock steps leading through the trails. Being the smallest village of Cinque Terre, with a population of only 200 full-time residents – Corniglia is often less crowded. Thus making it a perfect base to stay.
Vernazza is the smallest and quaintest of all villages in Cinque Terre. The hill paths have been beautifully lined up with little cafes, restaurants, and small pubs. You won’t find many visitors staying in this village, however, depending on the season – you can find flocks of travelers stopping by near Genoa-style caruggi (narrow streets).
Monterosso town is the largest and busiest of the Cinque Terre region. It’s divided into separate areas – one known for its ‘old town’ and the other popular for ‘resort-style beachfront’. This is the only village in Cinque Terre, having a proper seafront promenade. Accommodations are in plenty at Monterosso, however, they can be the most expensive.
Find more about – Cinque Terre’s villages and attractions
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING CINQUE TERRE
Before you plan your trip to Cinque Terre in Northern Italy, there’s some important info & a planning checklist to consider. This will help you to know the region more closely, in addition to crucial travel tips. Moreover, if you want to get layouts of Cinque Terre maps, then check their official website .
WHERE IS CINQUE TERRE LOCATED?
Cinque Terre is situated in the north-western region of Italy, just south of Genoa. It’s well connected to Italy’s major attractions & destinations, and the proximity to the main airports of Pisa, Florence, and Genoa is excellent. The villages of Cinque Terre are also well-connected from each other, with a local train running frequently between La Spezia and Levanto.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT CINQUE TERRE?
Cinque Terre is one of the gorgeous, most beautiful places in Italy (if not the world). It’s been designated as the oldest and the smallest National Park in the country. But, don’t consider its small size – Cinque Terre packs prepossessing landscape and striking scenery. With a mix of colorful villages, turquoise waters and terraced vineyards – a scenic drive-through experience in Cinque Terre is all you need.
HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN CINQUE TERRE?
Cinque Terre is a place, that requires time to really appreciate and admire its stunning set. It’s impossible to do justice by exploring the Cinque Terre on a day trip. Having said that, if you’re short on time you could “do” the region in just a single day by starting early and walking from one end of the village to the other. There are plenty of full-day excursions available from famous Italian cities like Florence, Milan, and Pisa which include to & fro travel. Alternatively, you could take a train or boat to traverse across Cinque Terre’s villages quickly.
But again, this is something I won’t recommend – especially if you’re traveling to Cinque Terre for the first time. You would miss out on many experiences, plus you’d have to rush through places to cover everything in a single day. The ideal duration to visit Cinque Terre is three to four days. This allows you to maximize your travel by visiting all five Cinque Terre villages, without hurrying or squeezing your schedule.
Additionally, three to four days is more than enough to know the region’s raveled twists and turns in a most interesting way. Embark on a couple of day-hikes, visit the ancient sanctuary and explore the area’s colorful villages leisurely. And if you’ve got more time, then there are plenty of other excursions to take part in or visit nearby towns of Portovenere, Levanto or La Spezia.
WHEN’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CINQUE TERRE?
Cinque Terre is a vibrant year-round destination. It’s exactly never quiet – with visitors traveling to this region from Easter until October. However, if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds – try not to plan your trip between July and August. The villages are rammed with day-trippers, and most of the attractions across Cinque Terre are heavily crowded. Moreover, the accommodation gets booked up real fast in the summer. So, it’s hard to find an ideal stay as per your preference.
Having said that, the best time to visit Cinque Terre is in May and September. The climate is warm, and fewer people visit the region. Spring season is even an ideal time to experience good weather for hiking and swimming. Temperatures in spring range from an average of 18–21ºC/63–70ºF. Try to steer clear of October and November, as they relatively are the wettest months to travel with occasional thunderstorms and landslips.
Or you could travel during the off-season period (December and January) to get a good bargain on attractions and accommodation. The only downside is that most hotels close down their operation in winter, and you also find activities being temporarily suspended.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE CINQUE TERRE?
Firstly, staying in one of the five villages makes absolutely convenient for you to travel daily. You can walk across these villages and soak up the lively atmosphere of the regions as and when you please. But at the same time, because of its popularity – accommodation is pricey and rooms tend to sell out fast. Large villages like Monterosso and Riomaggiore do have abundant options for hotels, but it’s mostly apartments and guesthouses.
Secondly, it’s preferable to book only a single for the entire duration of your travel. It does make sense, especially if you’re only visiting the villages of the Cinque Terre. It’s not worth it, to move around booking different stays for different regions.
Out of all the villages, Monterosso is the easiest to get to – with good options for hotels and apartments. It does get busy on weekends, and the tourists are known to flock to this area during the peak season. But nothing that should worry you – if you were to book accommodation in Monterosso. It’s the most accessible region, but also an expensive one.
Alternatively, you can check out stays in Riomaggiore . It’s nicely settled atop on the hills, amongst vividly colored houses – making it an excellent place to spend your holiday. The village has even got good restaurants, and incredible nightlife to enjoy.
Cinque Terre’s best accommodation for all budgets
HOW TO HIKE AROUND CINQUE TERRE?
What if I told you that there was no transportation to traverse across these villages centuries ago? It’s a fact that locals used to travel between towns on foot, and was considered the best way to get around. Even today, hiking is the soul of Cinque Terre’s region. Visitors love walking around the trails, which ultimately rewards them with a constant stream of splendid sea views.
There are a mix of both – coastal and hilly trails to hike around. You don’t need to be fully fit to take on these trails, but need to be comfortable enough to walk uphill and downhill along the coast. Ensure that you get your hiking gear setup, in addition to sturdy shoes. Some paths on the hillside trails are strenuous and will require extra effort to reach.
I would recommend you to start early if hiking is your plan to get across Cinque Terre’s villages. The distances aren’t long, but based on certain viewpoints – you’d surely stop to admire coastal views.
Some of the best hikes in the Cinque Terre –
If you’re wondering which trails or hiking paths to consider while traveling this beautiful region, then here’s a shortlist of a few of my favorites –
The Sanctuary walks
All five villages of Cinque Terre consist of a sanctuary perched atop the cliffs overlooking the sea. The trails leading to these ancient religious sites are relatively easy (but steep) and can take anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours one way. However, it’s worth mentioning that the sanctuary walks run through terraced vineyards with sweeping coastline views.
Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)
Known as the Blue Trail, this 7.5-mile narrow stretch of Sentiero Azzurro is the highlight of Cinque Terre’s region. It starts from Monterosso village and takes about two to three hours to reach Vernazza. The second portion of the trail starts from Vernazza itself, up to Corniglia. Owing to heavy landscapes & bad storms in the past few years, currently only these two sections of the path remain open; with low-level difficulty and medium uphill throughout.
Alta Via delle Cinque Terre
Alta Via delle Trail or Red Trail is only recommended to pro-hikers and experienced walkers. It takes anywhere between nine to twelve hours of journey to complete the 22-mile route. The trail is mainly flat and runs through deeply forested areas, with plenty of trendy bars and cafes along the way, but its uphill and various terrain challenges mean it’s far less crowded than other popular hikes.
Find out more – Cinque Terre’s incredible hikes and challenging trails .
HOW TO GET AROUND THE CINQUE TERRE?
The easiest and the most accessible way to get to and around Cinque Terre is by train. However, there are other modes of travel too
Cinque Terre by train
The easiest and the most accessible way to get to and around Cinque Terre is by train. All of the five villages are well-connected via trains that run regularly between La Spezia and Levanto. Additionally, there are frequent trains between 6.30 am and 10 pm, which connects villages with Rome, Pisa, and Genoa. The distance to reach any one of the villages is less than five minutes. A single train journey can cost you €5, whereas Cinque Terre Card offers free travel between each of these stops.
Cinque Terre by car
Generally, it’s best not to travel via private vehicles when traveling the Cinque Terre region. The roads are literally scary, with narrow twisting cliffs and sheer drops. Moreover, private cars do not have permits to travel beyond village entrances. If you are driving around, it’s best to park your vehicle either at La Spezia or Levanto. Parking fees can vary anywhere between €12 to €25 per day.
Cinque Terre by boat
Cinque Terre can also be reached via ferries connecting main villages with La Spezia and Levanto. You can buy a single ticket for €35 adults/€20 children, offering unlimited journeys. Alternatively, you can hire a boat or rent a yacht to travel across villages.
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ACTIVITIES TO DO IN CINQUE TERRE
As far as exploration is concerned – you can visit the historical churches and monuments around the town. They are mostly located on the outskirts – but make a worthwhile visit. Apart from the hiking trails, you can try water-based activities like kayaking, diving, or snorkeling in the blue crystal waters.
The five villages of Cinque Terre are popularly known for their delicious food – such as relishing the local seafood, fried fish, calamari, and shrimps. The terraced vineyards produce some of the excellent Italian wines – so you can always charm your meal with local white wine. You can even take guided tours to these vineyards to experience Cinque Terre’s wineries.
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Tips On Visiting All 5 Cinque Terre Towns [Map Included]
I was so excited to get to Cinque Terre, Italy. It had been on my bucket list for a long time and I couldn’t wait to get out and explore these gorgeous Cinque Terre towns. Below we share our 2 night itinerary and tips on visiting.
I watched the weather all week just hoping it would be nice and sunny for us and luckily it was! We stayed for 2 nights just outside of Cinque Terre in La Spezia on our 3 month backpacking trip around Europe with our 4 kids . I wish we would have stayed longer there were so many great things to do in Cinque Terre and I felt like we could have used more time in Cinque Terre.
Our place in La Spezia was perfect for us and our host was amazing. You can check out where we stayed in La Spezia here.
Plus we could tell there was so much more exploring we could do around La Spezia! I can see coming here for a week and spending a day in each of the Cinque Terre towns (including La Spezia) to really soak it all in.
At first we thought 2 nights would be plenty. We were wrong! That being said there is so much to do in Italy that even if you can just come for 1-2 nights or just the day do it.
Cinque Terre is also a great spot to stop if you are backpacking Italy ! It can be a great day trip from Florence or Tuscany as well.
Cinque Terre Map
I know I was a bit confused how everything worked in the Cinque Terre area. Was this all walkable? How far apart were the towns in Cinque Terre? I know for me a visual would have been helpful so here you go:
I also wasn’t sure how the trains worked. Where did the train go? Was it confusing or straightforward. Here is a picture of the train route. As you can see the train runs right along the coast to all 5 towns. Train times and stops can vary so always be sure to check that at the train station when you arrive!
When To Visit
We have only been here 1 time and that was in the end of march. But we would pick this time of year again just because it was so much less crowded based on what we hear it can look like in the summer!
Granted this meant we weren’t swimming in the ocean. But we 100% could have hung out on the beach for the day if we wanted to.
We arrived on Day 1 via Train using our Eurail Pass and didn’t get there until later in the afternoon. This meant we walked to our place, checked in, dropped our bags and turned around and headed out to explore.
We came in by train from Nice, France and it was a gorgeous train ride. If you can take a train into Cinque Terre do it! You won’t need a car when you are here so a train ride is perfect.
Can you Visit Cinque Terre In 1 Day From Florence?
If you are considering just coming in for the day from Florence to Cinque Terre or from another surrounding city do it! We have friends that did this and they said visiting Cinque Terre was a highlight of their trip.
It was a long day with 2+ hour train rides each way. But they said they would 100% do it all over again. That or come back and spend multiple days in Cinque Terre. If this interests you but you want a travel guide to take care of all the details check out this Get Your Guide tour from Florence to all 5 Cinque Terre Towns.
Cinque Terre – The 5 Towns
Cinque Terre is made up of 5 towns and is actually a National Park: Cinque Terre National Park and one of the best Unesco World Heritage Sites in Europe . It is known as Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre in Italy.
The 5 towns are all uniquely placed among the mountain side and by the ocean. All of the towns are known for being super colorful. You can totally see all of them in 1 day if you are just doing a quick stop in each. Since we had 2 nights we decided to do Manarola on its own the first night and the next 4 the following day.
You can take the trains in between the villages. But you can also hike in between a few of them. We highly recommend this! It is a hard hike but the views are amazing for a lot of it. Plus there are a few hidden gems along the way we wouldn’t have seen if we didn’t hike it.
Be sure to check the National Park site to see if you need to purchase tickets before hiking (a Cinque Terre card). We were there in the off season so we did not have to. If you are there April – December it looks like you do need to buy a Cinque Terre Trekking Card to hike the trails. You can also buy a train pass if you do not have the Eurail Pass.
Highlight in each of the villages:
- Manarola – Highlight Nessum Dorma for dinner with an Epic view
- Monterosso – Nice beach area to hang out at and the St Francis View.
- Vernazza – Get Pizza and sit down by the water. Explore the random walkways in-between the buildings through the small town.
- Corniglia – For Alberto’s Gelato.
- Riomaggiore – Pie Di Ma For drinks overlooking the water.
Hiking Cinque Terre
Hiking Cinque Terre is no easy feat! There is a lot of up and town and it is a long trail between all 5 towns. The Sentiero Azzurro is the name of the hiking trail that connects all 5 towns. But note it is not all open at this time. The trails between Riomaggiore – Manarola – Corniglia are closed as of now.
They are reopening some of the trail! You can learn more about it here.
Always check the National Park site to see what trails are open and don’t forget about getting your Cinque Terre Trekking card if you are going during the main season (April – December).
There is also a great map here of the hiking trails within Cinque Terre . It may seem a bit confusing when you are sitting at your computer planning. But once you get there and just ask around it is easy to figure out. And if something isn’t open or you aren’t feeling up to hiking you just jump on the train.
2 Night Cinque Terre Itinerary
We stayed for 2 nights and explored Cinque Terre for 1 1/2 days. This 1 1/2 days Cinque Terre itinerary includes what to do on the day you arrive (try to get there as early as you can) and what to do on your full day in Cinque Terre.
1st Night in Cinque Terre
We jumped back on the train in La Spezia (free with our Eurail Pass) and made our way to Manarola. We did this since I really wanted to go to dinner at Nessum Dorma! This was one of those places that you see all over Instagram of the picture perfect shots of Cinque Terre at night.
Nessun Dorma
I researched the restaurant and it seemed like it might be hard to get into. Or that we would have to be patient and wait a while for a table. Especially with 6 of us. However the restaurant is smart and has an app for checking in . You can also see how many people are in front of you in line. So smart!!
I kept checking the app on our way there and I couldn’t believe it. There wasn’t a wait at all! We walked straight to the restaurant and they say us right away.
With 6 people we weren’t able to get a table by the balcony but we were just behind it. I couldn’t believe we were actually here!
All of the food is bruschetta style and drinks. It makes it a quick order for them and they are good at getting you your food quickly so they can move you on and get the next person seated. Not complaining! This is a great way to give a lot of people the opportunity to enjoy this epic spot for dinner!
Once we were done with dinner we walked on the pathway up above the resturant and there was a park for the kids to play at with epic views all around. Plus there were picnic tables we could sit it.
We didn’t know there would be picnic tables up there but luckily you could get drinks to go from the restaurant to bring up there.
Money saving tip:
If you don’t want to spend the money on the restaurant you could pack your own picnic dinner and head up to the picnic tables where you are going to get almost the same view you would get at the restaurant from the viewpoint.
There is also a free public restroom right by the picnic tables.
We had a great first night in Cinque Terre and made our way back to the train to head to La Spezia for the night. Note the restaurant is uphill from the train station.
Tip: Always check the train schedule the day of so you can know what time the trains are leaving at. There could be trains every 20 minutes and all of a sudden no trains for an hour. So you want to stay on top of what time it is and what time you want to get back on the train.
The trains are late once in a while but don’t count on that! If you don’t want to miss a train be sure to be there when it says it is coming.
Full Day In Cinque Terre
We opted to take the long train ride first to get us to the further town from us: Monterosso. We have read about people doing Cinque Terre this way or starting from the closer Cinque Terre village and working your way towards Monterosso.
After we completed our route we would not have changed it and were happy starting with Montrosse and working our way down.
Monterosso Al Mare
We are not early risers so we made a plan to be in Monterosso a little after 11am to kick off our day!
St Francis Overlook
When we got there we headed fist to the St Francis Overlook where you can look down the coast to see the other villages. It was a hike up but worth it for the view overlooking the sea. You also get a cool view of Monterosso.
Next we walked down to explore the sandy beach. I could see how this would be an awesome summer hang out! Since we had a jam packed day we didn’t stop to enjoy the beach but we talked about how we would love to do that next time.
That was a wrap on Monterosso and it was time to start the hike to Vernazza. The Cinque Terre hiking trails really are awesome and the way to go to see the towns.
Hike to Vernazza
**Check the site to see if you need to buy a pass. We went prior to prime season so we did not have to.
Long and hard hike! Up, Up, Up what feels like the whole way. Through vineyards, across rocky cliffs and coastal trails with sea views.
The trail is well marked and there are most likely other people on it. This can get annoying if you are trying to walk fast and there is a slow group in front of you since the trail is pretty tight.
Make sure you have lots of water with you as this is a tiring hike. But don’t let that stop you from doing it! It is also beautiful and gives you an amazing perspective of these towns. As you are hiking away from Monterosso you can turn around and see the town and the beach.
We made it to Vernazza and you walk through the tight sidewalks between the buildings to get down to the beach and restaurant area. This town is exactly what you think Cinque Terre towns would be like.
Small, colorful, and feels like a maze walking through the narrow lanes between the buildings!!
We wanted to grab some pizza (We heard it was a must do in Vernazza). We asked the waiter at the restaurant and hung around keeping an eye on things until a table opened. There are a lot of tables and it is busy so I would recommend staying in view of your waiter so they remember you and know you are there waiting.
It paid off and we got a table right in the middle of Vernazza . Remember how I said the tables are close together . . . the couple right next to us smoked through their whole meal. It was gross so be ready for that.
The drinks were refreshing and the pizza was good! After that we were ready to hit the next part of the hike to get to the next village.
Hike from Vernazza to Corniglia
Another hard hike – not as much up and down but still a lot of hiking.
Bar Il Gabbiano
Halfway through we started seeing signs about a restaurant we were like say what?? It was hot and a drink was sounding really good.
Sure enough there is a restaurant/cafe halfway to Corniglia and it was gorgeous up there! We got some nice cold lemonades and Craig and I got a vodka lemonade slushy and we sat out on the terrace to enjoy them with an amazing view.
They also had smoothies, foccacia bread, pizza and a few other food options. It is also self serve so you walk down and order what you want and carry it back up to sit on the terrace.
They actually have vacation rentals up there and we took a card. I would love to come back and stay here for a couple nights.
After that we were reenergized and continued to make our way down to Corniglia.
We had no idea this restaurant/bar was here so it wasn’t in our plan – a lot of the time the coolest things aren’t! If you are someone who wants more of a plan to your day I would recommend checking out their website and IG account to verify they are open and what they are serving. I am guessing this can vary a lot.
Bar Il Gabbiano website
Bar Il Gabbiano Instagram account
Our plan here was to stop for Gelato! We had heard they had yummy gelato in the town. We headed to Alberto’s which was recommended by Rick Steve’s. There was another Gelato shop in town but I have to say we were happy with Alberto’s!
We got our gelato and enjoyed that before getting on the train to head to Ramogilia.
If you haven’t done Manarola you could stop and do that now or else continue on to Ramogilia. The Dell Amore trail between Manarola and Ramogilia is still closed but is set to open in 2023 – hopefully!!
Tip: It is a long walk from the town down to the train station since the town sits up high on the mountain and the train is closer to sea level. It wasn’t a hard walk but just be prepared it will take a minute and time your train ride around that.
Riomaggiore
This is where you see the signature picture of the water surrounded by the colorful buildings. When we got there it was busy and of course our kids wanted to walk out on the rocks.
I was nervous about it but said fine just be careful. Well they didn’t just go a little ways out they went all the way down the rocks. I eventually (with Carson’s help getting over the rocks) made my way out there too and I was glad I did! It was worth it since I got an awesome picture of the kids with the buildings behind them!
I would only recommend walking out on the rocks if you are sure footed. It was scary in a few spots!
After that we headed to Pie Di Ma to get some drinks overlooking the water before we headed back to La Spezia.
La Spezia was a great place to stay – even though we didn’t directly stay in Cinque Terre – with a nice grocery store, resturants, bars and coffee shops. Staying here definitely made the cost less per night for our family of 6.
There were also a list of things that we could have done in La Spezia so I know we want to come back again to explore those!
Check out this post on Things To Do In La Spezia to learn more.
We had also heard that doing a boat tour between the islands or a Kayaking tour was a fun way to explore. Since we were there for such a short time we didn’t want to mess with that and instead wanted the freedom to go at our own pace and not be set to the boat schedule.
There you have it! Tips on visiting these gorgeous parts of Italy and the lively fishing villages on the Italian Riviera. Either on a day trip or staying overnight you aren’t going to want to miss Cinque Terre (which some people pronounce Cinque Terra) if you are in the area!
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Visiting the 5 Towns of the Cinque Terre: The Essential Guide
Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )
Few places in Italy are as memorable as the Cinque Terre, a land and culture so unique that it has been protected as a national park and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Perhaps what travelers like best is its almost complete lack of traditional must-see sights such as important artworks, churches, palaces, museums, and castles.
Instead, the ambience and natural beauty are the attractions. Popular things to do include walking the breathtaking paths along the cliffs, pausing over gelato in a café surrounded by candy-colored houses, cooling off with a swim, capturing pictures of some of Italy's best views, and just absorbing the Old World charm.
Until the 1960s, these five towns in the cliffs of the Riviera di Levante, between La Spezia and Levanto on the Gulf of La Spezia, were virtually unknown to tourists and difficult to reach, except by boat. Even today, a car is more of a liability than an asset when visiting the five towns of the Cinque Terre and seeing the coast's attractions.
Trains and boats (in good weather) connect the five towns and run frequently. If you have time to see only a few, Vernazza and Riomaggiore are the most photo-worthy and atmospheric and perhaps the best places to visit in the Cinque Terre.
Walking the Cinque Terre
1. monterosso al mare, 2. vernazza, 3. corniglia, 4. manarola, 5. riomaggiore, swimming and boating in the cinque terre, how to make the most of your visit.
It's often named one of the best hikes in the world . If you possibly can, walk at least one portion of the path carved in the cliffs between the villages. The shortest and widest of these connects Riomaggiore and Manarola , called, in typical Italian fashion, Via dell'Amore (Path of Love). It's also the most crowded, so if you visit in high season and seek more solitude, walk another section. Note that the Via dell'Amore has been closed for repairs, and is expected to reopen in 2023.
Maps are available in park offices (at train stations) where you need to buy an entrance ticket to use the trails. It is also essential to stop there to check the condition of trails and to understand that any or all of them may be closed due to weather or damage.
The prime experience is to hike the entire 12-kilometer Sentiero Azzurro from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, but only for those in good condition with proper boots and no fear of heights. The trail is often very narrow and skirts the face of vertical cliffs with no barriers between hikers and the sea crashing far below.
To walk any section of the trail, you will need to buy at pass. The Cinque Terre Trekking Card gives you access to the paths, while the Cinque Terre Train Card allows you to use the hiking trails with unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre trains. You can buy these at the information desks at every train station in Cinque Terre, Levanto and La Spezia, or online in advance.
The largest of the five towns is Monterosso al Mare. It is less photogenic but the only one with a sizable beach. In the old part of the town, near the train station, are the 14th-century Loggia del Podestà and the parish church of San Giovanni Battista , whose campanile was built as a Genoese watch-tower.
On a crag above the sea, the medieval Torre Aurora was built to protect the town from frequent pirate attacks. High above, on the road to Vernazza, the pilgrimage church of the Madonna di Soviore has a painted Baroque interior and spectacular views. The sanctuary serves simple meals of local foods to pilgrims and hikers.
High on a promontory overlooking Monterosso Bay, the Convent of the Capuchin Friars is a monastery founded in 1618. Notable artworks include a Crucifixion attributed to Flemish painter Antoon Van Dyck and Saint Girolamo the Penitent by Luca Cambiaso. The setting and the peaceful, contemplative atmosphere make the convent a restful stopping place.
The prettiest of the five villages snuggles in a cleft between rocky cliffs, with colorful houses that seem to be stacked atop each other along its steep, narrow main street. Everything spills into a very pretty little piazza, and below it, little boats bob in the rocky harbor basin when they are not pulled up into the piazza itself.
Scenes don't get much better, nor do places from which to enjoy them. A round tower and a few sections of the old Genoese fortification walls are a reminder of Genoa's war with Pisa in the 1100s.
Even earlier, the town was fortified as a military stronghold to defend the Cinque Terre towns from raids by Saracen pirates. For the best views, climb the steps to the headland opposite the tower and look back.
Each July 20, Vernazza celebrates its patron saint with fireworks and a festival, at the Feast of Santa Margherita.
The only one of the Cinque Terre without a harbor, Corniglia stands more than 182 meters above the sea. Also unlike the others, visitors arriving by train must climb up instead of descending into the village.
At the top of the 300-plus steps (which are terraced and not very steep), the church of San Pietro is on the right. It is a good example of the local Gothic style built in the early 1300s, with a painted interior, a 12th-century baptismal font, and a painted altarpiece.
Claim a table in one of the little restaurants in the piazza and savor just-caught seafood with a view over the miniature harbor. Above, the 1338 Gothic church of the Natività di Maria Vergine (also called the church of San Lorenzo) has a beautiful rose window of Carrara marble.
Opposite the church are its freestanding bell tower and a 16th-century watchtower. Although few tourists are here to see it, during December and January, more than 10,000 lamps and 200 figures light the surrounding hillsides in what may be Italy's largest Christmas illumination.
At the eastern end of the Cinque Terre, Riomaggiore is the easiest to reach. The 19th-century Italian artist Telemaco Signorini often stayed here and brought the first attention to the village through his paintings, making it the first of the five to be "discovered" by tourism.
Artists and photographers are still drawn to the village, which is caught in the narrow cleft between two steep headlands. Inside the 14th-century church of San Giovanni look for the carved marble pulpit, painted wooden crucifix, and Renaissance triptych.
Northwest of the village, on Colle di Cerricò , a 10-minute climb brings you to parts of the walls and two round towers, all that remains of a 15th-century castle that was later reinforced by the Genoese. As from nearly any height in the Cinque Terre, the views from the castle are spectacular.
If you are driving here from La Spezia, stop at the Sanctuary of Madonna di Montenero to savor one of the best land-based views encompassing the whole Cinque Terre coast.
While most tourists concentrate on seeing the villages and walking the trails, the Cinque Terre offers a lot of things to do in the sea. Not known for beaches, it nonetheless has several good places to swim or catch the sun.
While Monterosso al Mare has the only sand beaches, apart from a tiny one at Vernazza, you can join the locals at their favorite spots to sun on the smooth rocks at the old harbors, where you can spread a towel and go for a refreshing swim in the marinas.
Manarola is one of these, especially popular for local youths who delight in jumping off the rocks into the sea, and there's a small rocky beach in Riomaggiore. Remember that these rocks can be very slippery and are no place for flip-flops.
The Ligurian Sea offers more things to do than swim and sun. You can bask in the coast's legendary sunsets on a Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour from Monterosso, sailing under the soaring cliffs and photographing these coastal villages from the sea. There's a stop to go ashore in Vernazza.
Or explore the coast under your own power on a Paddle along the Cinque Terre kayak tour with a guide. You can choose from a single or double kayak and learn about the history of this coast from your guide.
You can make the trip to the Cinque Terre from Florence by train, but a far more convenient way if you have only a limited time to spend is to join a full-day tour to the Cinque Terre that includes direct transportation by bus or van. Tours feature the best places to visit in the Cinque Terre and are accompanied by a guide who knows the area, its history, and where to find the best views.
- Full-Day Tour to the Cinque Terre from Florence: The best way to maximize your time in the Cinque Terre on a day trip from Florence is to join a tour that includes bus or van travel. The 10-hour Cinque Terre Small Group Day Trip from Florence assures an intimate experience with no more than eight guests in an air-conditioned van, and once there traveling between the towns of Manarola and Vernazza by boat for the best views.
- Full-Day Hiking Tour to the Cinque Terre from Florence : Active travelers can explore these five towns on foot with an experienced guide on a Cinque Terre Hiking Day Trip from Florence , with air-conditioned coach transport to the first town and from the last. Between spectacular hikes, the tour includes a seafood lunch overlooking the sea, a train ride between Vernazza and Monterosso, and a 40-minute boat ride along the Riviera. The total hiking distance is about 5.6 kilometers, and the tour includes the National Park fee.
- Visiting the Cinque Terre on Your Own: The most dependable access is by the local trains, which stop in each village. Even more scenic, but less dependable, is visiting these towns by water from Portovenere, then hopping from town to town by boat. If the sea turns rough, or the boatmen are taking their lunch break, follow the cliff path to the next town or simply climb to the station and move on to the next by train. The only of the five towns you cannot reach by boat is hilltop Corniglia, which has no harbor.
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Cinque Terre Itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days in Cinque Terre
Last Updated on August 16, 2022
Located along the Liguarian coast of northwest Italy, Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful places in Europe . It’s easy to see why: multi-colored historical houses cling onto craggy cliffs, with steep green terraced vineyards carved into them.
Translating to mean “five lands ”, Cinque Terre is actually made up of five fishing villages built into the foot of mountains along the coast. While they are no longer the isolated hamlets they once were, but there’s still a feeling of authenticity, with perfectly preserved architecture and a network of stunning trails.
To help you plan your journey, I am sharing my 4-day Cinque Terre itinerary, along with things to do in Cinque Terre and where to eat and stay in each village. This itinerary will allow you to maximize your time in Cinque Terre. For more detailed info on visiting Cinque Terre, check out my Cinque Terre travel guide .
Table of Contents
Cinque Terre Itinerary
Best time to visit cinque terre, how many days in cinque terre, our cinque terre itinerary, best things to do in riomaggiore, where to eat in riomaggiore, best things to do in manarola, where to eat in manarola, best things to do in corniglia, best things to do in vernazza, where to eat in corniglia & vernazza, best things to do in monterosso, where to eat in monterosso, best hotels in riomaggiore, best hotels in manarola, best hotels in corniglia, best hotels in vernazza, best hotels in monterosso, best hotels in la spezia, best hotels in levanto.
- What We Spent in Cinque Terre (per person*)
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Hiking in Cinque Terre
Tuscany 5-day itinerary, lombardy 7-day itinerary, emilia-romagna 8-day itinerary .
I recommend visiting Cinque Terre in early spring (April) or late autumn (November) . That’s when it is the least crowded and prices are not too high. The weather can be unpredictable though.
We visited at the end of May and Cinque Terre was already pretty crowded. There were long lines at the train stations and restaurants. Even the hiking trails were packed with throngs of tourists.
Cinque Terre gets extremely crowded in summer, peak travel season in Europe. It’s also really hot (temperatures rising to 86°F or 30°C) and not ideal for hiking if you intend to do that. Winter is cool and uncrowded but heavy rainfall can result in landslides and unsafe hiking conditions. Restaurants and hiking trails close around end of November and open on 1st April.
Cinque Terre is extremely popular with day trippers — you can do a day trip from Florence to Cinque Terre; but we don’t recommend doing a day trip here as Cinque Terre definitely merits more time than that.
We had 4 days in Cinque Terre and still wished we had more time. If you are visiting Cinque Terre with kids (like we did), then I suggest spending a week here as kids need to travel at a slower pace.
If you do want to hike the Cinque Terre trails, then I suggest having 1 week in Cinque Terre to slowly explore the area on foot. More details below on hiking in Cinque Terre.
Most of the Cinque Terre villages (except Monterosso) are tiny, so you can see each of them in 1 day. If you are wondering what to do in Cinque Terre, refer to my detailed itinerary below to get an idea. Which is the best Cinque Terre town? Check out my guide on where to stay in Cinque Terre .
Your starting point depends on where you’re staying. This Cinque Terre itinerary is designed for those staying in Riomaggiore or La Spezia (outside of Cinque Terre).
- Day 1: Riomaggiore
- Day 2: Manarola
- Day 3: Corniglia and Vernazza
- Day 4: Monterosso al Mare
If you are staying in Monterosso or Levanto (outside of Cinque Terre), just reverse the Cinque Terre itinerary.
- Day 1: Monterosso al Mare
- Day 2: Corniglia and Vernazza
- Day 3: Manarola
- Day 4: Riomaggiore
Cinque Terre Itinerary: Things to Do in Cinque Terre
Itinerary day 1: riomaggiore.
The first stop on our Cinque Terre itinerary is Riomaggiore, the first village you’ll find if you’re coming from La Spezia.
You can choose to hike or take the Cinque Terre Express train to get around Cinque Terre: it only takes 4-6 minutes to get from one village to another. Scroll to the end of this Cinque Terre itinerary for more details on how to get around Cinque Terre.
In my opinion, Riomaggiore has the most romantic setting. Despite having the biggest population, it feels surprisingly tiny. After you leave the train station, head straight to the waterfront as that is the most picturesque part of Riomaggiore.
Snap photos of the pastel-colored buildings, sit on the steps with a gelato in hand, or meander all the way up the slopes to the left of the harbor (when facing the sea) for the best views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also cliff jump from here.
Then walk all the way up to the higher end of Riomaggiore where the beautiful Church of San Giovanni Battista stands and enjoy the panoramic views. Alternatively, sign up for this 3-hour food and wine tour in Riomaggiore to delve deep into the culinary scene here and try some of the best Italian food in Cinque Terre.
- A Pie’ de Ma’ — Simple and traditional, this rustic restaurant has a romantic ambiance. You can also enjoy aperitifs and wine while you watch the sunset behind the cliffs.
- Dau Cila —Dishing up Liguarian classics, this Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the most respected places in Cinque Terre. We had the best meal on this trip here. Definitely book a table in advance!
- Trattoria La Grotta — This family-run restaurant serves fresh-from-the-sea dishes and high quality local produce. Don’t miss the anchovies and steak tartare.
Itinerary Day 2: Manarola
For me, this is hands down the most beautiful town in Cinque Terre. If you’ve seen a photo from Cinque Terre, it was probably taken here. The colorful historical buildings slide down all the way to the rocky harbor, which can be admired from an easily walkable loop along the coast.
I recommend staying in Manarola, so you can spend your evenings sitting on one of the benches overlooking the waterfront. You’ll have the whole place to yourself!
The town’s train station is located on the flat part of town, surrounded by shops, gelato stalls, and restaurants. Take your time to admire the narrow alleys and piazza before continuing towards the waterfront.
Follow the coastal loop that brings you up to Nessun Dorma , the most famous restaurant/bar in Cinque Terre, before ending at Punta Bonfiglio . It’s a short uphill hike, with fabulous views and a playground. In the evenings, many locals and tourists gather here to catch sunset.
Manarola is most famous for wine production. You can even hike up to the grapevines on the slopes above the town. Sign up for this wine tasting tour to sample wine made in Manarola and visit its vineyards.
- Il Porticciolo — A hot favorite in Cinque Terre, this seafood restaurant has a great selection of pasta dishes and to-die-for desserts. Highly recommend the tagliatelle frutti di mare, one of the best dishes to try in Italy .
- Ristorante Marina Piccola — This is my favorite restaurant on this list, with perfect views of the sunset and flavorful wine wine mussels.
- Nessun Dorma — Perched on the waterfront hills above Manarola, this cafe is probably the most famous in Cinque Terre. It has an open terrace with literally the best views in Manarola. Sadly they don’t take reservations and lines to dine here are long.
Itinerary Day 3: Corniglia and Vernazza
Sitting atop a 100m-high rocky promontory surrounded by vineyards, Corniglia is the only village that lacks direct access to the sea. You’ll need to climb 382 steps of Scalinata Lardarina to get there from the train station. There’s also a free bus that will bring you up, but it’s often crowded.
For most, Corniglia lacks the coastal appeal that draws so many to Cinque Terre. But that also means it i s the most authentic and least crowded of them all , and prices of hotels are the most reasonable here.
Corniglia is the smallest of the Cinque Terre towns, characterized by tangled alleys, hilly terraces and bohemian cafes. This is the most authentic town with the least tourists.
Have an Aperol Spritz at one of its many outdoor bars, scour the vintages stores or visit the Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina church . For the best views, hike up to Santa Maria panoramic terrace and see the whole town from above.
From Corniglia, catch the train over to Vernazza, centrally located in Cinque Terre. The main square is located right by the harbor, flanked by multi-hued buildings and dome-roofed chapels. I found this town to be the most crowded as it’s the hot favorite among travelers.
The town has a marina and a small beach where you can catch a boat or take a dip in. Visit Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church by the beach before climbing up the steps to the watch tower of Doria Castle for panoramic views of Vernazza.
- Il Pirun — This is a small, slightly hidden enoteca that serves delicious, local fare with dishes such as fried anchovies, gnocchi con pesto , paccherri pasta with shrimp and zucchini, spaghetti and mussels.
- Il Pirata — A local fixture, Il Pirata is run by two Sicilian brothers. Food is authentic and delicious: think bruschetta with pesto, baked calzoni, sausage rolls, arancini , panini and many other baked specialties.
- Vernazza Winexperience — If you’re keen to go wine tasting, this is the best spot in Vernaaza. The location will blow you away, as this patio deck sits a couple of hundred feet above a pounding surf. Enjoy local cheese, sip locally produced wine and take in the breathtaking views.
Itinerary Day 4: Monterosso al Mare
On your last day in Cinque Terre, I recommend hitting the trails to experience the backcountry of Cinque Terre and get a sense of how people used to get from one village to another.
The hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza (2hours) is considered one of the most difficult sections of the famous Trail #2: Blue Trail (or Sentiero Azzurro) due to the uphill walks – but it’s also considered one of the most rewarding, particularly the views of Vernazza from above.
After your hike, reward yourself with a refreshing dip at the beach. Monterosso al Mare (commonly shortened to Monterosso) is the best town in Cinque Terre for beach lovers and families. It is the only village that has a proper strip of beach, which was beautiful and surprisingly empty during our visit in May.
From the beach, walk into the old town and visit the famous Church of San Francesco , then continue wandering through the maze-like alleys filled with produce shops, restaurants and souvenir stands. Take the back streets such as Via Zuecca, Via Gioberti, Via Milite Ignoto and Via Buranco.
Be sure to eat here as Monterosso has the best restaurants! If you’re not in a post-lunch coma yet, sign up for a kayaking tour of Cinque Terre . Monterosso is the best place to do this.
- L’Osteria — One of the most famous restaurants in Cinque Terre, this place has huge portions of fresh pasta and seafood. Don’t miss the walnut ravioli pansotti!
- Gastronomia San Martino — We stumbled upon this small, unpretentious diner along a narrow alley and were surprised to find outrageously good food! I had the best lasagna of my life here, as well as ravioli and clams.
- L’Ancora della Tortuga — Excellent place for fine dining next to the sea! This is definitely the place to go if you’re celebrating something special, or simply because you want to spoil yourself.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
Refer to my post on the best Cinque Terre hotels for detailed descriptions. Here is a rough list:
Who should stay here? Honeymooners looking for an extra bit of romance. Riomaggiore is very small and has a more chilled-out atmosphere. It is also the closest town to the gateway La Spezia.
- Budget: L’Arcobaleno Affittacamere
- Midrange: Agave Room Rental
- Luxury: Crêuza De Mä
Who should stay here? Photographers or those who want to have the best photos should stay here, so they can spend their evenings taking timelapse images of Manarola’s harbor without crowds.
- Budget: Cà de Angelo
- Midrange: Luxury Apartment Manarola
- Luxury: La Toretta Lodge
Who should stay here? Corniglia is the least popular village, but it is also the most authentic and least crowded of them all. Those looking to experience Cinque Terre without the crowds should stay here.
- Budget: Affittacamere La Torre
- Midrange: La Torre Apartments
- Luxury: Attic Outstanding View
Who should stay here? The best section of the popular Blue Trail that connects all 5 villages passes through here. I recommend hikers to stay here. The town has a marina and a small beach where you can catch a boat or take a dip in.
- Budget: Affittacamere Tonino Basso
- Midrange: Hotel Gianni Franzi
- Luxury: Tedea Apartment
Who should stay here? Monterosso al Mare (commonly shortened to Monterosso) is the best Cinque Terre town for beach bums and families . It is the only village that has a proper strip of beach, and the village with the least steps and slopes. It also has the widest range of accommodation choices.
- Budget: La Casa sul Mare – Monterosso
- Midrange: Hotel Villa Adriana
- Luxury: Hotel Porto Roca
Alternatives Outside of Cinque Terre
If you are looking for more budget-friendly places to stay, I recommend staying at one of the towns near Cinque Terre.
The closest towns are La Spezia and Levanto, on the southern and northern ends of Cinque Terre. Both are just a 10-minute train ride from Cinque Terre, on the same train line that passes through the five towns. You can easily travel to Cinque Terre on day trips from there.
Yes, it’s not the same staying in these towns as in Cinque Terre. You won’t have panoramas of pastel-colored houses backdropped by the blue sea. But if you are only interested in exploring and accommodation isn’t important, then check out these best hotels in Cinque Terre.
La Spezia is the best place to stay near Cinque Terre for the budget conscious. It’s only a 7-minute train ride from Riomaggiore , the closest town in Cinque Terre. It is a big city and a destination on its own: with a big port, a charming old town and no shortage of trattorias serving the finest Ligurian cuisine.
- Budget: Lia Apartment
- Midrange: Affittacamere Casa Dane’
- Luxury: Hotel Firenze e Continentale
Levanto is a popular beach town with a long sandy beach, and a charming old town. This town is perfect for those who want to stay in the countryside, in a Ligurian mansion surrounded by pine forests, olive groves, and vineyards. Levanto is a 5-minute train ride from Monterosso al Mare , the closest town in Cinque Terre.
- Budget: Creuza de Legnà
- Midrange: The Hotel Nazionale
- Luxury: Al Terra di Mare
How Much Does this Cinque Terre Itinerary Cost?
Cinque Terre is not a cheap destination in comparison to the rest of Italy, especially in high season. However, it is still affordable for many and that’s why the crowds keep pouring in.
Expect to pay around $150-250/night for a midrange hotel or apartment in Cinque Terre. Food is affordable in simple taverns and cafes, with meals around $8-15. But seafood restaurants are of course more expensive, with a fried seafood platter for around $20-30.
If you’re just doing a day tour from Florence to Cinque Terre , then expect to spend around US$100-150 for the day tour.
What We Spent in Cinque Terre (per person* )
- Flights — $150 for return flights to Florence from Amsterdam
- Car rental — $180 for 5-day rental
- Train pass — $60 for 4-day train passes
- Accommodation — $500 for 4 nights
- Meals — $180
- Boat tour — $110
TOTAL: $1180
*Note that the prices are based on per person. Car rental and hotels are cheaper when split between two.
How to Get Around Cinque Terre
There are a few ways to get around Cinque Terre. Here’s an overview, comparing the amount of time to get from one village to another via different transport modes. I will elaborate on each transport mode below.
Visiting Cinque Terre by train is the best way to visit the five villages. The Cinque Terre Express train is regular, fast and efficient, taking only minutes to get from one village to another.
The train runs daily every few minutes and it’s very easy to navigate. A single ticket costs € 4 per adult and € 2 for kids below 12 years old. You can get the ticket at the train station or on the Trenitalia app.
But if you plan to take more than four trains in a day or go hiking, the best option is the Cinque Terre train card . You can buy it at the stations. It includes unlimited train rides and access to the hiking trails. It lasts one day (16 €) or two days (29 €).
I would not recommend driving around Cinque Terre due to the lack of parking space and proper roads. The Cinque Terre villages are mostly pedestrianized with very few roads.
We drove to Cinque Terre, but parked our car there and explored the villages by train instead. We booked a hotel in Cinque Terre that had a parking garage, but the garage was located at the main entrance of town (near the highway), a 15-min steep walk from the apartment. It cost 15euros/day.
An alternative is to park your car near the train station in La Spezia or Levanto (closest town to Cinque Terre and just a 10-min train ride away).
Visiting Cinque Terre by boat is another option, especially for those who want to get away from the crowds. But the boats only operate from April 1 to November 1, 2020.
The boats depart from La Spezia and visit Portovenere, Levanto and the five Cinque Terre towns. An unlimited ticket for 1 day in the Cinque Terre costs 27 €. Tickets are sold only on the spot and only for the current day. Check the boat schedule here.
A network of hiking trails weave their way along the coast and up the hills overlooking the Cinque Terre villages. For centuries, they were the only way to get between the Cinque Terre villages .
They still are the best way to get around Cinque Terre, though the trails are often packed with tourists these days. Skip to the next section for more details on how to go hiking in Cinque Terre.
Hiking in Cinque Terre doesn’t require a high level of fitness, but you do need to have comfortable walking shoes. (Hiking in flip flops is prohibited here.)
To walk the trails, you will need to buy the Cinque Terre Trekking Card , which is slightly different from the train card. It is cheaper, at €7.50 for one day or €14.50 for two days. But it does not include unlimited train rides.
The most popular (and busiest) hiking trail in Cinque Terre is Trail #2: the Sentiero Azzurro, or “Blue Trail” . It is made up of four individual paths along the coast that brings you to all five villages. You can walk the entire route in about six hours —although many prefer to spread the route out over a few days.
Cinque Terre Hikes and Distances:
- Riomaggiore – Manarola: 1.2 miles (2km); 40 minutes to walk.
- Manarola – Corniglia: 1.2 miles (2km); 1 hour 15 minutes to walk.
- Corniglia – Vernazza: 2 miles (4km); 1 hour 45 minutes to walk
- Vernazza – Monterosso: 1.8 miles (3km); 2 hours to walk (most difficult!)
Combining this Cinque Terre Itinerary with Other Parts of Italy
With the ease of train travel, it’s convenient to visit other parts of Italy from Cinque Terre. If you want to tag on more days to this Cinque Terre itinerary, I recommend going to Tuscany, Lombardy or Emilia Romagna which are all within a 4-hour train ride from Cinque Terre.
Here is a table I created with the distance and time taken to get to other parts of Italy from Cinque Terre. If you don’t mind traveling further, consider doing a Puglia road trip which will bring you to a spectacular but less-visited part of the country.
Below are some sample itineraries that you can add on to your Cinque Terre trip.
This Tuscan itinerary is perfect for those who want to explore the backcountry of Italy. You’ll spend your time wandering through little rural villages, wine tasting and eating cheese at farms, and staying in townhouses made for the romantic at heart. I did this itinerary on my first ever trip to Italy 15 years ago and I fell in love!
- 2 days in Florence
- 1 day in Siena
- 1 day driving Val d’Orcia
- 1 day in Pisa
For those who have been to Italy and are seeking new alternatives, visit the fashion capital Milan and then spend your days lounging at Lake Como in the company of celebrities and millionaires. If this is good enough for George Clooney, it sure is good enough for me.
- 2 days in Milan
- 2 days in Bergamo
- 3 days in Lake Como (visit Como, Bellagio, Varenna)
Food lovers and active trekkers might be interested in this lesser-known region of Italy. I combined my Cinque Terre trip with a hike on the Path of Gods (from Bologna to Florence) and absolutely loved it. Emilia-Romagna is a beautiful province and is famous for the regional foods and picturesque landscapes.
- 2 days in Bologna
- 1 day in Parma and Modena
- 3 days hiking in the Apennines
- 2 days in Ravenna
With that, I ending this Cinque Terre itinerary with a thank you note. Thanks for reading all the way! I hope you’ve found this Cinque Terre itinerary useful. If you have any questions for me, leave them in the comments field below.
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Over the years (and traveling to 140+ countries), I’ve learned a thing or two about travel planning. I’ve put together this list of travel resources that I personally use to find the best deals and book travel! For more details, check out my travel tips resource page .
- Booking Flights : Kayak is brilliant for finding the best dates to fly as it allows you to search for the lowest airfares within a 3-day period. Then I use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given me the lowest airfares.
- Accommodations: I always use Booking.com to book hotels, mainly because of the flexible cancellation policy and good customer service. You can also find short-term rental apartments there (I prefer not to use Airbnb due to the extra charges).
- Travel Insurance: It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a few days or months. Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers any healthcare expenses I may have worldwide. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
- Health Advice: I always refer to the travel guides on the CDC website for recommended medications and vaccines. You can get them at your travel doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
- Tours: If you’re looking for all-encompassing tours, I recommend small-group adventure tour outfitter, G Adventures . I’ve traveled with them to Antarctica, Mongolia, Svalbard, and Nepal, and loved every single trip. For day tours, I always book with Viator and GetYourGuide ; they have easy booking systems and free cancellations.
- Car Rental: I always book car rentals on Discover Cars , as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and customer service (with free cancellations). We’ve used them in Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Peru, and Mexico.
- Transportation : Whenever possible, I book local transportation online using Bookaway and Busbud . They’re more reliable than many local transport websites and cover trains, buses, and car hire.
- Restaurants: TripAdvisor is my go-to resource for restaurant reviews and bookings. I also make restaurant reservations on OpenTable .
- Travel WiFi: I always travel with my Travel WiFi Sapphire 2 device; it’s the most convenient way to get internet data on the go. Instead of getting a local SIM card in every country I travel, I get an internet data package online and the device works immediately when I land.
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Nellie Huang
Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .
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How to Plan a Visit to the Cinque Terre (and What to See)
- April 19, 2021
- Lauren Stuttaford
The Italian Riviera offers travelers a plethora of beauty, with eye-feasting blue waters, rugged coastlines, and brightly colored villages for as far as the eye can see. Perhaps the most quintessential spot is the Cinque Terre – a string of five fishing villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – connected by its own scenic trail.
The Cinque Terre villages were once a well-kept local secret and are now an unspoiled Italian gem – with perfectly preserved architecture, a lively hub of authentic cities, and breathtaking coastal and mountain trails. Here is everything you need to know about planning your trip to the Cinque Terre – as well as what you can see while you’re there.
A well-kept local secret, the Cinque Terre villages are an unspoiled Italian gem that are worth a visit.
How Do You Get To Cinque Terre, Italy?
Nestled in the rugged, Italian mountainside, at the eastern section of the Italian Riviera, the untouched villages of the Cinque Terre were perceived for their total seclusion. Pronounced chin kwe ter-re, with a rolled ‘r’ sound, the Cinque Terre, translates into ‘five lands,’ and dates back to the early medieval period. While today, the region still presents a few challenges for accessibility, it is widely considered the most romantic stretch of the Riviera.
Train is by far the best way to reach and travel between the Cinque Terre villages. A train line runs along the country’s west coast and links all five villages with Pisa, Rome, and Genoa. If you’re coming from Florence, you will need to change trains in Pisa, and from Milan, you need to change trains in Genoa. The closest airports are in Pisa and Genoa.
An economical option is the Cinque Terre Card , which covers all train fare between La Spezia and Levanto and hiking fees.
The villages are accessible by car, but you’ll need to be adventurous enough to brave the winding, narrow cliff-edge roads – and after you survive the journey, you’ll need to fork out some cash to pay for parking. However, if you are traveling by car, it would be a good idea to leave it in the secure parking facilities at La Spezia’s train station.
If you plan on visiting the Cinque Terre villages between Easter and September, then arriving by sea is also an option. Since ferries run from Genoa, Portofino, and Porto Venere during those months, you can also rent a yacht from one of the ports and make an unforgettable entrance.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Cinque Terre?
It is essential to keep in mind that the peak holiday season in Italy is in August, especially the week that the 15 th day falls on – this week will cost you three times more.
The best time to visit the Cinque Terre villages is between September and October when the summertime tourists have returned home; this also means that cooler weather and quieter trails await.
It would be a smart move to visit the Cinque Terre between mid-May to mid-September if you like the sea since this is when the weather is pleasant, and the ferries are open. If you are interested in the hiking trails, they are open from mid-March to mid-October.
In winter, from November to February, it is cold, and some activities are closed during this time. However, the Cinque Terre are famous for the biggest Presepe (nativity scene) in the world, and La Spezia – like most Italian cities, is beautifully adorned with holiday-themed decorations.
How Many Days Do I Need?
A destination with never-ending charm, the colorful villages need more than one day to explore and experience all the sights and sounds. The Cinque Terre is the kind of place that warrants taking it slow – whether you’re taking a moment to rest on the clifftops above the ancient city or sipping on a glass of wine at a waterfront table.
A three-to-four-day tour of the Cinque Terre allows you just enough time to visit all five villages, get to know the intricate labyrinth of at least one village center, and enjoy a few half-day hikes. If you’re tight on time, staying one night will introduce you to the gentler ambiance at dawn, dusk, and midnight.
Where Should I Stay?
Accommodation in the Cinque Terre can be expensive, overcrowded and often nothing to write home about. So, your best bet would be to find something nice and book in advance.
Budget-friendly options include quaint beachfront Hotel La Spiaggia in Monterosso or authentically chic places like La Mala in Vernazza. Something more up the backpacker’s alley is Ostello Corniglia in Manarola, while La Torretta Lodge is ideal for the tourist who enjoys the finer things in life.
But suppose you decide to go the day-trip route. In that case, the best starting point is La Spezia – by far closer than Genoa or Pisa – allowing a seven-minute trip to the nearest village, Riomaggiore, and approximately 15-25 minutes to the furthest, Monterosso. Upon your return to La Spezia, you will be welcomed by lively bars, plates laden with focaccia, pesto pasta, and seafood.
The Five Cinque Terre Villages
Riomaggiore.
Riomaggiore is the most southern village of the Cinque Terre and situated just a few minutes by train from La Spezia. A popular choice as the first stop on many Cinque Terre trips, Riomaggiore is one of the Cinque Terre’s most romantic sights. The Via dell’Amore , Lover’s Lane, starts in Riomaggiore. A splendid trail known for its romantic setting and beautiful landscapes, the path leads to Manarola, which is only a 20-minute walk.
Nestled high on a rock about 70 meters above sea level, Manaola is one of the most charming Cinque Terre villages. Grapevines surrounding the quaint village produce the region’s popular wine Sciacchetrà. If you decide to venture to the top of Manarola, don’t miss out on a visit to The Church of San Lorenzo, a Gothic Ligurian-style structure built in 1338.
Located in the middle of the Cinque Terre on a small cape, 100 meters above the sea, surrounded by vineyards, is Corniglia – the only village without access from the sea. Connected to its train station by a footpath known as Lardarina (377 stairs), the tiny town is tranquil and offers the only vantage point where you can photograph all five villages at once. In this charming village, you can visit the eighteenth-century square largo Taragio with its Oratory Santa Caterina.
Best known for its unique character, Vernazza, is deemed one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Subtle colorful pastels surround the tiny port, with a bustling piazza lined with incredible restaurants and bars. At the same time, the village is abundant with steeply terraced olive groves that are said to produce some of the best olive oil in the country. Sights to visit in Vernazza include The Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia and the Tower of the Doria Castle.
The largest of the five coastal villages, Monterosso, is located on foothills ripe with lemons, vines and olives. Pristine beaches, unspoiled reefs and the ocean’s crystal-clear waters make this Cinque Terre village one of the most welcoming of the Italian Riviera. A must-see is the concrete statue of the Giant, Il Gigante, representing Neptune, the god of the sea; the figure is erected beside the terrace of a local villa near the Fegina beach.
Walking Paths In The Cinque Terre
For hundreds of years, the walking trails that connect the Cinque Terre villages were the only way to travel between them. You can hike along the villages’ many trails with the constant companionship of the shimmering ocean waters and enjoy spectacular views of coastal forests and vineyard-lined farms.
Many of the villages’ trails are in a delicate state and are prone to closure – either periodically or permanently. Always make sure to check the Cinque Terre National Park office before you plan your hike. Park guides host daily walks between May and September.
The Sentiero Azzurro
Linking all five villages of the Cinque Terre, the Sentiero Azzurro is the most famous and beloved path. Also known as the Blue Trail, marked SVA on maps – the trail is nearly completely flat and allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape. It is possible to cover the entire route by foot along path No. 2 (marked in white and red) from Monterosso to Riomaggiore, stretching 12 km. The trail journey is around 5 hours in total, but stops can be taken in every village along the way.
Most of the trail sections from Monterosso to Corniglia are low-level difficulty, though decent stamina is needed. The Monterosso to Vernazza path is 3 km long and can be completed in around two hours. The section from Vernazza to Corniglia is 4 km long and usually takes around 90 minutes.
Unfortunately, the notable Via dell’Amore connecting Riomaggioreand Manarola and the Sentiero Azzurro path linking Manarola and Corniglia are closed, with no plans to re-open until 2023. The alternative route between Riomaggiore and Manarola via Beccara takes an hour to complete. It doesn’t require hiking experience – but with over 600 steps to cover, you’ll need to be semi-fit. It is advised that only experienced, and well-equipped hikers attempt the current alternative route from Manarola to Corniglia via Volastra.
The Sentiero Rosso
Sentiero Rosso, also known as the ‘red trail,’ – marked AV5T on maps – is an excellent choice for experienced walkers. Despite stretching almost three times the length of the famous ‘blue trail’, the Sentiero boasts a solitary walk with spectacular views of the villages. The Sentiero Rosso stretches 38 kilometers between Portovenere and Levanto, so if you want to finish the entire trail, you’re looking at around nine to twelve hours of walking – but there are plenty of shortcuts to make it as long or short as you want.
The Sentiero Rosso is flatter and enjoys lots of shade compared to the blue trail so that you won’t be covered in sweat. Either way, the route is lined with bars and restaurants so you can stop and cool down at a watering hole.
Sanctuary Walks
Each of the Cinque Terre’s villages has its own sanctuary perched high on the clifftops overlooking the ocean. And “The Way of the Sanctuaries” hike adds a spiritual touch to an already magnificent trail. As the name suggests, this path links all the villages’ unique sanctuaries. Most of these walks are easy, even if steep, and take between 20 minutes and three hours one way.
Is the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre better?
Another popular destination in the region that draws tourists in droves is the Amalfi Coast. So which destination is better? While both are beautiful in their own right, the Cinque Terre is far more superior when it comes to hiking. For sightseeing and day trips, the Amalfi coast is recommended by many. If you’re looking for a glamorous destination that offers 5-star hotels and restaurants, then Amalfi is for you, but for a more rustic, backpacker-ish feel, the Cinque Terre is best.
Is Cinque Terre Worth Visiting?
As you can see by the pictures, the Cinque Terre villages are astonishingly pretty, with quaint attractions to explore in each town. The cuisine is notorious for being delicious, the hiking trails offer dramatic scenery, and the region’s history is rich and beautiful. And if those aren’t good enough reasons to start planning your Cinque Terre trip, then how about this one: they also have limoncello! Saluti!
Cinque Terre Travel Tips
- Bring a refillable water bottle and keep an eye out for drinking fountains in each village.
- Ask the locals where you can find friggitoria and indulge in an authentic takeaway snack of bite-sized seafood in a nifty paper cone.
- Make sure you try the Cinque Terre DOC wine – drink and support the local vignerons.
- For those wanting to hike, avoid the heat by visiting the region in May or September.
- The villages may be overcrowded in the summertime, so venture out to the less busy villages in surrounding areas to escape the crowds.
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How to Visit the Cinque Terre Towns in 2 Days
The Cinque Terre is a group of centuries-old seaside villages, perched on the dramatic coastline of the Italian Riviera, just north of Pisa in northwest Italy , and it’s possible to visit all of the Cinque Terre towns in just two days!
The Cinque Terre towns are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare. Each boasts colorful houses, steep, terraced vineyards, harbors filled with fishing boats, and trattorias serving delicious seafood specialties.
The Cinque Terre towns, in addition to the coastline and the surrounding hillsides, are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park, which was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
My boyfriend, Tim, and I spent two days in the Cinque Terre during our 2-week summer Europe trip . This post highlights what to do here, tips for getting to and around the Cinque Terre towns, where to stay, how to hike in Cinque Terre, and more!
* P.S. this post contains some affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase.
How to Pronounce Cinque Terre
First things first, we need to learn how to pronounce Cinque Terre! For some reason, I had the hardest time with this and had to practice it several times before finally getting it down. The correct pronunciation of Cinque Terre is cheen-kweh teh-rreh.
How to Get to Cinque Terre
We visited Cinque Terre after a day trip from Florence to Pisa . We took a train from Pisa Centrale to Riomaggiore, and total train time was around 1.5 hours.
A Broad Recommendation: I booked all of our trains in Europe through trainline and found their app easy to use. When booking a train from Pisa Centrale to Riomaggiore or any of the other Cinque Terre towns, you can book the day of, since there are a ton of options, and trains run nearly every half hour between these stations (typically with a change in La Spezia Centrale). However, if you have an exact time in mind, it can be cheaper to book your trains in advance.
If you only have a day to spare and don’t want to deal with booking transportation on your own, another option is to visit Cinque Terre on a guided tour. Though we haven’t done it ourselves, the Cinque Terre Semi-Private or Private Day Tour from Florence looks like an incredible option.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
When deciding where to stay in Cinque Terre, you’ll want to consider your interests.
- If you love the beach, Monterosso al Mare is likely the best spot for you.
- If you like playing in the water and wandering through charming alleyways, Vernazza may be better.
- If you’re looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path village, Corniglia is right for you.
- If you want epic views, delicious food and refreshing swimming, Manarola is your best bet.
- Finally, if you’re looking for incredible sunset views and fun nightlife, Riomaggiore is the place to be.
Since we waited so long to book, we had limited options. We ended up booking The Rooftop House in Riomaggiore and were pleasantly surprised by our choice!
This Airbnb was perfect for us, and Riomaggiore ended up being our favorite of the five Cinque Terre towns. Ending our day watching a beautiful sunset here was one of our favorite moments in Cinque Terre.
Plus, our host offered luggage storage, which was especially helpful on our last day, so we could continue exploring after check-out.
A Broad Recommendation: Be sure to bring some Euros. Hotels and Airbnbs in Italy require that you pay a city tax of €2 per person per day for the first 3 days of your stay, and some require that you pay this in cash.
How to Get Around the Cinque Terre Towns
Access to Cinque Terre by car is limited, but the towns are connected by trains, hiking paths and boats. Trains frequently run from La Spezia to all five Cinque Terre towns, as well as to other major regional and national locations, via the Genoa-Pisa line. Trips between each town take around five minutes.
A Broad Recommendation: Though trains run frequently between the towns, be prepared to stand. The trains are often packed with people, and in some cases, we were lucky enough to get on let alone find a seat.
The Cinque Terre Treno MS Card gives you unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre Express trains on the Levanto-Cinque Terre-La Spezia line, as well as access to the hiking trails—more on these in a bit! The card also provides free use of the toilets in each of the railway stations. A two-day card costs €30 and is definitely worth it if you plan to visit all of the Cinque Terre towns or do some hiking.
A passenger ferry also runs between La Spezia and Levanto and stops at all of the towns except Corniglia, which doesn’t have a port. It runs from March to November, and single journeys start from €7 or €30 for a one-day, unlimited ticket.
Hiking the Cinque Terre Towns
Hiking the Cinque Terre footpaths is one of the best ways to explore the five Cinque Terre towns, and the Sentiero Azzurro cliffside hiking trail is the most popular path.
Unfortunately, portions of this trail are closed due to landslides, including the sections from Riomaggiore to Manarola and from Manarola to Corniglia. That being said, it’s still possible to hike between the towns, though the trails are both longer and steeper.
Here are some of the trails we considered hiking during our visit to Cinque Terre.
Monterosso to Vernazza
- Difficulty: average
- Length: 2.2 miles
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Hiking Fee: €7,50/day or Cinque Terre Card
Note: The trail is easier if you walk from Vernazza to Monterosso. If you start in Monterosso, take the small pedestrian road leading to the Hotel Porto Roca. From here, the trail begins with a long staircase and offers great views of Vernazza.
Monterosso to Vernazza (via Santuario di Reggio & Soviore)
- Length: 4.7 miles
- Duration: 3.5-4 hours
- Hiking Fee: none
Vernazza to Corniglia
- Hiking fee: €7,50/day or Cinque Terre Card
You can take this path in either direction, but it’s easier to start in Corniglia. From the Corniglia train station, take the shuttle bus up to the village. From here, the trail is relatively flat and you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views descending towards Vernazza.
A Broad Recommendation: Leave time to stop at the charming Bar Il Gabbiano in Prevo, a tiny hamlet of Vernazza, along the way. Here, you can enjoy stunning sea views while sipping on some yummy lemon granitas.
We started in Corniglia around 5:00 pm, and when we arrived in Vernazza, the sun was behind the town, making it difficult to take good photos. I would recommend doing this trail earlier in the day if you plan to hike in the same direction we did.
Manarola to Corniglia (via Volastra)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Length: 3.4 miles
- Duration: 2.5-3 hours
- Hiking fee: none
You can hike in either direction, but again, it’s easier to start in Corniglia. The first part of the trail is very steep. To avoid this, you can start in Manarola and take the shuttle bus up to Volastra. The bus typically runs every hour and takes about 10 minutes.
In Volastra, the trail continues behind the church of Madonna della Salute. From here, you’ll walk through ancient terraces that decline to the sea and have incredible views of the Mediterranean and the five Cinque Terre towns.
Note that the shorter trail between Manarola and Corniglia is currently closed and scheduled to reopen in 2024.
Manarola to Riomaggiore (Via Beccara)
- Length: 1.2 miles
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Although Riomaggiore and Manarola are close together, they’re separated by a steep mountain, making sections of this trail quite challenging. You can hike in either direction, and you’ll have gorgeous, panoramic sea views along the way.
This was the first trail we hiked, and it was much more difficult than expected! We started in Riomaggiore around 10:30 am (in June), and it was already pretty hot out.
Note that the shorter trail between Manarola and Riomaggiore is also currently closed and scheduled to reopen in 2024.
Tips for Hiking in Cinque Terre
There are several other hiking trails in the area, and trail conditions sometimes change with short notice. So, be sure to check the Cinque Terre footpaths website before your visit.
The Cinque Terre Trekking Card provides access to all of the trails, but if you already have the Cinque Terre Train Card, you won’t need to purchase this one. The card also provides free use of the toilets in each of the railway stations.
Be sure to dress appropriately for hiking and wear comfortable tennis shoes or hiking boots ; flip flops aren’t permitted on the trails. Also, be sure to wear sunscreen, bring a hat, water and snacks, and avoid hiking during the hottest times of the day.
What to Do in the Cinque Terre Towns
If you have more than one day, you should plan to visit all five Cinque Terre towns. Each one is a little different from the others and offers a variety of restaurants, sightseeing opportunities and activities.
Cinque Terre Towns: Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the southernmost and one of the largest of the Cinque Terre towns. It’s also our favorite of the Cinque Terre towns! Riomaggiore dates back to the early 13th century and is known for its brightly painted houses, historic character and narrow, maze-like streets.
What to Do in Riomaggiore
All of Riomaggiore’s major attractions are walkable. The main street, Via Colombo, is lined with restaurants, bars and shops and is a great place to take a stroll and to do some shopping.
Be sure to visit the Gothic-style Church of San Giovanni Battista and admire the views from the piazza on which the church sits.
If you’re staying for sunset, one of the best spots to see it is from the breakwater in front of the harbor. After all, Riomaggiore is centered around its rocky harbor.
Built in 1260, Riomaggiore Castle is another great spot for sunset (though as you can tell from these photos, we visited well before sunset). The ruins of the castle sit atop a hill and offer breathtaking views of Riomaggiore and the sea.
Where to Eat in Riomaggiore
Since we stayed in Riomaggiore, we enjoyed several meals here. First and foremost, you must try Fritto misto in Riomaggiore! Fritto misto is a cone of fried fish (including sardines!), and Il Pescato Cucinato is a popular local spot to try some. We also tried a couple delicious dishes at Bar Centrale and heard that Dau Cila has good seafood as well.
If you’re looking for Italian cuisine, check out Colle del Telegrafo, Rio Bistrot, La Cantina del Macellaio or La Lampara. For breakfast, try Bar Stazione, Vertical Bar Riomaggiore or Giammi Caffe, and for gelato, try Old School Riomaggiore Gelateria & Snack Shop, Gelateria Centrale Di Germani E Giaccio or Gelateria Sottozero. Of course, we were only here for two nights, so we couldn’t try all of these, but they’re worth mentioning just in case!
A Broad Recommendation: Don’t forget to try a Lemon Granita while visiting the Cinque Terre towns. These are popular here, and you’ll find them nearly everywhere you go!
Cinque Terre Towns: Manarola
Centered around its marina with mostly bright and colorful houses, Manarola is the second-smallest of the Cinque Terre towns and one of the most picturesque. It’s believed that Manarola is also the oldest of the Cinque Terre towns, and Manarola’s economy has thrived for ages with its fishing and wine-making industries.
What to Do in Manarola
Manarola has a rocky shoreline, and though there are no sandy beaches here, there are stone jetties you can jump and swim off of.
You’ll also want to shop on Via Renato Birolli and check out the medieval Church of San Lorenzo, a Gothic Ligurian-style church. Next to the church is the Torre Campanaria, a bell tower historically used for defensive purposes. Next to the tower is another scenic viewpoint of Manarola.
The Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint overlooks the harbor and is where you’ll find one of the most iconic Cinque Terre views. To get there, follow the narrow walkway to the west along the water’s edge. This is also one of the best sunset spots in Cinque Terre.
Manarola is surrounded by grape fields, making local wine tasting a popular activity. Be sure to try some sciacchetrà, Manarola’s signature white, passito wine.
Where to Eat in Manarola
If you’re in Manarola for breakfast, try Bar Corbani or Cappun Magru, an adorable little shop right by the Church of San Lorenzo.
Above the Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint, there’s a restaurant called Nessum Dorma that’s the perfect spot for an afternoon Aperol Spritz. Unfortunately, Nessum Dorma was closed during our visit, so we didn’t have a chance to try it.
For lunch or dinner, Il Porticciolo has delicious seafood and doesn’t require reservations. We tried this spot and really enjoyed it! We also heard that La Regina di Manarola and Trattoria dal Billy have beautiful views, especially at sunset. Be sure to get a reservation in advance if you’d like to try one of these.
For delicious gelato, check out Gelateria Enrica or Gelateria 5 Terre.
Cinque Terre Towns: Corniglia
Corniglia is the smallest and quietest of the Cinque Terre towns and is unique in that the houses are lower set than the other villages. Also unlike the others, Corniglia sits on top of a hill rather than on the waterfront and thus, is not directly accessible from the sea.
From the train station, you’ll have to scale the Scalinata Lardarina, the long, zigzagging staircase with nearly 400 steps that climb up the cliff to Corniglia’s panorama terrace. From this terrace, all four of the other Cinque Terre towns can be seen.
What to Do in Corniglia
While in Corniglia, follow the Via Fieschi to La Torre viewpoint for stunning coastal views of Manarola. Or, visit one of the village’s churches: the Chiesa di San Pietro, a 14th-century, Gothic style church, and the Oratorio dei Disciplinati di Santa Caterina, a tiny chapel whose ceiling is painted to look like the sky.
Where to Eat in Corniglia
Corniglia is also surrounded by vineyards, making it one of the best Cinque Terre towns for wine tasting. We absolutely loved our stop at Terra Rossa Winebar where we had a delightful wine flight and complimentary food pairing.
Other spots you may want to try include Pan e Vin, which has tasty sandwiches and focaccias; KM0, a casual spot with sandwiches and salads; Cantina De Mananan, which is located in a historic wine cellar and offers traditional dishes made with locally caught seafood and vegetables grown in the village; and Ristorante La Posada, which offers delicious, local seafood and has a terrace overlooking Manarola.
For an aperitivo, try Bar La Terza Terra, which has a few tables overlooking the sea and offers great views. And, be sure to stop at Alberto Gelateria or Gelateria Corniglia and try gelato made from local honey (miele di Corniglia).
A Broad Recommendation: We stopped at Caffe Matteo, and the staff was extremely rude, so I wouldn’t recommend eating here.
Cinque Terre Towns: Vernazza
Vernazza is set around the Cinque Terre’s only natural harbor and is said to be one of the most beautiful of the Cinque Terre towns. It’s also one of the “truest fishing villages” on the Italian Riviera.
Vernazza is a fortified town with evidence of its existence going back as early as 1048. Although Vernazza still has strong centuries-old fishing, wine and olive oil production industries, the main source of the town’s revenue is tourism.
What to Do in Vernazza
For a small fee, you can explore the remains of the 11th century Doria Castle, another tower built for defensive purposes, specifically against pirates, and enjoy some of the best views of Vernazza.
Constructed in the 13th century, the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia boasts a mix of Gothic-Ligurian style and classic Renaissance architecture and also offers stunning views. And, the Chapel of Santa Marta is a tiny stone chapel along Vernazza’s main street, Via Roma.
Additionally, you might want to find a quiet spot on the rocks at Vernazza Harbor and swim in the Ligurian Sea.
Where to Eat in Vernazza
For breakfast, try Ananasso Bar, Lunch Box or Blue Marlin Cafe, and for lunch, Pizzeria Fratelli Basso has great focaccia.
For local seafood, try La Torre, Gambero Rosso or Gianni Franzi. Ristorante Belforte is another popular spot for local seafood and offers incredible views. Be sure to make reservations in advance if you’d like to dine here. We were lucky enough to get a last minute reservation and had a lovely dinner overlooking the sea and watching the sunset.
For yummy, post-dinner gelato, try Alberto Gelateria or Gelateria Vernazza.
Cinque Terre Towns: Monterosso al Mare
Last but not least is Monterosso al Mare, the furthest north and largest of the Cinque Terre towns. The village is split into two sections. The old town, i.e. Paese Vecchio sits on one side and the more modern Fegina on the other. Here, you’ll find Cinque Terre’s only real sandy beach.
Monterosso al Mare is also famous for its lemon trees, white wines, grapes and olives.
What to Do in Monterosso al Mare
During your visit to Monterosso al Mare, you may considering climbing up to the Torre Aurora, one of the three remaining defensive towers or stopping at the 14th-century Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, which boasts unique black and white stripes, unlike any other church in Cinque Terre.
However, the most popular thing to do in Monterosso al Mare is to relax on Fegina Beach. The beach gets quite popular in the summer, so be sure to book your chairs in advance. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also opt for a kayaking experience or boat tour from Monterosso.
At the end of Fegina Beach, you’ll see “il Gigante” or the Giant, one of the most unique statues in Cinque Terre. The statue depicts Neptune holding the waves of the sea away from the town of Monterosso al Mare. Sadly, the Giant took a large hit during the WWII bombings and lost a large part of its makeup.
Today, the body and head of Neptune still stand strong, but these also continue to weather over time due to the water.
Where to Eat in Monterosso al Mare
For breakfast, check out M.G. Bar, Pasticceria Laura or Bar Della Stazione. For traditional seafood, try Ristorante Belvedere, Miky or Trattoria da Oscar. And, of course, don’t forget gelato! We heard that Il Golosone or Gelateria La Scogliera are great spots to try out.
Tips for Visiting the Cinque Terre Towns
Unlike some other destinations in Italy, you’ll be doing some hiking and potentially some swimming in Cinque Terre, so be sure to pack your swimsuit, tennis shoes, a hat, some sunscreen and a refillable water bottle for your visit.
As long as the fountain does not say “non-potable”, the water is safe to drink.
Try to get into the towns early each day, and stay late! They can fill up pretty quickly with day trippers, especially Vernazza because it has cruises coming in and out all day.
All of the Cinque Terre towns are quite peaceful first thing in the morning when they’re still quiet. Walk up the cobblestone steps in each village, especially Manarola!
Many restaurants require reservations, and most don’t open until 7 or 8 pm. Eat all the seafood you can; it’s so fresh and delicious.
Be sure to try some pesto and focaccia, both of which are popular in Cinque Terre, and the region of Liguria.
And, be sure to try the local drinks, including the two locally made wines, the eponymous Cinque Terre and the Sciachetrà, and grappa and limoncino.
Hopefully you’re feeling excited and ready to visit all of the Cinque Terre towns! Let me know if you have any questions before visiting in the comments below.
XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads
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The Cinque Terre towns are still on my to visit list. We’ve been to Italy several times, but not yet to this beautiful region. Great guide and tips!
I would go back to Italy in a heartbeat! We loved all of the cities we visited, but the Cinque Terre may be one of our favorite areas of all. I hope you can make it here someday!
HEY Taylor We have been to Cinque Terre 5 times and last year we went to Bari for the first time and stayed in Monopoli. Both areas are really nice depending on your preferences. The great thing about Cinque Terre is that you can do it all by train and no car is needed. The hiking is also very good there. In Monopoli and Bari I think I will rent a car next time. Our side trips were limited without a car. The food is great in both areas, but I give the nod here to Bari. If you want to bicycle then Bari is much better. I guess the shopping is better in Bari but this is not my strength. You have chosen two of my favorite places in Italy.
Thanks for sharing your experiences here! It’s much appreciated. Sounds like I will need to add Bari to my list as well 😊.
Great post! I’ve always wanted to visit the Cinque Terre towns. Riomaggiore looks like the best one to visit.
We absolutely loved Riomaggiore and would go back in a heartbeat! We heard really great things about staying in Manarola as well.
that beach looks crowded! but beautiful..and I appreciate the helpful tips like transportation and how to pronounce locations.. I am always so embarrassed to ask
Haha, me too! I definitely was corrected several times before getting it right. The beach wasn’t too crowded when we were there; they just set up the chairs and umbrellas beforehand, but I’m sure it does get crowded, especially once all of the day trippers arrive.
I’m torn between visiting Cinque Terre and the south around Bari/Alberobello on my next Italy visit. Cinque Terre sounds like a fun place to explore.
I haven’t been to Bari or Alberobello but I absolutely loved the Cinque Terre! Sounds like a tough decision; hopefully you can do both someday!
Love this region of Italy! Thanks for sharing the tip about the Cinque Terre Train Card!
My pleasure! It definitely came in handy for us 😊.
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Hi - has anyone done the ferry trip to the villages?
We have one day in May we were hoping to do a trip, we are staying in Santa Margarita & would love any reports on this ferry trip. Many thanks in advance!
4 replies to this topic
For details of the trips from Santa Margherita, click the wavy lines at the top right of https://traghettiportofino.it/en/lines-trips/line-1/ then look at Lines 3 and 4.
Thank you, we will explore this option.
We have done the trip by ferry described by Perilizia, but from the other direction. We had the option at the time of a half-day or full-day ticket, and we were able to get off and walk through a couple of the villages as well as have nice views from the sea. You can also go down the same route by train as your other alternative.
The views of the villages from the ferry are great as you approach and depart. We used them almost exclusively riding the train only once in 3 nights last May.
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A train line that runs along Italy's west coast connects all five villages with Genoa, Pisa and Rome. Between 6:30am and 10pm, one to three trains an hour trundle along the coast between Genoa and La Spezia, stopping at each of Cinque Terre's villages. The good-value Cinque Terre Card offers unlimited 2nd-class train travel between Levanto and ...
Nestled on the rugged Ligurian coast of Italy, the Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming seaside villages that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations. The name "Cinque Terre" translates to "Five Lands," and each of the five villages - Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore - is unique in its own way, yet all offer a glimpse into a ...
Culinary Delights: Cinque Terre is famous for its local cuisine, particularly seafood and pesto. The region is the birthplace of pesto, and its restaurants offer a variety of dishes featuring fresh basil, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, and cheese. Seafood, especially anchovies, is a staple, served in various styles .
Additionally, unless you're willing to make return trips for your hikes, you will be using the train so we recommend that you purchase a Cinque Terre Train Card from $25 USD. This allows you access to the Cinque Terre National Park, as well as unlimited travel on the Levanto-La Spezia line that connects the Cinque Terre towns.
The name "Cinque Terre" means "Five Lands," referring to five beautiful villages along the coast of Liguria (also known as the Italian Riviera): Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Nestled within the hilly coastal landscape, these villages were quite remote for much of their history.
Corniglia . Corniglia is the smallest of the Cinque Terre villages, and the only one perched on a cliff — it's a 377-step climb (or an easy bus ride) from the train station to the village.
Visiting Cinque Terre by boat is another option, especially for those who want to get away from the crowds. But the boats only operate from April 1 to November 1, 2020. The boats depart from La Spezia and visit Portovenere, Levanto and the five Cinque Terre towns. An unlimited ticket for 1 day in the Cinque Terre costs 27 €.
The Cinque Terre (five villages, literally translated) are five fishing villages on the Italian Riviera, Liguria region. Just a bit below the Cinque Terre, you find Tuscany, the land of the sunflowers. Anyway, the villages of the Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
Shoulder season - May and September - is a good time for visiting the Cinque Terre, with warm days around and fewer people than in peak season. Spring sees average high temperatures around 17-21ºC/63-70ºF and is mostly dry. October and November are the wettest months and there's a risk of heavy thunderstorms causing landslips.
The three main ways to get around the Cinque Terre are either by train, boat or hiking. 1. By Train. Running from La Spezia to Levanto and stopping at each of the five villages is a regular regional train that takes 30 minute end-to-end.
Summer in Italy: How to Plan Your Sun-Soaked Dream Trip! You can also add on an option to your Cinque Terre card to use the trains, which we highly recommend with this one day Cinque Terre itinerary. As of the time of writing, a one day Cinque Terre card runs 7.5 Euros for adults or 18.2 Euros with train access.
Mapping out a 2 to 3 days in Cinque Terre itinerary is an excellent way to ensure you see the best of these gorgeous villages on the Italian Riviera. While most people tend to go to the Amalfi Coast while searching for the famously beautiful views of the Italian seaside, Cinque Terre is a fiercely charming competitor located in the Liguria region.
The Cinque Terre Express train is the most convenient way to travel between villages. It runs every 20-minutes from each town and costs €5 for a one-way ride. It takes just 5 minutes on the train between each village.
Day 3: Monterosso al Mare. The best way to spend the last day is without a plan in Monterosso al Mare. You can get there however you prefer, by either taking the ferry, the boat, or the train, but this is the day to finally relax and just take advantage of Cinque Terre's beauty!
Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre. The best time to visit Cinque Terre, Italy will depend on your preference. Most travelers obviously visit in the summer to get the best weather for swimming and lounging on the beach. I always tell people to visit in either the late spring or early fall to avoid the summer crowds.
Having said that, the best time to visit Cinque Terre is in May and September. The climate is warm, and fewer people visit the region. Spring season is even an ideal time to experience good weather for hiking and swimming. Temperatures in spring range from an average of 18-21ºC/63-70ºF.
Hiking Cinque Terre is no easy feat! There is a lot of up and town and it is a long trail between all 5 towns. The Sentiero Azzurro is the name of the hiking trail that connects all 5 towns. But ...
If you have time to see only a few, Vernazza and Riomaggiore are the most photo-worthy and atmospheric and perhaps the best places to visit in the Cinque Terre. On This Page: Walking the Cinque Terre. 1. Monterosso al Mare. 2. Vernazza. 3. Corniglia.
Note: This post has been updated for the 2020 season. I love showing people the Cinque Terre for the first time. I'm lucky enough to do that on my group trips to the Cinque Terre and private Cinque Terre tours, and I dig seeing their faces when they arrive.. I've spent a ton of time in the area as a resident, a tour guide and a traveler.
How to reach Cinque Terre by train. The easiest and most comfortable way to get to Cinque Terre is by train. The five Cinque Terre villages are on the Genoa - La Spezia line and the trains are running frequently from Milan, Genoa and Pisa. Monterosso is the only one of the Cinque Terre villages that is served by long distance Intercity trains.
The closest towns are La Spezia and Levanto, on the southern and northern ends of Cinque Terre. Both are just a 10-minute train ride from Cinque Terre, on the same train line that passes through the five towns. You can easily travel to Cinque Terre on day trips from there. Yes, it's not the same staying in these towns as in Cinque Terre.
My Cinque Terre travel guide has top tips on how to visit all villages, where to stay in Cinque Terre and the best way to get there. When locals built terraces on top of small fishing villages in Liguria in the 11th century, little did they know that it would become one of the most famous coastal trails in the world. I was fortunate to visit ...
A three-to-four-day tour of the Cinque Terre allows you just enough time to visit all five villages, get to know the intricate labyrinth of at least one village center, and enjoy a few half-day hikes. If you're tight on time, staying one night will introduce you to the gentler ambiance at dawn, dusk, and midnight.
The Cinque Terre Treno MS Card gives you unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre Express trains on the Levanto-Cinque Terre-La Spezia line, as well as access to the hiking trails—more on these in a bit! The card also provides free use of the toilets in each of the railway stations. A two-day card costs €30 and is definitely worth it if you ...
Is Portovenere Cinque Terre's best-kept secret? Nestled amid the small village of Portovenere, where the turquoise waters of the Ligurian Sea caress the craggy coastline of Cinque Terre, sits an architectural gem steeped in history and splendour. Welcome to Grand Hotel Portovenere, a haven of tranquillity and a Dimora Storica - a historical ...
Cinque Terre ; Cinque Terre Travel Forum; Search. Browse all 10,449 Cinque Terre topics » Cinque Terre Ferry to Villages Watch this Topic. Browse forums; All. Browse by destination. United States Forums; ... Day trip to the Cinque Terre from Florence; Cinque Terre Destination Experts. cf28.