travel around cinque terre

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 April 2024

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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.

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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Top Things to Do

Manarola Guide

Corniglia Guide

Vernazza Guide

Monterosso al Mare Guide

Riomaggiore Guide

Hiking in Cinque Terre

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around

Getting to and Around the Cinque Terre

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Italy's Cinque Terre, or "five lands," is composed of the villages of Riomaggiore , Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Together, these five seaside towns rank among the most scenic parts of the country, and hiking the short distances from town-to-town is one of our must-do experiences in Italy .

The Cinque Terre is on the southern coast of Liguria, a small region that hugs the coastline of the aptly named Ligurian Sea, part of the Mediterranean. Getting there from outside Italy requires a combination of planes, trains, or rental cars. Once there, trains or foot-power are among the best ways to get around.

Read on for our guide on how to get to the Cinque Terre and how to get around once you're there. We refer to La Spezia , a port city about 10 miles from Riomaggiore, as the most logical starting point for touring the Cinque Terre.

How to Get to the Cinque Terre

If you're flying to Italy from abroad or taking shorter flights within the country, the closest airports are Cristoforo Colombo International Airport (GOA) in Genoa and Galileo Galilei International airport (PSA) in Pisa. Other, more distant airports that host more daily international flights include Bologna (BLQ), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Rome Fiumicino (FCO). From any of these airports, you can connect by train to La Spezia, the jumping-off point for the Cinque Terre or you can rent a car and drive.

A Trenitalia coastal train line runs between Genoa and Rome, allowing travelers to journey from either of those two cities, as well as Pisa, on a direct, high-speed Frecciabianca train to La Spezia. The train runs three times a day in both directions. There are also several daily direct trains from Florence's Santa Maria Novella, the city's central station, to La Spezia. Train travelers from Bologna typically connect in Florence (Firenze) to reach La Spezia. From Milano Centrale, Milan's central station, you can take one of three daily direct trains to La Spezia, or connect in Genoa or Sestri Levante. For train times from these cities, see the table above.

Travelers coming from the north who wish to begin their tour of the Cinque Terre on the northern end can find trains from Milan and Genoa that stop in Monterosso, the northernmost of the five towns.

Travelers reaching La Spezia by car from the south will take the SS1/Via Aurelia coastal road. From the north, drivers can take the E80 or the SS1 past Sestri Levante as far as Carrodano Inferiore, from where they pick up the regional road to Monterosso.

How to Get Around the Cinque Terre Villages

Because it's most affordable than the five towns, many travelers opt to use La Spezia as their base for overnights and make day outings to the Cinque Terre villages. Or they may spend their first night in La Spezia and then make their way between the villages. Whatever option you choose, if you've chosen La Spezia as your starting point for exploring the Cinque Terre, you have several options for reaching the towns.

Year-round, the Cinque Terre Express train connects La Spezia to Levanto to the north, stopping in all five towns along the way. The villages are all just minutes apart from one another, and trains frequently run, especially from spring to fall. A one-way ticket between two destinations costs 4 euros (as of May 2020). If you plan to make several stops and also hike between the villages, you should buy a Cinque Terre Train Card for 16 euros. Good for one day, the card allows for unlimited train travel on the Cinque Terre Express, and access to all hiking trails customarily accessed with the Cinque Terre Card .

From April 1 to Nov. 1, ferry service is available from La Spezia and nearby Portovenere. Boats stop at four of the five villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, and Monterosso, skipping Corniglia since that village is not directly on the water. Daily tickets with unlimited stops cost between 30 and 35 euros (as of May 2020), with slight discounts for afternoon-only tickets.

Of course, walking the scenic footpaths between the five villages is one of the main reasons most travelers head to the Cinque Terre in the first place. It's a total of just under 7 miles from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, the two ends of the chain of villages. The largest distance between any two towns is 2.5 miles, and the shortest is just under a mile—or about a 30-minute walk. Some of the main trails are moderately strenuous, but reasonably fit walkers should have no difficulty. Be sure to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle for filling up at free water fountains in each town.

If you are walking between towns, you must purchase a Cinque Terre Card . The villages and the surrounding natural area are within a national park, and the card allows you access to all trails, shuttle buses between the towns, restroom access, and museum discounts. (If you are not planning to walk between the towns, you do not need to purchase the Cinque Terre Card.)

If you travel light, an adventurous option for seeing the towns is to reserve one or more hotel nights in different villages. You can pack your things in a lightweight backpack and stroll to your next overnight destination, allowing plenty of time for long lunches and dips in the sea. If you need to keep larger luggage close at hand, there are porter services that will transfer your bags while you walk.

We list this option for getting around the Cinque Terre last for a good reason—it's the least practical way to see the towns. The roads leading to Monterosso and Riomaggiore and the villages between are narrow, winding, occasionally have steep drop-offs, and require some white-knuckle courage. Cars are not permitted in any of the communities, so drivers must compete for a minimal number of paid parking spaces outside the towns. There are lots above all the towns. Hourly fees start at 2 euros, and daily prices are between 20 and 25 euros for 24 hours. You will still need to walk or take the train or the seasonal boat to get between the towns, as the idea of driving the short distances from town to town and finding a parking space each time is nightmarish.

If you're on a driving tour of Italy and want to see the Cinque Terre, we recommend leaving your car in La Spezia or Levanto and making use of the train or seasonal ferry as a way of accessing the towns. Even if you're not an enthusiastic walker, if you're physically able to walk, you'll find even the shortest walk, between Riomaggiore and Manarola, is beautiful and rewarding.

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Cinque Terre Itinerary

Last Updated on January 26, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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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: 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.

Discover Classic Italy in this Ultimate 14 Day Itinerary

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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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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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.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

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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You might also like

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.

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Home » Europe » Italy » Cinque Terre

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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Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Everything you need to know

Cinque Terre or the five villages is one of the most visited places in Italy, attracting millions of tourists every year. A visit to the Cinque Terre, along the Italian Riviera, is a refreshing experience on a trip to Italy. Its colorful villages, panoramic hiking trails, magnificent sunsets, and fascinating atmosphere captivate visitors. Use our Cinque Terre travel guide to make the best of your trip. In this post, you will find all the information you need to know for your first visit.

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Where is Cinque Terre in Italy

Cinque Terre means “five lands”. Cinque Terre is located on the west coast of Italy, in the Liguria region, just above  Tuscany .  Cinque Terre has five towns:  Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

These fishing villages together form the Cinque Terre National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cinque Terre National Park has no entrance fee.

Recommended Post → How to see Cinque Terre in 1 Day

TIP You can easily combine Cinque Terre with a visit to Genoa,  Pisa, Florence , or  Milan .

How to Get to Cinque Terre

• By plane:  The nearest airports to Cinque Terre are in Genoa or Pisa. You can find cheap flights from major European cities. From Genoa or Pisa, catch the train to La Spezia, and the journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. From La Spezia, you can then take the Cinque Terre Express train, which passes through all the towns.
• By train:  The easiest way to get to Cinque Terre is by train. Cinque Terre is simple to add to your Italian itinerary because it is not far from major cities such as  Florence ,  Milan ,  Rome , or Venice.

Distance between Cinque Terre and other Italian cities by train:

Genoa → Cinque Terre 1,5 hours Pisa → Cinque Terre 1,5 hours Florence – Cinque Terre 3 hours Milan → Cinque Terre 4 hours Rome → Cinque Terre 5 hours Venice → Cinque Terre 6 hours.

TIP Use Omio to check train timetables and buy tickets.

• By boat:  There is a ferry that connects the villages of the Cinque Terre with Portovenere, La Spezia, and Levanto. Except for Corniglia, which has no harbour. The boats only operate in the high season from April to October, so always check the actual timetables.
• By car:  Cars are not recommended in Cinque Terre. So if you arrive in Italy by car, leave your vehicle in Levanto or La Spezia. We recommend booking accommodation with free parking or using a parking garage. Roads are narrow, and parking is almost impossible or expensive in Cinque Terre. Italy has many restricted traffic zones (ZTL), and if you drive into them, you have to pay a high fine.

TIP If you are not traveling to Italy by car, but after Cinque Terre, you would like to explore the  Tuscany region , rent a car in Florence.

When to Visit Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre can be visited all year round, with the peak season from May to September. The best time to visit Cinque Terre depends on whether you want to go hiking, relax on the beach, or just sightseeing.  The most popular time to visit Cinque Terre is during the summer months.  The weather is beautiful, but the accommodation prices can be much higher, and the villages crazy crowded.

Read our → 3 Days in Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Another alternative is to visit Cinque Terre in the off-season.  When the weather is more pleasant, less crowded and prices are lower. However, the weather can be changeable, with much rain and colder weather in this period.  But if the weather is not good, boat trips may be canceled, or hiking trails may not be accessible.

TIP If you arrive in high season, we strongly recommend booking in advance.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

Because the five towns are easy to explore, you don’t need to stay here. However, if you stay longer, we recommend staying in one of the villages. When choosing where to stay in Cinque Terre, think about where you want to spend most of your time or where you want to start the day.

Accommodation within the Cinque Terre National Park needs to be booked well in advance and is quite expensive.

Corniglia  is the least crowded as it has no harbour and you have to climb 382 steps to reach the village, but it has fantastic sea views. Riomaggiore  is very popular for its nightlife but is incredibly crowded during the day. Manarola and Vernazza  are lovely villages with famous viewpoints and fabulous accommodation. Monterosso al Mare  is a popular destination for those who prefer a beach holiday or easy access.

If you’re looking for a budget option , stay outside Cinque Terre, in Levanto, or La Spezia. From here is a direct train connection to Cinque Terre.

Here are the → 12 Best Things to Do in Italy

TIP Riomaggiore and Manarola are the best sunset viewpoints in the Cinque Terre.

How Many Days Do You Need for Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a popular day trip, so most visitors take a quick visit from  Florence  or  Milan .

You can visit the villages in 1 day , as they are only a few minutes by train from each other. We recommend arriving at least a day in advance and staying in Cinque Terre or La Spezia. The next day, start exploring the villages as early as possible. Most tourists arrive around 9 AM and stay until 5 PM.

Cinque Terre is worth a quick visit. However, spending 3 or 4 days  is recommended in Cinque Terre. If you stay longer, you can comfortably explore the villages, take some of the beautiful hiking trails, swim on the sandy beach, join a boat trip or visit nearby towns.

How to Travel Around Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Getting around Cinque Terre is easy, and there are three ways to choose from: train, ferry, and hiking.

• The train  is the fastest and cheapest way to travel between villages. Cinque Terre Express  trains run  between La Spezia and Levanto  several times an hour , with stops in every town. It takes just 5 minutes to get from one village to the other. Tickets cost  €4 one way, or you can use the trains unlimited with your Cinque Terre Card. There is no reservation in advance on the trains, and crazy lines can form on the platforms. Although you are only a few minutes away from the other village, you may not get on the train due to the crowds or the train may be delayed. Check which train you get on, as not all trains stop in every town. There may be pickpockets around the train station, so take care of your valuables!

• A boat trip  in the Cinque Terre is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful coastline and enjoy the view from different perspectives. The ferries operate  from the end of March to the 1st of November, but it is possible to cancel the cruises due to bad weather conditions. There is a ferry that connects the Cinque Terre villages with Portovenere, La Spezia, and Levanto. Except for Corniglia, which has no harbour. Cinque Terre boat prices:  Daily ticket for Cinque Terre, Levanto, La Spezia, Portovenere €35 for adults, €20 for children (6-11 years). If you only want to travel around Cinque Terre, €27 for adults, €15 for children.
• One of the best ways to explore the Cinque Terre is by hiking.  You can walk from one village to any other in 1-2 hours. Cinque Terre has many paths and hiking trails that you can easily explore during your stay and enjoy the breathtaking views of the coastline along the way. The Blue Trail is the most popular in the Cinque Terre National Park, which connects all five villages. Some hiking trails have a toll.  So you have to pay €7.50, or you can use them for free with the Cinque Terre Card.  Because some of the hiking trails were closed during our visit, we recommend that you check at the local information offices on arrival.  You should wear  suitable shoes, a hat, use sunscreen, and take a refillable water bottle with you when hiking.

Cinque Terre Card

You can buy a one-way ticket between villages,  but it is   better to buy a Cinque Terre Card.  A one-way train ticket between two villages costs €4.

A Cinque Terre Train Card: – A day ticket costs €16 for adults, €29 for two days, and €41 for three days. – For children (4-12 years), a day ticket cost €10. The card gives access  to all hiking trails and unlimited train travel between villages, including La Spezia and Levanto. The Cinque Terre Card includes free wifi, shuttle buses, and toilets (€1 otherwise).  Alternatively, you can buy a Cinque Terre Trekking Card.  Which also allows access to all the hiking trails but does not include train travel.

Cinque Terre Trekking Card: – A day ticket costs €7.50 for adults, or €14.50 for two days. – For children, a day ticket is €4.50, or €7.20 for two days.

The Cinque Terre Card can be purchased at every train station or the tourist information points in Cinque Terre, Levanto, and La Spezia, or buy your ticket online. The card is valid for the calendar day, not for 24 hours after purchase!

We recommend  that you buy your ticket the day before to avoid queuing the next day. When you have purchased your Cinque Terre card, you must write your name on the card and keep it with you at all times during your journey.

You can easily explore the 5 villages with our Cinque Terre Travel Guide. But if you have any questions, please leave a comment below or send us an email.

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How to Get to (& moving around) Cinque Terre

Color architecture & rocky landscapes.

Cinque Terre means “Five Lands” in English and is composed by five crazily constructed small fishing villages located on rocks along the cliff in a spectacular landscape. In 1997, the National Park of Cinque Terre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and even out of season it can be packed with other visitors .

As the villages are really close to one another you may visit all of them in just one day (read more details about what to see and do in each little town). However, I recommend staying at least one or two nights in one of the villages as it gives you the opportunity to explore all five towns at a more relaxed pace, especially during mornings and evenings when day tourists are gone.  The silence that descends when the streets empty and the even lights start to flicker on, will give you another perspective of this enchanting land.

Arriving by Car

No doubt, Cinque Terre is best reached by train . But for those who want to arrive via car, you'll also find a few helpful suggestions and things to know below.

The easiest village to reach by car is actually Monterosso , which also has the cheapest parking. Manarola and Riomaggiore do have parking lots above their towns, but you will need to walk from there to the center. Corniglia and Vernazza are more difficult to reach by car, due to narrow roads and limited parking space. You can also drive to La Spezia or Levanto and then proceed by train.  Portovenere has the legendary Pathway no. 1 , the original trail to Cinque Terre and many towns also offer ferry service like Lerici.  Read this article for some alternatives stops with a car .

Getting around: by foot, train or boat

There are basically three ways to move from one village to another; you either walk, take the train or the boat. The walking trail is 12 kilometers and runs along the coast through all five villages from Riomaggiore in the south to Monterosso in the north.

Check the status

Remember that trail availability can change overnight due to weather conditions, and since 2012 some of the trails are closed due to a landslide. Check before going on the official Parco 5 Terre website

Sandy beaches are few and far between, except in Monterosso, and the trails will climb and descend through the landscape, giving you fantastic scenic views of the villages as you leave one behind and approach the next one. You will need to buy the Cinque Terre Pass for hiking the trail. You can get it from the train stations, at tourist information offices or at every start of a trail at each village.

The price varies depending on the number of open paths, but expect EUR 5-8 a day, and for an extra EUR 5 you get limited use of the trains as well.

Alternatives to Hiking the Trails

If the trails along the coast are closed, you can either go for the longer and more demanding trails running further up in the landscape or catch the train or boat, which takes you from one village to another in a few minutes. The train is a very easy and convenient way to get from village to village. It runs approximately two times an hour and cuts through coastal tunnels, so don’t expect to see much.

The boat runs less frequently, but I highly recommend taking it at least once as the view of the villages from the sea gives you the possibility to really appreciate the colorful buildings against the backdrop of the hills.

If you travel with children in a stroller, it is not possible to walk the trails between the villages as there are too many stairs and stones. The only part that is doable with a stroller is the Via dell'Amore , or the Way of Love, the stretch of the trail that goes from Riomaggiore to Manarola as it is flat BUT it is closed ! For all others, catch the train or the boat. If you like hiking, I recommend a trip from Corniglia to San Bernadino on top of the hill or from Manarola to Riomaggiore.

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Author: Helle D. Rasmussen

Helle is a Danish citizen currently living in Siena with her Rwandan husband and their one-year-old son. She has lived in several countries around the world and loves to explore every part of the place she lives. She is in the process of exploring Tuscany, especially Siena and its surroundings, and would love to pass on her experiences.

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Our Travel Guides

Cinque Terre Guide: A Complete 4-Day Itinerary

Cinque Terre is a coastal region in the northwest of Italy and consists of five colorful villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. The area is a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Cinque Terre feels like walking right into a postcard. I’ve seen many beautiful pictures from this famous Italian coastal landscape before coming here, but nothing compares to seeing these dreamy villages in real life. I completely fell in love with Cinque Terre and all of its charming colorful towns. For me, Cinque Terre is one of the most incredible places in Italy and definitely a bucket list destination! Therefore, I decided to share our 4-day Cinque Terre itinerary alongside some helpful tips on how to make the most of your Cinque Terre trip in case you are planning to visit this magnificent region.

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases/bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I’ve personally used and genuinely like.

4 Days in Cinque Terre – Quick Tips

Best Places to Stay | La Spezia ($), Manarola ($$), Riomaggiore ($$), Vernazza ($$) Best Time to Visit | April, May, September, October How to Get Around | Train, Hiking, Ferry Top Places to Visit | Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare, La Spezia Secret Tips | Corniglia, Porto Venere Best Tours & Experiences | Cinque Terre Boat Trip , Wine Tasting & Walking Tour , Traditional Food Tour Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Keep reading for my complete Cinque Terre travel guide…

Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre

The best time to visit Cinque Terre is from April to May and from September to October. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are a bit smaller compared to the peak season in July and August. The spring season is particularly beautiful, with wildflowers blooming all over the hills, and the sea is calm and perfect for swimming. Moreover, during the low season, you can find better deals on accommodation, and it’s easier to get around the villages without the crowds. However, keep in mind that some shops and restaurants might be closed in the off-season, so plan accordingly. We visited Cinque Terre once in May and once in September and would recommend visiting rather at the beginning of the season than at the end.

How to get around in Cinque Terre?

The easiest and fastest way to travel around the villages in Cinque Terre is by train. Trains are running frequently between the five villages and the travel time is only 4 – 6 minutes. We got a Cinque Terre train card for 2 days for 33€. The card also includes access to all hiking trails, the use of the National Park buses, free WIFI, and free access to toilets.

Other ways to get around in Cinque Terre are:

• By Car : I wouldn’t recommend visiting Cinque Terre by car because it’s hard to reach the villages and to find parking spaces + they are really expensive.
• Hiking : takes a couple of hours and offers breathtaking views, but not all trekking paths are open at the moment (please check if all hiking sections are accessible before visiting).
• By Ferry : 37€ for a daily ticket, you can enjoy panoramic views from the sea.

Our 4-day Cinque Terre Itinerary

Day 1: la spezia.

During our Cinque Terre visit, we stayed in La Spezia, which is a charming town very close to Cinque Terre and offers many accommodation options for every budget. We stayed in a lovely apartment, called My Way (click here to check prices & availability for this apartment). The beautiful, stylish apartment is within walking distance to the train station and to the city center of La Spezia. Therefore, we decided to spend the first day exploring La Spezia itself.

We really loved the historical old town with its charming colorful buildings and the small dreamy alleys and courtyards. It’s a great place to wander around and get lost. The main pedestrian and shopping street is Via del Prione . It’s a good starting point to explore La Spezia. From there you can get to one of the major landmarks of La Spezia: Castello di San Giorgio , which is overlooking the town. You can reach the castle by walking up a series of stairs or by taking an elevator.

Other historic sights in La Spezia worth visiting are Chiesa di Nostra Signora della Neve and Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta , which are both beautiful churches with a remarkable architecture.

Next to the historic center, we also loved the Waterfront of La Spezia. It’s a great area to enjoy a long walk by the water with a fantastic scenery. At the waterfront, you can also find Parco Giardini Pubblici , a beautiful public garden with many different trees and flowers. It’s the perfect place to relax from sightseeing.

From the waterfront, you can walk over Ponte Thaon di Revel (bridge) to Porto Mirabello to enjoy great views of the waterfront and the historic town of La Spezia from this modern white bridge. We watched a beautiful sunset there. It was the perfect way to end our first day in La Spezia.

Looking for accommodation in La Spezia? Click here !

You may also want to explore: Lake Como in 3 Days

Day 2: Riomaggiore & Manarola

We started the second day early and took one of the first trains from La Spezia to Riomaggiore (click here to check out accommodation options in Riomaggiore). I definitely recommend arriving in Cinque Terre before 9 AM because all the villages get very crowded between 10 AM – 5 PM. In Riomaggiore, we started our day at the famous viewpoint right at the harbor, which offers breathtaking views over the colorful village. This spot was one of my favorite places in the entire region. The view is priceless (see below)! The rest of the morning we spent wandering through the charming alleyways until we took the train to Manarola to be there before lunchtime.

In Manarola, we made our way from the train station to the panoramic viewpoint over the village and the surrounding vineyards. It’s an easy walk of only a few hundred meters. If you go further up you will find the (probably) most famous restaurant in Cinque Terre, Nessun Dorma, which offers fabulous views over the pastel-colored village. We went there for lunch and I can definitely recommend dining there at least once during your Cinque Terre visit. The food was amazing and the view truly left me speechless. (Tip: Try to arrive one hour before opening to get a good table. When the restaurant opens there will be a long queue already.)

After having lunch, we explored the village and took some more pictures. You seriously cannot take any bad pictures of Manarola as every corner of this village is so photogenic! In the afternoon, we needed some rest and refreshment, so we laid down our towels on a rock next to the harbor and took a swim in the turquoise water. The water is really nice and clear – perfect to cool down! We spent quite a while there swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping. It’s a great place to soak in the Italian atmosphere and to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding colorful houses. Such a dreamy vibe!

Looking for accommodation in Manarola? Click here !

You may also enjoy reading: Amalfi Coast Highlights – Travel Guide & Best Things to Do

Day 3: Vernazza & Monterosso al Mare

We started the day early again to arrive in Vernazza before the crowds. In Vernazza, we walked the hiking trail in both directions (first in the direction of Monterosso, afterwards in the direction of Corniglia) for a couple of hundred meters to get the best views over the village. If you want to enter the hiking path you need to have a Cinque Terre Card (in case you don’t have the Cinque Terre train card) and wear closed shoes (sandals etc. are not allowed). The views over Vernazza belonged to my favorite views in Cinque Terre. If you look at the pictures below, I’m sure you can understand why.

— My Travel Photography Gear — Camera: Sony A7R III Allrounder Zoom Lens: Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 Favorite Lens: Sony FE 35mm F/1.8 Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 100-400mm F/5-6.3 Drone: DJI Mini 3 Pro GoPro: GoPro Hero11 Black Phone: iPhone 12 Pro Max Camera Tripod: Rollei Compact Traveler No. 1 Carbon Phone Tripod: Lammcou Tripod As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. To read more about my photography gear, click HERE .

We kept exploring the village and the harbor (which has a small beach) in the morning and because we really loved the vibes and atmosphere in Vernazza, we decided to come back here later after our planned visit to Monterosso al Mare.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages in Cinque Terre and features many hotels (click here to check out hotels in Monterosso al Mare), restaurants, shops, and beaches. After arriving in Monterosso, we first walked along the beautiful seafront promenade. I really liked all the cute colorful umbrellas at the beach.

After taking a stroll through the village (don’t miss the church of San Giovanni Batista!) and having some gelato, we decided to rent two lounge chairs with an umbrella at one of the beaches which cost 30€ per day. It was great to relax for a while and to take a refreshing swim.

After relaxing at the beach we took the train back to Vernazza to enjoy the evening and the magical sunset at the beach/harbor there. For me, Vernazza unites the best features of all five villages: a charming rustic harbor (like Riomaggiore), magnificent views of pastel-colored houses (like Manarola), a sandy beach (like Monterosso), and high viewpoints (like Corniglia). Therefore, Vernazza is probably my favorite village of Cinque Terre (closely followed by Manarola).

Note : we skipped visiting Corniglia for this 4-day Cinque Terre ititnerary, but if you have enough time, I would recommend to make a short stop in Corniglia to see a more authentic and less crowded side of Cinque Terre.

Looking for accommodation in Vernazza? Click here .

This article may also be of interest to you: Best Things to Do in Tuscany

Day 4: Sailing in Cinque Terre

On our last day in Cinque Terre, we went sailing. It was absolutely incredible to see all the colorful villages from the sea perspective. We started our sailing trip at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia. From there we went to Porto Venere, circled around the three islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, followed by all five villages of Cinque Terre.

We stopped to have lunch in front of Riomaggiore, which offered the most amazing scenery. I couldn’t imagine a better view for an Italian lunch at the sea! After that, we made another stop in front of Monterosso al Mare to swim in the crystal clear water surrounding our sailing yacht. It was such a great experience that I will never forget.

On our way back to La Spezia we not only soaked in a lot of sun on the deck but also as much of the dreamy and unique atmosphere of Cinque Terre as we could. Exploring Cinque Terre on a saliling yacht was definitely one of the highlights of our Cinque Terre trip and the best way to end our vacation with a bang! I can highly recommend doing a boat trip in Cinque Terre!

If you also want to do a boat tour in Cinque Terre make sure to check out these tour options:

• Full-Day Cinque Terre Sailing Tour from La Spezia
• Cinque Terre Full-Day Boat Tour from La Spezia
• Sunset Boat Tour from La Spezia to Portovenere & Palmaria Island

Looking for more Italy travel guides or want to combine your 4 days in Cinque Terre with visiting some other beautiful Italian regions? Click HERE or select one of the blog posts below!

• Amalfi Coast – Travel Guide & Best Things to Do
• Tuscany – Travel Guide & Best Things to Do
• Best Day Trips Around Florence without a Car
• 3 Days in Lake Como: A Complete 3-Day Itinerary
• Best Places to Visit in Puglia

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Founder of Simply Madeleine

Madeleine is the storyteller and globetrotter behind Simply Madeleine, a travel blog focusing on bucket list destinations, memorable travel itineraries, and unique travel experiences. She travels the world full-time together with her fiancé. Together they have explored over 25 countries. On this blog, Madeleine shares detailed travel guides of the places they have visited, including the best things to do and the best hotels to stay. Originally from Germany, Madeleine has lived in many different countries around the world and is now based on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. She is a blogger, content creator, beach lover, and passionate photographer.

Such a stunning scenery. Love your style 🙂

The scenery in Cinque Terre is truly unique! Thank you so much! :*

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Cinque Terre Itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days in Cinque Terre, Italy

last Updated: December 5, 2023 cinque terre italy

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Italy and looking to spend 3 days in Cinque Terre?! I’m sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect Cinque Terre itinerary — when to go, where to stay, where to eat, and of course, all the fun things to do!

Imagine eating authentic Italian pizza while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. Learning how to make homemade pesto with an aperol spritz in hand. Sunbathing on one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Italy. Wandering tiny towns full of colorful homes and quaint, cobblestone streets. That’s Cinque Terre in a nutshell. And it’s absolutely glorious.

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands”, consists of five small coastal villages (Riomaggiore, Manarola , Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare). Luckily, this Cinque Terre itinerary visits them all! Think picturesque harbors, winding cliff pathways, pastel-colored houses, and sweeping vistas full of terraced vineyards. Can’t forget about all that trofie al pesto and sage butter gnocchi (mmm… I’m drooling just thinking about those meals!).

After stepping off the train, heading to our hotel high up in the hills of Manarola, and then taking our first look at the sea, we were in awe. I can promise you, you’ll never want your 3 days in Cinque Terre to end. There’s a reason over three million travelers visit each and every year. 

Honestly, it’s my new favorite area of Italy. Our trip exceeded all my expectations and then some; yes, it’s touristy, but I swear, it’s one of the prettiest destinations in all of Italy (and that’s a tough call because there’s just so much scenic beauty in this country) .

Get ready for this Cinque Terre itinerary – you’ll never wanna leave this famous coastal landscape! I know I didn’t!

3 Days in Cinque Terre At-A-Glance

• Day 1: Beach at Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza Harbor
• Day 2 : Corniglia Views and Pizza Sunset in Riomaggiore
• Day 3: Nessun Dorma Pesto Class, Boat Tour, and Fresh Pasta in Manarola

So let’s get to it – the most perfect 3 day Cinque Terre itinerary coming right up! But first, some important logistics!

3 Days in Cinque Terre Itinerary Logistics

Where is cinque terre.

Cinque Terre is in Northwestern Italy in the Italian Riviera right on the Mediterranean coast. It’s located in the Liguria Region (along with Genoa – the region’s capital, La Spezia, and Sanremo), and not terribly far from major cities like Pisa, Milan, and Florence.

Although it’s in the north, it’s on the opposite side of the country from Venice, so don’t expect to travel between the two fast!

If you’re hoping to visit both the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre (like plenty of people do), remember they are pretty far apart. Amalfi is located on the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region… quite far from the villages of Cinque Terre.

How to Get to Cinque Terre

Regardless of where you’re coming from, it can be a bit tricky to get to Cinque Terre. 

Why? Because if you look at a map, there’s no specific place in Italy called Cinque Terre – it’s a region comprising those five tiny villages I spoke about earlier. You’ve gotta know exactly where to go (and by that, I mean which town you wanna visit).

Also, there’s no Cinque Terre airport, so regardless of where you fly into, you’ll need to take the train to the 5 villages. So yea, it’s a little more challenging to reach than the bigger cities in Italy, but well worth it! I promise!

Flying to Cinque Terre

Okay, so here’s the thing. You can’t fly to Cinque Terre directly (there’s no airport here!), but you can fly to an airport nearby. If you’re coming from the states, I recommend flying into one of these airports and then taking the train to the villages of Cinque Terre.

How to decide which airport to fly into? Look at flight prices and flight schedules. Some airports offer more international arrivals than others, so it’s really worth looking into all the possible airports.

• Pisa (Galileo Galilei International Airport, PSA): ~50 miles, 1 ½ hours away, by far the closest airport to Cinque Terre. You need to first take the Pisa Mover to the main train station (only takes about 5 minutes), then take the train to La Spezia (about 1 ½ hours).
• Genoa (Cristoforo Colombo International Airport, GOA): ~55 miles, 2 hours away via train
• Florence (Florence Airport, FLR): ~85 miles, ~ 3 ½ hours away via train
• Milan (Milan Malpensa Airport, MXP): ~160 miles, ~4 hours away via train. The furthest away on this list, but MXP has so many international flights so definitely check out the airport in Milan. 

Once you fly into one of these airports near Cinque Terre, you’ll then need to take the train! Info below! I promise you the long journey is worth it!

Taking the Train to Cinque Terre

If you’re flying to an airport near Cinque Terre or heading to the five villages from elsewhere in Italy, you’ll most likely be taking the train. Unfortunately, there are no reliable bus options, so the train is your best bet.

Thankfully, Trenitalia ( the primary train operator in Italy) has direct connections to La Spezia from Rome, Florence, and Pisa (the closest airport). Wait… La Spezia? I thought we were going to Cinque Terre! 

Yup, you’ll most likely need to connect in either La Spezia (south of the five towns) or Levanto (directly north of Monterosso al Mare). For further details on train times and prices, check out the Trenitalia website.

Once you get to Cinque Terre, the Cinque Terre Express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto in Sestri Levante, stopping at each village every few minutes.

Psst – Monterosso is the only one of the Cinque Terre villages that is served by long distance Intercity trains. If you end up here and your accommodation is elsewhere, you’ll need to take the Cinque Terre Express train.

If you’re crazy like us and decided to head from Venice to Cinque Terre, you’ll need to take a connecting train. First from Venezia San Lucia to Milano Centrale (2 ½ hours), and then from Milano Centrale to Monterosso (3 hours). 

Honestly, although the train travel was only about 5 ½ hours, it literally took ALL day and I wouldn’t recommend doing it this way. We essentially lost an entire day of our trip and had a difficult time figuring out which train times would be best (we were worried about missing a super tight connection).

Driving to Cinque Terre 

Honestly, I don’t recommend driving to Cinque Terre. While there’s a few parking lots outside the town centers, you won’t be using your car in Cinque Terre itself, AT ALL. Plus, the roads are narrow and windy through the mountains, there’s not a bunch of parking (and it can be quite expensive), and you’ll probably get a ticket or two (parking laws are very strict here).

If Cinque Terre is part of a much longer Italy road trip and you’re planning to drive over here, don’t fret. Just find a parking lot. I highly recommend finding a parking lot where you can simply drop your car off, leave it there for the duration of your stay in Cinque Terre, and then pick it back up once you’re leaving the area.

Check out the Park Centro Stazione underground parking garage at the La Spezia Centrale train station – you can park for 24 hours for €30 (the daily rate). You can then take the Cinque Terre Express Train directly to the villages.

Definitely not the most convenient way to head to Cinque Terre, but it’s possible. If you’re following this Cinque Terre itinerary, you definitely don’t need a car, promise!

How to Get Around During Your 3 Days in Cinque Terre

By Train 

During your 3 days in Cinque Terre, you’ll undoubtedly be taking the train plenty of times! It’s by far the best way to get between the villages. Each of the five towns of Cinque Terre has its own train station, and they’re all connected on the Cinque Terre railway. Trains run about every 20 minutes, although standing there in the blazing sun it definitely felt longer sometimes (and the schedule never seemed to match up…).

Thankfully, it doesn’t take long to get from one village to the next. A few minutes at most! It takes less than 30 minutes to get from one end of the railway to the other (including to La Spezia).

Like other big cities, Cinque Terre has its own transportation pass, the Cinque Terre Pass (very unique name, I know, haha). If you want unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre Train (all the way from La Spezia to Levanto, with all the five villages in between), you’ll wanna grab the Cinque Terre Train Card.

You can purchase the card for either 1 day, 2 days, or 3 days. We used the train a few times a day and loved not having to worry about getting (and paying for) train tickets each and every time. You can purchase the pass at any train station in Cinque, or at any of the Tourist Info Points.

I didn’t actually realize there was a ferry running between the villages until we got to Cinque Terre. And lemme tell ya — seeing the villages from the water is an activity in and of itself! 

Taking the ferry is a great way to see the rugged cliffs of the coastline as well as the turquoise water and of course the colorful fishing villages from a different viewpoint. But there’s an even better way… a boat tour, which I’ll get into later. 

The ferry runs from the end of March until the beginning of November.

Psst – the ferry doesn’t run to Corniglia since there’s no water access there. It does make stops in Portovenere though, and less frequently in La Spezia and Levanto. 

Boat vs Train? I still choose the train, as they come way more frequently. Take a guided boat tour instead (and you won’t be smashed with hundreds of other passengers on board and even get to swim in the refreshing sea)!

Once you’ve taken the train into one of the 5 villages, you can then get around entirely on foot! The five towns are pretty small (albeit a bit hilly, especially heading up to Corniglia), and you can really see so much in a short amount of time.

We walked A TON in Cinque Terre, and highly recommend wearing comfy shoes. Leave your strappy sandals and cute espadrilles at home if you know you’ll be getting in your steps. I saw a few girls struggling in heels on the uneven cobblestone – don’t be one of them. Save your cute shoes for dinner wherever you’re staying (basically, whenever you know you’re not walking a lot, haha).

By Car 

I do NOT recommend a car to get around Cinque Terre. The villages themselves are car-free (for real, you won’t see any cars), and there’s super limited parking outside the village centers. Once you realize how fast and easy the train is, you’ll be glad you left your car at home.

Driving to Cinque Terre? Park your car outside the main villages (in La Spezia) for the duration of your stay in Cinque Terre. There’s really no reason for a car in Cinque Terre, and it’ll just prove to be more of a hassle anyways.

When to Plan Your 3 Day Cinque Terre Itinerary (Weather and Crowds)

Is there really a bad time to visit Cinque Terre? With Liguria’s mild Mediterranean climates, a visit from mid-March to mid-October will probably be pretty perfect! Of course there’s pros and cons to each season, which I’ll explain a bit here!

Summer: May — September (High Season)

May through September is Cinque Terre’s busy season, and boy does it get busy. Crowds seem to increase every year – everyone wants to see the sweeping vistas and explore the colorful fishing villages (can’t blame them!). 

The beaches in Monterosso al Mare are overflowing with tourists (get there early). You’ll need to make dinner reservations at popular restaurants. And book accommodation months in advance. Still, the weather will be at its best, with the highest chance of clear, sunny skies and gorgeous beach weather.

Try to avoid school vacations and especially Italian National holidays, as this is when the five towns see the highest number of visitors.

Whatever you do, do whatever you can to avoid visiting Cinque Terre when a cruise ship is in port (La Spezia) — thousands of people will be pouring into the small towns! Find the schedule here .

For reference, we visited Cinque Terre in late June. The days were long and hot and sweaty, and the towns were pretty crowded. We still had a fantastic time, but we would have preferred slightly cooler weather (since we were dripping half the time).

Spring and Fall: April and October (Shoulder Seasons)

In my opinion, the best time to visit Cinque Terre is during a shoulder season, either Spring or Fall, specifically mid to late April or mid to late October. 

The massive crowds have not yet arrived (Spring) or have already gone home (Fall), the temps are cooler than sweaty summer, and you’ll be able to score some deals on accommodation and airfare to Italy. It starts to get rainier and kinda chilly in late Fall, so you may be taking a chance on weather if you visit in late October.

Winter: November — March (Low Season)

Like any other season, there are pros and cons to spending 3 days in Cinque Terre in the winter months. It’ll be very quiet and some restaurants will be closed, the weather may not be perfect (definitely expect some rain and gray skies), and the train and ferry schedules are reduced.

Although it never gets crazy crazy cold during the day (expect low 50s), it may dip into the 30s at night.

A bonus is that the hiking trails are free of charge, but heavy rains may close some of these paths. There’ll likely be some maintenance work going on as well (makes sense to do the work during low season).

But that just means you’ll be able to save money on accommodation and flights (everybody likes that).

An Overview of the Five Villages

I highly recommend visiting all 5 villages during your 3 days in Cinque Terre. And luckily, this 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary visits them all! 

While the villages are similar in nature (they’ve all got dreamy seaside views, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored houses), they’ve also got their own personality and appeal. Some are more peaceful and quiet, some are known for their delicious restaurants and cuisine, and some are great for sunset!

Here they are from north to south:

Monterosso al Male

Monterosso al Male, more frequently known as simply “Monterosso” is the largest and most developed of the 5 villages.

If you’re looking to head to the beach on your Cinque Terre itinerary, definitely head to Monterosso. You’ll find the best beaches in Cinque Terre over here, and we loved our morning at Fegina – those orange umbrellas are so iconic to the area. And of course it felt amazing to cool off in the sea (we were visiting in late June and boy was it was hot!).

Not everyone realizes this, but there’s actually two parts to Monterosso – the new town (with the gorgeous Fegina Beach) and the charming old town center. They’re split by a tunnel and you can easily walk between the two.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the harbor in Vernazza – it’s super picturesque and probably my favorite part of the village! It’s actually the only natural harbor in Cinque Terre.

Vernazza is the most photographed town in Cinque Terre for a reason. There’s a medieval tower, a gorgeous small beach at the port which gets crazy crowded in the summer (it’s super tiny), and the colorful houses in town are just so cute!

The views from above the town are absolutely out of this world (and I highly recommend hiking a short distance here). It’s where the famous viewpoints are – you’ll need your Cinque Terre pass for this. I’ve actually got a huge art print of Vernazza hanging above my couch in my living room which I finally got to see in person on the walk from Vernazza to Corniglia!

Corniglia 

Corniglia is the only village without any sea access, and is the hardest to reach since the train platform is well below the actual town. You’ll need to walk up 377 steps to reach the village, or you can take the shuttle if you’re lucky enough to catch it like us!

It’s the most authentic of the villages, since there’s way less tourists over here and more locals out and about. Meaning Corniglia is way less crowded – perfect when you’ve had enough of all the tourists!

Despite the lack of sea access, it’s still got gorgeous views of the water and it’s surrounded by vineyards.

Manarola 

Manarola has to be my favorite village in Cinque Terre . In my opinion, it’s the most picturesque and charming of all the villages; there’s such a magical atmosphere and we could have spent hours sipping aperol and limoncello spritz’ watching the world go by. I still dream about those multicolored houses hidden high in the hills overlooking the sea.

It’s well-known for Nessun Dorma, a famous restaurant with the best views, where you can take a pesto-making class and have a long leisurely lunch of Italian Bruschetta platters and refreshing white wine. Trattoria dal Billy, another super popular restaurant, offers fresh seafood overlooking the sea, the vineyards, and the town below.

There’s no beach here in Manarola, but you can sunbathe, cliff dive, and swim from the cliffs and rocks surrounding the marina.

Riomaggiore

This is where everyone goes for sunset on the rocks with a pizza in hand (and yes, of course it’s included on this 3 day Cinque Terre itinerary)!

The town of Riomaggiore feels and looks like a real-life postcard. Everywhere you look is absolutely unreal.

Don’t miss a cone of fried fish at Tutti Fritti or Il Pescato Cucinato – delicious!

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre 

When planning a Cinque Terre itinerary, you’ve essentially got two categories of where to stay. You can either stay in one of the five villages within Cinque Terre itself, or on the outskirts of Cinque Terre in a nearby city. 

The Five Villages: 

If you want easy access to the other villages and wanna be in all the action 24/7, I recommend staying in one of the 5 towns. There aren’t a lot of traditional hotels in the five villages (most accommodation options are small guesthouses), so book early if you know you wanna stay in a typical hotel-like setting. No generic resorts or strips of hotels here!

Psst – Affittacamere directly translates to “landlord” in Italian, but this is just another way of saying the place is a guesthouse! They’re kinda like Italian Airbnbs – where the host doesn’t always live on site and you’ll rarely see them. Typically, these guest houses provide a folder with all the info you need instead.

Tip: Regardless of what town you stay in, I highly recommend packing light. There’s lots of stairs/hills in the villages, and the last thing I’d wanna do is drag around a huge suitcase to my accommodation!

We chose to base ourselves in Manarola here during our 3 days in Cinque Terre, and were thrilled with our choice! It felt busy but not too busy, and nights watching the sunset overlooking the pastel-colored houses were so romantic!

Manarola is the most charming and romantic of the 5 villages, a little more homey and a little less touristy than the others, and perfect for couples who want a little romance. And photographers, too, since the views are outstanding.

I’m so glad we stayed in Manarola — the quiet and relaxing evenings were lovely after busy days in the sun. It’s one of the most popular areas to stay, so book far in advance.

• Da Baranin (where we stayed and loved, with a great breakfast on the patio every morning and gorgeous views of the terraced hills!)
• Il Sogno di Manarola by The First (a brand new luxury option with views overlooking Manarola – where I originally wanted to stay but it was already sold out!)
• Marina Piccola (modern hotel full of contemporary design features in the heart of Manarola)
• La Torretta (luxury accommodation with a hot tub and free aperitivo every night)

I swear, every photo of Riomaggiore looks like a postcard. While there’s no swimming here, you can lay out your towel and sunbathe on the rocks. It’s got a younger feeling than the other villages, with the busiest and most dynamic nightlife. Plus, it’s the best place to stay within the five towns if you’re on a budget.

• Cinque Terre Residence (traditional hotel with a lovely garden plus outdoor hot tub)
• Affittacamere Le Giare (small guest house with balconies with sea views)
• Crêuza de Mä (luxury accommodation with a hot tub overlooking the Ligurian coast!)

Corniglia is the hardest town to access, so it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues. It’s also the only town not on the water, although it has some stunning sea views from above. With that being said, it’s the most peaceful place to stay (with more of a local feel), with lots of cafes with leafy terraces and fantastic views – the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful morning coffee.

Corniglia is best for hikers, those who want an off-the-beaten-track feel, and those looking for good budget options.

• Locanda il Carugio Guesthouse (modern rooms with a great design aesthetic and great terrace)
• Hanging Garden Hotel (located in the heart of Corniglia)
• Arbanella (affordable option with views of the vineyards and lush green hills)

This town is one of the bigger ones in the area (and the most popular), full of restaurants and hotels. Meaning it’s also one of the busiest – book well in advance! With its super pretty harbor, it’s great for couples and photographers, and people who don’t mind crowds. 

• Hotel Gianni Franzi (a pink hotel on top of a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean)
• Rollando Affittacamere (super cute and authentically Italian!)
• Rooms Elisabetta Carro (such amazing views from here!)

Since Monterosso is mostly flat and the most developed (easier to find things you may have forgotten at home), it’s the best option for families and those with mobility issues. There’s lots of traditional hotels and even some hostels here for those on a budget.

Plus, if you’re looking to stay near the beach, Monterosso has by far the best beach in the entire Cinque Terre area. 

• Locanda Il Maestrale (historic, family run hotel in the heart of the old town)
• MìaChì (a contemporary feel decorated with clean lines, plus many rooms with private terraces)
• Villa Tanca Hotel (luxury accommodation with sea views)

Nearby Cities:

If you don’t mind being outside the main tourist villages and wanna save quite a bit of money, opt to stay outside the 5 towns. Both La Spezia ( Affittacamere I Gatti delle 5 Terre is a great choice) and Levanto (check out La Madonetta ) are great options. 

With trains coming every 20 minutes or so, it’s super easy to get right into the heart of Cinque Terre in a few minutes. Train travel to La Spezia and Levanto are actually included in the Cinque Terre Express train network. 

You’ll miss the magical moments of the 5 villages once the sun goes down and the day trippers clear out, but it may be worth it to save some decent money.

Are 3 Days in Cinque Terre Enough?

If you wanna see all 5 villages without making a mad dash for each one, I highly recommend spending at least 3 days in Cinque Terre. This will give you ample time to explore each village, take a few short hikes on the trails, and even do a boat trip along the coast.

I think you can get by with 2 if that’s all you have time for, but we’re super glad we spent a full 3 days in Cinque Terre. If you’re a big hiker and wanna hike between a few of the villages (granted the trails are open) AND wanna do everything on my 3 day Cinque Terre itinerary, you may wanna tack on an extra day or 2.

Depending on where you’re coming from, it may take some time to reach Cinque Terre, so stay a few days and enjoy the area! 

What About a Day Trip?

If all you have time for is a day in Cinque Terre, it’s possible to visit from nearby cities (Florence, Milan, and/or Pisa). BUT you’ll be rushing around A LOT and it’ll be hard to take in the dreamy atmospheres of the different villages. 

You most definitely won’t be able to visit all 5 towns with just one day in Cinque Terre, and I recommend visiting no more than 3. 

In addition, Cinque Terre unfortunately experiences massive over tourism. By visiting for only a day (either on a guided day trip or on a cruise), you’re not exactly pumping much money into the local economy. 

I don’t say this to deter you from visiting as a day trip, but to remind you to shop local, eat at restaurants in the villages, and promise to stay longer next time.

Check out these popular day trip options from other nearby spots:

• From Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hike and Lunch 
• From Milan: Cinque Terre Day Trip 
• From Pisa: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Italian Wine Tasting by Minivan 
• From Montecatini Terme: Cinque Terre and Portovenere Tour 
• From Lucca: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Italian Wine Tasting by Minivan   

Other Important Tips and Faqs for your Cinque Terre Itinerary

• Say Cinque Terre correctly! Nothing screams ignorant tourists than completely butchering the name of the area (I’ve totally done that around the world so now I make a point of learning the correct pronunciation).  The typical Italian pronunciation is “chin-qwa terra”.
• There’s only one main beach in all of Cinque Terre. Craving a beach day? Head to Fegina Beach in Monterosso. Other villages have rocks and small patches of sand to sunbathe on, but no true beaches.
• Invest in the Cinque Terre Treno card. This gives you unlimited train travel within the entire network (between all the towns and La Spezia and Levanto) for the number of days you buy it for.
• Cinque Terre is a National Park! While there’s no entrance fee to Cinque Terre National Park, you’ll need a special pass if you wanna hike between the villages.
• Eat all the trofie al pesto you can. Honestly, it’s so, so, so good. And very well-known in Cinque Terre. It’s actually the regional pasta type!
• The villages are hilly and steep! Wear comfy shoes and leave those heels at home.

Hiking in Cinque Terre

Love to hike? You need to add hiking a few scenic trails into your Cinque Terre itinerary! Many people who visit Cinque Terre are looking to hike between the villages. The five towns are all connected to each other via coastal pathways, the mountains, and even the railroad! 

While I haven’t done the entire hike myself, I’ve heard from others it’s a pretty fantastic hike. 

The most famous (and most popular) path in all of Cinque Terre is the Blue Path – and it’s actually the easiest! It connects all five villages. You can hike the entire walking trail (12km from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, passing all five villages), or do shorter sections between villages. It takes about 5 hours to hike the entire trail.

Make sure to bring lots of water and slather on that sunscreen – there’s not a lot of shade on the trails. Also, make sure to either wear tennis shoes or hiking boots – sandals will NOT cut it here and open-toed shoes have even been banned!.

Cinque Terre Trekking Card: Do note you must have a pass in order to hike the trails (although the trails are free from mid-November until the end of March). If you know you’ll be using the trains a lot as well, opt for the pass that combines both trekking and the train! If you forget to buy the pass before your hike, don’t worry – you can buy one at every start of a trail in each village.

Be aware of trail closures: Before you set out on your hike, triple check that it’s open. Not all routes are open due to heavy landslides, and some routes take years to clear. 

As of now, the trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola (Lover’s Lane) and Manarola to Corniglia are closed (due to a landslide). They’re planned to reopen in 2024, although that could change depending on weather and construction. Find more info here , and just remember, trail availability can change overnight.

Cinque Terre vs Amalfi Coast

Since many people only have time for one, I thought it was a good idea to do a short comparison of Cinque Terre vs the Amalfi Coast. Honestly, both destinations are downright beautiful, and I highly urge you to visit both (eventually). Deciding which one to choose for your trip kinda depends where else in Italy you’re going. One isn’t better than the other!

Cinque Terre is much cheaper than the Amalfi Coast, but of course this truly depends on your accommodations, where you eat, what activities you do, etc. However, it’s pretty clear that the Amalfi Coast is a much more expensive destination than Cinque Terre. I’d say Amalfi is better for family-friendly accommodations, while Cinque Terre is more compact and quicker to get around.

You honestly can’t go wrong with either!

Best 3 Days in Cinque Terre Itinerary

Note about this Cinque Terre itinerary : 

• This Cinque Terre itinerary doesn’t account for any longer hikes. If you’re keen to hike between the villages, add an extra day or two or eliminate a few of the activities listed below. We enjoyed just wandering through the towns, sipping on spritzes, and people watching, so you can easily add in some more adventurous activities if you’ve had enough of relaxing.
• Feel free to switch around the days as you like! What I listed below is merely a suggestion, and since the train runs so frequently between villages, you can easily swap a few things if you prefer.
• I recommend getting to Monterosso Beach early in the morning, since it gets crazy busy, and don’t miss a sunset in Riomaggiore. My two must-do’s!
• I typically like to have a plan so I make sure I hit all my must-do’s on a trip, especially on a shorter trip like 3 days in Cinque Terre. It does get kind of tiring hopping on the train numerous times a day (sometimes the wait time is longer than you anticipate, especially in the hot sun), so I’d limit the number of villages you visit in a day to two.

Cinque Terre Itinerary Day 1: Monterroso de Mare and Vernazza 

Morning: Beach Time in Monterroso de Mare 

First up on this Cinque Terre itinerary – some beach time! I always like to take things a bit slower on my first day in a new area, especially when I may be battling jet lag or too many boring train rides.

So for your first morning of your 3 days in Cinque Terre, I recommend heading to Monterroso and making a beeline straight for Fegina Beach. There’s beautiful orange and green umbrellas to rent, that gorgeous turquoise water, and sparkly sand! Kinda reminded me of the beach clubs in Nice and Cannes, although way less pretentious, and way cheaper. Expect to pay about €25 for two comfy sunbeds and a parasol for the day.

We hung out for a few hours, relaxing on our chaise lounges, sunbathing in the hot Italian sun, and cooling off in the water when we got too sweaty. Visiting in summer does that to you no matter how hard you try! 

Walk along the boardwalk above the beach for those classic beach shots of the rows and rows of umbrellas popping against the waters. Don’t miss the iconic rock resembling a fin – you’ll see what I mean from up here!

If you still have a little energy left (the sun always knocks me out!), walk through the tunnel into Monterroso’s Old Town. Here you can browse local boutiques and art shops, as well as taste some Italian wines at Enoteca Internazionale (the oldest wine shop/bar in town).

Feeling peckish before lunch? Try the famous Monterosso anchovies, they’re lightly fried and oh so salty and delicious.

Afternoon and Early Evening: Lunch and Explore Vernazza

Take the train one stop to Vernazza – it’s time for lunch!

Late Lunch at Ristorante Belforte

We chose to eat at Ristorante Belforte after hearing rave reviews about this special spot.

It’s easily the most romantic restaurant in Vernazza, and I can totally see why! The restaurant is inside a former CASTLE, with sweeping ocean views from almost every table! It’s a great special occasion restaurant – hey, you’re in Cinque Terre for 3 days – that’s special enough in my book!

Not only are the views and atmosphere great, our lunch was phenomenal as well. The menu is full of fresh seafood and fish and pasta, and we splurged and got some lobster! When in Vernazza! Save some room for the tiramisu – I heard it’s outta this world (we were too stuffed to try it unfortunately).

Our waiter was so entertaining and friendly (such a unique character), and we ended up chatting with him for a while! That’s what leisurely lunches in Italy should be all about, right?! 

Do note that Ristorante Belforte is one of the most popular restaurants in all of Cinque Terre, meaning you’ll probably need a reservation. We had our hotel make a reservation for us a few days in advance and got one of the best tables in the house!

Vernazza Viewpoints 

Once you’re full from lunch, burn off some of those calories on some short hikes. 

Viewpoint #1: You can’t visit Vernazza and not see that postcard perfect shot on everyone’s Instagram! Thankfully, this view can be found in just 15 minutes on the hiking trail towards Monterosso (just follow the signs from the main square). 

I admit we were not prepared and it was a tad harder than we anticipated (I totally should’ve worn sneakers). There were SO many stairs at the very beginning, and just when we thought the stairs would end, they just kept on going. I should have realized this since the viewpoint literally looks out at the town below, meaning it’s high up. Bring enough water and get ready for insane views.

Make sure to bring your Cinque Terre Card since it’s part of the paid hiking trail!

Viewpoint #2: Head back to the main square, and start the trail in the opposite direction – this time to Corniglia. Again, you’ll be walking up quite a few flights of stairs before the path diverges with even more stairs. 

Luckily I went the correct way the first time (fingers crossed you do the same) and found the view! You won’t need to show your Cinque Terre card since this viewpoint is before the trail officially starts.

Unfortunately the fence was completely broken off in the exact spot where people typically stand to take photos – not sure if that was intentional (maybe locals got sick of influencers…) or if it broke by mistake. Still a pretty view regardless!

THIS is the view of the print we have hanging in our living room – and I had no clue it was here in Vernazza before heading to Cinque Terre! It was so special seeing it in person after having it in our house for a few years already.

Stroll Around the Harbor and Wander the Town

You earned a gelato (or two) – head back to Piazza Marconi (Vernazza’s main square) and make a beeline for Gelateria Vernazza. This spot is the best place in Vernazza for ice cream, and everyone knows it. If you’re craving something a bit creamier, head to Il Pirata delle 5 Terre for a ricotta and pistachio cornetto instead.

Don’t leave without strolling around the harbor and sunbathing on the small beach. Yes, it’s super small so there won’t be much room, but I’m sure you can find a spot to squeeze your towel onto.

Night: Dinner at Trattoria dal Billy (Manarola)

Once you’re done exploring, it’s time for dinner! Since we based ourselves in Manarola, we chose to eat at Trattoria dal Billy, another super popular restaurant in the 5 towns. Make a reservation in the high season. 

You’ll need to climb up a rather steep hill and up some steps, so be prepared! Our hotel was actually only 3 minutes away from Trattoria dal Billy, so I made the climb a few times a day, haha. If I can do it multiple times during our 3 days in Cinque Terre, you can do it once!

Here they offer fresh seafood and pasta overlooking the sea, with views of the vineyards and even the town below. Definitely ask for an outdoor table or at least a table next to the window!

For your first official dinner in Cinque Terre, order the regional speciality – trofie al pesto! It’s a short and twisty pasta, and I admittedly had never heard of it before visiting! And mmm, that pesto; absolutely delicious!

After dinner we caught glimpses of the sunset and a delicious gelato, and it was a magical start to our 3 days in Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre Itinerary Day 2: Corniglia and Riomaggiore

Morning: Explore Corniglia

Not everyone has Corniglia on their Cinque Terre itinerary, but I wanted to visit all 5 towns so off we went! I thought it’d be silly to only visit 4 of the 5 villages — Cinque Terre does mean “5 Towns” afterall! 

Plus, if you have a full 3 days in Cinque Terre, you’ll probably have the time. We only spent about an hour or so here and then made our way to Riomaggiore for the rest of the day.

Corniglia is smaller and way less touristy than the other villages, and it’s got a more local vibe to it. I mean, the town only has a population of about 150 people, whoa! Many people skip it since there’s no sea access, but that’s just part of the charm – take note of the architecture in town, stare out at the sea views, and try some warm focaccia (mine had olives in it and was delish).

Getting to Corniglia can be kinda a pain, as the town is high up in the hills and it’s far from the train station (and unfortunately there’s no elevator here)! Meaning yes, you gotta walk up the 350+ steps along a series of staircases – thankfully, there’s fantastic views along the way. 

There’s also a shuttle which comes sporadically, which we were lucky to randomly catch! Walking down is so much easier, haha. You’ll need the Cinque Terre train pass in order to use the shuttle (worth the cost of the pass alone, haha), so just keep this in mind.

Don’t leave without grabbing a cone at Albert Gelateria – it’s arguably the best gelato in all of Cinque Terre. The Basil flavor is their speciality, made with basil grown in Alberto’s very own garden!

If you have tons of energy left, you can walk on over to Vernazza (you’ll need to switch things up on my Cinque Terre itinerary though). The scenic walk is about 2 miles and takes about an hour. We stumbled upon the start of the trail while we were exploring Corniglia and I have to say, even walking the first few minutes is absolutely gorgeous!

Afternoon and Evening: Explore Riomaggiore and Pizza Sunset on the Rocks

Next up – Riomaggiore! This is the town you probably initially think of when you think of Cinque Terre. It’s got those red and yellow buildings stacked right on the water, and it’s oh so Cinque Terre. A true Italian dream, and I couldn’t get enough.

I thoroughly enjoyed this town, and shh – we actually came here twice during our 3 days in Cinque Terre (once in the AM and then at sunset). Totally wish I had this Cinque Terre itinerary before we visited, haha.

Iconic Viewpoint at the Riomaggiore Marina: THIS is the classic viewpoint of Riomaggiore – put in “Vista Panoramica di Riomaggiore” into Google Maps and it’ll take you right there! We spent way too much time here taking photos, and this proved easier said than done since it was OH SO CROWDED. That’s Cinque Terre in the summer for ya!

Psst – you don’t need to rent a boat to get this view from the water. There’s some rocks you can walk out to instead if you’d like.

Fried seafood at Tutti Fritti: Riomaggiore is known for its takeaway fried seafood in a cone, so of course we had to try it! Extra crispy and extra delicious. They make every single order right then and there – the fried calamari is amazing, but there’s lots to choose from.

Homemade pasta and tiramisu cooking class: If you’re not interested in visiting Corniglia this morning, you’ll have a full day to spend in Riomaggiore! 

This pasta and tiramisu cooking class looks absolutely fantastic – what better place to learn how to prepare two kinds of homemade pasta and a classic Italian dessert than in Italy! You even get to make your own sauce. Plus complimentary prosecco and snacks! Sign me up. 

Castello di Riomaggiore: We randomly came across this spot by taking some random elevator up the side of the cliff (hey, we were curious and wanted to see where it went, haha). To our surprise, we got the most amazing views without even a minute of hiking! It was relatively quiet and mostly locals enjoying the view. 

I later learned you can hike up the super steep cliffs, but hey – go and find the lift instead! You can go inside the castle if you’d like for just 2 euro, but from what I read it’s not really worth it (not much to see).

Pizza with a View: One thing you cannot miss out on – watching the sunset dip behind the colorful homes while eating a pizza and sitting on the rocks of Riomaggiore. What’s more Italian than that?! 

Trust me – you won’t be the only one; this place gets crowded (which makes it super easy to figure out where in the marina to sit, haha). It’s kinda a cliche at this point (everyone does it), but there’s a reason for this!

Plan to come early to secure your spot – there wasn’t much room on the rocks by the time we got there about 45 minutes before sunset (our take away pizza took longer than we anticipated to get).

The perfect way to end day 2 of your Cinque Terre itinerary!

Cinque Terre Itinerary Day 3: Manarola 

I’m saving my favorite village for last — Manarola ! This is where we chose to stay and absolutely LOVED the multicolored houses high in the hills. With all of Manarola’s scenic beauty, you can easily stay all day if you’ve got the time. 

There’s a reason most people consider Manarola to be the most beautiful out of all the five towns in Cinque Terre.

Morning: Pesto Class, Cliffside Cocktails, and Views at Nessun Dorma

If there’s one thing you do in Manarola, make it a meal (or class) at Nessun Dorma. First of all, the restaurant is legendary, and easily has the most iconic view in all of Manarola. Ever see a photo of those pastel-colored houses above the water? That’s taken from here at Nessun Dorma! Since we decided to base ourselves in Manarola, I found myself over at this “viewpoint” way too many times, haha.

I honestly had no idea what to expect, but the pesto making class was tons of fun and the staff was hilarious. I had no idea how much strength you need to smash the fresh basil leaves! And their story is oh so inspiring (they actually ended up winning the land years back after no one else wanted it).

After we (finally) finished blending all the ingredients for the pesto (cheese, olive oil, a few pine nuts, and fresh basil), it was time to eat! We all got gorgeous spreads of Italian bruschetta, olives, salami, and cheeses, and of course some delicious wine. 

Such a good value and such good views. Still hungry afterwards? Order another delicious platter – they’re all droolworthy! Try both the aperol and limoncello spritzes – super refreshing. 

Psst – I took my time after the class and sat with my wine admiring the views. No need to rush, just remember there’s plenty of people waiting so don’t be a jerk and hog the table forever.

Sign up for the pesto experience here on their website. I highly recommend adding this to your Cinque Terre itinerary – such a unique experience and so fun! 

Not feeling pesto but still want that same view? No worries! You can either head up to Nessun Dorma and take in the view (almost the same from the waiting area) or make a reservation for a meal. You’ll need to download the Nessun Dorma app (do this in advance before you leave for your trip) and use it to reserve your spot in line. 

Unfortunately you can’t make a reservation for a specific time. It works a bit differently – you essentially sign in for a place in line on the app and see how many people are in front of you. Keep refreshing. Don’t go too far – sometimes the electronic line moves faster than you think! I’ve heard of people waiting for hours though, when there’s something like 95 parties ahead of them. 

Afternoon: Scenic Boat Ride 

Seeing the 5 villages from the water gives you such a different perspective. And it was one of my favorite activities during our 3 days in Cinque Terre. Ohhhh, those landscapes were absolutely incredible from the Mediterranean Sea – there’s a reason Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

I had the time of my life drifting along, witnessing the most azure-colored waters and admiring the towns from afar. This is something I’d 100% do on my next trip to Cinque Terre, easily.

• Psst – if you’d rather book your pesto class and boat tour in one easy click, check this out ! Such a great way to spend a day in Cinque Terre!
• Prefer a sunset boat tour from Manarola? This one got great reviews! Such a great thing to do on a honeymoon or if you want a romantic night with your love!

Up for something a bit more adventurous? Head out on a kayak trip! You’ll paddle past hidden coves, rugged cliffs and of course the bright, pastel hues of the five villages. It’s great if you wanna go at a slower pace, plus, you can get much closer to the cliffs and caves than any boat could. Check out this kayak tour and read reviews here (note that it starts in Monterosso).

If you’re traveling on a budget (or just wanna save some cash), you can create your own DIY boat tour of Cinque Terre by public ferry. Head directly to the ticket office – a full-day ferry pass for unlimited use costs about €30 per person. 

Using the ferry obviously isn’t as remarkable as taking a semi-private boat tour, as the ferry will undoubtedly be crazy crowded (200-300 people) and there’ll be no commentary. But still a great option if you wanna see the towns from the sea. 

Night: Sunset in Manarola and Take Away Pasta

End this 3 day Cinque Terre itinerary with one last delicious meal and a sunset view!

On the way to our hotel our first night, we were beyond starving, and came across this tiny trattoria on the street. It’s super unassuming from the outside, super casual on the inside (literally just a takeaway counter) and we had no idea what to expect. There’s no table service and even no toilet, and your pasta comes in take-out containers. The place is fuss-free, and is simply called “Take-Away Pasta”.

But OMG – the fresh pasta was heaven on Earth. Every pasta is homemade by hand, and the sauces were absolutely delicious. Well worth the short climb up the hill. Don’t miss this tiny spot in Manarola.

I think the sage and butter gnocchi was my husband’s favorite thing he ate in Italy that trip (I’m not disagreeing, every bite was delectable). We still talk about those fluffy pillows weekly, even months later! 

Order some trofie al pesto, gnocchi (a must!), and tiramisu, pick up a bottle of red wine, and head down to the water to watch the sunset over Manarola. The perfect end to a perfect 3 days in Cinque Terre.

Hope this helps you plan the best Cinque Terre itinerary possible! We had an absolutely fantastic 3 days in Cinque Terre, and cannot wait to plan our next trip!

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Cinque Terre Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 3, 2024

The Cinque Terre consists of five beautiful hillside towns on the west coast of Italy : Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Together, these fishing towns comprise Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited regions in the country.

From looking inside Manarola’s Church of San Lorenzo to hiking down from the vineyards into one of the colorful towns, every second in Cinque Terre is Insta-worthy and postcard-perfect.

Best of all, there are plenty of nature walks, trails, and vineyards in the surrounding area that make it possible to explore Cinque Terre without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind the towns are small and they get very, very crowded during peak summer months.

This Cinque Terre travel guide can help you plan an awesome and affordable trip to this stunning region of Italy.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cinque Terre

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Cinque Terre

1. Hike the Cinque Terre

Most travelers say that you need to hike the Cinque Terre in order to really appreciate it. I agree. The coastal walk (blue trail) is the easiest and the best way to see the towns. The full walk is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) with roughly a 600-metre elevation (1970 feet), though you can choose to just do certain sections. The most famous bit, Via Dell’Amore (or Lover’s Lane), connects Riomaggiore and Manarola and is currently closed due to restorations. It won’t fully reopen until July 2024, when access will be restricted (you’ll need to join a guided tour to visit). You must have a ticket for the blue trail as there are checkpoints when entering each village. The Cinque Terre Trekking Card costs 7.50 EUR for one day, or 18.20 EUR including unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre Express train between the villages. If you want something more difficult, there are many other always free trails that go through the steep hills and vineyards.

Guided full-day hiking trips are also available if you’d prefer to have an expert local guide show you around.

2. Catch the sunset or sunrise

The views of the sea from the trails and colorful villages are only made more epic during sunset and sunrise. If you can get up early for sunrise, you’ll also enjoy the added benefit of quieter towns, trails and beaches before all the tourists arrive. As all the towns have the sea to the West of them, there are tons of stunning sunset spots to discover along the trails and beaches as well as restaurants and bars with the perfect spot to enjoy a view and an aperitivo. Sunset boat tours are also plentiful here, generally costing 70-85 EUR, including an aperitif and the chance to stop at one of the several beaches or coves for a swim.

3. Visit Torre Guardiola

Formerly part of the fortress of the Italian Royal Navy, Torre Guardiola is now a bird-watching and nature observation center with conference facilities and its own restaurant. It’s located just southeast of Riomaggiore on Fossola Beach, next to a bar. There’s also a beautiful trail that leads down to a great swimming spot. Admission is 1.50 EUR. It’s closed during winter.

4. Go swimming

The Mediterranean’s cool blue waters are a perfect place to go swimming, especially during the hot summer (just stay close to shore). Keep in mind that most beaches here are rocky rather than sandy, with Monterosso being the exception. Head to Fegina beach right across from the Monterosso train station, or the old town beach just where the trail to Vernazza begins. Manarola is rocky and doesn’t have an official beach but the sheltered harbor is a sweet spot for a swim or snorkel in the (quite deep) clear water. During the Italian holidays (in August), the beach areas get very crowded so be sure to arrive early. Many beaches have paid and private sections, with the ability to rent umbrellas and lounge chairs.

5. Visit the churches

Every town along the Cinque Terre has its own collection of churches which vary in age (from the 13th to 17th centuries) and architectural style. Be sure to visit the Gothic-style Church of San Lorenzo (Manarola), the seafront Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church (Vernazza), or San Pietro (Corniglia) with its Baroque elements. Entrance to the churches is usually free though you’ll want to dress respectfully as they are places of worship. Most of them are named after a saint and there will be a day to honor each one every year – cue festive lights at the church, games, fairs and stalls selling local food and sometimes even a procession through the town’s streets like for the Feast of San Lorenzo (August 10th).

Other Things to See and Do in Cinque Terre

1. go kayaking.

Being on the water makes the views here all the more majestic. The cliffs feel more dramatic, the colors more intense, and the water seems a deeper shade of blue. It’s a very different way to see the five towns. Rentals start at 10 EUR per hour or 50 EUR per day and can be done from any of the towns in the area. You can also take a guided kayaking tour , with half-day tours starting at 85 EUR.

2. Have an authentic Ligurian beach picnic

Grab yourself a basket and shop around town for some local goodies. There are some great little restaurants that serve fresh, hot focaccia and there are plenty of cheap local wines available too. Grab some food and drinks and head to one of the beaches, where you do as the locals do and eat, swim, and be merry.

3. See the Nativity in Manarola

If you happen to be visiting between December 8th and the end of January, this scene is worth a quick visit. The Nativity Manarola is the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene, and its opening ceremony is a huge event. Started in 1961 by a former railway worker, the scene contains more than 300 life-size figures lit up with over 17,000 lightbulbs. Many locals also come out and light candles. It’s free and best seen from the square of the church of San Lorenzo or for a closer look, on the via Beccara trail (it’s a bit of a hike up over 300 stairs though!).

4. Go camping

Spring through early fall is a beautiful time to go camping (or glamping) here. There are a few campgrounds to choose from that offer inexpensive tent set-ups that can cut your accommodation costs while giving you a chance to embrace the natural scenery here. Camping Acqua Dolce is a popular choice near the town of Levanto (it’s close to the beach too). A basic campsite costs 15-20 EUR per night in the shoulder season and most have room for campervans and parking available for cars.

5. Explore castle ruins

In Monterosso, you can visit the ruins of a 16th-century castle which was built as a defense fortification after a Saracen (Arab Muslim) attack. The castle once included a monastery, a watch post, three town gates, and 13 towers. Now the ruins consist of three circular towers and a square tower that lie near the cemetery on San Cristoforo Hill.

In Riomaggiore, the 13th-century Castello di Riomaggiore is perched at the top of the town’s historic center. Only the tower and a few buildings remain, but it’s just a short walk from town and offers beautiful views over the town and the water. It’s free to wander around and 2 EUR to enter. From time to time there might be an exhibition on inside displaying an aspect of the area’s culture too.

6. Run the Schiacchetrail Ultra MarathonEvery year in late March a few hundred runners take on a challenge along ancient mule trails through the vineyards and fields between Riomaggiore and Monterosso. Participants run either a 47 or 100 Kilometer (29 or 62 Mile) trail with a 2600 Meter (8530 foot) elevation. Registration opens in October with athletes running the 47 Kilometers being chosen via lottery draw months before. Named after the dessert wine Cinque Terre is best known for producing, Sciacchetrà, this race is a grassroots community effort aimed at preserving and boosting agriculture in the region. If you haven’t trained quite enough to run the trail, indulge in the 3 days of events around the race like pasta parties, wine tastings and traditional games. 7. Learn about Italian naval history

The Technical Naval Museum is the world’s oldest naval museum. It’s located next to a major Italian naval base in La Spezia, the gateway city to the region. The collection takes up two levels and contains a lot of information on the region’s naval history including an area dedicated to Marconi, the man who developed the first wireless telegraph over sea. There are also all kinds of artifacts, including old diving suits, ship replicas, anchors, and more. The museum is open 7 days a week until 7:30pm and admission is 1.55 EUR. Give yourself at least 2 hours to experience the exhibits – naval enthusiasts will probably spend even more.

8. Go wine tasting

This region is home to some great wine, so if you get thirsty and need a break from hiking, take a wine tour! You’ll learn about the unique grape-growing qualities of this area while tasting locally produced wines. Local wines from Cinque Terre are mostly dry white wines that pair excellently with the abundance of fresh fish and seafood in the area. While some restaurants will hold a tasting and food pairing on site, others can include a walk (or hike) to the vineyard itself as part of the experience. Tours vary in length and price, but a vineyard tour with Get Your Guide costs around 75 EUR.

9. Check out Chiesa di Santa Margherita

The picturesque harbor of Vernazza has a waterfront piazza that’s a great spot for people-watching and taking a break. The Gothic church, Santa Margherita di Antiochia, can also be found here. Originally built in 1318, it was supposedly built when Santa Margherita’s bones washed up on the town’s shores — twice. The church’s unique octagonal, domed bell tower is still intact and offers great views over the harbor.

10. Hang out in the villages

Each of the five villages has a slightly different flavor and vibe. They range in size from Monterosso al Mare, the largest and home to the only sandy beach, to Corniglia, the smallest and perched high on the cliffs. If you have the time, it’s worth spending a little more time in each soaking up the atmosphere. The Cinque Terre express train makes it super easy to pop around to the different villages.

  For more information on other cities in Italy, check out these guides:

• Florence Travel Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• Naples Travel Guide
• Pisa Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sorrento Travel Guide
• Venice Travel Guide

Cinque Terre Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are not many hostels in Cinque Terre, so you should book your accommodation in advance if you’re on a budget. During the high season, a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm room costs 30-45 EUR per night. Prices drop to 25-30 EUR in the shoulder season (most hostels close in the off-season). A private room in a hostel starts around 75 EUR. If you want more budget options, you need to stay in nearby La Spezia.

Free Wi-Fi is standard but most hostels do not have self-catering facilities. None include free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available for 15-20 EUR per night for one adult.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at around 100 EUR per night. A three-star hotel starts at 120 EUR. These include basic amenities like a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and a TV. For the most options, stay in Monterosso.

On Airbnb, a private room starts at around 60 EUR while entire apartments start at 100 EUR per night. Book early, though, or you’ll end up paying much more!

Food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu (anchovies are especially popular in this area).

Street eats like a slice of focaccia generally costs around 3-6 EUR depending on the toppings, a panini or other type of sandwich is 6-8 EUR, and takeaway pizza or pasta costs 7-10 EUR. Gelato costs around 2-5 EUR.

Cinque Terre is an expensive place to eat due to its popular and touristy nature. A pasta dish costs 12-17 EUR at a traditional Italian restaurant while a personal-sized pizza or salad is 7-12 EUR. Seafood dishes are a bit more, at 15-30 EUR. Seafood appetizers (antipasti) such as marinated anchovies and/or mussels, shrimp cocktail, or calamari cost 8-15 EUR. Dessert can range from 5-10 EUR for panna cotta or tiramisu. Generally, restaurant meals cost between 25-40 EUR including a drink.

Most restaurants open for lunch, close for their siesta, then open again around 7pm for dinner. Additionally, many restaurants add 2-3 EUR for the “coperto” (sit down fee) that covers service and the bread at the table.

A beer is around 5 EUR, a glass of wine is around 3-4 EUR, and a cocktail is 7-8 EUR. A cappuccino is 2.50-3 EUR and an espresso is 1.50-2 EUR.

With all kinds of amazing local ingredients to work with, a picnic on the coast is one of my favorite ways to eat in the region. Expect to pay 60-70 EUR per week for groceries that include pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. You can also get cheap local wine at the store for around 5 EUR.

Backpacking Cinque Terre Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, expect to spend around 65 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like hiking and enjoying the beach. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 175 EUR, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out (on the cheap) for some meals, enjoy a few drinks out, take the train between towns, and do more paid tours and activities.

On an upscale budget of 300 EUR per day or more, you can eat out for all your meals, drink more, get an unlimited train card, and do whatever tours and activities you want. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need per day. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Cinque Terre is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy, especially during the summer. Thus, it’s not that cheap. Accommodation and food will really be the bulk of your spending here. Here are my tips for saving money in Cinque Terre.

• Go hiking – The hiking trails are the best and cheapest way to see the area. Besides a couple of paid trails, hiking is a free activity that takes up most of your day. Additionally, it’s free to sit on the beach.
• Eat pizza and paninis – Sit-down meals here are very expensive. Stick to cheap sandwiches and pizza if you want to save money. Picnics from grocery stores in town made up of fresh pesto, cheese, and focaccia are the way to go!
• Get the Cinque Terre Card – This card includes access to all the paid hiking trails, shuttle buses, and Wi-Fi for 7.50 EUR per day. You also can get the Cinque Terre Train Card, which includes all of the same perks but with unlimited train travel around Cinque Terre for 19.50 to 32.50 EUR, depending on the season.
• Pass on the bread – Some restaurants here charge extra for bread but won’t tell you about it until the bill arrives. Send it back when it comes if you don’t want to be tempted.
• Buy lots of wine – You can buy a great bottle of wine at the store for around 5 EUR. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bars.
• Drink the tap water – Ask for tap water at restaurants or you’ll automatically get expensive bottled water included on your bill.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is expensive in Cinque Terre. Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll save money and get to connect with locals who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

When choosing a place to stay in the Cinque Terre, make sure you’re located somewhere with easy access to the five towns. My recommended places to stay are:

• 5 Terre Backpackers (La Spezia)
• Ostello Corniglia (Corniglia)
• Hotel Della Baia (Portovenere)
• Viadeibanchi (Riomaggiore)
• 3 Terre Pelagos (Manarola)

How to Get Around Cinque Terre

If you plan on just hiking between towns, you can purchase a Cinque Terre Card for 7.50 EUR per day. If you want a more inclusive ticket, it costs 19.50 EUR in the low season to 32 EUR in the summer for a ticket with unlimited access to the trains and buses as well. It also includes free and discounted entry to a few museums.

Train – A train connects all five towns, as well as La Spezia and Levanto (which are located at both ends of the Cinque Terre). Single tickets cost 5-8 EUR each way, so if you’re planning on traveling a lot between towns, you’re much better off getting the Cinque Terre Card (see above). If you decide to ride the train, make sure you have your ticket because the authorities give a hefty fine if they catch you without one.

Bus – There is no public bus connecting the towns in the Cinque Terre, but each village has its own bus that takes you to specific destinations. For example, the bus in Riomaggiore runs from the town to the Castle of Riomaggiore, while the bus in Manarola goes to Groppo (famous for its wine) and Volastra. Tickets cost 1.50 EUR but are free if you have a Cinque Terre Card.

There’s also a small, hop-on/hop-off kind of bus that connects the five towns to La Spezia and some smaller villages just outside of the Cinque Terre. It’s called the Explora 5Terre, and tickets for daily unlimited travel start from 22 EUR.

When to Go to Cinque Terre

Peak season here is July and August when the average daily temperature is about 28°C (83°F). Prices increase during this time but the overall atmosphere and weather are great so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Cinque Terre is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are lower. The temperatures throughout September are nice, with highs of 25°C (77°F). This is a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter here is from November to February. A lot of the region shuts down but if you do come during winter, there are very few crowds, quiet hiking trails, and cheaper accommodation rates. Expect daily highs around 12°C (53°F).

How to Stay Safe in Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is an incredibly safe place to visit as violent crimes are incredibly rare here. That said, scams and pickpocketing can occur, although they’re much less of an issue in this region than elsewhere in Italy. Nevertheless, always keep your items secure and out of sight when in public.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Some of the hiking trails can be steep and slippery so watch your footing. Bring proper footwear with a good grip and be aware that these trails are challenging for those with mobility issues. Stick to designated hiking trails and avoid veering off onto unauthorized paths, as this can lead to accidents or getting lost, especially in rugged terrain. Carry an adequate supply of water (especially if hiking during the summer), wear sunscreen, and check weather conditions before you set out on a long hike. As it’s a coastal area, weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared.

If you plan to swim, stick to designated swimming areas that are monitored by lifeguards, if you can. Never swim alone, especially in unfamiliar waters. Pay attention to warning flags and signs posted at beaches, and always follow the advice of lifeguards. Avoid swimming in restricted or dangerous areas with strong currents or rocky bottoms.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Cinque Terre Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

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CINQUE TERRE , EUROPE , ITALY , TRAVEL HACKS · August 14, 2018 Last Updated on March 11, 2024

GETTING AROUND CINQUE TERRE: WHAT I WISH I KNEW

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Experiencing Cinque Terre has been on my bucket list since my first trip to Italy in 2011. Cinque Terre is made up of five scenic seaside towns nestled in the Italian Riviera Coastline. I quickly learned that getting around Cinque Terre is not as simple as one might imagine.

Certainly, it’s not as simple as the perfectly polished Instagram photos make it seem. Here’s everything I wish I knew about getting around Cinque Terre.

The name, Cinque Terre, translates to “five lands” (my Italian is like, really good) and makes up a UNESCO World Heritage site. But how does one get around these five lands?

As someone who likes to plan my vacations in advance, I turned to Google and Instagram to get an idea of what to expect when visiting the region. But the more I investigated, the more confused I became as to how exactly Cinque Terre works.

Navigating Cinque Terre Without Cars

It’s widely known that cars are not allowed in Cinque Terre and the best way to get around is by foot. Hiking trails connect each village and provide unbelievable views of the Mediterranean coastline. Most trails are moderately difficult with some steep, rocky inclines.

But wait — how do the girls on Instagram look so polished in flowy sundresses and platform sandals, with perfect hair and flawless makeup? Am I supposed to believe they just did a four mile, uphill hike over rocky terrain to get that shot in front of the Vernazza harbor? Have I been hiking wrong my whole life? Is hiking the only way to get to each town?

On a serious note, in 2011 there was a fatal landslide affecting the trails to Monterosso. Then, in 2016, another landslide closed the trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola. Without the hiking trails, is it possible to even get to each village? Now that I’ve experienced it myself and learned there are trails and ferries that connect each town, I can share my knowledge about getting around.

My group only had about seven hours to make the most of our time here, so we ended up using two of the three modes of transportation — hiking and ferry. I’ll discuss each of those below. Even though I’m a sucker for a beautifully curated Instagram photo, I decided to be practical and dress for hiking and let the stunning scenery speak for itself in my pictures.

Getting Around Cinque Terre By Ferry

If you’re not interested in hiking, or if you’re short on time, the ferry is the best mode of transportation around Cinque Terre. Not only is it quick, but it’ll give you some beautiful views of the mountains from the sea. And if you’re at all like me, a boat trip is always a fun experience!

1) Where To Start And Where To Stop

We arrived by car in Portovenere. Although this isn’t included in the five towns, it’s a very cute Italian village that you should check out on your trip to the area. It’s also a good base, because you are able to take the ferry to each of the towns from here.

The first stop from Portovenere on the ferry is Riomaggiore. You’ll be cruisin’ down the Mediterranean for 45 minutes to reach Riomaggiore, while getting a different perspective of the cliffs. I was lucky enough to snag a spot outside right at the back of the ferry to get stunning views approaching the villages.

Due to time limitations, we skipped Riomaggiore and continued on to Manarola which took about 10 minutes (so much quicker than hiking). We spent about 45 minutes exploring Manarola and indulging in gelato from 5Terre (when in Italy!). We next took the ferry from Manarola over to Vernazza — once again, only about 10 minutes.

I will point out here, the ferry ride was windy and I was having salt water rain down on me by sitting on the edge of the boat. But if you want to look flawless in your pictures, the ferry does have an indoor area.

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2) My Favorite Stop: Vernazza

Upon getting off in Vernazza, we dined along the seaside at Gambero Rosso. It happened to be lunch time and Vernazza is perhaps the most crowded of the five towns, so we had to wait a few minutes to get seated.

I ordered the pasta with pesto as Cinque Terre is known for pesto, so be sure to eat this when you’re here! Of course, we also had to order a carafe of vino as it is cheaper than water in Italy. Whoever said wine before hiking is a bad idea is seriously disturbed!

Getting Around Cinque Terre By Foot

Time permitting, hiking the trails around Cinque Terre is a great way to explore the area. Even without being physically fit, most trails are doable and pleasant, so long as you come prepared. Plus, there’s always a treat waiting for you at the end, like a delicious limoncello overlooking the ocean.

1) Tips To Prepare For The Hike

The hike we did was moderate — there were some steep parts but also some nice, flat stretches. This is typical of the trails around Cinque Terre. When you come across the shack with the security guard, you do indeed have to pay the €7.50 to hike.

The money goes to preserving and maintaining the trails. No, you are not getting swindled by a random Italian man as the native New Yorker in me initially thought.

A lot of it is rocky so definitely watch your step and try not to get too distracted by the gorgeous cliffs and the blue Mediterranean Sea (yes I did take one fall, but no, it was not because of all the wine.).

When we hiked in midday July, it was hot, so don’t forget the water and sunscreen. Dressing in shorts, a tank top and sneakers were perfect. I don’t recommend doing this hike in a bathing suit, sandals, or a sundress as I saw some people doing.

But be sure to bring a swim suit as there are ample opportunities to take a dip in each of the villages. I also tip my hat to the determined family with the stroller — but really, please leave the stroller at home!

2) My Favorite Hike: Vernazza To Corniglia

The only hike that fit in our schedule was the one from Vernazza to Corniglia. The distance is just about four miles and we were told it would take about two hours. To be honest, after the lunchtime vino the 10-minute ferry ride, this actually sounded quite lovely.

It only took us about an hour and twenty minutes to hike, even with my seven-year-old cousin with us. We took plenty of time to stop for photos as well as water breaks.

The trail to Corniglia is absolutely breathtaking, and I wish I had more time to do some of the others. But if you’re short on time, I can’t recommend the Corniglia hike enough. It is the only town situated above sea level. As you approach it, you’ll see the colorful buildings pop from the rocky cliffs.

It truly is jaw-dropping. After you finish your hike, cool down with a frozen limoncello with vodka – you will have for sure earned it! Unfortunately, this time around we were not able to make it to Montorosso; however, this is the perfect excuse to come back!

Suggested Tours Around Cinque Terre 

• Cinque Terre: Ferry and Tour of Porto Venere and Vernazza  Explore both the towns of Porto Venere and Vernazza. A relaxing tour and a great way to learn about the towns most important landmarks. 
• From Monterosso: Cinque Terre Kayak Tour  Walking around the towns is beautiful. However, experiencing Cinque Terre from the sea gives you an entirely new perspective of these colourful quaint Italian towns. This Kayak tour is a unique way to explore Cinque Terre and a great way to spend a day in this beautiful part of Italy coastline. 
• Manarola: Authentic Pesto Making Class in Cinque Terre  Spend your day with a local chef learning the secrets of how to make traditional Ligurian pesto. Feast on your food with locals at the end of the class and have a traditional Italian experience

Cinque Terra was one of my favorite trips and really is as stunning as the photos show it to be. However, it’s important to know what to really expect when visiting, because all of those perfectly polished Instagram photos don’t really show the whole picture. Whether you decide to hike or ferry, be prepared with the proper clothing, proper expectations, and proper appetite for delicious food and drink and incredible views!

Have you been to Cinque Terre? If you have any additional tips for our readers or questions please leave these in the comments below.

Do you want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Anonymous says

August 14, 2018 at 10:05 am

Great article, but you forgot to mention there is a train that links all five villages and is certainly the quickest way to travel between them (though definitely not the most scenic in comparison to hiking and the ferry). You can also easily get the train to Monterosso al Mare from Milan.

Cheryl says

August 19, 2018 at 3:45 am

Such a great read. Heading to Cinque Terre next week so will be taking these learnings.

August 20, 2018 at 7:09 am

Thank you! Enjoy your trip – you’re going to love it!

Amy Scherrer says

May 5, 2022 at 11:53 am

Thank you for this great article! It sounds completely lovely! I am curious how you got back to your car? Did you take a ferry or train?

Andrea says

June 14, 2022 at 6:08 am

This travel girl has read a lot of articles- including this one – about getting around cinque terre and has reluctantly decided to cancel her holiday there next week until she ditches her airboot and can walk without crutches! The mention of the stroller definitely clinched it! Thank you

Becky van Dijk says

June 15, 2022 at 2:38 pm

So sorry to hear you had to cancel your trip, but I am sure you will have an amazing time when you do get to go!!

JoAnne St.-Onge says

September 14, 2022 at 11:57 am

Where would you recommend that I stay for 2 nights as a single lady traveler? I’m able bodied but don’t know where to book?

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Complete Guide to Cinque Terre Italy

Cinque terre, italy, once a hidden gem, is now one of the most popular and unique places to visit in italy. it’s known as a honeymoon destination and a foodie mecca, and a great family beach destination but what are the best things to do in cinque terre.

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Complete Guide to Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre region is one of the most breathtaking places in Italy (or the world really) that I’ve ever been. I’ve seen hundreds of pictures of this cluster of cute little villages, but nothing prepares you for how magnificent they are in real life.

I’ve long thought of this area as a romantic destination to visit with my hubby on some long-awaited second honeymoon in Cinque Terre, but then you’ve got reality, and usually, I’m stuck with the kids! And in this case, I was stuck with the kids on my own, in this romantic locale, without a significant other to speak of. And so I wondered: Are there things to do in Cinque Terre with kids or will this trip be a total bust?

Well, I’ve got good news for you. You can do Cinque Terre with kids and it can actually be amazing! This guide to Cinque Terre will help you navigate this stunning, but complicated region of Italy flawlessly. If you’re visiting Cinque Terre with or without kids, read this first!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of articles? Here are our top picks for visiting Italy:

Get an easy italy itinerary, our favorite hotels in italy.

• Rome : Hotel Artemide
• Venice : Palazzo Madonna
• Florence : Hotel Santa Maria Novella
• Amalfi Coast: Hotel Villa Garden
• Cinque Terre : Il Sogno di Manarola
• Tuscany : Agriturismo Farm Stay

Our favorite tours in Italy

• Rome Vespa Tour
• Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
• Tuscany Tour from Florence
• Pompeii with an Archaeologist
• Cinque Terre Boat Cruise

Renting a car in Italy?

If you want to see authentic Italy and venture outside the main sites, I recommend you drive yourself. If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use:  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars.  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. And don’t forget to get your International Drivers Permit before traveling to Italy

What is Cinque Terre

Just a little lesson on “The Cinque Terre:” The name actually defines an area consisting of 5 villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The Cinque Terre is a national park and a UNESCO world heritage site. Vehicles are highly restricted in these towns.

But this leaves the villages so well preserved and this is what gives them their charm and ability to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time 200 years, to a simpler, more idealistic version of Italy, and it’s simply charming!

When to Go to Cinque Terre

The high season in Cinque Terre is generally April-October. We were there at the end of April over a weekend and it was definitely busy, but not unbearable! Although I usually advise off-season travel, you’ll want to go to Cinque Terre during the warmer months to be able to enjoy all the area has to offer, such as beaches, hiking and wandering streets without being cold or wet. I think the tradeoff is worth the crowds. I would definitely shoot for shoulder season though, like April, May, September or October, so the crowds aren’t quite as bad, but you still get great weather!

You can also do a Cinque Terre day trip, but honestly, it’s best to see these beautiful towns for at least a few days and experience them by staying in them and walking the stairs to your house.

I’ve also heard rumors that Cinque Terre is going to start issuing tourist permits for the summer months . So if you’re looking to go during that time, be sure to check on that first, before booking anything.

How to Get to Cinque Terre

Where is Cinque Terre? This beautiful region is located in Northwestern Italy not too far from Florence. Getting to Cinque Terre can be really easy or really difficult depending on how you arrive. The closest airport to Cinque Terre will be Pisa.  Traveling to Cinque Terre by train   is the easiest way to get there. You can take the train from Florence to Cinque Terre for a day trip or from Pisa, Milan , Venice , Rome , or anywhere really! I suggest purchasing a ticket to whichever of the Cinque Terre towns you are staying in. 

Here are the times and prices to Cinque Terre from other major cities in Italy*:

• Florence to Cinque Terre: 2.5 hours, $25 USD
• Pisa to Cinque Terre: 1.5 hours, $16 USD
• Milan to Cinque Terre: 4 hours, $30 USD
• Venice to Cinque Terre: 6 hours, $40 USD
• Rome to Cinque Terre: 5 hours, $40 USD

* These are averages to Cinque Terra as of May 2019

The trains in Italy are affordable and efficient. In fact, Italy is probably the only country that I prefer train travel vs. driving. You just have to know what you’re doing and learn from my own costly mistakes! 

Read: How to Survive Train Travel in Italy

Cinque terre as a day trip.

Of course, I always think longer is better anywhere you visit, but it is possible to do Cinque Terre as a day trip from several destinations. You can take the train, but there are many great tours that will organize this for you which is probably best if you only have one day.

Florence is the most popular place to take a day trip to Cinque Terre and this tour offers a complete package with a live tour guide to walk you through each location in this beautiful area. I sometimes dislike tours, especially because I have rowdy children who are unpredictable, but if you only have one day to see something that should really require 7 days, I think having a guide is extremely helpful! You can book the tour from Florence here. 

Cinque Terre from the Water

If you want to see the coastline of Cinque Terre, which is absolutely incredible, you’ll want to take a boat tour to see it all. This tour offers an all-day tour up and down the coast and they also serve you a homemade Ligurian meal! Eating pasta with that view?! What could be better? You can book the tour here. 

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

I kind of showed up to the area with my four kids blind, without a game plan, without really doing any research, except or “where to stay in Cinque Terre” when trying to decide which town to book a house in.  Thankfully, that search did not lead me astray. We decided on staying in Riomaggiore, largely because the pictures looked amazing and it was the most affordable place I could find!

We love using VRBO and have stayed in hundreds of different houses, apartments, boats, and treehouses over the years.    Our apartment was located a few blocks from the Riomaggiore Cinque Terre train station, straight uphill (as most places in Cinque Terre will be), nestled just above a shop that sold everything lemon-scented, with the most incredible view out the windows. You can find the  apartment that we stayed in here. 

You really can’t go wrong staying in any of the five towns that make up the Cinque Terre. They are all very close together and easily accessible by a 5-minute train, by ferry, or by hiking. When searching for where to stay in Cinque Terre , be sure that the apartment, B&B, or hotel is actually in one of the five cities. Look on a map! I think staying in La Spezia is just fine, but if you actually want to be in the Cinque Terre, you’ll need to stay in one of the five villages.

I’ve had several people ask me if they should stay in a different town every night, or spread their trip out between the five villages, but there’s really no need. Pick a good home base and explore from there. The 5 towns of Cinque Terre are so close together that you can definitely enjoy every town without staying there.

Our Favorite Things to do in Cinque Terre

There’s enough to keep you busy in Cinque Terre for a week, so I would recommend staying as long as you can. Here are some of our favorite Cinque Terre activities:

Go Swimming

Cinque Terre lies along the coast and you can find lots of great beaches throughout the area. The sandy beaches can be found in the northernmost town of Monterosso al Mar, while the other towns have mostly rocky beaches.

Cinque Terre is a hugely popular destination for hikers. There are multiple trails that you can hike between the five towns and the views are absolutely incredible. The best part is that you can stop for gelato in each town between trails.

Try Local Cuisine

You won’t. go hungry in Cinque Terre. There is plenty of great local food to be found and since its directly on the ocean, you’ll find some of the most incredible seafood in Italy here. You can check out more classic Cinque Terre food in our food guide.

Book a Photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We love using Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code WANDERLUST.

The Five Cinque Terre Towns from North to South

To help you decide where to stay in Cinque Terre, I’ve broken the region down by town including descriptions, pros and cons,  as well as the best place to stay in Cinque Terre in each town.

Monterosso al Mare

I think that Monterosso is the best place to stay in Cinque Terre if you are looking for beach time with young kids. It’s the only one of the Cinque Terre villages that has a large white sandy beach with calm waters. 

• Lots of big, sandy beaches
• Flatter than the other towns

Affordable Monterosso Airbnbs

• Small, narrow streets
• Several small beaches
• Picturesque

Affordable Vernazza Airbnbs

• High up on a hill
• Requires a bus ride or hike up 400+ stairs from the train station
• The Cinque Terre Ferry does not come here
• Beautiful narrow and picturesque streets

Affordable Corniglia Airbnbs

• Probably the most photographed city. If you see a recognizable photo of Cinque Terre, it’s probably of Manarola.
• Bigger than Vernazza
• Rocky Beaches
• Lots of restaurants

Affordable Manarola Airbnbs

Riomaggiore

• In my opinion, I think this is the best town to stay in Cinque Terre
• A wider main street, lined with hilltop houses on either side
• Lots of stairs to get to the upper levels of the city
• Great restaurants

Affordable Riomaggiore Airbnbs

Getting Around Cinque Terre

Getting around Cinque with kids was pretty easy! There are three main ways to navigate Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre by Train

Monterosso – Vernazza: 4 minutes

Vernazza – Corniglia: 4 minutes

Corniglia – Manarola: 5 minutes

Manarola – Riomaggiore: 6 minutes

Cinque Terre Villages by Ferry

Cinque Terre Hiking

Accessibility

Cinque Terre is a region full of hilly villages made up of levels built upon levels and connected by thousands of stairs! This doesn’t mean that if you need wheelchair access that you shouldn’t go. The best town to visit in Cinque Terre with a wheelchair or other accessibility needs would be Monterosso. It is the flatter of the villages and it generally has fewer stairs.

Strollers in Cinque Terre

I would not recommend bringing a stroller to Cinque Terre. As mentioned above, the area is covered with stairs and you’ll likely have a good stair climb just to get to your apartment. A baby carrier might be a good option instead.

Cinque Terre Beaches

There are several beautiful Cinque Terre beaches in the area, but these are my favorites, from North to South:

• Monterosso Beach: Located in Monterosso al Mar, this is the largest and sandiest beach in Cinque Terre.
• Old Town Monterosso Beach: Located in the older part of Monterosso and the second largest beach in Cinque Terre
• Vernazza Beach: This beach is a little tricky to get to. You have to walk through a cave, but the beauty and seclusion of this spot is worth it. Last time I went there was a “do not cross” tape that everyone seemed to be crossing. 
• Manarola Beach: A rocky harbor beach in one of the most popular Cinque Terre towns.
• Riomaggiore Beach: This rocky beach is lined with cliffs that are popular with jumpers. 

The Best Things to do in Cinque Terre

Now that you’ve gotten yourself to there, know where to stay, and know how to get around, you’re ready to decide what to do in Cinque Terre.

• Visit All Five Cinque Terre Towns: Don’t go to Cinque Terre without visiting every city! They are each unique and beautiful in their own way, with a different feel to each town.
• Visit Churches: There are churches in every town and they are all old and beautiful! Go in and light a candle, say a prayer and catch a quiet moment in a bustling town.
• Go to the Beach: Cinque Terre lies along the coast with stunning sandy and rocky beaches. Most of the sandy beaches are in Monterosso, which is speckled with colorful umbrellas and beautiful rocks. There is a really fun beach in Vernazza that is accessed by a little tunnel in the cliff. If you’re into rock jumping, then Riomaggiore will have the beaches for you.
• Enjoy the Food: Cinque Terre is covered with tasty restaurants offering traditional Italian cuisine. You usually can’t go wrong. We loved Bar Centrale in Riomaggiore. Try some fresh fish wherever you go. Mine was caught the same morning and was huge! You can also find fried calamari around every corner. Pesto and Foccacia are famous in this region and definitely worth trying! Most restaurants in Cinque Terre are open and have outdoor seating, which I find to be more comfortable when dining with children. There are also crepe shops, bruschetta, and focaccia shops that make a good quick lunch or snack for kids.
• Go for a Hike:  There are several great hikes between the five towns and other hikes as well. Read this for more information on hiking Cinque Terre. 

There is so much to do in Cinque Terre, but with the ease of transport within the region, it can be done quickly. Be sure to take time to relax and just soak it all in!

Overwhelmed? Get my Complete Guide to Italy

If you’re totally overwhelmed by all this and want an easy complete itinerary to Italy, you can find my fully planned trip right here.

The post Complete Guide to Cinque Terre Italy appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

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Cinque Terre by train: '5 Terre Express'

Regional trains take you to discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Cinque Terre Park.

From 16 th March to 3 rd November 2024, travel on the regional trains stopping in Monterosso, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore with one of the following tickets at different prices as shown in the tables below. To know the A-B-C Price Calendar  click here

Trenitalia Cinque Terre Ticket Fare 39/9 Cinque Terre

To travel inside the park (including the stations of Levanto and La Spezia). Tickets must always be validated before boarding the train and are valid for 75 minutes for exclusively one direct trip.

Monthly or annual regional or supraregional season tickets for Liguria: allow access to regional trains upon showing a valid identity document. Non-residents of Liguria in possession of a weekly season ticket are not permitted to travel on regional trains stopping in the Cinque Terre National Park area.

Alternatively, the Cinque Terre Treno MS Card can be used. 

Cinque Terre Treno MS Card allows unlimited travel in 2nd class on regional trains between Levanto and La Spezia (and vice-versa) plus access to the services offered by the Park Authority (for more information on Park services, please see www.parconazionale5terre.it).

The tickets are nominative, non-transferable and non-refundable. In the event of a ticket inspection, a valid ID will need to be presented with the card.

These tickets can be purchased from Trenitalia authorised ticket offices*, self-service ticket machines in stations**, this website, the Trenitalia App and Cinque Terre National Park sales points.

To purchase the card on the website:

• click on Others/Best price directly from the purchase form on the Home Page;
• select  Advanced Search ;
• enter the Offers and Regional Services section;
• select Multiservice Cards .

To purchase the card on App Trenitalia:

• click on Promozioni e servizi from the Menu on the Home Page;
• access the section Carte 5 Terre Treno MS ;
• select the type and validity of the card.

(*) Genova Brignole, Genova Piazza Principe, Pisa Centrale, Torino Porta Nuova, Torino Porta Susa, Milano Centrale, Milano Porta Garibaldi, Milano Rogoredo, Brescia, La Spezia Centrale, Monterosso, Levanto, Sestri Levante, Chiavari, Rapallo, S. Margherita L.-Portofino, Sarzana. (**) Brescia, Chiavari, Corniglia, Genova Brignole, Genova Piazza Principe, La Spezia Centrale, La Spezia Migliarina, Levanto, Manarola, Milano Centrale, Milano Porta Garibaldi, Milano Rogoredo, Monterosso, Pisa, Rapallo, Riomaggiore, Sarzana, Sestri Levante, S. Margherita Ligure – Portofino, Torino Porta Nuova, Torino Porta Susa, Vernazza.

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Seven Surprising Things About Italy's Cinque Terre

This italian destination is incredibly famous. but it still surprised us in many ways..

“Cinque Terre” is pronounced “ chink- weh tear -eh,” but even after having lived there for a month, I’m not entirely sure I’m pronouncing it right.

This is just one of the ways this area of the world surprised me. After all, it’s now one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations; you’d think we’d all know how to pronounce it by now.

Cinque Terre means “five lands,” and it’s the regional name for the string of five small villages — Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — nestled in and on a series of rocky canyons and outcroppings along a rugged coastline on the Italian Riviera. But it also refers to the surrounding area, which is now a national park.

Here are all the other ways this area surprised us.

1) Its beauty somehow lives up to the hype

Over the last thirty years, the Cinque Terre has gone very big-time. These villages were even the inspiration for the fictional Italian village of Portorosso in the recent Pixar movie Luca .

This area now includes some of the most photographed — and photogenic — spots in all of Italy.

Which meant it was hard to not come here without high expectations of incredible beauty. And in travel, high expectations often lead to vague disappointment.

I wasn’t disappointed.

Even though I’d seen hundreds of photographs of this area, I still found wonders everywhere I turned.

This is partly because the villages are built in such an unlikely way: up the sides of narrow valleys or perched precariously on top of rocky outcroppings. As a result, you climb over a hilltop or round a corner and — voila! — you’re facing a dramatic gorge crammed with colorful buildings.

And then see things in a different light, or look a bit closer, and see even more interesting things.

But as I said, the Cinque Terre is more than just the five villages — it also includes the stunning coastline and terraced hillsides that surround them.

With all these pictures, now I’ve created expectations for you . But if you ever come, I bet the Cinque Terre will still exceed them.

2) But the Cinque Terre is kind of like visiting a museum or theme park

I loved walking around the villages of the Cinque Terre — and taking pictures, obviously.

But I didn’t necessarily fall in love with them.

I think that’s because unlike many of the other places we’ve visited in our travels, the villages of the Cinque Terre no longer feel like places where “real” people live.

It all feels like a museum or theme park. I’m sure almost every aspect of the Cinque Terre is coordinated and regulated, and it’s now all very frozen in time. The five villages are even connected by a sleek, modern train system, which is very convenient, but it makes the area feel even more like Disneyland.

Most of the other places we’ve lived as nomads feel very different — more like proper communities, with less charm, sure, but more randomness and chaos, and also more change. They also have more locals — from parents with babies in strollers to old folks sitting on benches shooting the breeze.

Sure, there are locals in the Cinque Terre, but they’re mostly workers catering to tourists — or subsidized farmers on display for tourists.

As for the tourists, well, there are hordes of them, disembarking from the trains and ferries, but they’re mostly interchangeable. Naturally, the locals are all kind of wary. This is not the place to come to make new local Italian friends.

Brent and I loved exploring the Cinque Terre, but we were also always happy to return to Levanto, the small town just outside the Cinque Terre where we lived for the month.

Levanto wasn’t nearly as photogenic, but it felt like a real town, with Italians of all ages talking and smoking and laughing; groups of kids going to school in the morning; and even the occasional shouting match between Italian men arguing over who knows what.

3) The hiking is incredible

The Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also became Italy’s first national park, in 1999. And like all good national parks everywhere, it’s loaded with hikes.

The most famous hike is the Verde Azzurro, or Blue Trail, which connects all five villages in four different legs. (But two of the legs are currently closed, and the other two require an access fee most of the year.)

What I didn’t expect is all the other hikes — a total of 48 different hiking trails stretching some 120 kilometers, covering almost the entire area.

These hikes are not always easy. Then again, the villages are famous for being nestled in rocky canyons and separated by tall headlands. That makes for some surprisingly steep climbs and descents — and sometimes some very awkwardly spaced stone steps.

But good hikes are mostly about the journey, not the destination, and these trails offer incredible views of the park’s forests, and its terraced vineyards, and the rocky hills, and the ocean, and each of the villages of the Cinque Terre from different angles.

And because these hikes are often so difficult, they also offer a surprising amount of satisfaction once you reach the end.

We’ll have more detailed information about our favorite hikes in an upcoming newsletter.

4) The train and ferry system is amazing

Earlier, I complained that the sleek, modern trains made the Cinque Terre feel a bit like an amusement park.

That’s true, but the trains — along with the ferry system — also make getting around astonishingly easy. That’s because Trenitalia has created a line that specifically runs between Levanto and La Spezia — the towns at either end of the Cinque Terre — stopping at all five of the Cinque Terre villages along the way.

While the trains are more convenient, the ferry system is also worth doing because the view of the Cinque Terre from the water will give you a new appreciation for just how intricately and expertly these villages meld into their environment.

5) The Cinque Terre is crowded. Man , is it crowded.

We spent a month here in the shoulder season of October and November, but it was still really crowded, especially on sunny days.

If it’s this crowded at that time of year, I can only imagine what it’s like in summer.

There’s a theory that climate change is altering travel patterns: because summer is hotter than before, Europe’s “high season” is moving deeper into the fall, which is staying warmer longer.

But it’s also true that the Cinque Terre has been discovered, big-time . And since they’re not making any new old Italian villages, they have to cram more and more people into the same five existing ones.

6) But all this tourism kinda saved the Cinque Terre

We’ve established the Cinque Terre is popular, right? In fact, its current insane popularity might even be the result of a single travel writer — *cough* Rick Steves *cough* — who began banging on the Cinque Terre drum back in the 90s.

And if travel writers hadn’t sent these hordes of visitors flocking here, the villages would now be five sleepy, charming, beautiful Italian villages, except with no tourists, right?

Wrong! The fact is, before Rick Steves brought his hordes of tourists, this area was in very rapid decline. Most of the terraced vineyards were no longer economically viable and had long since been abandoned — creating some very dangerous conditions, frankly — and locals were leaving in droves.

(7) Speaking of those terraces? They really are amazing.

The terraces on the steep hillsides of the Cinque Terre date back to the Middle Ages, when the locals painstakingly built thousands of kilometers of terraces into the hills, to grow grapes and olives — which they did very successfully, in full view of the Mediterranean sun.

But it was incredibly difficult work, and by the end of the 20th century, the vineyards had been almost entirely abandoned.

Today the vineyards are being revitalized, but without being nearly so labor-intensive as it used to be to farm these terraces. How is it happening? It's due to a kind of “monorail” that was introduced. Metal tracks now crisscross the mountains, and farmers ride on carts, allowing easy transport of the grape and olive harvest to the roads above and below.

Bottom line? The terraces are back to producing crops, and they also look incredibly beautiful again.

We're Brent and Michael — a longtime couple — who decided in 2017 to sell our house in Seattle and travel the world as “digital nomads.” Subscribe to our newsletter to come along to the places we’re going next!

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If you share your itinerary, we can possibly suggest some workarounds. Have you booked accommodations?

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