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Things to Do in Cinque Terre: The Ultimate Bucket List

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

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The first time I laid eyes on Italy’s beautiful Cinque Terre, I began giggling like a maniac.

It’s just that beautiful.

I’ve been there twice now, and I still get weirdly territorial over it.  And nothing is worse when someone tells me it can be done as a day trip from Milan … When this is said, I legitimately start twitching.

Listen: There is so much to do in Cinque Terre – more than just snapping the perfect Instagram photo or stopping by for a few hours. Nope. This is a dream destination well worthy of at least 4 days of your time… as I’ve done twice now.

Having experienced the destination as both a relaxing girls’ getaway and a romantic hiking weekend, I feel like I’ve gotten a good feel for what this epic region has to offer… and I am so excited to share the list with you!

If you’re wondering what to do in Cinque Terre, this bucket list is for you.

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TIP: If you are still doing research for your trip to Cinque Terre, here are some recommendations. I always use Omio to compare/book transport options in Europe. It’s a free site that compares planes, trains and buses all at once and sorts them by price, convenience, etc. Also  HotelsCombined offers a similar price check for hotels if you’re still needing a place to stay 🙂

Cinque Terre is composed of five dazzling  villages perched along the Ligurian Coast. Each one has its own unique character and set of things to do. Here they are in order, assuming you’re coming in from La Spezia 😉

PS: Everyone always has their own opinion about which village is best. Not to throw shade at the others, but my personal favourite is Manarola.  To me, it’s the perfect base – painfully romantic, packed with amazing restaurants, great swimming and best of all, it’s wonderfully peaceful when the day trippers waddle off. I’ll let you decide for yourself though!

Things to do in Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is a small fisherman’s town with a pretty little harbour rocking some of the best postcard views on Earth. Here are some glorious things to do in Riomaggiore!

PS: If you’re still looking for a place to stay, you can check out my Riomaggiore accommodation guide here.

Go for a swim and enjoy the village’s iconic views

Unless you’ve been living under an Instagram-proof rock, odds are, you’ve seen the classic postcard snap of Riomaggiore.

Because the village is so compact, this viewpoint is super simple to find. Just follow the signs towards the marina (or trail behind the mob of folks who are keen to see the same view).

Don’t forget your swimsuit though – the swimming here is really nice when the water’s not too choppy, plus it’s a great place to laze about, people watch and enjoy the view.

Extra tip: You don’t need to rent a boat to get a classic view of Riomaggiore from the water – there’s actually a rocky bit that you can walk up to that juts out. Shhh, don’t worry though – your secret is safe with me.

Grab some fried seafood in a cone

You’ll see everyone strutting around with these. Follow your nose & your tastebuds will thank you. There are a lot of options around town but  Il Pescato Cucinato and   Tutti Fritti are popular favourites.

Go cliff jumping with the locals  

Of course do this at your own risk!!

Right by the harbour, during peak season, you’ll likely see a lot of young locals going for a swim (I swear they had their own private rock there) and many of them climbing up a nearby cliff and jumping into the water.

As the blogging community’s token wuss, I didn’t dare attempt this, but my boyfriend did and it was one of the highlights of his trip.

Watch sunset at the harbour

Bonus points if you snag yourself a a pizza and sweet bottle of vino.

There’s something inexplicably magical about watching the village light up in golden hour colours, plus all the daytrippers will be gone by then as well, which cranks up the romance to “Notebook” level swoon.

Hiking to Manarola? Don’t go without asking the Tourist Information Center

A lot of outdated articles will tell you to hike the Via dell’Amore. Sadly I must tell you that this world famous hike has been closed for years due to a rockslide in 2012.

While it was still possible during my last visit (July 2016) to hike to Manarola through the stunning 531 trail,  various traveller reports say that as of Summer 2017, this trail is now closed for safety reasons.

I’m not sure when it will open back up again, but if you can find a way to hike to Manarola, do it – it’s so worth it. Although, you should be sure to visit the Tourist Information Center to get the latest info on whether this is actually possible.

Things to do in Manarola

Manarola is hands down my favourite village and the one I know best. I stayed here both times I visited Cinque Terre, and even wrote a comprehensive post about where to eat! The whole town is steeped in this romantic ambiance you can’t shake, and the food, views and swimming are glorious. Here are some amazing things do in Manarola! 

PS: If you’re still looking for a place to stay, you can check out my Manarola accommodation guide here.

Go for a swim

If you follow the main road in Cinque Terre towards the sea, look down and you’ll see a natural swimming pool of sorts where people are sunbathing on big rocks and splashing around like the happiest effing people on Earth.

… join them.

Since there are no real beaches in Manarola, here is where you would go for a swim/tanning session. Swimming here (at the base of town) is SO nice in the summer and I couldn’t recommend it more!

Note: there’s ladders to help you get in and out, but be careful: the rocks are really slippery. I once accidentally cut myself on a rock as well, so bring water shoes like these ones  if you want to be careful.

Enjoy a drink at Nessun Dorma, Manarola

This restaurant is legendary, and probably THE most iconic view you can get in Manarola, alongside delicious wine, bruschetta and all sorts of droolworthy platters.

And in spite of its prime real estate, the menu here is surprisingly affordable too. You can’t miss this experience when you’re in Cinque Terre. Prepare to stay as long as you can (without getting dragged off by security).

Take a pesto making class at Nessun Dorma, Manarola

Pesto is a regional specialty and yes, Nessun Dorma (the dreamy restaurant mentioned above) actually offers pesto making classes now.

The reviews on TripAdvisor are phenomenal, so definitely check this out if you’re looking for a more hands on experience. Sign me up for next time, Nessun Dorma 😉

Watch the sunset from the rocks

At the base of town, you’ll find a natural swimming pool (as previously mentioned) and besides being a perfect swim spot, it’s also a wonderful place to watch the sun dip down behind the mountains. Honestly, you might cry a little.

… but I’ll let this photo speak for itself:

Soak in the views, grappa and limoncello at Trattoria dal Billy

Of all the things to do in Cinque Terre, eating is no doubt at the top of the list.

One of my favourite restaurants in Manarola  in Trattoria dal Billy.

For the optimal experience, call ahead to reserve a table that gets you a sunset view. This trattoria sits high above town so the views are unreal, plus the food is delicious and they provide you with giant bottles of limoncello and grappa at the end to sample.

PS: This stuff is strong,  so don’t get carried away (like a certain blogger did…)

Explore the vineyards above town

If you’re up for a mini-hike, escape the crowds in the town center below and climb up to Manarola’s vineyards.

It’s a doable uphill walk along a narrow path, but the views are more than worth it. Imagine lush, terraced vineyards set against the glittering cobalt sea (and a chance to see how some locals make a living). Check out this detailed post on how to do this walk!

You can also book a wine tasting tour with snacks like this one.

PS: If you get a chance, stop by the village cemetery as well. It’s beautiful.

Things to do in Corniglia

Corniglia is Cinque Terre’s middle child, literally. Located 100m above the sea, getting to the town center requires either climbing up 350+ steps or taking an unreliable shuttle bus. Once you’re up though, you’re rewarded with beautiful views and a magical tangle of narrow streets that give this village a timeless feel. Here are some things to do in Corniglia!

PS: If you’re still looking for a place to stay, you can check out my Corniglia accommodation guide here.

Climb the stairway (from hell) up to town

As previously mentioned, to get up to the town center from the train station, you can either walk or take (rather inconsistent) shuttle bus.

The walk up is 350+ steps along a series of staircases, so it will literally take your breath away.

No, it’s not fun, but you are, of course, rewarded with great views! This is a quintessential Cinque Terre experience, despite being mildly painful 😉

Enjoy the water

One of the most famous beaches in Corniglia is known as Guvano Beach, famed for being a haven of nudists! ; )

While this beach is still the stuff of legend, many reports say that it’s no longer accessible by foot. You can still walk down to the marina to enjoy the water from there though.

Do note that reports on beaches in Cinque Terre are SUPER scattered and all-over-the-place, mainly due to outdated information, so your best bet is to ask the Tourist Information Center or even try your luck with a local… there are supposedly some beaches they like to keep secret.

Scope out some churches

There aren’t a lot of “sights” and attractions in Corniglia, but there are a handful of pretty churches to look at it.   Click here to read more about them.

I especially loved the little square that housed the Oratory of the Disciplinati of Saint Catherine.

There are a lot of restaurants/bars clustered in this spot too so it’s a great place to catch your breath, numb your weak legs with a drink, and people watch:

Treat yourself to a gelato at Alberto Gelateria

*drools excessively*

You can’t miss this place.

It’s just off of the main square and there will be a massive queue of people waiting, but trust me – it’s worth it.

This gelateria whips up amazing flavours made from local ingredients like lemon, honey and even basil (sounds weird but go for it!) After climbing all those steps, you deserve it.

Hike to Vernazza

As the middle village, you’ll likely find yourself in Corniglia at some point if you’re hiking. I know that doing all the hikes might be unrealistic, so if you need to prioritize, I’ll say this: the hike from Corniglia to Vernazza was one of my favourites in terms of views.

Both of these towns look ahhh-mazing from above, plus there’s an awesome little cafe bar halfway along the hike where you can grab a lemon slushie (or something harder if you prefer). To date, it is still the best lemon slushie I’ve ever had.

Things to do in Vernazza

Vernazza is a picture-perfect paradise town with pastel streets to roam through, a pretty harbour to relax at and of course, around it are some of the best hiking views along the Cinque Terre trail. Here are a few things to do in Vernazza!

PS: If you’re still looking for a place to stay, you can check out my Vernazza accommodation guide here.

Hike up to a stunning view

Some people consider Vernazza to be the beauty queen of the five villages. I’m still partial to Manarola, but there’s no denying that this town has some truly spectacular views.

Hiking about 20 minutes (just follow the signs for Monterosso al Mare) will get you to the classic postcard shot (pictured below on the right) but note that you do need a Cinque Terre card for that as it’ll be part of the paid trail already. If you have extra time, hike to Corniglia.

The views are just as spectacular!

Sunbathe or go for a dip

Unlike most of the other villages, Vernazza actually has a sandy beach that’s not impossible to get to! Yay!

It’s tiny and likely be very crowded, but if you’re tired of laying on rocks and are just wanting a bit of sun, this is a great place to relax for a bit.

Pssst, there are even opportunities to go cliff jumping if you dare. Just follow the sound of screaming youths and I’m sure you’ll find it 😉

Soak in all the good vibe vibes at Piazza Marconi

Located right by the harbour, Piazza Marconi is Vernazza’s main square and offers a little hub of restaurants, and of course, quick access to the beach/swimming area.

Don’t miss the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, whose bell tower is undoubtedly one of the most distinctive sights of the Vernazza “skyline” (if you can call it that).

Indulge in a spectacular meal with a view

If you’re feeling particularly fancy, I’ve heard amazing things about Ristorante Belforte, which can be found near Doria Castle and offers some seriously ridiculous mealtime views. Not a bad place to treat. yo. self.

Climb the tower at Doria Castle

Climbing the steep spiral stairway up to the top at Doria Castle earns you a stunning view of both the city, sea and vineyards. Plus, it only costs 1.50 euros!

Things to do in Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare has a very resort-y vibe. If you’re after a classic beach holiday with like long lines of umbrellas on beaches, then you’ll like it here.

It also offers great shopping and a lot of restaurants to choose from.

While it has (in my opinion) the most touristy vibe, it’s still a beautiful town with tons to do. Here are some things to do in Monterosso al Mare.

PS: If you’re still looking for a place to stay, you can check out my Monterosso accommodation guide here.

Go shopping and stock up on local products

Monterosso by far has the most options for shopping among the five villages of the Cinque Terre, so go here to stock up on any souvenirs or goodies for home.

Pesto, olive oil, and wine are always a good idea 😉 I loaded up on goods from Cantina du Sciacchetra, and had some fun browsing through different art shops as well. Don’t miss some of the smaller side streets – you never know when you’ll find an adorable little boutique or shop.

Taste some wine at Enoteca Internazionale

This is the oldest wine shop in town, so be sure to stop by for a little taste (and to fill your suitcases with sweet, sweet wine).

I adore the crisp white wines from Cinque Terre – they go so perfectly with seafood it’s ridiculous. Be sure to try some in a restaurant, or sample your heart out at an enoteca.

A well known specialty the delicious (and expensive) dessert Sciacchetrà wine, but check out this post for a more thorough explanation of Cinque Terre wines (way better than I could ever do).

Laze like a walrus on the beach

As the ‘beachiest” town among the five, it’s no surprise that one of the best things to do in Monterosso al Mare is to simply enjoy the sun.

Access to the beach itself is free but you need to pay to rent sun chairs, umbrellas, etc. Worth every penny though, I assure you.

Explore different churches

There are several beautiful (but small) churches to be found in Monterosso al Mare, including the Church of Saint John the Baptist and the nearby Oratory of the Confraternita dei Bianchi. Click here for a more detailed list of churches in Monterosso and their descriptions.

Go paragliding

Adrenaline junkies will be happy to hear that there are opportunities to paraglide here like with this tour . Can you imagine the views?! Just um, don’t drop your camera.

Other Things to do in and Around Cinque Terre

Take a home cooking class with a market tour.

Hoping to enjoy a wonderful foodie activity while exploring Cinque Terre?

One of the coolest experiences you can book is a market tour and cooking class where a local brings you around markets, you do your shopping, you witness a private cooking demo, and you learn how to prepare an epic 4 course feast! Click here to check reviews and availability.

Learn how to make pesto in Levanto

Levanto is also closely linked to Cinque Terre’s villages by train. One of the awesome activities you can try here is a pesto making class, learning to make some Genoese pesto from scratch. AKA the subtle art of making all your friends jealous. Click here to check prices and availability.

Go kayaking

If you want to get out on the water, I have spotted plenty of kayak rentals in Vernazza, Monterosso al Mare and Riomaggiore. Those feeling especially adventurous can even book kayaking tour from Monterosso!

Rent a boat

Boats boats boats. If you’re feeling extra splurgey, why not enjoy a boat tour and appreciate the villages from the water? There are a lot of different options, from sunset cruises to even boat + cooking lesson combos.

Browse Cinque Terre boat tours

A more budget friendly alternative would be to take the ferry from town to town.

I hope you enjoyed that post on things to do in Cinque Terre!

Have you ever been? Or is it still one for the bucket list? Let me know in the comments 🙂

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🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

45 thoughts on “Things to Do in Cinque Terre: The Ultimate Bucket List”

I think I’d go crazy simply snapping Instagram pics at Cinque Terre. The houses there look amazingly photogenic, haha! 🙂 – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

Yeah it’s a ridiculously stunning place!!! <3 One of my favourites.

We are thinking of visiting Cinque Terre next week, so this is super helpful. I might have to print your suggestions. 😉 Thank you!

You have to go, Jurga!! It’s such a gorgeous place. And the food – well you already know how I feel about it haha. Hope some of these tips come in handy!

SUCH A BEAUTIFUL POST!! Love the photos and great info. I miss the PESTO in Cinque terre! Soo good.

THANKS DAVE! <3 And ugh yes the pesto... and pasta. And everything really. I needa get back to Italy stat.

So bummed I didn’t make it to Cinque Terre. It was on my list when I was in Italy, but my plans changed. Your pictures are making me regret that.

There’s always next time! 🙂 After all, there’s no such thing as a bad excuse to go back to Italy haha.

I absolutely loved Cinque Terre when I visited and your post is making me want to jump right back on a plane and visit again! I’m so impressed by your photography – so wanderlust inspiring. I visited Nessun Dorma for a glass (more like a few glasses) of wine, however I didn’t get the chance to take a cooking class. Thanks for sharing!

Aw Taylor, thank you so much for the kind words! It’s easy to get carried away at Nessun Dorma, hey? hahah 🙂 Thanks for reading and for taking the time to leave a comment <3

Wow, so much info! I really want to go to Cinque Terre but I fear it’s so touristy now and full of people trying to get that perfect Instagram shot. 🙁 ….which I would probably be doing too, for about 5 minutes!

Haha there definitely is an aspect of that, but if you’re strategic about when you go, you can avoid a lot of the crowds. One smart thing to do is to just stay in your favourite town and get up really early – lots of the tourists are day trippers 🙂 and of course to go more in shoulder season.

This is one of the few touristy parts of Italy I’ve yet to conquer, and I hear it’s one of the best! Great photos and guide—I pinned for reference when I make it there someday!

It is honestly so stunning, despite the tourists. Thanks for reading, Kristin! I hope you get to see for yourself soon 😀

Great post! This made me nostalgic. I was in Cinque Terre a year ago but during the early early spring. So it was kinda cold. The good thing about that is that there were fewer people in the town and bad was that we couldn’t swim. Regardless, I enjoyed my time there. The only thing is that I wished someone told me how much steep hills I was up against. lol

Hahah those hikes are definitely no joke! I’m really happy I got to see the towns that way, but next time I think I’ll probably be lazy and go for the train instead 😉 Thanks for reading, Kareemah! I hope you get to see CT in all its summer glory sometime soon.

I couldn’t agree more! Cinque Terre is SO much more than a day trip. You can’t even see it all in a day, let alone get a true taste for it. I visited a couple of years ago and fell in love! I’d love to return.

I couldn’t agree more!! When people try to do it as a day trip, it makes me want to cry hahah. I hope you get to go back again sometime soon 🙂

I feel quite ashamed! I’m Italian and I have never been to Cinque Terre… I loved this post and all the useful info, I will for sure go! Thank you for sharing it ♥

Ahh I think it’s always like that – we’re always guilty of never visiting the places close to us. I hope you get to go soon though (hint hint you really should haha)

what an amazing post ! thanks for sharing your tips!

no problem, Selma! Thanks for reading and taking the time to comment 🙂

I was here back in 2008 before the mudslides of 2012. I’ve always wanted to go back. I stayed in Vernazza but also thought Manarola looked lovely. I can see why you like that one best. I’m definitely bookmarking this for a future return trip!

Wow I wonder how different it was back then! Probably way fewer tourists than these days hey? 😉 I hope you make it back sometime soon. Thanks for reading, Lynne!

This is such a good guide! Normally people just focus on the views and gorgeous scenery, so I’ve never actually known what there is to see and do in Cinque Terre!

Aw Danielle thank you SO much!!! I definitely felt the same way when reading guides online so felt it was time to intervene and showcase all the other epic things to do 😉 Thanks for reading + leaving a comment!

Hey Christina,

Yes Cinque Terre! I was there last September and (even though it poured down with rain halfway through the day), it was so beautiful. I ate so much gelato on that trip! Haha!

Your photos are gorgeous btw. Thanks for sharing and bringing back some great memories (and some cravings for gelato too)!

Aw – such a shame about the weather you had but it sounds like you still made the most of your trip! Thanks so much for reading and for taking the time to leave a comment <3 you rock, Amy!

We love Cinque Terre and Manarola was our favourite! Thanks a lot for sharing such a comprehensive list of tips.

You’re very welcome. Thanks for reading! 🙂

Wow, this is a phenomenal guide. Found you on pinterest, and now following along! Heading to Italy this year (and Cinque Terre for the second time) and I am definitely going to reference this is my planning. Thanks a bunch!

Woo! Thanks Christy 🙂 So happy you liked it. Have an amazing time in Cinque Terre!

This was VERY helpful. We are traveling next weekend in November and staying in Manarola :). There is rain in the forecast so I will for sure book that Pesto class. Loved your suggestions. 🙂

We were just in Cinque Terre last month. I’m still having fun reading about all the places we visited. We hired someone to take us on his boat down the coast. Stopped in Vernazza. I would go back in an instant. Fall was wonderful, not too busy and warmer than normal temps.

Thank you for sharing… your post was amazing and the most informative and useful I have read. We are travelling from Australia to Italy in April & I have saved your infirmation- so good

So happy to hear that, Clare! Have a wonderful trip 🙂

Hi Christina,

So glad I happened upon your blog! I love your writing style and sense of humor. You also do a wonderful job of describing, in this case, the many options while in Cinque Terre. Thank you for that! We’ll be there for the first time in mid-October and are so looking forward to it! While we are staying in Monterosso, we do plan to be out and about exploring these different villages. I have bookmarked your post for future reference and planning purposes. Keep up the good work!

Thank you !!! We follow all your tips ! The restaurant in Manarola was amazing !! Keep posting more about your trips !

So happy you’ve having a good time!! Safe travels, Natalia 🙂

This is so helpful!! We are heading to Cinque Terre in 2 weeks and your post has the best tips!! Thank you.

Yay so happy you found this post helpful. Have an amazing trip!

Thank you for an amazing blog full of wonderful tips for visiting Cinque Terre. My friends and I spent a week there in August and followed most of your suggestions which were exactly as described and contributed to our wonderful vacation! Thanks!

My daughter studied a semester in Florence in 1998. I visited her there and we took a side trip to Monterosso al Mare. What a delightful weekend that was!!!! Would love to return. Sounds like it is more touristy now. Back then, it was a sweet and charming little town with no crowds.

That was one really magical journey… Thank you!

This TO-DO list is wonderful, I will try to visit all these places whenever I will plan to travel to Cinque Terre. Thanks for sharing this informative travel guide.

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How to Experience Cinque Terre Like a Local

By Kasia Dietz

The moment I first set foot along the craggy coast of Monterosso al Mare, the westernmost village of the Cinque Terre, I knew I had discovered a unique paradise. It was early October 2007 and far off in the distance, the clifftop villages belonging to this unparalleled Ligurian landscape beckoned with their vivid colors, illuminated by the late summer light. After a few days spent devouring fried anchovies , focaccia, pesto, and breathtaking views, I also quickly understood why Cinque Terre, a UNESCO site since 1997, attracted tourists en masse.

It was only after meeting and marrying a native of this land, and therefore becoming a perpetual guest, that I learned the soulful secrets that day trippers aren’t privy to. I soon understood why these thousand-year-old villages set upon precipitous cliffs paint such a pretty picture. The characteristic manmade terraces called  poggi  were built to cultivate vineyards and olives, two of the region’s specialties. By a stroke of luck, local administration forbade construction in the 1960s, contributing to the preservation of these one-of-a-kind lands.

The beach on the craggy coast of Monterosso al Mare.

Unlike the posh port town of Portofino made popular by well-heeled jet setters in the 1950s, or fishing village-turned- Italian Riviera resort town Santa Margherita, Cinque Terre remained a secret to the masses until the mid 1990s. Prior to that, it was fellow Italians and thrill-seeking German and Swiss hikers that first mingled with the local fishermen and farmers. When American travel writer Rick Steves became enchanted with these remote lands, once only accessible by sea or by train, Cinque Terre landed on everyone’s bucket list.

With the maze of village streets off limits to cars aside from an occasional taxi, Cinque Terre is best reached via train and explored on foot or by boat. Hop aboard a ferry and hop off at any of the five villages at your leisure. These sea shuttles even venture as far as Portovenere, just outside the Cinque Terre. Sunset boat tours are another stellar way to discover Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Hiking between these villages carved into the cliffs is an adventurous affair, boasting some of the most dazzling views of the Italian Riviera. I recommend sticking to the marked paths and heeding any notices of path closures. The iconic and least difficult trail Via dell'Amore or “Path of Love” connecting Manarola and Riomaggiore recently reopened, but only to guided tours due to crowd control. It’s no secret that Cinque Terre is battling over-tourism, with upwards of three million tourists stomping the fragile grounds annually.

To enjoy these soulful lands more authentically, avoid the selfie-stick-toting day trippers and visit in the off-season. The villages wake up from their winter slumber just before the Easter holidays and remain open for business until late October. A favorable Mediterranean climate makes early spring an ideal time to visit, with less congested hiking paths leading to swoon-worthy photo ops, shorter waits for top dining haunts, and even a chance to score a spot in the sun. While most of the private Monterosso beach clubs don’t open until May and close in September, the public stretches of pebbled beach invite sun worshippers all year round. Just bring a beach towel and snorkeling gear. Come July and August, there’s no better spot to hide from the hoards of visitors than beneath a parasol. Be sure to book ahead or on the morning of. The late summer is equally enchanting after schools reopen and family tourism tapers.

La Cantina di Miky

Vernazza and Manarola are often considered the prima donnas of Cinque Terre, but Monterosso al Mare wins for personality, with the most to offer visitors from where to bed down to local wining and family-run dining. Sleeping in a B&B or family-run hotel is undoubtedly the best way to live like a local. High above the clamor of Monterosso’s village life, Casa di Andrea oozes with charm and garden views. Centrally located 3-star Hotel la Colonnina boasts renovated rooms and a roof deck while 4-star Porto Roca high on the bluff offers the most sophisticated lodging, with an infinity pool and refined restaurant included. For a real dose of rural life dotted by olive trees and local produce, Agriturismo Missanega reachable by car, is the place to call home. The only 5-star address, Grand Hotel Portovenere isn’t exactly part of the Cinque Terre, but it’s close enough.

On the food front, family-run gastronomic Ristorante Miky has been impressing its guests since 1980, while offshoot La Cantina di Miky serves up innovative local fare in a more casual seaside setting. In Monterosso’s old town, Il Casello concocts savory Ligurian specialties the likes of stuffed anchovies and trofie al pesto . There’s no more scenic spot for dinner or an aperitivo than Torre Aurora named for the 16 th -century tower it inhabits. A few steps away, Ristorante L'Ancora della Tortuga vies for the views with its sweeping outdoor terrace and cliffside dining. Follow the classical music to Enoteca da Eliseo for a sampling of regional wines or head to Enoteca Internazionale and pair vino with gourmet bruschetta at the village’s oldest wine shop. If you’re feeling adventurous, just west of Monterosso, Casino in the year-round town of Levanto makes for a perfect dinner or drink stop, and can be reached by train or on foot. For some of the best coastline views, brave the two-hour hike.

Each of the five villages merits a wander through the historic center and up along the tangle of paths that lead to clandestine eateries. In Vernazza, it’s Ittiturismo Pirasca overlooking the variegated landscape, and long-standing Ristorante Belforte nestled into the bluff that offers both appetizing views and dishes. In Corniglia, the smallest of the hilltop villages and also the least visited, Ittiturismo SP4488 makes the trek up the nearly 400 steps well worth it. A fast favorite for anyone who discovers this cliffside haunt, Trattoria dal Billy is reason enough to plot a trip to Manarola. When it comes to fine dining Ligurian style, the casually chic Rio Bistrot in Riomaggiore certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Regardless of when you decide to venture to Cinque Terre, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the authenticity and charm of these five animated villages. Just give yourself more than three days to enjoy morning cappuccinos, cannoli (the Ligurian variety), long ambles, and maybe even a game of bocce with the locals.

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A Complete Guide to Visiting Cinque Terre, Italy’s Hidden Gem

Nestled on the rugged Ligurian coast of Italy, the Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming seaside villages that have captured the hearts of travelers for generations. The name “Cinque Terre” translates to “ Five Lands,” and each of the five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – is unique in its own way, yet all offer a glimpse into a simpler, more traditional way of life.

In this travel guide, we’ll take a deep dive into each of the five villages, exploring their individual charms, must-see sights, and hidden gems. We’ll also cover the best ways to get to the Cinque Terre, how to get around once you’re there, where to eat and drink, and other useful tips for making the most of your visit.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, the Cinque Terre is a destination that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the magic of the Cinque Terre together!

The five picturesque villages  of Cinque Terre⁣

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Liguria, the Cinque Terre is a collection of five picturesque villages that have captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. The name “Cinque Terre” means “Five Lands” in Italian, and the villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are each unique in their own way.

The history of the Cinque Terre dates back centuries, with the earliest settlements believed to have been established by the Ligurian people in the pre-Roman era. Over time, the villages became important centers of trade and commerce, thanks to their strategic location along the coast. Fishing, wine-making, and agriculture were the primary industries of the area, with each village specializing in its own unique products.

The rugged terrain of the Cinque Terre made it difficult to access the villages by land, and for centuries, the only way to reach them was by boat. This isolation helped to preserve the traditional way of life in the villages, and even today, visitors can still glimpse the authentic charm of a bygone era.

In more recent times, the Cinque Terre has become an important tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, in recognition of its unique cultural and natural significance.

So what makes the Cinque Terre so special? For starters, it’s the natural beauty of the area. The rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation make for breathtaking views at every turn. The colorful houses and narrow alleyways of the villages only add to the charm of the area, creating a sense of timeless beauty that’s hard to resist.

But it’s not just the natural beauty of the area that draws visitors. The villages themselves are steeped in history and tradition, with centuries-old churches, castles, and fortresses to explore. Each village has its own unique character, from the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor of Vernazza to the quiet, peaceful streets of Corniglia.

And of course, the culinary delights of the Cinque Terre are an essential part of any visit to the area. Italian cuisine is known for its exquisite flavors and the Cinque Terre is no exception. The region is renowned for its fresh seafood, caught daily and prepared in a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as anchovies, octopus salad, and seafood risotto.

In addition to its seafood, the Cinque Terre is also famous for its wine. The area’s terraced vineyards produce some of Italy’s most beloved wines, including Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine made from late-harvested grapes. Wine enthusiasts can explore the vineyards and cellars of the area, tasting and learning about the winemaking process from local producers.

Basic facts about Cinque Terre⁣

How to pronounce cinque terre⁣.

The name is pronounced as “CHINK-weh TEHR-reh” in Italian. The “ch” sound is similar to the “ch” in “church”, while the “eh” sound is similar to the “e” in “pet”. The emphasis should be on the second syllable of “Terre”.

It’s important to know the correct pronunciation of Cinque Terre⁣ when traveling to the area, as it helps you communicate more effectively with locals and avoid any misunderstandings.

Legends around Cinque Terre⁣

The legend of the giant and the creation of the Cinque Terre⁣ is a popular tale that has been passed down through generations in the region.

According to the legend, there was once a giant who lived in the hills above the Cinque Terre⁣. He was a solitary figure who rarely ventured down into the villages below, but he was known for his incredible strength and his ability to move massive boulders with ease.

One day, as the giant was wandering the hills, he caught sight of a beautiful young woman from the area. She was tending to her family’s fields, and the giant was immediately smitten. He knew that he had to do something special to win her heart, and so he set to work creating a paradise for her.

Using his immense strength, the giant began to carve out the cliffs and build the terraced fields that are now used for grape cultivation. He worked tirelessly day and night, moving massive boulders and shaping the landscape until the five villages of the Cinque Terre were created.

Despite his efforts, however, the young woman did not return the giant’s love. Heartbroken, the giant eventually left the area, leaving behind the beautiful villages he had built.

While the legend of the giant is not supported by historical records, it remains a popular story in the area and is often used to explain the origin of the Cinque Terre⁣. The tale adds to the charm and mystique of this beautiful part of Italy and is a testament to the enduring power of folklore and myth.

Tips for visiting Cinque Terre⁣

If you’re planning a trip to the Cinque Terre in Italy, there are a few tips that can help you make the most of your visit. Here are our top tips for visiting this beautiful region:

• Buy the Cinque Terre Train Pass : This pass allows you to take unlimited train rides between the towns of Cinque Terre and can help you save money. You can purchase the pass at any train station in the area.
• Stay in La Spezia : La Spezia is a great option for accommodation as it’s the closest large town to the Cinque Terre region. Plus, it’s much cheaper than staying in one of the five towns. It’s only a 5-minute train ride to Riomaggiore, which is one of the five towns.
• Bring good walking shoes : Cinque Terre is very hilly, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking up and down stairs. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the area. If you’re interested in hiking, be sure to bring appropriate gear as well.
• Get seafood : One of the highlights of visiting Cinque Terre is trying the delicious seafood. Make sure you try the street fried calamari and other fresh seafood dishes while you’re there.
• Spend at least 2 days here : To truly experience the beauty and charm of Cinque Terre, we recommend spending at least two days here. Each of the five towns has something unique to offer, and you won’t want to miss any of them.

How to reach Cinque Terre⁣ (Map)

Getting to Cinque Terre⁣ can be an adventure in itself! The region is accessible by car, train, and bus. Here’s a breakdown of each option:

• By Train : The easiest way to reach Cinque Terre is by train. There is a train station in each of the five towns, making it convenient to get around. The nearest major city is La Spezia, which is well-connected by train to other cities in Italy, including Florence and Rome.
• By Car : While it’s possible to drive to Cinque Terre, it’s not recommended. The roads are narrow, winding, and often congested. Plus, parking can be difficult to find and expensive. If you do decide to drive, keep in mind that only residents are allowed to drive within the towns of Cinque Terre. You’ll need to park outside of the towns and take a shuttle or walk in.
• By Bus : There are also several bus companies that offer service to Cinque Terre, including Flixbus and Eurolines. However, keep in mind that the buses may not stop in all five towns, and may only run during certain times of the day.

No matter which transportation option you choose, be sure to check schedules and fares in advance to ensure a smooth journey. And don’t forget to bring a map or use GPS to navigate the winding roads and picturesque landscape!

When to visit Cinque Terre⁣

Deciding when to visit Cinque Terre⁣ depends on personal preferences and what you want to do there. Summer is the high season, with longer days and warmer weather, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. However, it can also be very crowded, with long lines and high prices.

Spring and autumn are great alternatives, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists. The landscapes are also at their most beautiful during these seasons, with blooming flowers and colorful foliage. Winter is the low season, with cooler temperatures and fewer services available, but it can still be a charming time to visit if you enjoy the peace and quiet.

The best time of day to visit Cinque Terre⁣ really depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to capture stunning photos of the towns and landscapes, then early morning or late afternoon light can be especially beautiful. If you prefer to experience the nightlife and dining scene, then evening is the best time to visit. Regardless of when you choose to visit, it’s important to plan ahead and make reservations for accommodations and activities, especially during the high season.

Accommodations near Cinque Terre⁣

Cinque Terre⁣ is a popular tourist destination, and finding the right accommodation can make your trip more enjoyable. There are two main options for accommodations when visiting Cinque Terre⁣: staying in one of the five towns or staying in the nearby city of La Spezia.

Staying in one of the five towns can be more expensive and limited in options, but it can offer a more authentic experience. Each town has its own charm, and staying there can allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. However, keep in mind that the towns can be quite hilly and may not be the best option for those with mobility issues.

On the other hand, staying in La Spezia can be more budget-friendly and offer more options for accommodations. It’s a larger city with a train station that connects to Cinque Terre⁣, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. You’ll also have access to more restaurants, shops, and amenities in La Spezia compared to the smaller towns of Cinque Terre⁣.

Some of the best options for accommodations in the five towns include family-run bed and breakfasts and small hotels with stunning views of the sea. In La Spezia, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some recommended places to stay in Cinque Terre⁣ include:

• Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso al Mare : a luxurious hotel with breathtaking sea views
• La Casa di Venere in Riomaggiore : a charming bed and breakfast with a terrace overlooking the sea
• Affittacamere Alle 5 Terre in La Spezia : a budget-friendly guesthouse with clean and comfortable rooms

Regardless of where you choose to stay, it’s important to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best prices.

What to do at Cinque Terre⁣

There are plenty of activities to do at the Cinque Terre⁣ and in the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions:

• Hiking : The Cinque Terre⁣ is famous for its hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Azzurro, which connects all five towns. Make sure to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water!
• Beaches : The Cinque Terre⁣ has several beaches where you can soak up the sun and take a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Monterosso has the largest beach, while Vernazza and Corniglia have smaller rocky beaches.
• Boating : You can rent a boat or take a boat tour to explore the coastline from a different perspective. This is a great way to see the villages from the sea and take some amazing photos.
• Wine Tasting : The Cinque Terre⁣ is known for its delicious wines, particularly the white wine called Sciacchetrà . There are several wineries in the area where you can sample and purchase the local wines.
• Local Cuisine : Make sure to try the local seafood, including anchovies and octopus, and the delicious pesto sauce made from basil grown in the region. There are also plenty of gelato shops where you can indulge in some sweet treats.

Other attractions near Cinque Terre⁣

There are plenty of other attractions near Cinque Terre⁣ that are worth visiting, and one of them is the geothermal spa known as Bagni di Pisa. Located just an hour away from Cinque Terre⁣, this spa offers a unique experience for travelers looking to relax and unwind.

The Bagni di Pisa spa is located in the town of San Giuliano Terme, and it’s known for its hot springs that have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits. The spa has a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, as well as indoor thermal pools, saunas, and steam rooms.

For photographers, the Bagni di Pisa spa offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots. From the beautiful architecture of the building to the serene landscapes surrounding the pools, there are plenty of photo-worthy moments waiting to be captured.

Aside from the geothermal spa, other attractions near Cinque Terre⁣ include the beautiful town of Portovenere, the historic city of Lucca, and the picturesque town of Lerici. Each of these places offers its unique charm and plenty of things to see and do, from visiting historic landmarks to trying delicious local cuisine.

If you’re looking for other activities in the surrounding area, here are some options:

• Visit Portovenere : This charming town is just a short boat ride or drive from the Cinque Terre⁣ and is definitely worth a visit. It has a beautiful harbor, colorful houses, and a stunning castle.
• Explore La Spezia : La Spezia is the largest city in the area and is a great place to explore if you’re looking for more nightlife, shopping, and cultural activities. It’s also where you can catch a train to the Cinque Terre⁣.
• Visit the Gulf of Poets : This picturesque area is located just south of La Spezia and is known for inspiring famous poets like Lord Byron and Percy Shelley. You can explore the towns of Lerici and San Terenzo, as well as take a boat tour to see the area from the sea.

Photographing Cinque Terre⁣

Cinque Terre is a breathtakingly beautiful region in Italy that offers stunning views and picturesque landscapes. If you’re planning on photographing this area, there are some essential things to consider.

Firstly, it’s important to note that droning is not allowed in the Cinque Terre. The use of drones is strictly prohibited, and it’s enforced to protect the natural environment and the safety of the visitors. It’s important to respect these rules and capture your shots from the ground level.

When it comes to camera gear, it’s best to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes and seascapes. A tripod is also highly recommended to help stabilize your camera and capture sharp images, especially during low-light situations. Gimbal stabilizers are also great for creating smooth video footage.

Regarding camera settings, it’s best to shoot in manual mode, allowing you to have full control over exposure, aperture, and shutter speed. It’s essential to balance the exposure and the contrast, especially when shooting against the bright blue sky and the dark rocks. Shooting in RAW format also provides more flexibility in post-processing and ensures the best quality of your images.

The best time to photograph Cinque Terre is during the golden hours, which is typically the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The soft and warm light during this time enhances the colors and textures of the landscapes, making for more dramatic and stunning images. It’s also a good idea to visit during the offseason to avoid crowds and capture more unique shots.

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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Solo travel cinque terre: tips for visiting italy’s stunning villages.

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Updated: 24 September 2023

Italy is a country that many solo travelers dream of visiting.  And who can blame them? It’s perfect.

Italy’s natural landscapes, rich history, colorful buildings so bright that you almost taste them, incredibly rich culinary scene, and, yes, attractive people, inspire travelers from around the world to pack their bags. 

Everyone loves Italy.

As for me, I’ve been lucky enough to visit Italy on two separate occasions. Once I did a trip to the three most popular cities for tourists: Rome- Florence-Venice. 

But the second time, I chose to spend 8 beautiful days in Northern Italy falling love with the country’s smaller villages. And yes, that includes the famous  Cinque Terre. 

I highly recommend taking a solo trip to Cinque Terre. I enjoyed my time in these five towns so much that I wanted to create an entire guide to women who are thinking about adding Cinque Terre to their solo travel in Italy wish list. I mean, what else did you expect from me? I already wrote extensively about how to plan a solo trip to Europe.

First I want to share my own experiences, before giving you some practical tips for this adventure. 

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Cinque Terre: My Own Experience

Cinque Terre was the trip I needed during an especially turbulent time in my life. I re-connected with my inner poet, especially in the small town of Corniglia.

While staying in Cinque Terre, I spent most of my time walking between the villages, eating a lot of pesto and seafood, and snapping photographs. I felt like a poet taking the Grand European Tour, even though my own poetry is rather lousy compared to the greats of the Romantic Era.

In Cinque Terre, I felt safe and happy as a solo traveler, and noticed quite a few independent women wearing backpacks and hiking boots, so I know I wasn’t the only person traveling to this part of Italy alone! 

My AirBnB host was also incredibly welcoming and made me feel like part of her family. She was fantastic! 

Lastly, I am the biggest baby about eating alone on my travels , but didn’t stand out at all whenever I needed a table for one. Whew!  

Why Take a Solo Trip to Cinque Terre

Still not sure why you should travel solo to Cinque Terre? Luckily for you, I have tons of great reasons to brave going to these villages (and the rest of Italy) alone. 

If you’re really shy or scared to travel alone (don’t worry, Italy is safe to travel alone ), keep in mind that there is nothing wrong with booking a group tour. Plenty of my favorite companies, such as G Adventures and Intrepid, have tours to Italy that include Cinque Terre. 

But if you’re ready for a fully independent Italian trip, these reasons are why should add Cinque Terre to your itinerary. 

UNESCO World Heritage Site 

First of all, Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.   

Actually, it’s not just the five villages that have this distinction either. The entire Ligurian Coast between Cinque Terre and Portovenere is considered UNESCO quality due to its cultural and scenic value. 

As a solo traveler, you spend a lot of your money and time to make international vacations possible for you. You want to pick destinations that are “high quality,” and Cinque Terre checks all those boxes. 

Ultimately, if a combination of rich history and beautiful nature entrances you, then you definitely need to add this region to your bucket list. 

Incredible Hiking Opportunities

Cinque Terre is a hikers’ paradise.  

Most visitors choose to hike between the villages themselves. For example, the hikes between Monterosso and Vernazza, as well as Vernazza and Corniglia, are very popular among travelers. 

Sadly, the beautiful walking path (Via dell’Amore) between Manarola and Riomaggiore remains closed until 2022. 

If you want a more challenging and longer hike, then try the route between Riomaggiore and Portovenere, which includes a 45 minute descent. Don’t forget your water bottle and some snacks for that climb! 

In my opinion, solo travelers who are true introverts, who thrive on solitude in nature and cities alike, will greatly enjoy all of these hikes! I, personally, like hiking alone. I’m not worried about matching anyone’s fitness level and can simply enjoy the views around me.

Great Tourism Infrastructure 

Due to its popularity, Cinque Terre has fantastic infrastructure in place, which makes it easy to get around the immediate area – even if you’re traveling alone and feeling anxious.

I always say: if I can do it, you can too!

For example, if you’re a native English speaker, most locals speak fluently and will offer you help. Of course, you’ll want to learn a few phrases of Italian to be a conscientious traveler, but knowing that you’ll be able to get directions in English is definitely helpful.

A frequent train links all the towns, so you’ll never experience a lack of transportation in Cinque Terre. I never waited more than fifteen minutes for a train! 

Chances to Meet Fellow Travelers

As a solo traveler, I don’t mind having quality time to myself, especially when I explore throughout the day. I like soaking up all my new surroundings like a sponge.

However, I don’t mind having a friend or two to share a meal with! 

If you have the same travel style as me, then Cinque Terre is a great option for you, because it’s relatively easy to meet other people when you want company. 

Check out Facebook travel groups ahead of time to make connections. You can even use Tinder to meet fellow travelers (just be safe), or stay in a hostel and make connections with your roommates. 

By taking these steps, it’s fairly easy for solo travelers to find new friends in Cinque Terre.

Plenty of Accommodation

In Cinque Terre, you won’t find yourself frantically looking for places to stay.

However, keep in mind that these small villages don’t have the space for huge luxury properties. You’ll most likely encounter family-run bed and breakfasts and rooms for rent. 

As a solo traveler, you’ll be happy to hear that hostels also exists in Cinque Terre! I love hostels, even as I get older, because they’re great places to make connections with likeminded people. I’m still friends with people who I’ve met at hostels!

Accommodation Recommendations

• 5 Terre Backpackers:   This incredible family-run hostel provides a warm atmosphere. You can even enjoy some homemade wine! Definitely a great place for solo travelers. See prices on  Booking.com .
• Alla Marina Affittacamere: Want to stay in Riomaggoire? No problem! These lovely rooms are only a short walk from the pebbled beach. Get a room with a sea view! See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com
• Hostel Corniglia: A simple and cozy hostel in my favorite Cinque Terre town! See prices on   Booking.com.

Few to No Safety Concerns

All in all, Italy is quite safe for the most part. I’ve never had any serious issues on my visits. Nothing worse than what I’ve experienced in New Jersey, anyway.

However, like any other country on earth, crime does happen and it’s important to keep your wellbeing in mind at all times. 

Fortunately, Cinque Terre felt very safe even compared to other parts of Italy.

As much as I love Italy’s cities (who can resist all the art?) , in Cinque Terre I had less issues with aggressive scams and catcalling, which both happened to me on previous trips to Rome and Florence. 

Last but certainly not least: if you’re a solo female traveler in particular, I found Cinque Terre quite relaxing in the sense that I didn’t have to worry about random encounters with annoying strange men. Your mileage may vary, of course.

Practical Tips for Solo Travel 

Last but not least, I wanted to touch on some  practical tips  for your solo trip to Cinque Terre. 

I understand that sometimes the planning process is overwhelming, especially for solo travelers, so I wanted to help you get started!

Getting Around Cinque Terre

Like much of Italy, getting around Cinque Terre is easy. The train runs on a regular schedule. You can also reserve boat rides to see the towns from below on the turquoise Ligurian Sea.

I do have one warning, though.  Cinque Terre is very popular with tourists, particularly day trippers from Milan, Genoa, and La Spezia due to easy train access. I’m not sure about all months of the year, but in April, the trains were packed to the point of claustrophobia. 

Don’t feel the urge to squeeze yourself on a packed train if you feel uncomfortable. Wait for the next one. Walk to the next town. Don’t rush or stress yourself out. You’re not in New York City.

Over-tourism is an issue in Cinque Terre that I don’t want to sugarcoat on this blog. Part of me feels guilty writing a post about these towns, but at the same time, I am aware that most residents earn a living in the hospitality industry. 

Ultimately, my best advice is to explore these towns early in the morning or late in the afternoon. And be respectful of the fragile environment. 

Solo Travel Essentials for Cinque Terre

As a solo traveler in Cinque Terre, you want to double-check all your essentials to make the most of your adventures. I personally found this items the most critical for enjoying my vacation!

Happy shopping!

• EU-Electric Adapter:  You don’t want your camera to die on your vacation. Ensure you bring an EU-Electric Adapter with you. Plugs are different in Italy compared to the United States, UK, or Canada.
• Hiking Boots: You don’t want to twist your ankle when seeing Cinque Terre’s majestic scenery. Invest in a quality pair of hiking boots before you hit the trails!
• Mirrorless Camera:  Ready to take some photos of Cinque Terre to show family and friends? Sony’s Mirrorless Camera is light-weight and takes incredible high-quality photos to make your memories last. 
• Theft-Proof Backpack:  Pickpocketing can happen at the Cinque Terre train stations. There are even warning signs! For extra peace of mind, bring a theft-proof backpack to keep your belongings secure on public transportation. 
• Travel Insurance:  Always buy a travel insurance policy whenever you’re traveling, especially when you’re alone. Travel insurance protects you if you need emergency hospitalization or if you lose your belongings. You don’t want the extra stress of financial losses, especially when traveling alone. I always use World Nomads when I travel alone and have had no issues! 
• Travel Journal: I know I’ve said it, but it bears repeating. I embraced my inner poet on this adventure. I recommend bringing a small travel journal to chronicle your experiences in Cinque Terre. 

What Cinque Terre Town to Stay In

Honestly, you can’t go wrong staying in  any  of the five Cinque Terre towns.  Each town is magical in its own unique way, and you’ll have easy access to the train line. 

As I’ve said earlier, I stayed in Corniglia and highly recommend spending the night in Cinque Terre’s smallest town for many reasons. Seriously, stay in Corniglia. It’s small and quiet compared to compared to the other towns, and somehow felt completely empty of tourists at the end of the day – which is amazing when you think about how popular Cinque Terre is.

However, although I loved Corniglia, choosing a town is a matter of preference. 

If possible, I would stay in one of the five villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. 

By staying in the actual Cinque Terre, you can enjoy the area in the early morning or late evening, and feel like you’re truly part of the local fabric rather than a tourist coming in for the day. Not that there’s anything wrong with day tripping, of course, but as a solo traveler, it feels even more special blending in with your surroundings, which includes fewer crowds. 

I hope you enjoyed reading my guide all about solo travel in Cinque Terre! Would you ever visit Cinque Terre or travel alone to Italy? 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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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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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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The Cinque Terre in one day: Cinque Terre day trip itinerary

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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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This Popular Italian Destination Is Home to Scenic Small Towns — and You Can Hike Between Them All

The dramatic scenery and laid-back lifestyle of Italy’s Cinque Terre has made it a must-see destination, on par with Florence, Rome, and Venice.

Cinque Terre comprises five villages (hence the name, which translates to "Five Lands") on the northwestern coast of Italy in the region of Liguria. A national park, it is characterized by terraced agricultural land and colorful houses tumbling down cliffsides into the Mediterranean Sea. The area is home to some 4,000 inhabitants, but attracts around three million tourists every year, many of whom are day-trippers. But the villages, and hiking trails that unite them, deserve a longer visit. Stay for three nights to really absorb the area.

Cinque Terre Towns

Riomaggiore.

The southernmost village, and the first you'll encounter if coming from La Spezia, Riomaggioreis breathtaking — its tiny harbor wedged between the houses is one of the area's most famous sites. Compared to neighboring Manarola (equally pretty), it's a bit more lively, with a roster of excellent restaurants squeezed into the narrow town, though beware as it's incredibly hilly. This is the start of the Via dell'Amore (Road of Love), which curls around the cliff between Riomaggiore and Manarola. Though it's been closed since a 2012 landslide, there are hopes to reopen it in 2024. A 45-minute hike up above town brings you to Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero, a church perched at the edge of the cliff with spectacular views of Cinque Terre.

That iconic photo of Cinque Terre, with a cascade of colorful houses tumbling toward a little harbor? That's Manarola, in the cove just north of Riomaggiore. There's no beach here — instead, people hop into the sea from the rocks around the village. As hilly as Riomaggiore, Manarola is famous for its sunsets, best seen from its small cliffside park below the cemetery, or from Nessun Dorma , the bar right below. It's also where you can catch the bus to Volastra, high on the cliff above, where the hiking trail to Corniglia begins. Grab one of the best sandwiches you'll ever eat at Cappun Magru before heading up.

Corniglia is the smallest of the Cinque Terre villages, and the only one perched on a cliff — it's a 377-step climb (or an easy bus ride) from the train station to the village. That helps it stay slightly less touristy than the other villages. It's a gorgeous little place, though, with pretty churches, a locals-filled square, and plenty of panoramic lookout points. The Corniglia to Vernazza section of the Sentiero Azzurro is the most well-known — it's best started from Corniglia to avoid the long ascent from Vernazza.

Vernazza, with its small sand beach, is the most popular of the villages — not least, perhaps, because the center is relatively flat. Where Riomaggiore and Manarola are crammed between the cliffs, Vernazza is more open, with a promontory curling round its pretty harbor, which also doubles as a beach. There's a ruined castle, an atmospheric church, and another beach on the other side of the promontory.

Monterosso al Mare

The biggest of the Cinque Terre settlements, and more of a small town than a village, Monterosso al Mare is the closest you'll get to a regular beach resort here. It's relatively flat, with a cute center (full of shops and cafes) opening onto a large, sandy beach. The "modern" town and historic center sit on either side of a cliff.

How to Get to Cinque Terre

Part of Cinque Terre's charm is its relative inaccessibility — originally, the villages were accessed either by sea or trail. Although there's now a road, parking is limited, making driving stressful. Instead, take the train — the Cinque Terre Express runs from La Spezia in the south to Levanto in the north three times an hour, stopping at all the villages with just a few minutes between each. Tickets cost €5 per journey or from €18.20 per day (from €14.80 per day in the low season, from January to March).

The nearest international airports are Pisa and Genoa. From there, you can take the train to La Spezia (from Pisa) or Levanto (from Genoa).

You can also access Cinque Terre the way they were meant to be seen — from the water. From March to November, ferries depart from La Spezia, Lerici, Portovenere, and Levanto in the summer, stopping at all the villages. Finally, there's a tourist minibus serving the coast, Explora 5 Terre . The hop-on, hop-off service can get you to the hamlets further up the cliffs, though travel times by road are much longer than going by train or boat. Tickets start at €18.50.

Best Times to Visit Cinque Terre

High season begins after Easter weekend and lasts through October, with May to August being the busiest period of all.The high season gets crowded, so try and book accommodations at least three months in advance. May is a pretty perfect time to visit — though you can find rainy days, it tends to be warm, with wildflowers blooming on the trails — with September being a close second. Be aware that it's very hot and humid in the summer, and the trails have little shade. During the off-season months, you'll experience the villages as the locals do, but rain is common — the worst month is November. In heavy rain, hiking trails may be closed for safety reasons.

Where to Hike in Cinque Terre

In the past, locals got around by boat or on foot via the mule paths running between the villages. Today, there are 75 miles of trails, but the best known is the 592, known as the Sentiero Azzurro (or Blue Path), a 7.5-mile stretch between the villages, from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare. You need a Cinque Terre Card (€7.50 per day) to access the trails. Note that as of summer 2022, the Riomaggiore to Manarola (Via dell'Amore), and Manarola to Corniglia sections are closed. You can, however, hike through vineyards higher up the cliff, from Volastra to Corniglia (part of the terraced vineyards trail), and pick up the 592 from there — the Corniglia-Vernazza and Vernazza-Monterosso sections are open.

There are also themed trails, covering churches and clifftop sanctuaries, vineyards, and ancient settlements. Note that you must wear suitable footwear (hiking boots or sneakers) to access the trails — you will be turned away if you're in flip-flops or sandals. Be aware, too, that the trails are moderate to difficult — the easiest section is Riomaggiore to Manarola, which is closed. Although the views are breathtaking, the paths can be narrow in places, with vertical drops, and involve a lot of up and down, including hundreds of stairs at times. Always take water and sunscreen on a hike. See all the trails here .

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

The five villages are very close to one another, so there's no need to stay in a different one every night. Choose one as a base, and visit the others by train or foot. Keep in mind that most of the lodging available in Cinque Terre is in privately run bed-and-breakfasts or rentals.

Riomaggiore: I Limoni di Thule is off the main drag and has a spectacular sea view through a garden of fruit trees and flowers. If you want an authentic Italian experience, but love communicating with someone who speaks your language, get in touch with Californian transplant Amy at Riomaggiore Reservations for an assortment of apartment options.

Manarola: Stylish decor and top-notch customer service make La Torretta Lodge one of Manarola's classiest acts. Up at the top of the village in a quiet, residential area is B&B Da Baranin , a cozy inn run by two sisters who bend over backwards to make your stay memorable.

Corniglia: Corte del Gallo is a charming little B&B, far from the hubbub of the high season. L'Agave is like having a little villa all to yourself, as it's tucked away amid narrow laneways and offers a private rooftop terrace. If you want to stay on the Sentiero Azzurro, try Leo's Lodge , with boho rooms and slick mini apartments on the cliff in Prevo, located on the trail between Corniglia and Vernazza.

Vernazza: La Malà 's bright, breezy rooms are fresh and modern, and the service is impeccable. If you're up for a bit of a hike toward Corniglia, consider L'Eremo sul Mare (or the Hermitage Over the Sea). It's the perfect retreat away from the crowds and has a huge terrace with a sea view.

Monterosso: You'll find a few hotels here, like Porto Roca , one of the only ones within the national park offering a pool and room service. Located above the village in one of the most scenic locations in the entire area is the elegant La Cabana .

Additional reporting by Kiiri Sandy.

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The Best Cinque Terre Itinerary

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If you are looking for a destination that combines stunning landscapes with authentic Italian culture, then Cinque Terre should be at the top of your list. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting incredible beauty, cuisine, and history.

Despite being a small area, there is plenty to see and do in Cinque Terre, making it a perfect destination for a 3-day itinerary. So, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide covering everything from what to see, how to get there, where to eat, and where to stay to help you plan the perfect two or three day Cinque Terre itinerary. 

Ready to explore the colorful coastal villages of Cinque Terre? Andiamo!

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How Many Days in Cinque Terre Is Enough?

We suggest spending three days in Cinque Terre to allow enough time to visit each village. But, if you’re short on time, you can definitely enjoy two days in Cinque Terre. 

Choose Your Base Town

Cinque Terre (roughly translated to “five lands”) is a collection of five villages perched atop plunging cliffs along the Italian Riviera . Each village is only about a five-minute train ride apart on the Cinque Terre Express. 

So, no matter which town you choose as your base, you’ll still be within reach of all the top attractions. Below is a breakdown of each of the five villages to help you choose your ideal base:

• Riomaggiore: The southernmost Cinque Terre village featuring a Medieval castle and striking buildings dating back to between the 1100s and 1300s. This is the closest Cinque Terre village to Tuscany , and it has a great nightlife scene.  
• Manarola: Surrounded by vineyards and known for its white wine, this village has a church with a rose window and provides excellent sunset vistas. 
• Corniglia: This quiet village is reached via 382 steps leading from the rail station – there is a bus shuttle too. It is the smallest, oldest, and less frequented village in Cinque Terre, but it is equally enticing to visit.  
• Vernazza: Often referred to as the jewel of Cinque Terre, Vernazza is one of the most picturesque and popular towns in Italy. You can look forward to admiring the charming piazza, beautiful church, and natural harbor. 
• Monterosso al Mare: This is the largest of the Cinque Terre towns and the only village boasting sandy beaches. Monterosso al Mare is also the northernmost village and is situated nearest to Genoa.

Top Sights & Activities in Cinque Terre

Wondering what to do in Cinque Terre, Italy? Here are some of the top activities to look forward to. 

No visit to these beautiful coastal villages is complete without a dip in the crystal-clear azure waters. Each village has a swimming area. But some villages, like Monterosso al Mare, boast a wider variety of beaches. We’ll have a look at some of the best beaches in each village.  

Boat Cruise

One of the most popular vacation activities in these fishing villages is to take a Cinque Terre boat tour . The picturesque and colorful towns are a spectacular sight — even more so when admired from a distance. You can also opt for a kayak excursion if you’re looking to be more active. 

DISCOVER: the unique, luxury experience of a Liv Tours private boat tour (up to 6 people)

Wine Tasting

Cinque Terre is well-known as an excellent wine-producing region. The Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grape varieties are regional to Liguria and make for tasty white wines punctuated with fresh citrus notes. 

BOOK: a wine cellar and vineyard tour in Riomaggiore with wine tasting

Cinque Terre is classified as a national park, and it has over 48 hiking trails traversing more than 75 miles of scenic landscape — most of which are free. The two most popular trails, Monterosso to Vernazza and Vernazza to Corniglia, are paid-entry hiking paths.

3 Day Cinque Terre Itinerary

Planning to spend three days in Cinque Terre? Here’s a handy itinerary to help you plan your trip. This itinerary merely serves as a helpful guide, so you can switch things around depending on which village you choose as your base town. 

Day 1 – Arrive and Explore Your Home Town

You’ll either reach Cinque Terre via train from La Spezia or from the closest airport to Cinque Terre, Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport. For this itinerary, we’ll start with Riomaggiore as the base village, as it’s only an eight-minute ride from La Spezia. 

Morning and Afternoon

Once you’ve arrived in Riomaggiore, you’ll take a five-minute walk from the station through a tunnel to reach the village. Riomaggiore has an authentic feel to it, with the classic pastel-colored houses seemingly sliding down the rugged cliffs. 

If you arrive in time for breakfast, head to Old School Cocktails & Food for an excellent coffee and breakfast with a view of the village. They offer some great vegetarian-friendly options too.

Once you’ve settled in, take some time to enjoy the ocean breeze by wandering along the narrow streets and the main road, Via Colombo. This road leads down to the ocean, and you’ll find many restaurants and shops dotted along the way. 

Stop by the quaint fish and chip shop, Tutti Fritti , to buy a paper cone filled with a delicious assortment of fresh, fried seafood for about €7. It’s the perfect on-the-go treat to savor while relaxing at the small harbor or at Spiaggia di Riomaggiore (the beach). 

Once you’ve taken in the breeze and sampled some seafood, make your way to Castello di Riomaggiore, easily accessed from Via Colombo. This stunning fort in the historic quarter was built in 1260 and offers a great vantage point of the ocean.

Near the castle, you’ll also spot the Oratorio di San Rocco. Other nearby churches worth admiring include the 16th-century Oratorio di Santa Maria Assunta and the ornate Church of San Giovanni Battista of Riomaggiore.

Lunch Suggestions

• Il Pescato Cucinato: Enjoy an assortment of freshly caught, fried fish of all sorts, ranging from calamari and shrimp to mussels and white fish filet. This spot is great for a quick bite if you’re short on time. 
• Osteria La Torpedine : Stop at this restaurant for a sit-down lunch near the harbor. Osteria La Torpedine offers seafood-forward dishes creatively presented in a minimalist but elegant setting. 

Book a wine-tasting tour with the local Terra di Bargón to learn how the ancient and rare Sciacchetrà wine, regional to Cinque Terre, is produced. You’ll get to tour the vineyards and learn more about the history of this incredible wine region.

After sampling some local wine, head over to Pizzeria Kepris . This restaurant sits next to the Riomaggiore train station and offers exciting pizza flavors at fair prices. Order your pizza for takeaway and find a spot to sit and enjoy the sunset. 

Day 2 – Manarola and Corniglia

On your second day, get to know the neighboring villages of Manarola and Corniglia. 

There are plenty of ways to get to Manarola from Riomaggiore. If you’d like to enjoy a scenic morning walk, you can take Via dell’Amore (or “Path of Love), a cliffside walkway connecting the two villages. This roughly one-mile path starts at the Riomaggiore train station and takes about 30 minutes to walk.

Alternatively, catch a quick train from Riomaggiore to Manarola or take a Cinque Terre ferry . The earliest ferry usually leaves from Riomaggiore around 9:00. A one-day ferry ticket costs around €30 for an adult passenger. 

Note: Via dell’Amore is closed due to a landslide. It is expected to re-open in the summer of 2024.

Morning – Manarola

Once in Manarola, wander through the narrow carrugi (alleyways), admiring the colorful houses seemingly stacked on the steep cliff. Spend some time exploring the little shops before making your way to Chiesa di San Lorenzo.

This 14th-century Gothic-Baroque stone church features a beautiful rose window. Opposite the church, you’ll find a lookout point from which to admire a different perspective of Manarola. 

After that, enjoy some people-watching at the harbor, or make your way to the Manarola Overlook Point. This point provides that classic angle featured in many photos of Manarola. Nearby, you’ll also find a quaint cemetery, a picnic area, and a lovely restaurant called Nessun Dorma .

This spot overlooks the harbor and village and offers refreshing aperitivi and drinks. The queue to this place can get quite long, so be sure to book ahead and plan to arrive early.

Alternatively, head to Fooderia on the main road for unique and filling sandwiches filled with local ingredients. For a treat, you can’t go wrong with Gelateria Cinque Terre . This spot serves delicious crepes, gelato, cannoli, and granitas.

Afternoon – Corniglia

After exploring Manarola, take the train to Corniglia for a break from the tourist crowds. This tiny village does not have a harbor like the other towns, so you can only take a train to it. Once at the station, you’ll have to climb the 382-step Lardarina to the village perched on a hill 328 feet above the sea. 

If you’re not keen on climbing the stairs, there’s also a shuttle bus that runs between the station and the village. Tickets cost less than €3 one way. 

This ancient Roman village is the least frequented of the Cinque Terre towns, but it does not lack any beauty. It is surrounded by vineyards and greenery and is home to some beautiful religious buildings like the Parish of San Pietro and the Oratory of San Caterina.

For a late afternoon meal, head to Terra Rossa Food & Winebar . Enjoy dreamy views of the coast while savoring some local white wine and a meal on the terrace. This spot is great for sunset views and offers a variety of bruschetta and some great focaccia. 

Stop by Gelateria Corniglia on your way back to the train station for a sweet treat. Their lemon and basil gelato is especially refreshing. 

Head back to your home base with the train from Corniglia. If you’re up for more fun, book a wine tasting in Riomaggiore . Sample five regional wines while taking an informative cellar and vineyard tour. 

Day 3 – Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare

Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare are both excellent towns for enjoying the coastline, boasting sandy beaches, beautiful harbors, and many other exciting attractions. 

If you’re the adventurous type, you can start your day hiking the popular Sentiero Azzurro (or Blue Trail). This roughly 7-mile hike passes through all five villages from Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare and is absolutely breathtaking. 

Note: Due to a landslide closing part of the trail, you can only hike from Corniglia towards Monterosso, so you’ll have to take a short train ride from Riomaggiore to Corniglia first. 

If you’re not up for that hike, you can opt for a morning ferry from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, which will take just under an hour. Or take the train to get there in about 30 minutes.

Morning/Early Afternoon – Monterosso al Mare

Once in Monterosso, there are various tourist sites to admire. But, if you made your way here with a hike, you may first want to stop by  L’Osteria for a filling and rewarding Ligurian meal . Try their pesto gnocchi or opt for the seafood pasta. 

Once you’re ready to admire the top attractions, make your way to the Old Town, also known as Borgo Antico , and meander through the winding streets. Be sure to stop by the 14th-century Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista to admire its striped facade. You’ll also find the Convent of the Capuchin Friars, which offers a lovely view of the coast.

You simply can’t miss out on basking in the sun on one of Monterosso’s beaches. Spiaggia Fegina is the largest and most popular beach, but you can also head to Spiaggia Il Gigante or Spiaggia Portiglione for a quieter scene. Note that many beaches have paid and unpaid areas, so bring some cash along in case. 

Near Fegina Beach, you’ll spot the intriguing Statua del Gigante — a 46-foot concrete and iron statue of the god of water, Neptune. It has suffered extensive damage due to war and weather since its construction in 1910, but it’s still an amazing sight and photo opportunity. 

If you’d prefer being on the water, you can opt for a kayak tour from Monterosso . The tour will take you to hidden coves and stop in Vernazza for a lunchtime break. 

Late Afternoon – Vernazza

Once you’ve enjoyed all that Monterosso has to offer, take the train or ferry from Monterosso to nearby Vernazza. Or, take the roughly one-hour trail along Sentiero Azzuro if you’re looking for a short hike. 

Vernazza is often considered the most beautiful of the Cinque Terre villages, but you can decide for yourself which is your favorite. 

It has a beautiful natural harbor where you can people-watch, take some photos, or enjoy some seafood in one of the nearby restaurants. You’ll also want to pop by the Chiesa di Santa Margherita — a 14th-century Catholic church perched on the waterfront and boasting an octagonal tower.

Vernazza has some beautiful viewpoints too, and golden hour is the perfect time to capture postcard-worthy pictures of the pretty village. Head to the site of the 11th-century Doria Castle — now mostly in ruin. This spot offers beautiful views over the village and the ocean.

Alternatively, book a late afternoon dinner at Ristorante Bar La Torre . It’s a restaurant with a panoramic terrace providing unforgettable views of the cape of Vernazza.

End your trip to Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza with a scenic coastal boat tour at sunset . You’ll get one last look at all the stunning villages you’ve explored on your 3 day Cinque Terre itinerary as the sun sets below the horizon. 

Once you’ve returned to Monterosso, take the train back to your home base. 

2 day Cinque Terre itinerary

If you’re short on time or simply have many other destinations to squeeze into your Italian itinerary , consider this shortened 2-day schedule for the perfect Cinque Terre itinerary instead.

Day 1 – Arrive and Explore Your Base Town and Explore 2 Other Villages

Arrive in your base town and familiarize yourself with the village. We’ve opted for Riomaggiore, but you can start with whichever village you choose as your base. As you’ll have less time, your best bet will be to take the train to cut down on travel time. 

Spend the morning wandering through the alleyways or spending some time at the harbor. Wander through the shops and stop by Old School Cocktails & Food for brunch. Stop by Castello di Riomaggiore and a church or two before making your way to the train station. 

Afternoon – Manarola and Corniglia

Take the short train ride to Manarola and make your way to Chiesa di San Lorenzo to admire the architecture. Stop at the viewpoint to snap some photos before heading to Manarola Overlook Point for a picnic or an aperitivo and coastal vistas at Nessun Dorma .

Once you’ve snapped plenty of pictures and appreciated all of Manarola’s beauty, take the train to Corniglia. Make your way up the 382 stars to the village and wander through its uncrowded alleys and shops. 

If you didn’t have lunch in Manarola, you could have an equally scenic meal at Terra Rossa Food & Winebar — bookings are recommended. 

End your first day in Cinque Terre with dinner from Pizzeria Kepris near the Riomaggiore train station. The pizza is unlike what you’ll find anywhere in Italy, featuring unique and local flavor combinations. 

If you have more time, try squeezing in an informative wine tasting. 

Day 2 – Hike and Explore Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza

Enjoy your second day outdoors with a hike and a visit to Monterosso al Mare’s beaches and picture-perfect Vernazza. 

If you’re looking to take a hike, take a train to Corniglia to start on the Sentiero Azzurro hiking trail. This 4.2-mile hike from Corniglia to Monterosso takes about three hours to complete and is moderately challenging. You can stop in Vernazza as the trail passes through it. 

Alternatively, take the train to Vernazza from your base town. You can also opt for the more scenic option and take the ferry. Spend the morning exploring Vernazza before the tourist crowds fill this popular village. Be sure to head to its lookout points and snap some photos of the Chiesa di Santa Margherita. 

After your visit to Vernazza, make your way to Monterosso al Mare to bask in the sun on a sandy beach. You can also include a kayak tour on the aquamarine coast. Be on the lookout for the 46-foot Statua del Gigante near Fegina Beach. 

When hunger hits, head to L’Osteria for traditional Ligurian fare and some regional wine before wandering around the village. Stop by the shops for souvenirs like pesto and Monterosso’s renowned salted anchovies. 

Get one last look at the charming Cinque Terre with a boat tour from Monterosso . Or, opt for a sunset ferry back to your home base.  

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

There are so many excellent stays in Cinque Terre, and where you stay will depend on your preferred base town. Here are some top hotels for each village in Cinque Terre. 

• Riomaggiore: Scorci Di Mare – Roomy accommodation overlooking the Riomaggiore harbor. 
• Manarola: Hotel Marina Piccola – Modern hotel two minutes from the marina. 
• Corniglia: Affittacamere Il Timone – Mid-range apartment with a terrace and ocean view. 
• Vernazza: MADA Charm Apartments – Bright and spacious apartments a short walk from the beach. 
• Monterosso al Mare: Eremo della Maddalena – Luxury hotel with an outdoor pool and terrace.

READ: our full guide on Where to stay in Cinque Terre

How to Get to Cinque Terre

The best way to get to Cinque Terre is by train. Due to the advanced train system, it’s very easy and efficient to travel by train in Italy . 

Trains frequently run from Milan , Pisa, and Genoa to La Spezia Centrale, the main train station nearest to Cinque Terre. From La Spezia, it takes less than 10 minutes to make it to the southernmost Cinque Terre village, Riomaggiore. 

How to Get Around Cinque Terre

Driving around Cinque Terre is not really an option. The villages in Cinque Terre National Park are all car-free, but there’s a sophisticated train system, the Cinque Terre Express, that connects all the villages. 

Each village is about five minutes apart by train. The trains also run late and frequently, so you can still explore Cinque Terre at night.

Alternatively, you can take the ferry. This is a very scenic option but may be less reliable as it can be canceled due to bad weather. Ferries are also packed during peak tourist season. 

Cinque Terre is known for its many stunning hiking trails, and many of these trails connect the villages, so you can also get around by foot if you’re an avid hiker. 

TOP TIP: Purchase the Cinque Terre Card to save money on train trips and to get access to the two popular hiking trails from Monterosso to Vernazza and from Vernazza to Corniglia. The card also grants you free use of the bus within the park.

Final Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre

While planning your trip, keep in mind that these villages are often swamped with 1000s of cruise ship passengers arriving in La Spezia during the peak tourist season. 

On some days, there may be multiple cruise ships bringing passengers into the port. Check the port schedule to ensure you visit when there aren’t many cruise ship arrivals. 

Another tip is to visit the villages before 10:30 and after about 16:00 to avoid large crowds and have the best experience. 

LISTEN: to our podcast on exploring Liguria Beyond the Cinque Terre

Ready to Visit Cinque Terre?

We hope this article has inspired you to start planning your own Cinque Terre itinerary and get packing. These five villages are full of charm, beauty, and incredible seafood and wine, so you’re sure to have an excellent time. 

If you’re looking to extend your trip, have a look at this Liguria travel guide for more inspiration.

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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 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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The most beautiful villages around Portofino and the Cinque Terre

By Stuart Cantor

Stuart Cantor’s latest photography series, Portofino Paradiso, captures the old-world glamour of Italy ’s chicest seaside retreat as well as its beaches, hotels and neighbouring towns. His sun-dappled images of candy-striped sands, azure pools and colourfully painted houses evoke the charm of the Italian Riviera, which has counted Elizabeth Taylor, Ava Gardner and Humphrey Bogart among its fans. You can imagine them here within these scenes, bronzing themselves under a strawberry-and-cream parasol or beckoning a waiter at the Belmond Hotel Splendido . Cantor’s series covers villages including Portofino and Monterosso, all within two hours of the Cinque Terre coast is available to buy in large-format prints at stuartcantorphotography.com .

The village is the jewel of the Italian Riviera, known worldwide for its picturesque harbour with crystal waters and the cobbled piazzetta that overlooks it. With family-run seafood restaurants and chic boutiques, not to mention one of the region’s smartest hotels, the Belmond Hotel Splendido, it’s no wonder the area is internationally renowned.

Pictured: The jewel, Portofino

The largest of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre , Monterosso was briefly excluded from the list on account of its size. Certainly the most buzzing of the group, it has a large beach, lemon trees, olive groves and terraced vineyards whose fragrances linger in the air.

Pictured: A day at Monterosso

Riomaggiore

The most southern of the Cinque Terre villages and the second largest after Monterosso. Its vibrantly hued buildings climb steeply from sea level through the hills, and many romantic footpaths leading to the other four villages start here. Perhaps the most famous trail is Via dell’Amore, or Lover’s Lane, which meanders perilously along the coast, although it is currently closed for reconstruction.

Pictured: Riomaggiore

Discerning day-trippers from Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure flock to the neighbouring bay of Paraggi for its sandy shore and turquoise waters (there are no beaches in Portofino), as well as its smart seaside hangouts.

Pictured: Walking Paraggi plank, Paraggi

With its multicoloured houses hidden high in the hills overlooking the sea, Manarola is one of the most charming villages of the Cinque Terre, and widely considered to be the most beautiful. Waves crash against its tiny harbour, while narrow alleyways, or caruggi, zig-zag through the town to its peak, where you will find a church and bell tower.

Pictured: Manarola

Santa Margherita Ligure

This smart fishing town turned holiday destination is slightly less polished than Portofino, but what it lacks in glamour it more than makes up for in character. The pretty seaside promenade of palm trees, small shops and food joints looks out onto a pebble beach, with row upon row of matching sunbeds and parasols and a walkway into the sea.

Pictured: Two ladies lounging,Santa Margherita Ligure

Stuart’s prints are available to buy online stuartcantorphotography.com .

Keep scrolling to see more photos of the Portofino

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Cinque Terre Itinerary 2024 – the most complete travel guide

We lived for more than one year in Parma , and Cinque Terre was basically our courtyard! In this Cinque Terre itinerary, you find all you need to know, such as where to stay in the Cinque Terre, what to do in one, two or three days, how to get around and what do to in Cinque Terre. Plus tips and recommendations from who has visited there a few times, to make you visit to Cinque Terre remarkable!

On this Cinque Terre Itinerary:

• What are the Cinque Terre ?
• Where to stay in Cinque Terre
• Monterosso al Mare

Riomaggiore

• How to Get to Cinque Terre
• By walk, train or bus

Cinque Terre in one day

• Cinque Terre itinerary for your trip (for 3, 2 or 1 day)
• Where to eat in the Cinque Terre

What are the Cinque Terre?

The Cinque Terre (five villages, literally translated) are five fishing villages on the Italian Riviera, Liguria region. Just a bit below the Cinque Terre, you find Tuscany , the land of the sunflowers. Anyway, the villages of the Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore .

The “Five Villages” are a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as a National Park protected and preserved by the government and it’s definitely a must-see for all travellers going to Italy. We have already seen hundreds of pictures of the colourful houses built on top of the rocks of the Mediterranean Sea, a very typical scenario of the Italian Coast. Yet, seeing the Cinque Terre in person is always impressive. The whole region exceeded our expectations not just by its architecture, but also for its great atmosphere.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

Considering that you are not going to make your Cinque Terre itinerary in one day, finding where to stay in Cinque Terre might make a difference in your trip.

All of the “Five villages” have great infrastructure for tourism, with many options of hotels, hostels and apartments. As the towns are smalls, the places get booked up quite quickly, particularly during the high season in Cinque Terre , which is July to September.

Some of the best hotels in Cinque Terre are the Hotel Porto Roca and the Alla Marina . However, these are expensive as they are very well-known. There are some other most affordable options such as the Bed and Breakfast da Beppe .

A cheaper option for the Cinque Terre is to do like we did. We stay over in one of the neighbour cities, La Spezia . Another option is to stay in Levanto .

The Cinque Terre best village – exploring the villages

It is hard to pick the best Cinque Terre village as all of them are really interesting, but anyway, here it goes our impression of each one of them .

By the way, you might be interested in also reading:

• Find a wine fountain in Italy
• What to do in Mantua
• Rome for 3 days

Monterosso Al Mare

The furthest village from La Spezia, Monterosso is more about resorts and less about charm. Here you will find the largest beach, though most of the beach is private and you have to pay hotels and bars to use their space with chairs and sunshades. But there is a small public area, which is always crowded.

It is worth including Monterosso Al Mare in your Cinque Terre itinerary, but this was the village that least caught our attention.

If we must have to pick the best Cinque Terre village, that will be Vernazza! The narrow alleys, restaurants, the sea, the shower by the sea in a cave… all of it. You absolutely must visit Vernazza.

The village of Corniglia is the highest of the Cinque Terre villages, about 200m. So, if you take the train, get your legs ready to go up a massive stair. There is a van that can take you up the town, free for those with the Cinque Terre Pass (more on it below). However, they were not working when we were there – note we were during low season. This village is really charming and offers awesome views of the blue sea.

Manarola is another beautiful place and a must-see on your Cinque Terre itinerary! This village is extremely charming and it is worth exploring the region and the allyways that surround it, as there are many spots that offer privileged views of the fishing village.

The only downside of Manarola was the dirty sea. Even though it has many great spots for diving, the dirty on the sea (and on the rocks too) was such that we couldn’t enjoy swimming in there.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to go over there, so we invited our friend Camila Cesarino to tell us about Riomaggiore:

“ Riomaggiore is such a charming village. It has stairs and hidden alleys amongst pastel shade’s houses, a small but pleasant beach, let alone the most charming port of the region, from where you can take the boat which connects the 5 Italian lands “.

Bonus village: the Portovenere village

Portovenere is not part of the Cinque Terre National Park, but is just as beautiful and charming as the others. It was one of the greatest surprises of the trip. The sunset seen from the top of the fortress is stunning. So, if you are staying more than one day, find the time to add a visit to Portovenere on your Cinque Terre itinerary!

How to get to Cinque Terre

The starting point for the Cinque Terre is normally La Spezia Town , the largest and most developed village of the region. La Spezia is accessible by train from all over Italy. You can find direct trains from the many main Italian cities – check the availability of tickets here . You can also look at the best options using Omio , a search tool. It has really saved us in Europe sometimes.

Also, if you haven’t got your flight tickets already, we recommend use Skyscanner to look for the best deals . We always found the best prices and use Skyscanner as our main tool to find our flights.

• From Milan to Cinque Terre = 250 km / 155 mi
• From Genoa to Cinque Terre = 101 km / 62 mi
• From Pisa to Cinque Terre = 77 km / 47 mi
• From Florence to Cinque Terre = 151 km / 93 mi
• From Parma to Cinque Terre = 123 km / 76 mi

You can also have as a final destination one of the five fishing villages , as all of them have its own train station . However, you will very likely have to change trains in La Spezia anyway.

The advantage of going first to La Spezia is that you can stop at the Tourism Office on platform 1 and get all the information you need. There, you can also buy the  Cinque Terre Pass  and the  Cinque Terre Express , which we will get into a bit later.

How to go from one village to the other

You can travel in between the Cinque Terre by trekking, train, bus, boat or car (we actually don’t recommend driving within the Cinque Terre, but we will talk about that below).

For those planning on getting around the Cinque Terre by train, bus or walking, you have three options of passes to choose from:

• The Cinque Terre Treno Card: gives you access to the trekking paths and to the trains;
• The Cinque Terre trekking Card : gives you access to the trekking paths and to the local buses;
• Cinque Terre Express : these are basically the single train fairs. Ideal for those not planning to move much around.

You could, in theory, do all the Cinque Terre by foot. However, the trail between Riomaggiore, Manarola and Corniglia are closed, so connection is via train only. That means, from the 4 existing trekking routes, only 2 are currently open to the public:

• from Monterosso to Vernazza (distance: 3,5 Km/3,1 mi; duration: 1h30);
• from Vernazza to Corniglia (distance: 4 Km/2,4 mi; duration: 1h30).

By the way, even though the trekking is quite tiring, we really recommend it as the view is breathtaking!

There are also a non-official trek that goes through the mountain and does not require a pass. We, for instance, didn’t do it, but we met some tourists who did it and said it was extremely tiring (lots of ups) and the view wasn’t that exciting, as you go through the mountains and not by the sea.

Cinque Terre Treno Card

The Cinque Terre Treno Card  is a day pass that costs € 19.50 (adults) and € 12.50 (children between 4 and 11) and includes:

• Anytime trains from La Spezia to Levanto , which means to any of the Cinque Terre . The trains work from 4am to midnight;
• Anytime town buses (work only within the town, not from one town to another). You will hardly need to use them. Unless you are in Corniglia , where the station is quite far and really down below;
• WiFi of the National Park (not so great though, but helps for whatsapp conversation);
• Use of the toilets with a fee on the train stations (in good and clean conditions);
• The trekking between the fishing villages.

Cinque Terre Trekking Card

The Cinque Terre Trekking Card  is a day pass that costs € 7.50 (adults) and € 4.50 (children between 4 and 12) and includes:

Cinque Terre Express Trains

If you do not plan to go up and down among the villages, it is possible to buy a single journey of the train instead. It costs €4 each single journey (€2 for children). Therefore, you will need to buy the ticket for each journey you make and it does not allow you to do the trekking. You will find the machine to buy them at each station.

It’s great to combine with the trekking card, if you don’t plan to take many journeys. For instance, you can have the trekking card for one day and a single journey for the next day to relax in one of the village only.

Cinque Terre by boat

Something we really recommend doing is the Cinque Terre boat tour ! There are stops on every village, including La Spezia and Portovenere , towards the Cinque Terre and Levanto. You just cannot stop in Corniglia as it is above the sea level. We recommend buying the day pass for the boat tour, which can be the whole day or just the afternoon. It is not the cheapest option, but surely the most beautiful.

Prices for doing Cinque Terre by boat

-Daily ticket:

• Children (6 to 11 y.o.): €15

-Afternoon ticket: 

Check their website for the boat timetable and prices, or just buy them at the port. We bought ours at Portovenere Port.

A great option is to take a tour . Have a look at this trip that takes you from La Spezia and put you on a wooden boat, provide lunch and wine and goes through the five villages. Alternatively, you can rent a private boat and enjoy the Cinque Terre as you should! See how to rent your private boat tour to Cinque terre here .

Did you know that public museums in Italy are free of entrance on the first Sunday of each month?

Cinque Terre by car

If you are planning to drive from one village to the other, ask first if it is worth driving to Cinque Terre? We actually thought about renting a car to Cinque Terre, but after reading a lot and talking to people who did that way, we realised we would get into a mess.

We definitely don’t recommend travelling by car to Cinque Terre . It is a nightmare to find a parking spot, let alone being quite expensive. In addition, it is quite a walk from the car parkings to the towns, making you go up and down the hill all the time.

On the other hand, however, Aline Cinelli, a Brazilian-Italian who’s been living in Italy for the past years, visited Cinque Terre by car and told us about her experience:

Message from Aline about car hire in Cinque Terre

“We decided at the last minute to go to Monterosso. As we have two children, we thought it would be more comfortable to drive over there, as we heard the way back from the beach by train, on some weekends, can be quite cramped. We agreed that the view from the way was beautiful. We stopped in a few places just to admire the landscape and also stopped in some small towns in the mountains that take you to Monterosso. I also felt sick, lol (that is important, though: if you don’t like the car turning all the time, well, there will be many going up and down).

We managed to park the car at the nearest car park on the beach, which was not cheap: €17 to stay about 5 hours (the price has definitely gone up, expect something around € 22). But it was all worth it, though, mainly because when you are going back home tired from a whole afternoon at the beach and have quite a way back.

I think if you stay more days, to leave the car parked is not worth it, as you will pay for it through your nose and will not use the car. It is possible to park the car in one of the Cinque Terre and make the others by train, so to see them quickly. I think, if you are going to spend a day only, it is worth driving over there, as it is more comfortable, particularly if you have children.”

Therefore, if you are thinking on finding a Cinque Terre car hire company, have a look here .

Can you visit Cinque Terre in one day is one question we get all the time. Well, It depends… yes and no. It is like asking “can we see London in one day?” Yes, but you will miss out on many things. And the same goes for Cinque Terre. Regardless though, one day is better than no day at all, and if it is what you got, then do it!

We visited Cinque Terre twice. The first time, we did it in one day, leaving from Parma in the morning and back at night. It was great! But we visited three of the villages only, which just made us more excited to come back, as we did two weeks after. Then, we spent 4 days to better exploring the region.

If you don’t have much time, we recommend to focus on three of the villages too and see them well, instead of jumping from town to town and not really enjoying any of them. Below, we will give you the Cinque Terre itineraries, including Cinque Terre in one day itinerary. So, keep on going!

Itinerary for Cinque Terre

• Buy the Cinque Terre Trekking Pass in La Spezia and take a train to the furthest village, Monterosso .
• Go on a trekking to Vernazza. Enjoy the village for a few hours.
• Go on a trekking to Corniglia . Walk around and take a single journey train back to La Spezia .

 Cinque Terre in two days

• Checking in a hotel and buy the Cinque Terre Trekking Pass
• Take a train to the furthest village, Monterosso .
• Buy Cinque Terre Treno Pass and visit Riomaggiore
• Take a train to Manarola and then to another city you liked the most from the day before

Cinque Terre in three days

• Day one + day two
• Take the Cinque Terre boat tour from Portovenere in the afternoon (or the full day) and be back to see the sunset in Portovenere.

Where to eat in Cinque Terre

All villages have many options of restaurants and to find one that fits your taste and pocket won’t be a problem.

Something that caught our attention was the price of the restaurants and markets. Unlike we thought, it wasn’t a rip off and it is totally possible to find meals for €8-12 in nice restaurants in any of the villages.

If you are travelling on a budget though, take sandwiches and a bottle of water on a backpack for the afternoon snacks. You can fill up your bottle on public fountains almost everywhere, for instance.

And you, have you been to Cinque Terre? Did you like it? What do you recommend?! Tell us, I look forward to hear your experience over there too!

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* Article originally written in August 2017 and updated in Abril 2024 *

BRAVI that you posted also about Portovenere

I know, it is not so famous as other similar destinations but I truly think it could be the most outstanding hidden gem in this blog.

Please be my guest at my boutique hotel. http://www.capitolare.com . No charge, all offered by the house. Please contact me at my mail and come to visit portovenere.

Ciao Andrea!!! We absolutely loved Portovenere and it has an amazing sunset too! Thank you very much for the invite! I will make sure to pay you a visit soon. We would love to see your boutique hotel. Ci veddiamo in Portovenere 🙂

Cinque Terre is still a dream for me. I have been fascinated by the charm of these five fishing villages and literally want to go and live there for some time. This is one of the picture postcard destinations in the world for sure. Thank you so much for the detailed post. Its really helpful to plan my vacation there.

Thank you, Parnashree! It makes us really happy you can help somehow! Indeed, it is a postcard destination, I am sure you will have a great time on your vacation there. 😉

This is such a great guide – good job! I love that the Cinque Terre pass includes FREE RESTROOMS! That’s something you can’t find anywhere else in Italy haha. I love that you included the bonus village as well because, why stop with just five? lol 🙂

Hahahaha five is not enough for Cinque Terre!! Thank you, Ashley! That free restrooms comes really handy, doesn’t it? 😉

This is a really useful overview of all the villages – they all look so beautiful and charming! Thanks for sharing insight on the best ways of getting there – I think a lot of people would try driving and then regret it. This is another place I need to visit!

Thank you, Zainab. That’s right, people normally rent a car a drive to there. Well, in fact, rent a car and driving in Italy deserves a whole post (which is on its way btw 😉 ) but for Cinque Terre, is just not worth the hassle. We are sure you will love over there and let us know when you go!!

This travel guide is packed with information and tips for travelers. I’d love to visit all the villages as they all look gorgeous. I would love to try the boat ride, too.

Thank you, Jing. We are sure you will not regret. The boat ride is great as it gives you a different view of the villages that the trekking and the train does not provide 😉

This is a place I really want to visit. I think I would like to spend at least 4 days so I can hike it all and stay in some of the villages. I like the idea of seeing some of it by boat as the perspective must be different and beautiful. Not to keen on driving in narrow streets with no parking or expensive parking so I would stick to your recommendations. Thanks for the detailed post.

Thank you, Rovingjo. We are glad it helped. You plan seems spot on. 4 days, staying in some of the villages and take a boat. You will love. Just don’t forget Portovenere, it is really worth going 😉 Safe travels

What a charming place! I especially loved the picture of the trail leading down to the water. I hope I get to explore the Italian Riveria someday!

Thank you, Stacey. It is really charming, you will love it. Let us know when you go 😉

I think that trekking is definitely the way to explore and that it would be well worth cost of your ticket. The ocean views look beautiful but what really entices me is the connection you would feel with the land and people. Travelling the five lands by foot seems like the way people have been doing it for centuries.

Is definitely the way to explore for us too, Jenn. About the trekking, though, we heard that it was made in order to construct the railway. Before, the access was through the sea or the road up in the mountain. We are just not so sure how accurate is this information. Nevertheless, the connection with the nature when doing the trekking is awesome! Thanks

This is one of the places I really can’t wait to visit! I think I’d rent a car like that family did. With a small child, it’s easier to have a car and be able to explore along the way. Great post!

Good to hear that, Maggie. We wanted to included that insight just because we knew there were people who would feel the same way. We are glad that the car will do for you (and the child 😉 ) Thanks

This brought me back! We visited Monterosso al Mare when I was pregnant with my oldest and it was really beautiful! The ferry to visit the other little towns was definitely a highlight. And I ate my weight in fresh mussels! I really want to go back to explore each town. Great guide!

So glad to know it brought back good memories to you, Marcie! We were to order fresh mussels a couple of times but changed last minute. Kind of regret right now, lol. Thank you!

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The Happy Traveller

Travel blog for fellow adventure-seekers and wanderlusters. Travel guides and stunning photography to inspire you to explore the world.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Planning a trip to the cinque terre.

Cinque Terre is a collection of 5 hilltop towns. For your visit make sure you stop at Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The town of Portovenere is also lovely and only a 30 minute bus ride from La Spezia making it very worth a visit.

Getting there

La Spezia is the closest national train station. To access the Cinque Terre you will need to grab a national train to La Spezia and then take the regional train to each of the Cinque Terre Hilltop towns from there. Genoa is the closest airport to the Cinque Terre. Travelling Europe by train? Just out these Eurail options . Or book a flight from anywhere in Europe using EasyJet .

Where to stay

Staying in the villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore will be absolutely idyllic but can be on the pricier side. Staying in La Spezia is a more affordable option and you can easily access the town by train from there.

Getting around

You will need to purchase the Cinque Terre railway card. This is a card costing 12 euros which allows you unlimited train access between the 5 towns, the permit to all the hiking trails, as well as free wifi and toilet access. Depending on what sort of holiday you have planned you can just catch the train between each town or you can hike between them. My time budget only allowed me the train option but one day I would love to return and do the hikes.

Cinque Terre

I made my way to Rome airport early that Saturday morning, chatting to the friendly American seated next to me on the hour-long bus ride. Upon my arrival I noticed straight away the chaos that seemed to have engulfed Rome Fiumicino. Screens all around flashed notices of cancelled or delayed flights.

Italy was striking.

Everything seemed to be going fine and even though most other flights were being cancelled my flight’s status remained unchanged. It wasn’t until a short while before I was supposed to start boarding that it was announced that my flight too, had been cancelled. My heart sunk. I couldn’t believe how bad my luck had been! Both flights there and back cancelled! Except this time there wasn’t a lovely lady telling me they’d accommodate me free of charge in a luxurious hotel until my flight the next morning. No. There was a mad rush of everyone trying to get on the next plane and so the next flight I could get was Monday evening. TWO DAYS LATER. My head began to swim with a million questions of what I should do and how on earth I was going to get home. I contacted my host mom and she graciously said I could extend my stay if I needed to and why not make the most of this opportunity to visit another part of Italy and come back by train. The normal, control-freak, super planner Olivia would have nervously laughed at the idea of taking an unexpected detour and politely declined. But this year has shaped, grown and changed me in more ways than I’d imagined possible and so I shocked myself. I decided in that moment that I was going to grab this opportunity with both hands and go visit a place in Italy I’ve been dreaming of: Cinque Terre.

A few hours of teary-eyed “Mom, I’m scared” phone calls, trying to find trains and accommodation with a very sketchy airport free wifi connection later, I found myself running back to the bus stop and hopping on a bus back to Rome city centre where I’d catch a train to La Spezia. I had quickly made a (very expensive) booking at a hotel in La Spezia and saved some google map directions of how to walk there from the train station. But other than that I had no plan. This was a new adventure! I was filled with excitement but at the same time a butterfly, uneasy feeling of the unknown.

Once I’d checked into my hotel and had a long conversation asking a million questions of how best to see the Cinque Terre, I flopped down on my bed and breathed the biggest sigh of relief. It had been a stressful day to say the least but I was safe and sound. I had come to La Spezia on a whim, only knowing the name because my mom had remembered it from her travels many years ago. It turned out that I was in the perfect spot to be seeing the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre: 5 beautiful hilltop towns composed of colorful buildings clinging to the cliffs hanging over crystal clear, turquoise waters.

I only had one full day here and so had to plan it properly to be able to fit everything in. It was ambitious but I did it. After walking to La Spezia train station I purchased my Cinque Terre railway card. This is a card costing 12 euros which allows you unlimited train access between the 5 towns, the permit to all the hiking trails, as well as free wifi and toilet access. It was SO worth it. I hopped on a train and set off for the first town: Riomaggiore.

Riomaggiore

Next stop: the most beautiful Manarola. I saw a sign saying, “Welcome to Paradise” and I don’t think there could’ve been a more accurate way to describe this beautiful place. The cliffs are lined with hiking trails that allow you to get up high and admire the breath-taking views below you. These pathways are in among gardens filled with vegetables and fruit trees which boast the fertility of the earth.

Another quick 2 minute train ride later and I arrived at Corniglia. This town was the smallest and least exciting of all but I found a cute and quirky lunch spot there. I enjoyed a refreshing mint drink and a yummy focaccio.

After Corniglia was Vernazza. This was definitely my favourite of the five towns and be far the most beautiful and picturesque.

I grabbed a gelato (Chantilly cream and Cinque Terre sweet wine flavour- YUM) and sat down on the pier watching the waves gently lapping against the rocks. It was a perfect moment, sitting there enjoying the sunshine and sweet ice cream.

The next town was Monterosso which was really just a beach. But my, it felt SO good to dip my toes in the cool sea water. I spent a little while there lying on the pebbled beach, relaxing and enjoying the spring sunshine (maybe a little bit too much. This pale skin had got too used to the European winter and came out a little bit on the tomato red side).

Portovenere

And that covered the 5 beautiful towns of the Cinque Terre. It was a tight schedule but I saw all of it and was blown away by the absolute beauty of it all. The last place I wanted to see before heading home was a peninsula town of Portovenere. I took the 30 minute bus there and was left in awe as I looked upon the incredible raw beauty of what I saw before me.

I celebrated my last night in Italy (for real this time) with a delicious seaside meal of scampi linguine. I looked out upon the harbor at the boats bobbing away gently with a background of the setting sun. It was gorgeous and the perfect way to end off the most amazing and unforgettable trip. The next day after 8 hours of door to door travel I finally arrived home safe and sound back in Annemasse, France . This trip taught me so many things about myself but most of all it taught me to embrace the detours.

Planning a trip to Italy? Why not check out my blogs on  Verona ,  Rome ,  Venice ,  Florence and Pisa ?

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7 Best Things To Do in Cinque Terre on a Romantic Couples Getaway

Cinque Terre, which translates to "Five Lands", is made up of five villages on the northwestern coast of Italy in the Liguria region.

While each of the villages is teeming with tourists throughout the day, there is a much quieter romantic vibe in the evening as day trippers leave. Time to start planning and then packing.

Are YOU Looking for the Best Things To Do in Cinque Terre?

You'll be happy to hear that USNews Travel ranks Cinque Terre as the 6th best honeymoon destination in Europe .

If you are looking for fun AND romance along with the best things to do in the town of Cinque Terre on a getaway for couples, plan to stay for at least two to three days. Especially if you really want to capture the magic of Cinque Terre... and each other.

Weekend getaways for couples are the perfect way to add a little spark to your relationship . How?

• Getaway from the responsibilities of work and home
• Gives you time away from your children
• One-on-one time to focus on each other
• There's no set routine so you can sleep in or stay up late
• Show affection and shake up your sex life
• Take time to talk
• Enjoy the anticipation of travel
• Step out of your comfort zone together
• Practice some relationship self-care
• Get a couple's massage
• Take travel selfies together
• Enjoy some gelato Italiano
• Build great memories

>> Related: Romantic Instagram Quotes for Couples Who Love to Travel

7 Best Things To Do in Cinque Terre

1. sunbathe at monterosso beach.

Monterosso has the longest stretches of beaches of the five villages. Monterosso Beach really is the best beach in Cinque Terre. These beaches are located in both the new part of the village as well as in the old town area.

Both sections offer traditional beaches where you can rent umbrellas and a lounging chair OR find a free section of beach where you can spread out with your own beach towel, chair and umbrella.

2. Explore All Five Towns of Cinque Terre

If you plan to visit the coast and are looking for the best things to do in Cinque Terre, you really ought to plan to visit all of five towns of Cinque Terre. Each one is a little different from the others and offers a variety of sightseeing options.

3. Hike from Monterosso to Vernazza

If you plan to hike during you visit, I recommend you plan for an early start, especially in the summer months. The best time to hike in Cinque Terre is during the morning hours. You'll find fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and less humidity.

Signage at the beginning of the hike makes it clear that hiking in flip flops can result in a fine. The family of four in front of us, three of whom were wearing flip flops, turned around at the pay station to avoid being fined. Getting fined is NOT one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre!

The narrow path is not easy with steps going up from the very start. There are many fitness levels, ages and agility levels of tourists who hike this trail. The hike is 2.2 miles with an elevation gain of 705 feet.

Take time to enjoy the journey. Stop every so often to take a few pictures and selfies. The views are amazing and as you get closer to Vernazza, you see the brightly colored iconic village. The colorful homes, the boats, the people swimming…all fantastic.

The hike takes about an hour and a half for the average hiker. You'll hike past quaint homes and terraced farms of olive trees along the way. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

>> Related: The 10 Essentials for Your Best Day Hikes

4. Enjoy Delicious Food at The Best Restaurants in Cinque Terre

Did you know that the region of Cinque Terre is the birthplace of pesto ? The recipe for pesto calls for grinding basil (which flourishes in the temperate seaside climate) with pine nuts, garlic, two varieties of cheese (half parmigiano cow cheese and half pecorino sheep cheese), and olive oil. Pesto is eaten with pasta, in lasagna or as a spread for your bread.

One of the fun things to do in Cinque Terre during your visit is to take a pesto-making class in nearby Levanto.

You can also enjoy all types of pasta during your stay, anchovies and fresh seafood, focaccia bread, pizza, and of course... gelato.

Be sure to make dinner reservations in advance. All of the tourists will be looking for the best places to eat in Cinque Terre. Just like you!

La Cucina Italiana recommends these Top 10 Favorite Restaurants in Cinque Terre and close by:

• Ristorante Miky, Monterosso
• La Cantina di Miky, Monterosso
• Agriturismo Missanega, Monterosso
• Causa Persa, Monterosso
• L’ancora della Tortuga, Monterosso
• Osteria a Cantina de Mananan, Corniglia
• Da Aristide, Manarola
• Rio Bistrot, Riomaggiore
• Fuori Rotta, Riomaggiore
• Agave, Framura (just three stops from Monterosso on the local train)

5. Savor the Gelato Italiano

You can't come to Italy and not try gelato. Italy is also the birthplace of this delectable treat. Perhaps it should be #1 on your list of things to do in Cinque Terre ... everyday.

You may be entranced by the brilliantly colored gelato, but if you are looking for an authentic-tasting gelato , follow these tips:

• Look for subdued earthy colored gelato indicating the gelatos are handmade, fresh and contain natural flavors and ingredients such as fruit and nuts
• Brightly color gelato is full of chemicals to preserve them (the same goes for the fluffy-looking gelatos in the cooler that are likely mass produced elsewhere)
• Check the banana gelato. If it is bright yellow, move on. If it has a grayish color, it was most likely made with real bananas
• Look for the sign "fatta in casa" . This means that the gelato was made fresh and in-house

Gelato Italiano

For some of the best gelato Italiano along the coast, try Alberto Gelateria in Corniglia or Gelateria Vernazza .

6. Enjoy Market Days

If you love to wander hand-in-hand with your sweetheart through local markets while eating gelato Italiano, search for vintage treasures, and find fresh produce and goods, there are a number of markets in and around the villages of Cinque Terre .

• Vernazza Market on Tuesday
• Monterosso Market on Thursday
• Friday Market in La Spezia (about a ten minute train ride from Riomaggiore)
• Food Market in La Spezia - open every morning until 1 pm (except Sundays)
• Friday Market in Chiavari (about one hour from Monterosso)

If you are staying in a vacation rental and cooking your own meals, you may wish to stop by the La Spezia food market first.

7. Book a Sunset Boat Tour of Cinque Terre

Chris and I found many sunset boat tour options during our stay in Monterosso as we walked along the harbor. I imagine in the summer months that you would need to book in advance to guarantee your romantic evening cruise when planning for a boat tour of Cinque Terre.

As we traveled to Cinque Terre close to the end of the summer season, we were able to book a romantic evening boat cruise the day before. We were the only ones on the cruise and enjoyed asking our captain questions and getting in close to the villages for unobstructed photos and the best views in Cinque Terre.

>> Related: 10 Getaways and Adventures as a Couple

How Do You Pronounce Cinque Terre?

The correct pronunciation of Cinque Terre is  cheen-kweh teh-rreh .

Listen to the pronunciation a few times to get it down.

Overview: The Five Towns of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre was added to the  UNESCO World Heritage List  in 1997 and became a National Park on October 6, 1999.

Cinque Terre features terraced agricultural land and colorful homes that seem to be built one on top of another as they cascade down rugged cliffs along the Mediterranean Sea.

Approximately 4,000 residents call the five towns of Cinque Terre home, however the area is an attraction for around three million tourists every year. People arrive for day-trips, weekend getaways, family vacations , friend trips, the gelato Italiano, and for a little sunbathing along the coast, especially Monterosso beach.

5 Towns of Cinque Terre Map Courtesy of Google Maps

Things to Do In Monterosso al Mare

Chris and I chose Monterosso as our home base for our three-day getaway. For us, it was the best place to stay in Cinque Terre. We arrived on the afternoon train from Milan and were immediately enamored with the views of the coast and Mediterranean Sea.

As we exited the train station with our bags in tow, we walked right out to the waterfront area of the "newer" section of Monterosso. I couldn’t help but take pictures .

Known for the great beaches , if sunbathing is on your wish list of things to do while visiting Cinque Terre, Monterosso beach is the perfect option. It also makes is one of the best places to swim in Cinque Terre.

We found the best place to stay in Cinque Terre in a vacation rental right in the heart of the town.

>> Related : Paragliding Switzerland's Mt. Pilatus: An Epic Adventure for Couples

Vernazza Things To Do

Vernazza is a popular village with a little something for everyone.

This village boasts the only natural harbor along the coastline of the five villages. Beyond a small area of beach for sunbathing and playing in the water, there are plenty of places and restaurants to do a little people watching.

Hiking from Monterosso to Vernazza is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre if you want to see the amazing vistas of each of the villages.

Things To Do In Corniglia

Escape many of the crowds as you climb the 382 steps up to the village. Not to worry, there is a bus that will transport you up the hill as well if that many steps are daunting.

Corniglia is the only village that does not have waterfront access. One thing you CAN do is wander through the narrow streets to see picturesque viewpoints, visit tourist shops, and find something fresh and tasty to eat.

Things To Do In Manarola, Italy

Manarola offers fabulous views .

Although there is not a real beach in Manarola, locals and tourists love it for some of the best deep-water swimming around.

Like the other villages, Manarola is all ups and downs, with steep narrow alleys to explore.

Best Things To Do In Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is the largest of the five towns of Cinque Terre. It is the most southern village and is closest to La Spezia. It offers plenty of fine dining opportunities and a great nightlife .

If you have seen Cinque Terre in pictures or postcards before, you have most likely seen the village of Riomaggiore.

How to Get From One Village to Another

Taking the Cinque Terre Express train is the best way to travel from one village to another. The Cinque Terre Express runs approximately every 20 minutes from mid March until 1st of November.

Trekking Card

If your plan for things to do in Cinque Terre involves hiking between the villages, you can purchase the Cinque Terre Trekking Card  which gives you access to all  footpaths .

Please note * The only trails that require the trekking card (all other trails are free) are:

• From Monterosso to Vernazza
• From Vernazza to Corniglia

Be sure to check the website for up-to-date information on whether or not trails are open to the public. Some trails are currently closed.

The  Cinque Terre Train Card , on the other hand, allows you to access the hiking trails AND gives unlimited access on the Cinque Terre Express trains on the Levanto—Cinque Terre—La Spezia line . Some discounts are available.

The Cinque Terre Cards can be purchased at:

• All train stations
• Cinque Terre Tourist Information Points (including on footpaths)

Cinque Terre Train Schedule

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

You'll want to give some consideration on where to stay during your visit to Cinque Terre, and more specifically consider which village will work best for you.

• Do you love the beach? Pick Monterosso
• Do you love to play in the water, wander through amazing alleyways, and hike? Vernazza may be your best bet.
• Would a quiet village with amazing sea views be your priority when planning things to do in Cinque Terre? How about Corniglia ?
• Manarola has great views, great food, and great deep-water swimming.
• If you want to be close to markets in La Spezia, Riomaggiore is a good option. It also has a great nightlife if you love to party together.

Booking.com

Gear for Taking Great Travel Photos

Whatever your skill level with a camera, be prepared for some amazing photos while visiting all of the Cinque Terre villages.

Canon Powershot G1  – This camera is great if you leave the camera in AUTO mode and work well with a point and shoot. It does give you the option to switch to MANUAL mode if you choose.

Canon T8i  – If you are just beginning your photography journey and want to switch back and forth between Auto, Aperture Priority, or Manual Mode, this makes a great entry level DSLR.

Canon 6d Mark II  – This is a great camera for advanced photographers who are comfortable shooting in Manual Mode. You’ll get some outstanding shots of the Mediterranean coastline and the colorful Cinque Terre villages. Just know that it can get heavy around your neck if you are sightseeing all day long.

Smart Phone  – The camera on your phone may be amazing. If this is your picture-taking device, you will surely capture some great images. Smart phones are perfect for those days when you don't want to carry bigger cameras.

For the best tourist-free photos, you may wish to arrive early in the morning or wait until the evening when many of the day trippers are gone. Whatever you choose as your camera as you explore ALL of the best things to do in Cinque Terre, you will want to have the battery charged and ready to go for the day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, the amalfi coast or cinque terre.

It depends on your goals when visiting Italy. If your planning to travel Northern Italy, then adding Cinque Terre makes sense . If you're travel adventures take you to Naples or Pompeii or other places in the south, choose the Amalfi Coast. Both destinations are awesome.

How many days do you need to explore Cinque Terre?

Two to three days at a minimum in order to explore, eat enough gelato Italiano, enjoy Monterosso Beach, book a sunset cruise and discover the culture of the area with a cooking class.

What are the best months to visit the towns of Cinque Terre?

Planning a trip to Cinque Terre in September and October is perfect. There are fewer crowds and the weather is still enjoyable.

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Final thoughts on the best things to do in cinque terre for a couples getaway.

There are plenty of Cinque Terre must see moments:

• Beautiful scenery
• Incredible photo opportunities
• Colorful homes
• Perfect couples getaway
• Awe-inspiring sunsets
• Pesto, pizza and pasta

The five towns of Cinque Terre make a perfect destination if you are looking for a romantic getaway with your sweetheart. And what makes them even better, there are no cars in Cinque Terre.

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