Picture yourself in a postcard-perfect world of colorful cliffside villages overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea. That’s the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses five quintessentially Italian towns: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each has its own unique charm, connected by a series of hiking trails that promise awe-inspiring vistas at every turn.

Monterosso is known for its sandy beaches and vibrant market scene. Vernazza grabs your heart with its tiny harbor and dramatic cliffs. Corniglia offers panoramic views from its elevated perch. Manarola is the go-to for romantic sunsets, and Riomaggiore is a photographer’s dream, with its multi-colored houses clinging to the steep terraces.

Aside from the views, the Cinque Terre is a foodie haven where you can indulge in local delicacies like “trofie al pesto” and fresh seafood dishes, all paired with the crisp white wines produced from grapes grown on the terraced vineyards above the towns.

CINQUE TERRE TRAVEL GUIDE

The 5 Villages

Monterosso al Mare

Beach Time

Monterosso is the village to choose if you love the beach. Unlike the other four villages, which are primarily cliffside or have rocky shores, Monterosso has an expansive sandy beach that stretches alongside its promenade and is lined with colorful umbrellas and lounge chairs that are available for rent. There are kayaks and paddleboards to rent, and there are plenty of beachside cafes where you can grab a refreshing Aperol Spritz or some fresh seafood.

San Giovanni Battista Church

Tucked away in the heart of Monterosso’s old town, the Church of San Giovanni Battista is a slice of architectural elegance. Built in the 14th century, this church is a stunning example of Ligurian Gothic architecture, characterized by its striking facade of alternating white and dark green marble stripes. The church houses some noteworthy artwork, but its charm lies in its simplistic beauty and sense of tranquility.

Vernazza

Hang Out at the Harbor

Vernazza’s harbor is the beating heart of the village—a perfect blend of natural beauty and local life.  Surrounded by brightly colored houses stacked like a vibrant mosaic against the hillside, the harbor is the ultimate spot for leisure. It’s hard to resist the temptation of simply sitting at one of the waterfront cafes, gelato in hand, as you watch fishing boats bob gently in the water and locals exchange pleasantries. 

The atmosphere here is so idyllic it almost feels like a painting. Whether you’re people-watching, enjoying a scoop (or two!) of gelato, or waiting for the amazing sunset, the harbor embodies the essence of la dolce vita. We were lucky enough to stay in an apartment right in the center, overlooking the square and the water!

Castle of the Doria

Perched atop a rugged cliff, the Castle of the Doria is a historical site that speaks volumes of Vernazza’s medieval past. Originally built as a lookout tower to protect the village from pirates, this ancient stronghold is now one of the best vantage points for panoramic views. You can ascend the narrow staircase leading to the top of the tower for a modest fee. Once you’re there, you’re greeted with a 360-degree panorama that captures the colorful village, the terraced hills, and the endless sea.

Corniglia 

Corniglia may be the smallest of the Cinque Terre villages, but it packs a punch in terms of charm and stunning vistas. 

Scenic Overlooks

Corniglia is unique among the Cinque Terre villages for its elevated position, perched about 100 meters above sea level. This provides ample opportunities for breathtaking views, especially from Santa Maria Terrace. This scenic lookout point offers panoramic views that stretch from the terraced vineyards to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below.

Hike to Guvano Beach

For those seeking a bit of solitude and a break from the touristy spots, Guvano Beach is the place to go. This secluded, pebble-lined beach is accessible via a somewhat adventurous route that involves walking through an old, unlit railway tunnel. It is safe, but do bring a flashlight! Once you emerge from the tunnel, you’ll find yourself at a tranquil cove framed by steep cliffs, making it an ideal spot for lying in the sun or a swim away from the crowds. Because of its isolated location, the beach has a natural, untouched feel that adds to its allure. Just a heads-up: Guvano Beach is known for being a nudist beach, so be prepared for that possibility.

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Manarola 

Manarola is often considered the most romantic of the Cinque Terre villages. Here’s a glimpse into its must-experience offerings.

Sunset at Punta Bonfiglio

If sunsets are your thing, then Punta Bonfiglio is an experience you won’t want to miss. This little park is situated between the marina and the cemetery and provides a surreal vantage point for sunsets. As the sun sets, it casts an ethereal glow over the pastel-colored houses clinging to the cliffs, the vineyards, and of course, the vast Mediterranean Sea. There’s a small bar nearby, so you can enjoy a glass of local wine as you take in the view.

Wine Tasting

Speaking of wine, Manarola takes its vineyards seriously. The village is famous for Sciacchetrà, a delicious and rare dessert wine that’s native to the region. Several local vineyards offer wine-tasting sessions where you can sample the wines and learn about the production process. You can sip a glass of Sciacchetrà as you walk through terraced vineyards, overlooking the sea and the picturesque village below, a lovely experience that blends local culture, natural beauty, and enjoying a good wine.

Riomaggiore

Marina and Ferry Dock

The marina at Riomaggiore is a visual delight, one that you’ve likely seen in photographs even before setting foot in Cinque Terre. Towering, multicolored houses built into the steep cliffs form a dramatic backdrop to the boats gently bobbing in the water. In the golden hour, the colors of the sunset make the buildings pop even more against the deep blue sea. The ferry dock also serves as a launching point for boat tours, offering another perspective of the Cinque Terre’s cliffs and rugged coastline.

Anello di Riomaggiore

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and get a different viewpoint of Riomaggiore, the Anello di Riomaggiore hiking path is the place to go. This trail is less frequented than the more famous Sentiero Azzurro. The path meanders around the outskirts of the village, taking you through vineyards, olive groves, and offering stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. The hike is fairly moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Local Cuisine

The culinary joys of the Cinque Terre are as memorable as its landscapes! Here’s what you definitely don’t want to miss.

Focaccia

Let’s start simple yet delicious. Focaccia is a Ligurian staple, and in Cinque Terre, you’ll find this olive oil-rich, salty bread at almost every local bakery. Perfect as a quick snack or breakfast!

Pesto alla Genovese

You’re in the region that gave the world pesto, so definitely try some fresh Pesto alla Genovese. Whether it’s slathered on pasta or used as a dip, its rich, herbal flavor is unforgettable.

Fresh Seafood

Given its coastal location, seafood in Cinque Terre is as fresh as it gets. Look for dishes like “fritto misto” (mixed fried seafood), anchovies, and “ciuppin,” a local fish stew. 

Farinata

This is a chickpea flour-based pancake that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often flavored with rosemary or onions, it’s a vegan-friendly treat you’ll find in many local bakeries.

Sciacchetrà Wine

As mentioned earlier, this is a local dessert wine, especially popular in Manarola. It’s sweet and robust, often enjoyed with pastries or cheese.

Limoncino

Wrap up your meal with a glass of Limoncino, a lemon-flavored liqueur. It’s a sweet and tangy way to cleanse your palate and end a delicious Italian meal.

Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay in Cinque Terre depends on what you’re looking for, as each village has a unique vibe and offerings. Let’s break it down.

Monterosso al Mare

If you’re a beach enthusiast, Monterosso is your spot. It has the most extensive range of accommodation options, from upscale hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. It’s also easier to navigate with luggage due to its flatter terrain.

Vernazza

Ideal for those looking for a romantic getaway. It’s often considered the most picturesque of the villages, and there are numerous quaint guesthouses offering stunning views of the harbor. Be prepared for some steps, though! We chose to stay in Vernazza.

Corniglia

If solitude is what you crave, consider staying in Corniglia. It’s the least crowded of the five villages and offers more affordable lodging options. However, remember that it’s perched on a hilltop, so getting there involves a climb.

Manarola

Manarola offers a mix of boutique hotels and apartment options, many of which have terraces overlooking the sea—perfect for golden-hour sunsets and making it an excellent location for couples.

Riomaggiore

This village offers a balanced mix of convenience and charm. It has a wider variety of restaurants and shops than Corniglia and Manarola but still maintains a cozy village feel. Accommodations range from hostels to mid-range hotels.

No matter which village you choose, you’re never too far from stunning views, delicious food, and enchanting local culture. Just remember that Cinque Terre is a popular destination, so booking your stay well in advance is advisable, especially if you’re visiting during the peak season.

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Transportation

Navigating the Cinque Terre can be part of the adventure, and you have several convenient options to explore these scenic villages.

Train

The train is the quickest and most popular way to hop between the villages. Trains run frequently, and the journey between each village is around 5 to 10 minutes.

If you are planning on multiple train rides and perhaps some hiking, consider buying the Cinque Terre Card. It offers unlimited train travel between the villages and access to many of the hiking trails. You can buy this card at the stations or online. Always keep the card handy, as you might be asked to show it during your journey.

You can also purchase individual tickets at each station or online. Each village has a train station where you can buy tickets from either automated machines or ticket counters. The machines offer instructions in multiple languages and accept both cash and cards.

Trenitalia, the Italian national train operator, allows you to purchase tickets online via their website or mobile app. You can choose to show the digital ticket on your phone or print it out.

Travel Tip!  Remember to always validate your train tickets (anywhere in Italy) at the yellow or green validation machines before boarding the train.

Hiking

Hiking between the villages is an option and provides fantastic views, so I would definitely do that at least once. The most famous trail is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path), which links all five villages. Be aware that some trails may require a small fee or may be closed due to weather conditions.

Ferry

Taking a ferry between the villages (except Corniglia, which is not accessible by sea) offers stunning views from the water. However, ferries don’t run as frequently as trains and are more subject to weather conditions. They were actually not running during our visit because of the rough waters. 🙁

Bus

Intra-village buses can take you to higher parts of the villages where some accommodations are located, which is especially useful if you’re staying in Corniglia, which sits atop a hill.

Be aware that the bus schedules are not exact, nor are they frequent. Depending on the location, they could be late or early and may only run every few hours. The only time we took a bus, it arrived ten minutes early! Luckily, we were there early, but if we had been right on time, we would’ve missed it and would’ve had to wait a few hours on the next one. 😐

Driving

I do not recommend driving! Roads are narrow, and parking is limited. Train and walking/hiking are the best, in my opinion.

Currency

The national currency in Italy is the Euro (€).  Click here to get the daily conversion.