Cinque Terre - How to Make the Most Out of these Beautiful Coastal Villages

Get ready for a beautiful trip along the coast as we explore the magic of Cinque Terre. We’ll take you through its five charming villages and share helpful tips to make your visit easy, fun and unforgettable.

Rafael and I were looking for a nice summer trip when we found affordable flights to Pisa. From there, we traveled to Cinque Terre, a beautiful stretch of Italy’s coastline made up of five small villages perched on steep cliffs above the sea. We’d heard about the colorful houses, stunning views, and fresh local seafood, and were excited to explore the area ourselves. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy peaceful walks, great food, and unforgettable sunsets by the water!

In this post, we’ll share everything you need to plan a visit to Cinque Terre, including how to get there, how to get around, and what to see in each village. We’ve also written separate posts about each town, with tips on the best restaurants, sights and photo spots. This guide will help you experience the full charm of one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal regions.

THE FIVE VILLAGES

Located between the cities of Genoa and Pisa in the region of Liguria, lies the Cinque Terre – five picturesque villages perched on the coast. These unique and colorful villages are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting curious travelers from all over the globe.

The villages — Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — sit tucked between steep cliffs along the coast. Their wild beauty and quiet setting make them a special part of Italy. Long ago, people got from one village to another using walking paths, and those same trails are still one of the best ways to explore the area today. They let you enjoy the views at your own pace and feel more connected to the place than if you were driving. Each village has its own look and feel, with colorful houses, fresh seafood, and sunny weather that invite visitors to slow down and take it all in.

Even though the villages may seem small, there's lots to see and do! You can hike between towns, swim in the clear blue sea or sit down to taste local dishes and wine. And when the day ends, there’s nothing better than watching the sunset with a drink in hand and the sea below. Whether you love hiking or are just looking for a peaceful getaway, Cinque Terre is a wonderful place for a unique Italian trip.

The Jewel of the Cinque Terre. Vernazza is often considered the most beautiful village in Cinque Terre — and it’s easy to see why! With its tiny beach, colorful houses and amazing sea views, it brings together everything people love about this region. From the moment you arrive, Vernazza feels special, like a postcard come to life.

The old castle ruins sitting above the village add a touch of history and offer stunning views over the coastline. Down by the harbor, small boats float gently in the water and the marina becomes the perfect place to relax and take in the scenery. Even though it’s one of the most visited villages, Vernazza keeps its peaceful and cozy feel. Whether you’re walking through the narrow streets, enjoying a swim or just watching the world go by, Vernazza captures the magic of Cinque Terre.

 | For more information about Vernazza, check our post here |

The Laid-Back Village of the Cinque Terre. Corniglia is the most peaceful and secluded of the five villages, perfect for travelers looking to slow down and enjoy a calm, authentic Italian experience. Sitting high on a rocky hilltop, it’s the only village in Cinque Terre without direct sea access — and that’s what makes part of its charm! With no beach or marina, fewer tourists make the climb up the countless stairs to the village, giving Corniglia a more peaceful and local feel.

Though it’s small, Corniglia has a lot to offer! You’ll find cozy cafés, family-run gelato shops, and lovely views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. Walking through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll notice how quiet and traditional everything feels, as if time moves slower here. It’s a place to unwind, take in the views, and enjoy the peaceful side of Cinque Terre — away from the busy crowds. If you’re after a slower pace and quiet charm, Corniglia is a perfect stop on your coastal adventure.

 | For more information about Corniglia, check our post here |

The Iconic Village of the Cinque Terre. Manarola is often the first village people think of when they imagine the Cinque Terre. Along with Vernazza, it’s known as one of the prettiest and most charming of the five. The village has a beautiful and colorful little harbor that’s perfect for taking great photos. It offers a nice mix of everything that makes the Cinque Terre special — lively streets, pretty alleys with amazing views of the sea and hills, and quiet spots to swim in the clear blue water.

Manarola is a great place for anyone who wants to enjoy the peaceful and lovely feeling of a small Italian village. The bright houses and narrow streets are fun to walk through and the harbor is full of life with boats and friendly locals. It’s also a good starting point for people who like hiking, with many paths through nearby hills and vineyards, where some of the area’s best wine is made. With its charm and beauty, Manarola is a true favorite and a must-see in the Cinque Terre.

 | For more information about Manarola, check our post here |

The More Real Village of the Cinque Terre. Riomaggiore might not be the most famous or the prettiest of the five villages, but it has a special charm of its own. It’s the first village you reach if you’re coming from La Spezia, and it feels more real and relaxed compared to the others. You won’t find big beaches or fancy spots here, but you will find a small marina, a hidden beach and colorful buildings climbing up the hillside. For one of the best views, walk out onto the rocks near the water and watch the sun set over the sea.

Riomaggiore is a great place if you want to enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional Italian seaside town. You can stroll through its main street, stop for a snack or gelato, and browse little shops as you go. It’s also a good place to take a swim or just enjoy a quiet moment by the water. With its simple charm and local feel, Riomaggiore offers a different but just as special experience of the Cinque Terre.

 | For more information about Riomaggiore, check our post here  |

PRACTICAL TIPS

The Cinque Terre's stunning landscapes and well-connected train system have made it a popular destination for tourists. However, this also means that the area can get overcrowded during the summer months, with day-trippers filling up the narrow streets of the villages from around 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the charm of the Cinque Terre, we recommend visiting during the off-season months of May/June and September/October. Additionally, early mornings and late evenings are the best times to explore the villages without the hustle and bustle of the crowds. So, plan your visit accordingly!

Determining the perfect amount of time to spend in the Cinque Terre can be challenging. However, we believe that a stay of two to three days is ideal to truly soak up the atmosphere of the area. But keep in mind that the crowds can get overwhelming during the high season, so it's best to plan your visit during the off-season months of May/June or September/October. During your stay, you can choose to explore all five villages in one day by hopping on and off the train, or you can take your time and visit only one or two villages per day. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, we suggest hiking from one village to the other, taking time to explore the charming back alleys and even taking a refreshing dip in the sea!

To truly experience the magic of the Cinque Terre, we strongly advise staying in one of the five villages instead of opting for nearby La Spezia and traveling to the villages by train. While many tourists choose this option, they miss out on a big part of the experience. Walking through the quaint, colorful streets after dark provides a different perspective, allowing you to enjoy a less crowded and bustling atmosphere. Our personal recommendation is to stay in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of the Cinque Terre. It offers excellent accommodation options and a great selection of restaurants. Vernazza and Monterosso are also great options to consider as a base for exploring the area.

When it comes to exploring the Cinque Terre, there are several transportation options available, each with its pros and cons. The villages are well connected, so it's easy to move around and enjoy all the sights, regardless of which mode of transportation you choose.

By Train

It is the most convenient and efficient ways to explore the Cinque Terre. The train line that connects the five villages is affordable and runs frequently, making it an excellent option for visitors who want to cover as much ground as possible. A single train ticket costs 4 EUR per person per ride, while an unlimited train pass for a day costs 16 EUR per person (more information here).

On Foot

If you're feeling adventurous, hiking is a great way to explore the Cinque Terre. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, you can experience the region's beauty up close while enjoying stunning views of the coastline, vineyards, and hills. The Cinque Terre National Park charges a fee of 7.50 EUR per person per day to hike the trails, but it's a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable experience (more information here).

By Boat

To get a unique and beautiful perspective of the villages, taking a boat trip is an excellent option. Boats run regularly from early morning until late afternoon, allowing visitors to experience the coastline from a different viewpoint. Unlimited boat trips cost 27 EUR per person per day, making it a great value (more information here).

By Car

Driving is not advisable when visiting the Cinque Terre due to the narrow roads and limited parking options. Although each village has car parks, they are expensive and scarce. We recommend using the train, boat, or hiking options, which are more enjoyable and stress-free alternatives.

Finally, we highly recommend getting the Cinque Terre Train Card to get the most out of your visit. This card provides unlimited train rides and access to all the hiking trails for just 16 EUR per day per person. With this card, you can explore the Cinque Terre at your own pace, without having to worry about purchasing tickets for each ride.

In summary, there are many transportation options available for exploring the Cinque Terre, and each has its pros and cons. Whether you prefer to travel by train, hike, or boat, there is always an option that suits your style and budget. Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, be sure to take your time, relax, and soak up all the beauty and charm of the Cinque Terre.

RECOMMENDED ITINERARIES

Considering the information provided, we have prepared three itineraries for you based on the number of days you plan to spend in the Cinque Terre. These are just sample itineraries, and there are many other ways to explore the villages.

For a one-day stay in the Cinque Terre, we suggest visiting Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola. Exploring these three villages allows for a more leisurely pace rather than rushing from one place to another.

Begin your day in Monterosso by discovering the old town and enjoying the beach. In the afternoon, take a train to Vernazza to explore its quaint alleys before hopping on a boat to Manarola. Here, stroll through the vineyards, take a dip in the marina, and watch the sunset from the breathtaking viewpoint (keep in mind that it can get crowded).

For a two-day stay in the Cinque Terre, we suggest visiting Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza. This itinerary covers four villages, which strikes a good balance between exploration and relaxation, giving you a taste of what the Cinque Terre has to offer.

On the first day, we suggest spending the morning in Monterosso exploring the old town and enjoying the sandy beach. Later in the afternoon, take the train to Manarola, where you can stroll through the vineyards, take a dip in the marina, and witness the stunning sunset.

On the second day, begin by exploring the charming alleys of Corniglia and treating yourself to some gelato. Then, take the hiking trail towards Vernazza around noon, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and explore the village. Finally, watch the sunset from the hill of the castle, which offers stunning views of the surroundings.

If you plan to stay in the Cinque Terre for three days, we highly recommend visiting all five villages, Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore. With three days, you'll have enough time to explore each village at a leisurely pace. For the first two days, you can follow the itinerary we suggested above.

On the third day, start your day by visiting Riomaggiore, a tiny but charming village. Spend some time exploring before heading to the marina or beach for some sunbathing. This is also a great day to fit in some more hikes or revisit your favorite village. For us, we couldn't resist going back to Vernazza for another round of exploring!

HIKING THE BLUE TRAIL

As stated earlier, the villages of the Cinque Terre are linked by hiking trails, which have been utilized for centuries and are marked with red and white paint. These trails are commonly referred to as the "Blue Trail" (Sentierro Azzurro). To access the hiking trails, you will need to purchase the Cinque Terre Trekking Card, which costs 7.50 EUR per day per person (additional details can be found here). It is worth noting that if you already purchased the Cinque Terre Train Card, you do not need to purchase the Trekking Card.

The trail that runs through the five villages of Cinque Terre connects the northernmost village of Monterosso to the southernmost village of Riomaggiore. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete the entire hike, but it can be done in either direction. However, some sections are easier in a particular direction, so it's advisable to seek local advice before starting the hike.

The most picturesque and rewarding part of the trail is said to be the portion between Corniglia and Vernazza, which offers breathtaking views. We personally experienced this stretch and found it to be amazing, though we were quite tired by the end and were thrilled to take a dip in Vernazza as a reward! You can find more detailed information about each of the five villages in their respective posts.

Travel Essentials

GETTING THERE

Reaching the Cinque Terre is relatively easy, especially if you plan ahead. The closest and most convenient airport is Pisa International Airport, located about 85 kilometers away. From there, you can reach the Cinque Terre by train in around an hour and a half. Genoa’s airport is another nearby option, though slightly farther. While it’s also possible to fly into Florence or Milan, those cities involve longer travel times and less direct connections, so they’re better suited if you plan to explore other parts of Italy first.

Taking the train is the most convenient and scenic way to reach the Cinque Terre. If you're starting in Pisa, you'll need to transfer at La Spezia; the total journey takes around an hour and costs approximately 10 EUR. From La Spezia, regional trains depart frequently — every 15-30 minutes — for the Cinque Terre villages. Riomaggiore, the closest, is just a 7-minute ride away and costs about 2 EUR. If you’re coming from Genoa, you can take a direct train to Monterosso in roughly an hour, with tickets costing around 7 EUR. Trains between the villages are quick and inexpensive, making it easy to explore them all in one day or over a few days. For unlimited travel within the Cinque Terre, consider purchasing the Cinque Terre Train Card, which also includes access to hiking trails and costs around 18 EUR for one day.

While it’s technically possible to reach the Cinque Terre by car, it’s not recommended if you plan to stay in the villages. The towns are mostly pedestrian-only, with very limited vehicle access and expensive parking outside the centers. Roads can be narrow and winding, especially as you approach the coast, which can make driving stressful — particularly during the summer. If you're including the Cinque Terre as part of a road trip, it’s best to leave your car in nearby towns like La Spezia, Levanto, or Monterosso al Mare, where you’ll find larger parking areas and direct train access into the heart of the Cinque Terre. Estimated drive times are: Pisa (114 km, 1.5 hours), Genoa (94 km, 1h40), La Spezia (34 km, 45 minutes), and Sestri Levante (45 km, 55 minutes). If you do choose to drive, be sure to check your accommodation’s parking options in advance.

STAYING THERE

As previously mentioned, it is highly recommended to stay in one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre to fully immerse oneself in the experience. During our trip, we chose to stay in Riomaggiore, which is the southernmost village of the Cinque Terre. This charming village served as an excellent base with great accommodation options and a wide range of dining choices. We stayed at L'Ancora in Riomaggiore, which costs between 80 to 150 EUR per night during the high season. The rooms were clean and the location was perfect, situated just a five-minute walk from the marina and the main attractions. Additionally, we believe that Vernazza and Monterosso would also be excellent bases for a stay in the area.

EATING THERE

- Gastronomia San Martino: This place offers fresh food with a daily-changing menu that includes excellent and affordable homemade dishes from the region. They are popular among locals for their food and offer a range of options including pasta, seafood, and salads.

- Da Eraldo: A cozy trattoria tucked away near the old town, serving authentic regional plates like pansotti in walnut sauce and grilled anchovies. Reservations are recommended, especially in high season.
- Pasticceria Bar Laura: This pastry shop is known for its delicious Monterossina, a chocolate pie that is a local specialty. They also offer other pastries and desserts, as well as coffee and other beverages.

- Gelateria Vernazza: Another popular gelateria, this place offers delicious homemade ice creams with a variety of original flavors such as rice, ricotta, and fig.

- Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre: Run by friendly Sicilian brothers, this spot serves fresh pastries, hearty breakfasts, and generous lunches. Their cannoli and arancini are especially worth trying.
- Trattoria da Sandro: This restaurant is known for its Trofie al Pesto con basilico di Prà, a delicious pasta dish made with homemade pesto sauce. They also offer other traditional Ligurian dishes such as focaccia and seafood.

- Osteria A Cantina de Mananan: A charming and rustic spot with just a few tables. Try the lasagna al pesto or stuffed mussels. Make sure to call ahead, as it fills up quickly.

- Pan e Vin: This cozy wine bar and eatery offers local wines and tasty snacks like bruschetta, cheese boards, and focaccia with anchovies. Great for a relaxed evening drink.

- Alberto Gelateria: This gelateria is known for its homemade ice creams, which are considered by many to be the best in the Cinque Terre. In addition to traditional flavors, they offer unique flavors such as Miele di Corniglia, which is made from local honey.

- Nessun Dorma: Perched above the harbor, this wine bar is famous for its stunning views, fresh bruschette, and Ligurian wine. They also offer pesto-making classes—book ahead!
- Trattoria dal Billy: A well-known spot up the hill serving generous seafood dishes and pastas. Try the antipasto di mare platter and spaghetti alle vongole.
- Il Porticciolo: Known for fresh seafood, from grilled fish to octopus salad. Service is fast, and the food is consistently delicious.

- A Piè de Mà: Set on the cliffs overlooking the sea, this wine bar is perfect for aperitivo with a view. Their platters of cheese, meats, and olives pair beautifully with Ligurian whites.

- Osteria La Torpedine: A cozy and authentic osteria tucked just off the main street. La Torpedine serves creative takes on Ligurian cuisine, including spaghetti with anchovies and lemon zest and slow-cooked seafood stews. The wine list highlights excellent local vintages, and the staff are happy to recommend pairings.

- Tutti Fritti: This place is known for its delicious seafood cones, which are a popular snack among local residents. The cones are filled with a variety of seafood, including shrimp and calamari, and are served with a variety of sauces.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Cinque Terre is a truly special part of Italy, full of stunning views, colorful villages, and delicious local flavors. Staying in one of the five villages lets you soak in the authentic atmosphere and enjoy the area at a relaxed pace. We hope this guide helps you plan a memorable trip, and be sure to check out our posts on each village for more tips and recommendations.

Have you explored the stunning Cinque Terre yet? We want to hear all about your adventures! Did you fall head over heels for these charming seaside villages? Share your thoughts and insider tips in the comments below, we can't wait to hear from you!"

Tags: Italy