Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Best Villages & Trails

Since ancient times, Rome has boasted its reputation as the Eternal City, with its amazing collection of classical Greek and Roman sculptures, Baroque façades, Raphael’s ceiling frescoes, Caravaggio’s masterpieces, swanky bars, and decadent food. Yet travel a few hundred kilometers north along the Ligurian coast, and you’ll discover another Italian masterpiece with as much appeal as Rome.

Cinque Terre, Italy boasts an irresistibly unpretentious blend of stunning sea views, scenic trails winding between lemon groves and rolling vineyards, dramatic cliffs flanking the Tyrrhenian Sea dotted with pastel houses, lush landscapes, and sublime Ligurian cuisine. A key inspiration for Portorosso, the fictional town in Disney & Pixar’s Luca, it has a certain je ne sais quoi making Cinque Terre more than the sum of its parts.

Once a string of remote fishing villages, Cinque Terre province of la Spezia, has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its authenticity and preservation. It’s no surprise then that the five towns of Cinque Terre, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, have become a go-to destination for travelers in search of a holiday that can provide relaxation, coastal charm, and some of the finest gourmet dining in Italy. It’s impossible to pinpoint which is the best village in Cinque Terre — each a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and cuisine. But with the soaring popularity of Cinque Terre has come the challenge of overtourism. What was once a cluster of serene fishing villages now welcomes millions of visitors each year, putting pressure on its narrow trails, fragile ecosystems, and limited local infrastructure.

Wondering how to get to Cinque Terre? The closest airports are Pisa International Airport (PSA) and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA). From there, book a Kiwitaxi private airport transfer to whisk you to La Spezia or one of the nearby towns for a seamless and stylish start to your Cinque Terre journey.

Let’s explore the Cinque Terre map, introducing the individual villages and attractions in Cinque Terre. Ahead, your full scoop on what to do in Cinque Terre, from scenic hikes and sunset sails to vineyard trekking, secluded beaches, and seaside trattorias.

Cinque Terre Hiking Trails

Hiking in the stunning coastal landscapes of Cinque Terre is one of the most scenic things to do in Cinque Terre. Follow the Sentiero Azzurro, the famous Blue Trail that threads together Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore along the Ligurian coast. Stretching about 12 kilometers (nearly 7.5 miles), the trail offers spectacular views of terraced vineyards, lemon groves, olive-clad hills, and postcard-perfect villages clinging to cliffs above the glistening waters.

From the steep ups-and-downs of Monterosso to Vernazza trail, to the panoramic vistas unfolding as you descend toward the quaint village of Corniglia, every turn offers a new perspective of the Ligurian coast.

Go for the most romantic and easiest stroll from Manarola to Riomaggio along the Via dell’Amore, “Way of Love.” Nothing beats sweeping views of the turquoise-hued sea and dramatic cliffs. If you’re hiking as a couple, leave a padlock to seal your affection along the Via dell'Amore, a tradition which has developed over time by couples who seal their love to stay together forever. The trail is accessible via the Cinque Terre Trekking Card, and you can spread it among multiple days to marvel at the picturesque villages and mesmerizing views at a slower pace.

Set sail along Portovenere, the Golfo dei Poeti (the Gulf of Poets), named romantically for the poets and writers, like Percy Bysshe Shelley, Mary Shelley, Lord Byron, D.H. Lawrence, George Sands, Henry Miller and Virginia Woolf, who came to swoon over its surreal natural beauty.

Glide past the Church of San Pietro to the legendary Grotta Byron, where the poet once found inspiration. It’s the best spot to enjoy the spectacular sunset in tranquility and relaxation, while sipping a glass or two of the famed Sciacchetrà wine. Behind the church of Porto Venere, watch the sun disappear on the horizon and marvel at the flamboyant hues of pink, purple, and red blending with the deep blues of the sky and sea stretching as far as the eye can see. Sail past the cliffside village of Monesteroli, with terraced vineyards clinging to the slopes and colorful houses stacked along the cliffs, and into the protected marine area of Cinque Terre, where you can see the rippled seabed glinting in the crystal clear turquoise waters. Trace the curve of the coastline from Riomaggiore to Manarola, Corniglia, and Vernazza, before arriving in Monterosso. After sunset, continue your evening dancing on the upper deck as you sail into the night.

Often described as the best Cinque Terre town and the most picturesque of the five, Vernazza is a petite harbor village with candy-colored houses spilling down the dramatic cliffs. Go for a leisurely passeggiata along Via Roma, the village’s main street with colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and artisan boutiques. Swing by local shops for hand-painted ceramics and vintage finds and get a taste of freshly baked focaccia as you make your way toward the sea. Climb up to Doria Castle, a medieval fortress built to protect against pirates, for sweeping views of the turquoise-hinged sea and the pastel cliff-edge buildings below. Down by the water, the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia, stands elegantly beside the harbor where fishing boats bob in aquamarine waters.

Visit the vineyards cultivated on steep terraces overlooking cliffs for the distinctive Vernazza wine, rich in nutrients from the rocky soil and known as “heroic wine” ( “viticoltura eroica”). This gourmet experience takes you on a hiking tour from Piazzetta dei Caduti to Eroico Vineyard for a taste of crisp white Cinque Terre DOC and the sweet dessert wine Sciacchetrà, both made from a mix of the Bosco, Albarola, and Vermentino grapes. Sample local cheese and charcuterie, along with fresh seafood dishes tossed with aromatic local vegetables and herbs.

A short sail away, Monterosso al Mare is the largest and most resort-like of the five towns of Cinque Terre, famous for its golden sandy beaches and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Stroll along or bike around the picturesque, palm-tree-lined promenade of Fegina beach, dotted with bougainvilleas, green and orange striped parasols, beach bars, and artisan boutiques. It’s the only sandy beach in the area, ideal for families. The iconic Il Gigante statue, a massive Neptune figure carved into the rock, is unmissable.

To cool off, take a dip or snorkel in turquoise waters and marvel at the clusters of pastel-colored houses, emerald bays, and the Monterosso Rock. Spend your days lounging in the sun and get a taste of the sublime gelato at Gelateria La Scogliera, sipping rich, creamy cappuccino as you take in the coastal views and lively beach atmosphere.

Monteresso al Mare Bay is also one of the top places for kayaking or paragliding in Cinque Terre. It’s very easy to get so lost in the beauty of the golden beaches of Monterosso, that you forget there’s the historic city center to explore.

Visit the main square, Piazza Garibaldi, and walk along the sea to explore the Old Town and the modern area of Fegina separated by the San Cristoforo hill and connected by a pedestrian tunnel. Hike up the hill for spectacular views of the Cinque Terre coastline. Visit the Convent of Cappuchin, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its striking black-and-white marble façade. Go for a stunning sunset dinner on the panoramic terrace at L’Ancora della Tortuga, literally carved into the rock. Order fresh seafood pasta, local anchovies, and the catch of the day, paired with crisp white wine.

Perched dramatically on a rugged cliffside, Manarola is perhaps the most photogenic of the five towns of Cinque Terre. Stroll along its narrow caruggi and marvel at the pastel-hued buildings cascading toward the emerald waters of the Ligurian Sea. Take in the views of its postcard-perfect harbor and descend through the ladders leading down to the crystal clear water. Sunbathe on one of the giant rocks in the middle of the marina and join the line of cliff jumpers plunging from huge rocks into deep waters.

Here, the smell of fresh seafood drifts from harborside cafés, and the bell of the Church of San Lorenzo (Manarola’s patron saint) echoes from clifftop towers. Stroll past vintage shops and flower-filled piazzas and treat yourself to a refreshing Limoncino tasting, the region’s famous lemon liqueur.

Up the hill, Nessun Dorma offers stunning sunset dinners — its open-air terrace opens up to sweeping views of pastel buildings, turquoise-hinged waters, and silvery olive groves. Start with a delicious hors d’œuvre like stuffed mussels (cozze ripiene) or octopus salad and move on to spaghetti allo scoglio (a hearty mix of clams, mussels, and shrimp) in a rich tomato sauce, or grigliata di pesce, a simple but perfect grilled fish platter – you’ll never want to leave. You’ll need hunks of focaccia to soak up the sauce and the crispest of Ligurian white wines to wash it all down. Fancy a wine tasting tour? Follow the Via Beccara path or the detour through Volastra to admire the vines twisting through ancient terraces, feeding the famed Sciacchetrà wine. Hang out at Bar-Enoteca for a taste of exceptional varieties of local wine, the Cinque Terre white wine DOC, red wine IGT, and the famous Sciacchetrà, the sweet dessert wine. A former wine cellar next to the marina, it’s the perfect place for meeting new people, sipping local wine paired with fresh dishes, and enjoying live music.

If you’re lucky to visit Manarola during the festive season, the Presepe di Manarola, the world’s largest illuminated nativity scene, lights up the hillsides in a spectacular display.

Riomaggiore is one of the best towns in Cinque Terre for kayak and canoe tours or standup paddleboarding along the picturesque coastline. Glide beneath towering cliffs to discover secluded coves and venture into the legendary Shark’s Cave. Take in sweeping views of Mount Verugola and its three peaks watching over the pastel villages from the water. Swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters for complete relaxation.

Explore the Castle of Riomaggiore, dating back to the 13th century, for panoramic views of the village and coastline. Don’t miss the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the Oratorio di Santa Maria Assunta, both rich in history and local art.

Stroll along its main street, Via Colombo, lined with bustling bars, trattorias, and artisan shops. Follow the cobbled lanes of Riomaggiore spiraling past pastel-colored houses as seafood-scented air drifts from trattorias tucked into ancient alleyways. Here, grapevines twist on the limestone slopes below—feeding crisp wine poured at terrace cafés. Down below, the small marina hums with clinking glasses and grilled seafood. Pair your crisp vino with salted anchovy arbanella and don’t miss the famous lemon marmalade tart. Enroll in a pasta and tiramisù hands-on cooking class to discover the culinary secrets of Ligurian cuisine and make new connections. As evening falls, Riomaggiore comes alive with music, sunset dinners, and wine bars overlooking the glowing horizon, perfect for ending your day in Riviera style.

Perched 100 meters above the sea, Corniglia is the only Cinque Terre village not overlooking the sea. To reach the village, climb Lardarina, a zigzag staircase of 377 steps or take a shuttle from the train station. Corniglia is the perfect spot for a relaxing trip filled with serene, scenic walks and lazy gourmet lunches with spectacular views of Cinque Terre. Because of its size and relative inaccessibility, Corniglia sees fewer tourists than its coastal neighbors, giving it a peaceful, authentic local vibe. Its slower pace and tranquil setting make it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the views without the crowds.

Stroll along its calm cobblestone lanes to Piazza Largo Taragio, Corniglia’s main square dotted with eateries and wine bars. Don’t miss the Church of San Pietro, a masterpiece of Gothic-Ligurian architecture with ornate stone carvings.

Why chase sunsets when you can get the perfect view seated right at La Terza Terra? Now all you have to worry about is ordering fresh Ligurian anchovies bursting with coastal flavor, paired with white Molinello wine.

Where to fly to Cinque Terre?

The closest airports to Cinque Terre are Pisa International Airport (PSA) and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), both about a two-hour journey away. From either airport, you can book a Kiwitaxi private airport transfer directly to your accommodation.

Where is Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre is located on the northwestern coast of Italy, in the Liguria region along the Italian Riviera. It lies within the Province of La Spezia, stretching between the cities of La Spezia to the south and Levanto to the north. The entire area, including the coastline, the five villages, and the surrounding hillsides, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected as the Cinque Terre National Park.

What are the five towns of Cinque Terre?

The name Cinque Terre translates to “Five Lands,” referring to the five fishing villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, tucked along the rugged cliffs of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

How many days in Cinque Terre?

Three days is ideal to truly experience the charm of Cinque Terre without feeling rushed. In a single day, you can technically visit all five towns of Cinque Terre by train or ferry, but it will feel more like a whirlwind than an escape.

When is the best time for visiting Cinque Terre?

The best time to visit Cinque Terre is during spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is warm and the crowds are thinner than in peak summer. During these months, the hiking trails are at their best. Allowing you to take in the breathtaking scenery. July and August bring the hottest weather and the largest crowds, so expect packed trains and busy beaches. Winter (November to March) is the quietest period, offering a peaceful, authentic glimpse into local life along the Ligurian coast. You’ll find lower prices on accommodations and transportation, however, hiking is limited during winter.

What’s the best way to travel between the Cinque Terre villages?

The easiest and most popular way to travel between the villages is by train, using the Cinque Terre Card, offering unlimited travel on the Cinque Terre Express. The main train stops in Cinque Terre are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The card also grants access to the hiking trails, including the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail). Ferries provide a scenic alternative from late spring to early autumn, allowing you to admire the coastline from the sea, though they do not stop at Corniglia.

Hiking between villages is another popular option for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, vineyards, and the Mediterranean. Just be sure to wear proper shoes and start early to avoid crowds and midday heat.

Driving between the villages is not recommended, due to narrow, winding roads and scarce parking. It’s easier to park in La Spezia or Monterosso and continue by train or ferry.

Can I book vacation packages to Cinque Terre, Italy?

You can find a wide variety of vacation packages to Cinque Terre, Italy, offered by numerous travel companies. These packages often combine Cinque Terre with other popular Italian destinations like Florence, Rome, and Tuscany. Some tours extend to Milan, Lake Como, and the Ligurian coast (Portofino, Genoa). Many companies offer packages that include flights, train travel between major cities, and hotel stays.

If you’re arriving in Rome, make your arrival effortless by booking a reliable Kiwitaxi transfer to whisk you from the airport to your hotel in style. Looking for that perfect stay in Rome? From dolce vita-esque villas to boutique stays, be sure to check our hand-picked list of the best Rome hotels.

Helpful Guides for Your Rome Trip

Airport Transfers: Full guide to getting from Fiumicino Airport to Rome city center, Guide for arriving at Ciampino Airport, Tips for arriving with children & luggage.

Day Trips: Best day trips from Rome — curated itineraries to make the most of your time around the city