Things to Visit in Cinque Terre

The southernmost and one of the largest of the five villages, with colorful buildings cascading down a steep valley to a tiny harbor. The main street (Via Colombo) has restaurants, bars, and shops. The harbor area has a small rocky beach and is a popular spot for sunset photos. Walking down from the train station takes about 5 minutes.

Arguably the most photographed of the five villages, with houses stacked above a dramatic rocky cove. The classic viewpoint is from the cemetery and trail heading toward Corniglia. The Nessun Dorma wine bar (arrive early for a terrace spot) has the most iconic view. The village is known for its Sciacchetra dessert wine. In December, the hillside displays the world's largest lit nativity scene.

The only village not directly on the sea, perched 100 meters above on a promontory. Reached by climbing the Lardarina staircase (382 steps from the train station) or taking the shuttle bus. Quieter and less touristy than the others, with a village square, small shops, and sweeping coastal views. The gelato at Alberto Gelateria is locally famous.

Often considered the most charming village, centered around a natural harbor with a small sandy beach. The 11th-century Doria Castle tower (EUR 2) offers panoramic views of the coast and village. The main square (Piazza Marconi) right on the harbor has restaurants and the best people-watching. Arrive before 10 AM or after 5 PM to avoid peak crowds.

The largest village with the only real sand beach in Cinque Terre, split into the old town and new town by a tunnel. The old town has a medieval center with churches and narrow streets. The beach in the new town has paid sections (EUR 25-35 for two sunbeds and umbrella) and free public areas. The most resort-like of the five villages.

The most famous trail connects all five villages along the coast. The full hike takes 5-6 hours but you can do individual sections. The Vernazza to Monterosso section (2 hours, moderate difficulty) is the most scenic. A Cinque Terre Card (EUR 16 for one day, includes trail access and unlimited train rides) is required. Check trail status before going as sections close for maintenance.

The most popular and rewarding section of the Blue Trail, taking about 2 hours with moderate difficulty. The path climbs through terraced vineyards with stunning views of both villages and the open sea. Bring water and sun protection as there is minimal shade. Start from Monterosso for a descent into Vernazza with the village gradually revealing itself.

For a less crowded alternative, the upper trails (Sentiero Rosso / Red Trail 1) run along the ridge above the villages through forests and sanctuaries. The section from Volastra (above Manarola) to Corniglia passes through terraced vineyards with panoramic views. About 2 hours and less strenuous than you might expect. No Cinque Terre Card required for high trails.

A 1.5-hour uphill walk from Riomaggiore to a hilltop sanctuary with breathtaking views down the entire coast. Much quieter than the coastal trail. The sanctuary has a small bar selling cold drinks. The walk passes through terraced vineyards and lemon groves. Start early to avoid the midday heat.

The only sandy beach in Cinque Terre, divided into public and private sections. The free public area at the western end (old town side) is often crowded but perfectly serviceable. Private beach clubs charge EUR 25-35 for sunbeds and umbrella. The water is clean and swimmable from June through September.

A remote pebbly beach below Corniglia accessed via a steep trail from the village. The beach is clothing-optional and has no facilities. Bring water and snacks. The path is rough and not for those uncomfortable with heights. The reward is crystal-clear water and relative solitude compared to other Cinque Terre beaches.

Ferry boats connect the villages from March to November and offer a stunning perspective of the coast from the sea. A day pass costs about EUR 35. Alternatively, small boat tours and kayak rentals are available from Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso. The coast is especially beautiful from the water in the golden hour light.

The rocky harbors of these villages have surprisingly clear water with fish visible from the surface. Basic snorkeling gear can be rented from shops in Monterosso or brought from La Spezia. The best spots are around the rocky edges of the harbors, away from the boat traffic. Water visibility is best in June and September.

Liguria is the birthplace of pesto, and the local version made with Ligurian basil, pine nuts, and Parmigiano is noticeably different from what you find elsewhere in Italy. Try trofie al pesto (twisted pasta with pesto) at any village trattoria. Il Pirata in Vernazza and Trattoria dal Billy in Manarola are local favorites.

Anchovies are a Cinque Terre specialty, served marinated, fried, or in pasta. Cones of fried seafood (fritto misto) from street vendors cost EUR 6-10 and are perfect for eating while walking between villages. The anchovies from Monterosso are particularly prized. Try them salt-cured with lemon as an antipasto.

Wine has been made on these terraced hillsides for centuries. The dry white Cinque Terre DOC and the sweet Sciacchetra dessert wine (made from grapes dried for months) are unique to the region. Wine tastings are available at several cantinas. A glass of local wine costs EUR 4-7 at village bars. Sciacchetra is rare and costs EUR 8-12 per glass.

Ligurian focaccia is different from other Italian varieties: thinner, oilier, and often topped simply with salt and olive oil or onions. Every village has at least one bakery selling it fresh in the morning. A piece costs EUR 2-4. Eat it warm for breakfast or as a hiking snack. The farinata (chickpea flour flatbread) is another Ligurian specialty worth trying.

The Cinque Terre Treno MS Card (EUR 16 for one day, EUR 29 for two days) includes unlimited train rides between La Spezia and Levanto (stopping at all five villages) plus access to the hiking trails. Trains run every 15-20 minutes in peak season. The card pays for itself quickly as individual train tickets cost EUR 5 each.

Most visitors base in one village and train-hop to the others. Riomaggiore and Manarola are central. Monterosso has the most accommodation and beach access. La Spezia (10 minutes by train) offers cheaper hotels and restaurants with easy access to all five villages. Avoid arriving by car, as parking is extremely limited and expensive.

Cinque Terre receives over 2.5 million visitors per year and the narrow paths can feel overwhelmed from 10 AM to 4 PM in summer. Start hiking by 8 AM and visit villages in the late afternoon and evening for a much better experience. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) are significantly less crowded with pleasant weather.