Cinque Terre Travel Guide

City Escapes

Jul 28

Cinque Terre is a stretch of five towns across the enchanting Italian riviera. The photos of pastel colored buildings, perched precariously on the cliffside and gazing out onto the sea are enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat. Cinque Terre is known for its luscious and breathtaking coastline waiting expectantly for travelers. Most of the beaches are free to access and only require payment for extras and rentals. This coast is also surrounded by fabulous bars and restaurants to top off the perfect beach and sea day. No matter which town you choose, you won’t be disappointed, and it’s an easy hop, skip, and jump to move between them.

Best time to visit

To avoid crowds and enjoy moderate and pleasant weather, the spring or fall months of September and October and March to May are the best times to visit. If you prefer warm beach days and don’t mind crowds, summer cna be ideal.

Top regions to visit

Riomaggiore

The largest of the five towns, Riomaggiore is comprised of a tangle of homes that lead down a ravine to a small harbor. This is the southernmost village in Cinque Terre, and offers views worthy of a postcard. STroll through the narrow streets and explore the local shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the views from the marina.

Manarola

Manarola is best known for its grapevines, and is one of the more well-known towns in Cinque Terre. Like Riomaggiore, Manarola is packed with colorful houses that cascade down the rocky coastline. Visitors can visit the popular vineyards and sample local whiles set against a backdrop of the Ligurian Sea.

Corniglia

Corniglia is a quieter village, and the only one in the bunch not directly on the sea. It’s surrounded by vineyards and can be reached by climbing a long staircase of over 300 steps.

Vernazza

This small, quintessential village is the quaintest of the five, and is lined with cafes along its cobbled main street, and a bar hanging off the edge of the castle. Climb to the historic Castello Doria for panoramic views of the coast.

Monterosso

Monterosso is considered the resort town of the area, and is the only one to have a tourist beach. This village is also the most accessible by car. This is the place for crowds and a late-night scene, but it still possesses an old world charm in the historic center.

Top activities in Cinque Terre

Monterosso Beach

Monterosso’s beach is the only sandy beach in Cinque Terre. Protected by an artificial reef and a harbor, the area is safe for snorkeling and swimming. There are areas free to public and also areas where you can reserve a beach chair and an umbrella. This is the perfect place to relax, swim in the crystal clear sea, and take in the beauty of Cinque Terre.

Hiking the Cinque Terre trails

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Cinque Terre. The Blue Trail connects Riomaggiore to Monterosso and is about 8 miles in total. While some parts of the trail are easy to walk, some sections climb up and over hillsides and will take a bit more effort, but are well worth it when you’re met with the views along the coast. The entire trail takes about five hours total, plus time to stop, take pictures, and eat. Keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a ticket to hike the trail.

Bri’s Insider Tip:

If you just want a taste of the trails, I would suggest the section from Monterosso to Vernazza. Take the train to the village of Monterosso, and then hike the trail to the next village of Vernazza.

Via dell'Amore

Via dell’Amore or the “Path of Love” is perhaps the most famous stretch of the Cinque Terre coastline. The trail connects the villages of Riomaggiore and Manrola, and is etched into the cliffside. This section of the trail is known for its coastal views and love locks left by couples from around the world.

Best hotels in Cinque Terre

La Torretta—This boutique hotel offers a romantic atmosphere and breathtaking sea views.
Hotel Porto Roca—Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso al Mare provides stunning cliffside views, elegant rooms, and direct access to the scenic Cinque Terre hiking trails.

Grand Hotel Portovener—Located at the gateway to Cinque Terre, this hotel has luxurious rooms, panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets, and a historic setting in a converted monastery.

What to eat in Cinque Terre

Local seafood is a must-try while in the seaside towns of Cinque Terre, from anchovies in Monterosso to stuffed mussels and seafood risotto. In addition, the area is known for its pesto, made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmeson. Finally, don’t miss the focaccia for a quick snack.