If you dream of the perfect Italian coastline scenery as colorful homes on steep cliffs set to a postcard-worthy backdrop of the ocean, you're probably imagining Cinque Terre. If you want to make this dream a reality, read on for our introduction to the five villages and some important things to note.
What is Cinque Terre?
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national park, is a string of five sea-side villages on the northwestern coast of Italy. It's located about 2.5 hours from Florence, 1.5 hours from Genoa, and a 4 hour train ride from Rome. You can travel between the villages via boat, train, or hikes (if all of the trails are opened). The name Cinque Terre literally means "five lands" and each village has its own personality. This area has become popular with tourists and is crowded in the summer, but it has also kept an authentic atmosphere - read on as we break it down for you!
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the unofficial headquarters of Cinque Terre. There are plenty of delicious restaurants, and if fresh seafood it what you're craving, then you have found the perfect spot! You'll also see many small businesses that are fun to stop into and check out - but this village is best known for its ocean views. During the day, catch the views from Castello di Riomaggiore, one of the most important historic sites in Cinque Terre. Or if you walk to Fossola Beach (the pebble beach) to soak up the sun, stop at the botanical garden and bird watching center on your way there.
Manarola
This village is the oldest of them all, and the views are stunning. We recommend this village for a boat tour or at least an afternoon down by the marina to jump into the calmer waters. At night make your way up the hill to the overlook viewpoint on the Via Belvedere for gorgeous sunset views or to eat at Nessun Dorma, a local aperitivo restaraunt who honors local foods, while capturing the views of the colorful homes on the water. If spending time by the water isn't for you, walk down the two main streets that run from the sea to the hills, where you'll find quaint shops and eateries selling local fare. Manarola is also known for its vineyards that surround the village. We recommend trying the local Sciacchetrà wine, a sweet white wine, to top off your visit!
Corniglia
Corniglia doesn't have direct access to the sea, and for that reason it is often the least busy of the villages. However, being so high up means it does have the only spot in Cinque Terre from which you can view all five villages. Being set up and back doesn't lessen the beauty of this picturesque village. In fact, it is so picturesque it has been referenced as far back as medieval times - making an appearance in the famous medieval short stories, The Decameron. Unlike the other villages where you descend into the village by the shore, Corniglia requires climbing up. Even from the train, the climb is a hefty amount of stairs to get to the village - so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes! Like Manarola, Corniglia is surrounded by vineyards that produce the region Vernaccia di Corniglia, a cirtus-like dry wine.
Vernazza
Vernazza remains a true fishing village and is home to the oldest port in Cinque Terre. With no traffic and beautiful "stacking" homes of vibrant colors, this village has one of the best spots for a casual walk downtown. Visit Doria Tower, which dates back to 1,000 CE, and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Italian coast. With access to two (very) small beaches, Vernazza offers a short, but relaxing visit with many opportunities to wander around town and along the shore.
Monterosso
Monterosso is the largest of the 5 villages with the longest stretch of beach within Cinque Terre - and it has the most lodging options which makes it a good base for exploring. This village can become crowded (as does all of Cinque Terre), however, there is much to explore! Here you'll find Old Town and New Town - with a tunnel connecting the two. The Old Village is known for some of it's historic structures and sights, including the Aurora Tower which divides the old and new city. In the New City, you'll find access to the beaches and train with views all along the extended shore. Monterosso is known for its lemon trees and anchovies - a combination of the deep connection the village has to both land and sea.
Good To Know
When there is heavy rain, trails in Cinque Terre can be closed due to rock slides. It can take a while for local authorities to clear them. It's good to know this going in!
The train is very popular and is available year round.
The ferry gives you beautiful views from the ocean and is only available from April - October.
Our recommendation is to travel around with a combination of the train and ferry - ending with the ferry around sunset for the gorgeous views.
NOTE: If you take a ferry, there is not a stop at Corniglia, as it does not directly access a harbor.
Some of the walks between villages are challenging. For example - the walk from Monterosso to Vernazza is considered the most challenging. It takes approximately 1.5-2 hours and involves steep trails and stairs.
Be aware that while the beaches are public, some areas of the Monterosso have lidos, or beach club areas. Here you would have to pay to have the often furnished area of the beach. (Or book a hotel that includes access).
Make sure to carry cash in Cinque Terre!
This is really just an introduction to this gorgeous area - stay tuned for blogs that delve into each of the five villages!
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