Cinque Terre Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, the local culture and customs, and where to stay and eat in Cinque Terre, Italy.


Italy is famous for its stunning coastlines and picturesque villages, and one of the most beautiful places to visit is Cinque Terre. Located in the Liguria region of Italy, this area features five unique villages situated on steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore all the best things to do, see, and eat in Cinque Terre so that you can make the most out of your visit.

Introduction to Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a region made up of five small villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages are situated on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean and are surrounded by terraced vineyards and olive groves. Together, they make up one of the most unique and beautiful regions in Italy.

List of Places to Visit in Cinque Terre

One of the best things to do in Cinque Terre is to visit each of the five villages and explore their unique charm and beauty. Here are some of the must-visit places in each village:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Monterosso: Church of San Giovanni Battista, the Giant of Monterosso statue
  • Vernazza: Castle of Doria, the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia
  • Corniglia: Church of San Pietro
  • Manarola: Church of San Lorenzo, the bell tower
  • Riomaggiore: Castle of Riomaggiore, Church of San Giovanni Battista

Each village also has its own charming squares, narrow alleyways, and colorful buildings that are worth exploring.

Natural Attractions of Cinque Terre: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cinque Terre is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Here are some of the best:

  • Hiking: Cinque Terre National Park has over 120 kilometers of hiking trails that connect the five villages with scenic views of the sea and countryside. The most famous route is the Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Path, which connects all five villages.
  • Beaches: Monterosso and Vernazza have small, sandy beaches where you can relax and enjoy the sunshine.
  • Boating: Take a boat tour of the coast and see the villages from a different perspective.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cinque Terre

Hiking and biking are two of the most popular ways to explore Cinque Terre. There are several beautiful trails that offer breathtaking views of the coast and countryside. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Sentiero Azzurro: This is the most famous hiking trail in Cinque Terre, and it connects all five villages. The entire trail is 12 kilometers long and takes about 5 hours to complete. It is moderate in difficulty and offers stunning views of the sea and countryside.
  • High Path of the Ligurian Mountains: This hiking trail is more challenging and takes you through the beautiful mountains of the region. The trail starts in Levanto and ends in Portovenere, passing through the five villages of Cinque Terre along the way.
  • Cycling: If you prefer cycling, there are several routes that take you through the beautiful countryside and offer stunning views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Cinque Terre: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and boating, there are several other activities and tours to enjoy in Cinque Terre, including:

  • Wine Tasting: The region is famous for its wine, particularly its white wine. Take a tour of a local vineyard and taste some of the delicious wines of the area.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to cook traditional Ligurian dishes, such as pesto and trofie, in a cooking class with a local chef.
  • Photography: Cinque Terre is a photographer’s paradise, with its colorful houses, stunning views, and charming villages. Take a photography tour to learn how to capture the beauty of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cinque Terre

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Cinque Terre, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Explore Monterosso and relax on the beach
2 Hike the Sentiero Azzurro from Monterosso to Vernazza
3 Take a boat tour of the coast and visit Corniglia
4 Hike the Sentiero Azzurro from Vernazza to Manarola
5 Visit the wineries of Manarola and take a cooking class
6 Hike the High Path of the Ligurian Mountains to Riomaggiore
7 Explore Riomaggiore, visit the castle, and take a photography tour

Food and Drink Scene of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a food lover’s paradise, with its fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and delicious wine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Trofie al Pesto: This is a traditional Ligurian dish made with handmade pasta and a basil-based sauce called pesto.
  • Focaccia: This is a type of flatbread that is often served as an appetizer. It can be plain or topped with olives, tomatoes, or other ingredients.
  • Fish Stew: This is a hearty fish soup made with tomatoes, seafood, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Cinque Terre White Wine: This is a dry white wine that is made from the grape varieties found in the region. It pairs well with seafood and pasta dishes.
  • Limoncello: This is a lemon liqueur that is made from the lemons grown in the region. It is often served as a digestif after meals.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Cinque Terre, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Hotel Porto Roca: This is a beautiful four-star hotel in Monterosso with stunning views of the sea.
  • Ostello Tramonti: This is a budget hostel in Biassa, about 20 minutes from Cinque Terre by bus. It has a beautiful garden and offers a free shuttle to the train station.
  • Affittacamere Da Cesare: This is a charming guesthouse in Vernazza with beautiful views of the sea.

What to Buy in Cinque Terre: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to buy in Cinque Terre, including:

  • Pottery and Ceramics: The region is known for its beautiful pottery and ceramics, which make great souvenirs or gifts.
  • Olive Oil: The region produces some of the best olive oil in Italy, and a bottle of local olive oil is a great souvenir or gift.
  • Lemon Products: The lemons grown in the region are used to make Limoncello and other lemon-flavored products, such as soap and candy.

Local Culture and Customs of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre has a rich history and culture, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress Conservatively: When visiting churches or other religious sites, it is important to dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Respect Quiet Hours: Many of the villages have strict noise regulations, and it is important to respect quiet hours, particularly in the evenings.
  • Tip Waitstaff: It is customary to leave a small tip for waitstaff in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre

The best time to visit Cinque Terre is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be very hot and crowded, and some of the hiking trails may be closed due to the heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cinque Terre

Here are some things to do and not to do when visiting Cinque Terre:

Do:

  • Hike the Sentiero Azzurro: This is one of the best ways to explore the villages and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and countryside.
  • Try the Local Wine and Cuisine: Cinque Terre is known for its delicious food and wine, and it is definitely worth trying some of the local specialties.
  • Respect the Local Customs and Traditions: Cinque Terre has a rich culture and history, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Make too much noise: Many of the villages have strict noise regulations, particularly in the evenings, and it is important to respect these rules.
  • Leave Trash Behind: It is important to dispose of your trash properly and keep the villages and hiking trails clean.
  • Wear Inappropriate Clothing: When visiting religious sites, it is important to dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.

Safety and Health

Cinque Terre is generally safe for travelers, but it is always important to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Cinque Terre:

Safety in Cinque Terre

  • Watch for Pickpockets: As with any tourist destination, pickpocketing can be a problem, particularly in crowded areas. Keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Be Careful When Hiking: Some of the hiking trails can be steep and rocky, so it is important to wear sturdy shoes and take your time.
  • Stay Hydrated: Cinque Terre can be hot in the summer, so it is important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

Health in Cinque Terre

  • Protect Against the Sun: The sun can be strong in Cinque Terre, especially during the summer. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and stay in the shade when possible.
  • Be Careful When Swimming: The currents can be strong in the sea, so it is important to be cautious when swimming.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important for staying healthy in the hot weather.

Getting to Cinque Terre: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cinque Terre is easily accessible by train, bus, or car. Here are some of the best transportation options:

  • Trains: The villages of Cinque Terre are connected by train, and it is the easiest and most convenient way to get around the region.
  • Buses: There are also buses that connect the villages and the surrounding areas.
  • Cars: If you’re driving, you can take the coastal road that runs along the region. However, parking in the villages can be difficult and expensive.

Airports Near Cinque Terre

The closest airports to Cinque Terre are Pisa International Airport and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to Cinque Terre.

Bus Stations Near Cinque Terre

The main bus station in Cinque Terre is located in La Spezia, and there are several bus routes that connect the villages and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bike, scooter, or boat to explore the region on your own.

How to Get Around in Cinque Terre

The best way to get around in Cinque Terre is by foot or by train. The villages are small and easily walkable, and the train is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the villages.

Where to Go Next from Cinque Terre: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth visiting, including:

  • Portofino: This picturesque village is located about 1.5 hours from Cinque Terre by train or car. It features colorful houses, a stunning marina, and plenty of upscale shops and restaurants.
  • Lucca: This beautiful walled city is located about 2 hours from Cinque Terre by train or bus. It features medieval architecture, beautiful gardens, and a charming old town.
  • Tuscany: If you have more time, you can take a day trip to the beautiful Tuscan countryside and explore the vineyards, olive groves, and charming towns.

Conclusion

Cinque Terre is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to hike, relax on the beach, or explore the local culture and cuisine, there is plenty to discover in this stunning region of Italy. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has given you all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Cinque Terre.

The village of Vernazza The village of Vernazza Hiking Trail Hiking Trail Looking back at main hiking trail Looking back at main hiking trail Blue Path trail between Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare Blue Path trail between Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare


    Manarola