Cinque Terre Guide
The Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning stretch of the Italian Riviera made up of five colorful fishing villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Known for its rugged coastline, picturesque landscapes, and scenic hiking trails, Cinque Terre is a must-visit for travelers seeking breathtaking views, fresh seafood, and a charming, laid-back atmosphere.
How to Get to Cinque Terre
By Air: The closest airports are Pisa International Airport (PSA) and Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA). Then take a train to La Spezia.
By Train: From major Italian cities, take a high-speed train to La Spezia, then transfer to the Cinque Terre Express, which connects all five villages.
By Car: Driving is not recommended as roads are narrow, parking is extremely limited, and the villages are best explored on foot.
By Ferry: Ferries connect La Spezia, Portovenere, and Levanto to the Cinque Terre villages (except Corniglia, which is inland).
Key Towns of Cinque Terre
1. Monterosso al Mare (Best for Beaches & Resorts)
Description: The largest village, perfect for those seeking beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights: Fegina Beach, Old Town, San Francesco Church & Convent
2. Vernazza (Most Scenic & Photogenic)
Description: A picturesque harbor with dramatic cliffs and pastel-colored houses.
Highlights: Doria Castle, Blue Trail Hike, Sunset at the Harbor
3. Corniglia (Quietest & Most Authentic)
Description: Perched on a cliff, Corniglia offers a peaceful, less touristy experience.
Highlights: Lardarina Staircase, Church of San Pietro, Sciacchetrà Wine Tasting
4. Manarola (Romantic & Best for Sunsets)
Description: Famous for its stunning cliffside setting and rich fishing heritage.
Highlights: Via dell’Amore Walk, Manarola Harbor, Fresh Pesto Tasting
5. Riomaggiore (Best for Adventure & Nightlife)
Description: The first Cinque Terre village from La Spezia, known for steep streets and vibrant nightlife.
Highlights: Castello di Riomaggiore, Kayaking, Wine Bars at the Harbor
6. Porto Venere (Cinque Terre’s Hidden Gem)
Description: Often considered the "sixth village" of Cinque Terre, Porto Venere boasts medieval charm, dramatic sea cliffs, and a quieter atmosphere.
Highlights:
Church of San Pietro – A stunning clifftop church overlooking the sea.
Byron’s Grotto – A breathtaking cave named after the poet Lord Byron.
Doria Castle – Offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Poets.
Palmaria Island – A perfect spot for a boat trip, hiking, and secluded beaches.
Top Hotels
Luxury
Porto Roca Hotel (Monterosso al Mare) – A cliffside hotel with breathtaking sea views, an infinity pool, and private beach access.
La Torretta Lodge (Manarola) – A charming boutique hotel offering stylish rooms, sea-view terraces, and complimentary aperitifs.
Grand Hotel Portovenere (Porto Venere) – A former monastery-turned-luxury hotel with elegant rooms and a panoramic waterfront terrace.
Boutique & Mid-Range
Albergo Barbara (Vernazza) – A cozy, centrally located guesthouse with stunning harbor views.
Ca' D'Andrean (Manarola) – A charming boutique hotel with a peaceful garden, elegant rooms, and a great breakfast.
Arpaiu (Manarola) – A modern, stylish stay perched on the cliffs, perfect for sunset lovers.
La Vista di Marina (Riomaggiore) -– A highly-rated guesthouse with breathtaking sea views and beautifully designed rooms.
Torre a Mare (Porto Venere) – A family-run hotel offering sea-view rooms and easy access to the harbor and historic center.
Top Activities in Cinque Terre
Hiking the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): The best way to explore the villages with breathtaking views.
Boat Tours: See Cinque Terre & Porto Venere from the water with a scenic cruise. We loved this Sunset Cruise!
Swimming & Sunbathing: Relax on Monterosso Beach (pictured above) or take a dip in the hidden coves of Porto Venere.
Kayaking: Discover the beauties of the Monterosso coast while kayaking on the water on this tour.
Wine Tasting: Try Sciacchetrà, the region’s famous sweet wine, in Corniglia or Porto Venere. Also, this Manarola Wine Tasting was great!
Exploring Palmaria Island: A short boat ride from Porto Venere, great for nature lovers.
Travel Tips
Visit in spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes, as most villages have steep streets.
Use the Cinque Terre Train Card for unlimited train rides and hiking access.
Take a ferry to enjoy stunning coastal views between villages and Porto Venere.
Top Restaurants
High-End Restaurants
Miky (Monterosso) – Elegant seafood dishes with a top-tier wine selection.
Nessun Dorma (Manarola) – Cliffside dining with stunning views and fresh bruschetta.
Ristorante Belforte (Vernazza) – A romantic spot with seafood specialties.
Cappun Magru (Riomaggiore) – Michelin-recognized Ligurian cuisine.
Palmaria Restaurant (Porto Venere) – A fine dining experience overlooking the Gulf of Poets.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Trattoria dal Billy (Manarola) – Known for seafood pasta and a warm atmosphere.
Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre (Vernazza) – A casual spot with great pastries and focaccia.
Ristorante Il Porticciolo (Monterosso) – Fresh seafood and a relaxed vibe.
Rio Bistrot (Riomaggiore) – Cozy and welcoming, with modern seafood dishes.
Locanda Lorena (Palmaria Island, near Porto Venere) – A fantastic seafood restaurant accessible by boat.
Local Favorites
A Cantina da Mananan (Corniglia) – A small eatery with homemade pasta and seafood.
Ristorante Dau Cila (Riomaggiore) – A local favorite for its fresh, authentic Ligurian dishes.
Il Gambero Rosso (Vernazza) – No-frills seafood with a great reputation.
La Lanterna (Riomaggiore) – A family-run trattoria known for trofie al pesto.
Trattoria Tre Torri (Porto Venere) – A cozy spot with classic Ligurian cuisine and fantastic seafood.
