Cinque Terre Travel Guide: Best Things to do in Cinque Terre

Are you dreaming of picturesque seaside villages, jaw-dropping cliffside views, and amazing Italian cuisine? Then Cinque Terre is the perfect destination for you. Nestled on the Ligurian Coast in northwestern Italy, this beautiful region is made up of five charming towns: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each town is unique and has its own character, but they are all connected by a stunning coastal trail, making Cinque Terre a hiker’s paradise. 

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an active adventure, or a foodie’s dream, Cinque Terre has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to this magical corner of Italy from the best time to visit Cinque Terre to the best things to do in Cinque Terre. Read on to learn more.

Is Cinque Terre worth visiting?

Absolutely! Cinque Terre is a stunningly beautiful and unique destination that is definitely worth visiting. The five picturesque fishing villages perched on the rugged Italian coast offer visitors a glimpse into a simpler way of life, where the sea and land are inextricably linked. The colorful houses, terraced vineyards, and winding trails all combine to create a charming and unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you are looking to hike the rugged coastline, sample delicious local cuisine, or simply relax by the sea, Cinque Terre has something to offer everyone. While it can be crowded during peak season, the beauty and charm of the region make it well worth a visit.

Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre

The best time to visit Cinque Terre largely depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience. The high season in Cinque Terre is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the towns are buzzing with tourists. However, this also means that the trails and beaches can be crowded, and prices for accommodations and activities are at their highest.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful and affordable experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower.

For those who want to avoid the rain, it’s best to avoid visiting Cinque Terre in the winter months from November to February, when the weather can be cold and wet, and some trails may be closed. But if you don’t mind a little rain and prefer a more tranquil atmosphere, then the off-season could be the perfect time to visit.

How to get to Cinque Terre (from Florence, Milan and Rome)

Getting to Cinque Terre is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options available from Florence, Milan, and Rome. From Florence, the fastest and most convenient way to reach Cinque Terre is by taking a direct train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella station to La Spezia Centrale station. From there, you can take a regional train that stops at all five towns of Cinque Terre.

If you’re traveling from Milan, you can take a direct train from Milano Centrale station to La Spezia Centrale station, which takes approximately 3 hours. 

From Rome, the easiest way to get to Cinque Terre is by taking a high-speed train from Roma Termini station to La Spezia Centrale station, which takes approximately 3 hours. You can also take a regional train from Rome to Pisa, and then transfer to a train to La Spezia.

Regardless of where you’re coming from, it’s always a good idea to check train schedules and purchase tickets in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to Cinque Terre.

Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Cinque Terre, there are several factors to consider, including your budget, preferred activities, and proximity to public transportation. For budget travelers, the town of Corniglia is a great option as it tends to have lower accommodation prices compared to the other villages. Monterosso al Mare is also a good choice for those looking for budget-friendly options, as it has a wider range of accommodations and restaurants to choose from.

Luxury travelers, on the other hand, may want to consider staying in Riomaggiore or Vernazza, as these towns offer some of the most upscale accommodations in Cinque Terre. Both towns boast picturesque harbor views and plenty of high-end dining options. Another option for luxury travelers is to rent a private villa or apartment in the surrounding countryside, which can offer stunning views and a more secluded experience. Ultimately, the best town to stay in depends on your personal preferences and travel style, so it’s worth doing some research to find the perfect fit for you.

Best Things to do in Cinque Terre

Here are some of the best things to do in Cinque Terre:

Hike the coastal trail

The Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Trail, is a picturesque hiking trail that winds along the coast and connects three towns of Cinque Terre. It’s a great way to take in the stunning views and experience the local culture. The trail can be extremely crowded during the peak season as it is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre. So make sure you head out early, to avoid the crowds and the harsh sun rays during the peak summer months. 

You can start the hike in Monterosso or Corniglia, but access requires the Cinque Terre Card (€7.50 per person). However, it’s crucial to prepare for the steep and uneven conditions and ensure you’re physically fit enough for the hike. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the various rules for hiking the Blue Trail so you are well-prepared for the hike. 

If you’re planning a trip to Cinque Terre, here are a few travel tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to be aware of the hiking conditions on the Blue Trail and to properly prepare for your hikes. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, be aware of the different ticket options available for the train and hiking trails, and plan accordingly.

Visit the beaches

Cinque Terre has several beautiful beaches for you to explore during your time here. Make sure to pack the right things for a fun beach day! If you’re looking for a sandy beach, head over to the quaint town of Monterosso al Mare. This sandy beach with its mesmerizing orange and green parasols are Instagram famous and tend to get crowded. For the best spot on the beach, make sure to get here early to rent one of the prime spots on this paid beach.

For a refreshing dip in the ocean, you can also head to the rocky beaches in Riomaggiore and Vernazza. No matter where you go, you’ll find crystal-clear waters and picture perfect spots to soak up the sun, and relax. 

Enjoy a Magical Sunset in Riomaggiore

While there are plenty of things to do in the picturesque town of Riomaggiore, catching the sunset here is definitely a bucketlist item. I recommend spending a day, swimming, sunbathing and relaxing by Riomaggiore’s picturesque harbor. It is also the perfect spot to catch the sunset, so make sure to catch a good spot as it tends to get packed easily. Don’t forget getting some local wine or gelato enjoy along with the sunset.

Explore the towns 

Cinque Terre is made up of five charming towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each of the five towns has its own unique charm and character so make sure to visit them all. Wander through the colorful streets, admire the pastel-colored buildings, and stop at local shops and restaurants to try the delicious cuisine. You can easily travel between the towns with the local trains, on foot or with the ferry. 

Visit the viewpoints

One of the best things to do in Cinque Terre is to visit the beautiful viewpoints in the colourful town of Vernazza. Vernazza is considered the prettiest village with two spectacular viewpoints. The first viewpoint over the harbour can be seen while hiking the Blue Trail towards Monterosso or during golden hour for the perfect photo opportunity. The location requires the Cinque Terre Hiking Card and caution due to steep cliff drops. 

The second viewpoint is at the top of the village, offering a magnificent view of Vernazza. Though it may be crowded during peak season, visitors are encouraged to be considerate and share the space. I recommend visiting early morning to avoid crowds. 

Try the local food and wine

There is plenty of food to try in Cinque Terre. The region is known for its fresh seafood, pesto and focaccia. Make sure to try the local specialities, and pair them with a glass of the region’s famous white wine, Sciacchetrà. The delicious fresh gelato will also be a treat in the hot summer months. 

Take a boat tour

One of the best ways to explore the region is by joining a boat tour. It is a great way to visit the five charming towns of Cinque Terre from a different perspective. You’ll get a unique view of the colorful buildings and cliffside vineyards, and you may even spot some local marine life. These tours also have a local guide who explain the history of the region and point out all the monuments along the way. Make sure to ask your guide for insider tips on things to see and do during your time on the coast. For the adventurers, you can also sign up for a fun Kayak tour to explore the area. 

Visit the vineyards

Wine lovers can rejoice because this region has some delicious wine to taste. Wine plays a significant role in the past and present of Cinque Terre. Unlike other parts of the world with highly cultivated vineyards, the terraced vineyards in Cinque Terre have a more natural and earthy vibe. Winemaking in this area is considered “heroic viticulture” due to the challenging nature of working with the steep and rocky terrain, requiring manual labor for everything from maintenance to harvesting.

Despite the difficulty, a decreasing number of local vintners continue to maintain and preserve this tradition. And it is possible to visit these vineyards for a deeper understanding of how the wine is produced here. 

During your time here make sure to try the two main local wines, the Cinque Terre DOC- a dry white made with the native Bosco grape mixed with Albarola and Vermentino, and the Sciacchetrà DOC, a sweet dessert wine. If you can’t make it to a wine tour, make sure to try some at restaurants or enotecas (wine shops/bars) in each village.

Getting around Cinque Terre

Getting around Cinque Terre is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options available. One of the best ways to explore the towns is by walking along the coastal trail, which connects all five towns and offers stunning views of the coastline. However, some parts of the trail may be closed due to weather or maintenance, so it’s a good idea to check the conditions before you start hiking.

If you don’t feel like walking, you can also take a train or a boat to get around. The regional train runs frequently between the towns, and it’s a convenient and affordable way to travel. The boats also offer a unique perspective of the coastline, and they run between the towns during the high season.

For those who prefer a more leisurely way to get around, you can rent a bike or an e-bike to explore the region. This is a great way to take in the sights and get some exercise at the same time.

Regardless of how you choose to get around, it’s important to note that cars are not allowed in most parts of Cinque Terre, and parking can be limited. So, it’s best to rely on other modes of transportation and plan accordingly. With its compact size and easy-to-navigate transportation options, getting around Cinque Terre is a breeze.

Additional Resources for Your Trip to Cinque Terre:

Riomaggiore Guide: https://merrylstravelandtricks.com/13-top-things-to-do-in-riomaggiore/ 

Hidden Gems in Tuscany: https://merrylstravelandtricks.com/hidden-gems-in-tuscany-off-the-beaten-path/

Hidden Gems in Italy: https://merrylstravelandtricks.com/hidden-gems-in-italy/