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Hey fellow travelers! If you’re dreaming of a picturesque Italian getaway, look no further than Cinque Terre. This stunning region on Italy’s Ligurian coast is made up of five charming villages that will steal your heart. With colorful cliffside houses, crystal-clear waters, and mouth-watering cuisine, Cinque Terre is a slice of paradise you won’t want to miss. Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Let’s dive into the best things to do in Cinque Terre, Italy!
Getting to Cinque Terre
First things first, let’s talk logistics. Cinque Terre is super accessible whether you’re coming from nearby cities like Florence or Pisa, or even further afield. The easiest way to get there is by train. The local train line connects all five villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare—so hopping from one to the next is a breeze. Plus, traveling by train gives you those unbeatable coastal views!
The train system in Italy is really easy to navigate and Cinque Terre is no exception. We hired a driver to take us from Pisa to Monterosso al Mare but looking back it would probably be just as easy to take the train.
Riomaggiore: A Perfect Start
Kick off your Cinque Terre adventure in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village. Wander through its narrow streets, snap pics of the colorful buildings, and take in the gorgeous sea views. Here are some must-see spots:
- Church of San Giovanni Battista: This beautiful 14th-century church is a peaceful retreat with stunning interior frescoes.
- Castle of Riomaggiore: Climb up to this historic castle for panoramic views of the village and the sea.
- Marina: The picturesque harbor is perfect for watching the fishing boats and capturing those iconic Cinque Terre photos.
- Via dell’Amore: This famous “Lovers’ Lane” path connects Riomaggiore to Manarola, offering breathtaking coastal views (note: check for trail status).
- Cooking Class: This cooking class is held at the home of a local chef!
Manarola: Sunset Splendor
Manarola is a postcard-perfect village known for its enchanting sunsets. Grab a gelato and stroll down to the harbor for the best views. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- Church of San Lorenzo: This 14th-century church offers beautiful architecture and historical charm.
- Manarola Scenic Viewpoint: A short hike up the hill provides the best spot for sunset photography.
- Wine Tasting: Sample the local Sciacchetrà wine at one of the village’s cozy wine bars.
- Nessun Dorma: A popular spot for a drink and a meal with unbeatable views of the harbor.
Corniglia: A Hidden Gem
Corniglia is unique because it’s the only village not directly on the sea. Perched high on a hill, getting to Corniglia involves a climb up the infamous Lardarina—a series of 377 steps. Here’s what to explore:
- Lardarina Staircase: Conquer the steps and be rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
- Church of San Pietro: A beautiful 14th-century church with an impressive rose window.
- Terraced Vineyards: Wander through the vineyards that produce some of the region’s best wines.
- Gelateria Alberto: Don’t miss the locally famous basil gelato – it’s a unique and refreshing treat!
Vernazza: Picture-Perfect Port
Vernazza is often considered the most picturesque of the Cinque Terre villages, and it’s easy to see why. With its vibrant harbor, historic castle, and quaint piazzas, Vernazza is brimming with charm. Check out these highlights:
- Doria Castle: Climb up to this medieval castle for panoramic views of the village and the sea.
- Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church: A beautiful waterfront church dating back to the 14th century.
- Harbor Piazza: Relax at a café in the lively piazza and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
- Sentiero Vernazza-Monterosso: This hiking trail offers some of the best views in the Cinque Terre.
Monterosso al Mare: Beach Bliss
End your Cinque Terre adventure in Monterosso al Mare, the largest and most resort-like village. With its sandy beaches and clear blue waters, Monterosso is perfect for some relaxation. We made Monterosso our central hub and were happy with our choice as there was a lot to do close by. We stayed at the Hotel Villa Steno and it was so incredibly beautiful. There are tons of similar options available HERE. Here are some top spots in Monterosso:
- Fegina Beach: The largest beach in the Cinque Terre, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Old Town: Wander through the charming streets, filled with shops, cafés, and gelaterias.
- Church of San Giovanni Battista: A beautiful 14th-century church with striking black and white stripes.
- Monterosso Giant: A 14-meter high statue of Neptune carved into the cliffs – an impressive and unusual sight.
- Boat Tour: Take a sunset boat tour and enjoy beautiful views (and some Prosecco!)
Hiking the Cinque Terre Trails
One of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre is by hiking its famous trails. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five villages and offers breathtaking coastal views. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wear Good Shoes: The trails can be rocky and steep, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially in the summer heat.
- Check Trail Conditions: Some sections may be closed for maintenance or due to weather conditions, so check ahead.
- Take Your Time: The trails offer plenty of scenic spots to rest and take in the views, so don’t rush.
Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre
- Pack Light: The villages are filled with steep steps and narrow streets, so pack light and wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially if you’re hiking, keep a water bottle with you.
- Buy a Cinque Terre Card: This card gives you access to hiking trails and unlimited train travel between the villages.
- Book Accommodations Early: Cinque Terre is popular, so book your stay well in advance to get the best spots.
- Respect the Environment: Help keep Cinque Terre beautiful by not littering and sticking to marked trails.
Final Thoughts
Some of our favorite memories from Cinque Terre were relaxing with a glass of wine over looking the ocean or listening to musicians play during dinner. In such a beautiful place, you really can’t go wrong with anything you choose to do. My advice would be to go with the flow and enjoy the little things that Cinque Terre has to offer. I am a have-to-plan-every-single-detail kind of traveler and even I have to admit, it was amazing just to explore the towns and live in the moment in Cinque Terre.
From hiking scenic trails to relaxing on the beach and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. Cinque Terre, here we come!
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