Welcome to Cinque Terre
About Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, on Italy’s west coast, is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park featuring five charming fishing villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Accessible by train from La Spezia or Levanto, the area offers hiking trails, ferries, and stunning coastal views. Stay in a village for a quieter experience and enjoy local pesto and wines from terraced vineyards.
Each village has its charm:
- Monterosso: Resort-like with beach rentals.
- Corniglia: Quiet and perched above the sea.
- Riomaggiore: A favorite with a small harbor and quaint spots.
- Vernazza: Bustling with a picturesque harbor.
- Manarola: Steep cliffs and stunning restaurants with sea views.
Plan ahead for trail closures, and avoid summer crowds for the best experience.
Our Favorite Tours
The best way to learn about a city is through local tours
Eat Play & Stay
Hands down we agree this is the best place to eat in Cinque Terre. The view alone, is breathtaking, but wait until you taste the fresh Bruschetta, mozzarella and exquisite cocktails. You will gaze at the beautiful coast below while dining on some of the best food we have eaten in the area. It is a great place to get fresh calamari served in a cone or deliecious gelato. This area is known for pesto and is so worth trying while here!
We had to add another restaurant suggestion as this is one of our favorites as well. This is also located in Manarola. We had to add as it is the best pasta with lagostino we have ever had. You must try the panna cotta, or one of their amazing desserts as well! Check out the reviews on Tripadvisor by clicking Explore More.
This restaurant with the most incredible view was right underneath our apartment. It may be a iettle pricier than others, but the seafood is spectacular. We had the calamari and the homemade pasta with pesto. Pesto is a specialty in the area so it is a must try.
There are many boat tours in Cinque Terre. This is one of the most highly rated as well as affordable. Matreo and Frederica take you on a wonderful sunset tour by boat, stopping at many wonderful places to swim & snorkle, and to the town of Vernazza for a lovely dinner. The sunset from the boat is remarkable!
This is a wonderful experience if you have the time to venture out onto the trails around Cinque Terre. The views along the way are spectacular. The trails reach each town, so you can do a partial hike if you prefer. And the best part is that you can stop along the way for a beverage or lunch in Manarola (we suggest Nessum Dorma). You can also plan a partial hike and take the train or ferry back to your accomodation.
This is one of our favorite places to stay in Cinque Terre. Riomaggiore is a charming town (the furthest south of the five) and many of the apartments are right on the harbor, passed down from generations of fisherman. This particular apartment is located right above a Michelin star restuarant with one of the best views of the harbor. The interior is modern and the owner is wonderful. If your group is five or less, do not hesitate to book here.
Thhis is a real find in Riomaggiore. It is right near the rocks and offers wonderful balconies. If your party is larger, you can rent ore than one room in this highly rated guest house. Do yourself a favor and look for these quaint places early to get the best view and the most affordable price.
We are very partial to Riomaggiore because it is so walkable with some of the most amazing views of the bay. You will not find hotel chains in Cinque Terre. It is filled with wonderful guest houses and apartments. Check the buttons below for more options. If you look early enough you can find an affordable room with a balcony. It is so worth it.
Expiences with Viator
Get Inspired
Cinque Terre, Travel Guide
By World Wild Hearts
Italian Coastal Haven
By Rok Goes Around
Hiking the Cinque Terre
By This is Mayberry
Untold Italy Podcast
A Live View!
Riomaggiore
Manarola
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