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Cinque Terre is a stunning coastal region within Liguria, in the northwest of Italy. Lying west of La Spezia, it comprises five seaside villages along the picturesque Italian Riviera Coastline. These villages from north to south are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. From terraced vineyards to blue waters, from ancient lanes to vibrant houses, Cinque Terre is an incredible fusion of history and culture. If you are looking for a vacation on Cinque Terre, this guide will come handy as it takes us through all the five villages and what they have in store for us.

Why Is Cinque Terre In Italy Considered A Special Travel Destination

The five picturesque villages with their medieval origin and cultural heritage also feature paradisiacal bays, dreamy beaches, crystal blue water, dramatic landscapes and breathtaking sea views. Ah! What more would I ask for? Once isolated, now these villages are connected with the outside world with the construction of the railway line. The entire area is now a very popular tourist destination. The five villages, the coastline and the surrounding hillsides are also a part of the Cinque Terre National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). In this strip of land on the Italian Riviera coastline also known in Italian as the “Riviera Ligure di Levante” is one of Italy’s most iconic travel destinations.

What To Do In The Five Colorful Villages Of Cinque Terre

1. Monterosso al Mare: What To Do In Cinque Terre’s Largest Village

Beach in Italian village Monterosso.

Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal villages and is situated on the northwest coast of the region. It is divided into an ‘old and new’ section marked by the medieval tower of Aurora. While the new part is from San Cristoforo, the old part is protected by a rock spur and still presents the maritime village. A small tunnel of about 100 meters connects these two sections that cater to pedestrians and the very few cars in the town.

Fegina (the new part) is full of life and is the reflection of an area that tourism has made rich, with a great quantity and excellent quality of hotels and restaurants. Meanwhile, the old part of the town is dominated by the ruins of the castle and characterized by typical narrow medieval streets (carruggi) with multi-coloured terraced houses.

What To Do In Monterosso

Go around and explore the medieval Aurora Tower.

Relax on Fegina Beach, the only extensive sand beach in the Cinque Terre.

Visit the lemon trees of Monterosso.

Walk through lemon groves.

Taste local olives, grapes, white wines, and anchovy dishes.

2. Vernazza: Why Is Vernazza Considered One Of The Most Beautiful Cinque Terre Villages

Vernazza village in Cinque Terre, aerial view during sunset.

This little town is located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, north-western Italy and boasts the only natural port in the Cinque Terre. This tiny port is surrounded by subtle colourful pastels and the charming Piazza Marconi with its sea-facing amphitheater. Set during the Roman times, Vernazza had strategic importance during the age of the Maritime Republics in Genoa. This commune grew as a powerful fortified town with a strong military defence and is characterized by its trademark caruggi (narrow lines). They rise almost vertically with the pastel-coloured homes, a maze of stairs and tiny terraces, with big blue sea views popping at every turn.

What To Do In Vernazza

Go up the Doria Castle viewpoint.

Visit the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia.

Catch a beautiful Vernazza harbour sunset.

Walk around Piazza Marconi & waterfront.

3. Corniglia: How Is Corniglia Unique Compared To Other Cinque Terre Villages

Beautiful Cinque Terre villages surrounded by vineyards.

Sitting atop a 100m-high rocky headland, Corniglia is the highest of the five Cinque Terre villages. Surrounded by vineyards, it is known to be a strong producer of wine and agricultural goods. This small village is also the only village that lacks direct access to the sea, but it can be reached from the railway through a long flight of stairs called “Lardarina”. Situated in the middle of the Cinque Terre, Corniglia has two exclusive small beaches at its sides, narrow alleys and colourfully painted four-storey houses.

What To Do In Corniglia

Relax at the two peaceful beaches located on either side of the village.

Walk the narrow streets to reach Belvedere di Santa Maria from where you can see all five villages.

Visit the Church of San Pietro (1334) for its gothic Ligurian style.

4. Manarola: Why Is Manarola Famous For Its Cinque Terre Wine

The village of Manarola sits on a high rock which is 70 metres above sea level. Situated along a stream and surrounded by grapevines, this little town produces the famous Cinque Terre wine: Sciacchetrà. Manarola is also known for the colourful buildings and houses that slide down its rocky and rugged coast. The village is all ups and downs, with steep narrow alleys (carrugi), leading to the sea. It is well-known for its beautiful rose window dating back to the 14th century. Just like the rest of the Cinque Terre towns, Manarola also has many picturesque trails.

What To Do In Manarola

Taste the most famous sweet wine of the region, Sciacchetrà.

Take a walk to the upper side of the village and check out the Church of San Lorenzo (1338).

Go on a short uphill hike to Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint.

Hike through “Via dell’Amore,” a romantic trail that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore.

5. Riomaggiore: What To See & Do In The Southernmost Village Of The Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore is the southernmost village of the Cinque Terre region. Because of its location, this town is often the first stop whenever one is travelling north from La Spezia. While Riomaggiore is believed to date back to the 8th Century, there was news about it only in the 1200s. The historic character of this town and its wine isn’t something that has gone unnoticed since the 13th century. The town climbs up along the ridges overlooking the sea; and it is characterized from the typical stone houses with pastel-coloured façades and slate-roofs. They can be best appreciated from the sea, making it one of the most romantic sights of Cinque Terre.

What To Do In Riomaggiore

  • Visit the Sanctuary of “Madonna di Montenero” that overlooks the Ligurian Sea.
  • Stroll through colourful lanes, especially during sunset to see the houses glow in warm colours.
  • Visit the pebbled beach with dramatic cliffs.
  • Capture views of the village from the tower houses along the Rio stream.

How Do You Travel Between The Villages Of Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre villages are all linked by a network of footpaths that offer the best opportunity to truly enjoy the unique landscape along the coast of Italy. There is also a train- and boat connection between these beautiful hillside towns. While planning your trip here, do pack comfortable walking shoes; as cars aren’t allowed in the older sections of these towns. Visiting the charming Cinque Terre villages will not just be an exercise for the body, but also for the soul.

Also Read: 18 Underrated Towns In Italy You Have To See

Final Thoughts

You are in for the most unforgettable experience of your life during your Italian Riviera trip. Whether you’re here for hiking between villages or to taste some fresh seafood by the sea, Cinque Terre itinerary will never disappoint you. Don’t forget to let us know about your experiences at these picturesque towns in the comment section below!

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre’s climate is at its best between May to October. The temperature during this time is cooler in comparison with the other months. However, be prepared for large crowds as it is the time when cruise ships arrive. During the months of July and August cruise ships arrive on a daily basis.

What are the iconic architectural features of Cinque Terre villages?

The five iconic architectural features of the Cinque Terre villages are:
– Brightly painted houses on steep cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
– Hundreds of terraced vineyards supported by dry stone walls.
– Medieval religious structures, towers and castles overlooking the Sea.
– Natural harbours, small amphitheatre-style squares and waterfront Piazzas.
– Narrow Medieval lanes with winding alleys creating a maze-like layout.

Is car access allowed in the villages of Cinque Terre?

Most of the villages do not allow car access, you can drive to the entrance of the villages and then walk from there. It is best to take a train, bus, or boat to reach the villages.