Experiences
Cinque Terre: how to see the five villages of the Italian Riviera
Five colourful villages, paths between vineyard terraces and trains that run through the cliffs. How to plan your trip to Cinque Terre, and where to stay along the coast.
The path runs between stone walls and vines, and below you the Mediterranean glitters. Round a bend you see the next village, houses in red and ochre piled up above a tiny harbour. An hour later you are sitting down there with a cold drink and focaccia.
Cinque Terre is five villages on the Ligurian coast: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, linked by paths, trains and boats. Here is how to make the most of them.
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How to experience Cinque Terre
Book the experience: See boat trips and activities in Cinque Terre
The coastal path
The Sentiero Azzurro links the villages along the coast. The stretch between Monterosso and Vernazza is steep and beautiful. Check which sections are open before you set off, and buy the Cinque Terre Card, which gives access to the paths.
Via dell'Amore
The short path between Riomaggiore and Manarola is cut into the cliffs above the sea. It was closed for many years, and now you often need to book a time slot in advance.
Cinque Terre
Boats pulled up on the beach.
Trains and boats between the villages
The train between La Spezia and Levanto stops in all five villages and takes only a few minutes between each. In summer boats run too, and they give you the best view.
Food and wine
The terraces above the villages produce the local white wine, and Liguria is the home of pesto and focaccia. Eat anchovies in Monterosso and have a glass of wine at sunset in Manarola.
Tips for your visit
Arrive early or late: cruise passengers and day trippers fill the villages in the middle of the day.
Stay nearby: then you can be in the villages when they are quiet.
Good shoes: the paths are steep and rocky.
Where to stay near Cinque Terre
The villages are mostly small guesthouses and apartments. For a hotel with a bit more space, Monterosso or the Portofino peninsula are good choices.
Hotel Porto Roca
Hotel Porto Roca sits on the cliff above Monterosso, the largest of the five villages. You get sea views and a short walk to the beach and the station.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Porto Roca
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino
On the hillside above Portofino.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Splendido stands on the hillside above Portofino, north of Cinque Terre. One of the best-known hotels on the Riviera, and a good base for a day trip to the villages.
Book your stay: See rooms at Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino
Grand Hotel Miramare
On the seafront in Santa Margherita.
Grand Hotel Miramare
Grand Hotel Miramare is in Santa Margherita Ligure, on the seafront. Trains leave from here towards Cinque Terre and boats to Portofino.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grand Hotel Miramare
When is the best time to visit Cinque Terre?
April, May and October: mild weather and fewer people. Good for hiking.
June to September: hot and busy. Swimming season, but start your walks early.
Winter: quiet. Many restaurants close, and parts of the paths can shut after rain.
Cinque Terre FAQ
Which villages make up Cinque Terre?
Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
Do I need a ticket for the paths?
Yes, most paths require the Cinque Terre Card. Check which sections are open.
How do I travel between the villages?
By train, by boat in summer or on foot.
Where should I stay?
Monterosso has the most hotels. Santa Margherita and Portofino are good alternatives a little further north.
When is it least crowded?
Early in the morning, late in the afternoon and outside July and August.