Cinque Terre National Park
Five vibrant, cliffside villages on the Italian Riviera, connected by scenic hiking trails and train routes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Cinque Terre National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Five vibrant, cliffside villages on the Italian Riviera, connected by scenic hiking trails and train routes.
"The most beautiful and unique experience I have ever had."
Get the Cinque Terre Card
Essential for unlimited train travel between villages and access to hiking trails. :ticket:
Pack Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky. Comfort is key for exploring the park! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manarola's Iconic View
Manarola
The quintessential Cinque Terre postcard view, especially magical at sunset with colorful buildings cascading down the cliff.
Vernazza's Harbor Charm
Vernazza
A picturesque harbor with colorful boats, a medieval castle, and charming piazzas perfect for enjoying local food and wine.
Monterosso's Sandy Beaches
Monterosso al Mare
The largest of the five villages, offering the most extensive sandy beaches for a relaxing seaside escape.
Riomaggiore's Colorful Streets
Riomaggiore
The southernmost village, known for its vibrant, steep streets and a charming marina that's a photographer's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Avoid Day Trip Hassles
Embrace the Trails (and Pack Smart)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Get the Cinque Terre Card
Essential for unlimited train travel between villages and access to hiking trails. :ticket:
Pack Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky. Comfort is key for exploring the park! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Overnight if Possible
Avoid rushed day trips; experience the villages' magic after the crowds leave. :bed:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking. Electrolytes are a good idea too. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Get the Cinque Terre Card
Essential for unlimited train travel between villages and access to hiking trails. :ticket:
Pack Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be steep and rocky. Comfort is key for exploring the park! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Overnight if Possible
Avoid rushed day trips; experience the villages' magic after the crowds leave. :bed:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Carry plenty of water, especially when hiking. Electrolytes are a good idea too. :droplet:
Embrace Early Mornings
Experience the villages at their most peaceful before the day-trippers arrive. :sunrise:
Consider a Boat Tour
See the coastline from a different perspective and enjoy swimming stops. :ferry:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cinque Terre's breathtaking scenery, vibrant villages, and rewarding hiking trails. The picturesque coastal views and charming atmosphere create an unforgettable experience. However, many note that the area can become extremely crowded, especially during peak season, and advise planning accordingly to avoid the throngs of day-trippers.
"A very enjoyable trip! The scenery is stunning, with picturesque villages and beautiful coastal views. We did one of the hiking routes, which was both fun and rewarding. It can get quite crowded around the train stations, especially during peak times, but overall it was a great experience and definitely worth visiting."
Rob Schuts
"The most beautiful and unique experience I gave ever had. Was able to visit many Cinque Terre cities/villages such as Corniglia, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Manarola and more. All these villages are typical of the area. They have a beach, sit on the rock and have beautiful views over the Mediterranean sea. You can get the Cinque Terre Pass for 1 day at 19€ and the pass includes unlimited Regionale train between villages."
Farouk Chemam
"Great way to see/visit Cinque Terre. Take a small boat tour out of La Spezia, easiest to book online. Our 7 hour day trip included 2 swimming stops, 1-1/2 hour stop for lunch in one of the villages, knowledgeable tour captain, and snacks and drinks on our boat. We went in late May and paid 135 euros/person."
Mr. B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by train, but it involves multiple changes and can take around 3 hours each way, making it a very long day trip. Many advise against day trips due to the extensive travel time. Consider staying overnight for a more relaxed experience.
The Cinque Terre train is the most efficient way to hop between the five villages. Purchasing the Cinque Terre Card provides unlimited train travel and access to hiking paths.+1
Driving is not recommended as cars are restricted in the villages, and parking is extremely limited and expensive. The train is the best option.
The Cinque Terre Card offers unlimited train travel on the Levanto-La Spezia line, access to the paid hiking trails, and use of park buses. It's a cost-effective option for exploring.
Yes, ferries operate between most of the villages (except Corniglia, which is high on a cliff) during the warmer months. It offers beautiful coastal views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need a Cinque Terre Card to access the paid hiking trails and use the local trains between villages. The card can be purchased online or at train stations.
Prices vary depending on the type of card (e.g., 1-day, 2-day) and what it includes. A 1-day card is around 19€ and covers train travel and trail access.
The hiking trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always best to check the official Cinque Terre National Park website for any temporary closures or specific timings.
Yes, you can purchase the Cinque Terre Card at any of the train stations in the five villages or at Levanto and La Spezia. Buying online in advance can sometimes save time.
No, there is no fee to simply walk around the villages themselves. The Cinque Terre Card is primarily for accessing the hiking trails and using the regional trains for inter-village travel.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The most famous is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), connecting all five villages. Sections like the Riomaggiore to Manarola (Via dell'Amore) are often closed, so check trail status. Other trails offer varying difficulty and stunning views.
While a day trip is possible, it's rushed. Many recommend at least 2-3 days to explore all five villages, hike some trails, and truly relax.
The five towns are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, each with its unique charm.+1
It can be challenging due to steep paths and many stairs. Monterosso has beaches, and boat trips are a good option. Consider a stroller-friendly approach or focus on villages with easier access.
Capture the iconic village views from viewpoints in neighboring towns or from the hiking trails. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light and fewer crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the fresh pesto (Liguria is its birthplace!), focaccia, seafood, and local white wines like Sciacchetrà. Enjoying a meal with a view is a must.+1
Yes, each village offers a variety of trattorias, pizzerias, and cafes. Vernazza and Manarola are particularly known for their scenic dining spots.
Prices can be higher in the most popular villages, especially for waterfront dining. Exploring side streets or visiting slightly less crowded towns can offer more budget-friendly options.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer pasta dishes, vegetable antipasti, and salads that can be adapted. Pesto is typically vegetarian.
Try local specialties like pesto pasta, focaccia with cheese, and fresh anchovies. Enjoying gelato while strolling through the villages is also a classic experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Manarola's viewpoint for the classic postcard shot, Vernazza's harbor, and Riomaggiore's marina are popular. Look for elevated viewpoints along the hiking trails for unique perspectives.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best light and fewer crowds, making for more serene and vibrant photos.
Drone usage is generally restricted within national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and village panoramas. A zoom lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light shots, especially at sunset.
Explore less-visited alleys, hike to higher viewpoints, or capture the villages from the sea on a boat tour. Focus on details like colorful shutters, laundry lines, and local life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While hiking is a major draw, some trails can be challenging for little legs. Focus on shorter, flatter sections or opt for the train to move between towns. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for stairs and uneven surfaces. The colorful villages and the Disney-inspired movie 'Luca'
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when accommodation and flight prices are generally lower. Staying in nearby towns like La Spezia or Levanto and taking day trips via train can also be more budget-friendly than staying directly in the five villages. Hiking the trails is free with the Cinque Terre Card, offering incredible views without extra cost.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo hikers will find the trails rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Enjoying meals at local trattorias or grabbing a gelato and people-watching in a piazza are perfect solo activities. The villages are generally safe, and the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to strike up conversations with locals and other visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Sentiero Azzurro
+1Important Note: Sections of the Sentiero Azzurro, particularly the Via dell'Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola, are frequently closed due to landslides. Always check the official Cinque Terre National Park website for current trail conditions and closures before you go. The park offers alternative, higher trails that are often less crowded and equally rewarding, though they can be more strenuous.
When planning your hike, wear sturdy hiking shoes as the paths can be steep, uneven, and rocky. Carry plenty of water and consider bringing snacks or electrolytes, especially during warmer months. The Cinque Terre Card is essential as it grants access to the paid trails and unlimited use of the regional train, which is perfect for hopping between villages if you don't want to hike the entire way.
Navigating Between Villages
Beyond the train, ferries offer a scenic alternative, providing stunning views of the coastline from the water. Ferries typically run between April and October, connecting Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Corniglia, being perched high on a cliff, is not directly accessible by ferry. A boat tour can also be a fantastic way to experience the villages from a unique vantage point, often including swimming stops.
Driving into the villages is strongly discouraged. Roads are narrow and winding, and parking is extremely limited and expensive. Relying on public transport like the train and ferry is the most practical and enjoyable way to explore Cinque Terre, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the car-free charm of these coastal gems.
Experiencing Cinque Terre's Culinary Delights
Each village offers a delightful array of trattorias, cafes, and gelaterias. Enjoying a meal with a view of the colorful houses and the sparkling sea is an essential part of the Cinque Terre experience. While popular waterfront restaurants can be pricier, exploring the smaller side streets often reveals hidden gems with more authentic and affordable options. Gelato is a must-have treat while wandering through the charming streets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit