The Five Towns of Cinque Terre: Ultimate Guide

The five small towns of Cinque Terre are situated in northwest Italy, on the coastline of the Liguria region. These beautiful towns have collectively been declared a UNESCO world heritage site, also known as Cinque Terre National Park. The term ‘Cinque Terre’ means ‘five lands’ in Italian.

This article contains a guide to each of the five Cinque Terre villages, including helpful suggestions for what to do and where to stay in each village.

I have included a section on beaches in Cinque Terre and wine in Cinque Terre too. You will find a map and travel directions at the bottom of the post. You can click on the table of contents below to get quick-links to each section.

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.

What are the five towns of Cinque Terre?

The five towns of Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Each one of the Cinque Terre towns has its own unique personality and charm that makes it stand out from the others. I have visited all five villages, with my last trip being in September 2022.

Below is a quick summary before we get into the details of each town. The links will take you straight to each section.

• Riomaggiore – the gateway to the Cinque terre.
• Manarola – the famous view of Manarola.
• Corniglia – the central village, and most authentic.
• Vernazza – the most charming harbour.
• Monterosso al Mare – the best beaches in Cinque Terre.

I will use the phrases ‘Cinque Terre towns’ and ‘Cinque Terre villages’ interchangeably throughout this post. They both mean the same thing.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre

A quick word about accommodation. There are no luxury hotels in Cinque Terre, but there are lots of luxury hotels in nearby La Spezia. Those looking for luxury might consider staying in La Spezia, and taking the short train ride into the Cinque Terre.

Each tiny town in the Cinque Terre consists of an historic centre and an outside-town area. Accommodation is relatively expensive (although not quite as expensive as the Amalfi Coast) and there is quite a narrow range of choice.

I have included recommendations below for the best places to stay in each of the five towns of Cinque Terre. Some of the towns don’t have many hotels, so I have included links to guest houses and apartments as well. The apartments are all suitable for two people.

There is not much difference in price between budget and mid-range properties. You will often see the word affittacamere – this translates loosely to ‘rooms for rent’.

If you’re on a budget, the main strip of Riomaggiore is a good option. Those seeking something more luxurious can explore 4 star accommodation options in Monterosso al Mare, which is the largest town of Cinque Terre (or nearby La Spezia).

Ultimate guide to the five towns of Cinque Terre.

1. Riomaggiore.

Riomaggiore is the southernmost of the five towns of Cinque Terre and was founded in the early 13th century. As the first stop on the local train line from La Spezia, Riomaggiore is known as the gateway to the Cinque Terre.

What is it like in Riomaggiore?

With a stunning location directly on the coast and a dramatic cliff-side setting, Riomaggiore is considered by many to be the most beautiful of the five towns of Cinque Terre.

The main street is called Via Colombo, and it is adorned with cafés, patio restaurants and bars. There are souvenir shops selling all kinds of unique items, such as lemon-shaped soaps. If you look up above your head, you can see the hillside residences towering above you. There is an array of colourful laundry competing for space alongside vibrant bougainvillaea flowers on balconies.

Perched at the very peak of Riomaggiore lies the Oratorio San Rocco. It is said to have been built during the 15th century to honour those who had perished in the plague which killed almost half of the population of the village.

Just next door resides the Castello di Riomaggiore; two ancient circular towers that offer 360° panoramic views and now serve as a cultural centre for the National Park of Cinque Terre.

What is there to do in Riomaggiore?

To really appreciate its natural beauty, hike up to the nearby Church of San Giovanni Battista at the top of the hill for amazing panoramas across the bay. The church itself was built in 1340, with some restoration works taking place in the 1870s.

From here you can access some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the area, such as the Via dell’Amore, or ‘Path of Love’. This is a famously picturesque trail path that winds along the coast with breathtaking views, connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola (it’s about 1km in length).

Edit: this path is currently closed due to a landslide, and should be reopened in summer 2024. There is an alternative path in place (Via Beccara) but be aware this path can be quite challenging and steep.

Another popular activity is to take a boat tour through the nearby waters, where you can spot dolphins and enjoy some of the best views of Riomaggiore and the surrounding coastline.

Other activities include swimming in Riomaggiore’s harbour, exploring its historic churches and castles, or simply enjoying a relaxing day on the beach.

Where to stay in Riomaggiore?

Manarola is the second-smallest of the five villages in Cinque Terre, but it’s no less picturesque or charming. Its main attractions include a charming harbour and a stunning cliff-top walk.

What is it like in Manarola?

Manarola is very similar to Riomaggiore, but perhaps a little more laid back. Located in the rocky cliffs overlooking the sea and row upon row of brightly coloured houses, Manarola is characterised by its steep stairways and narrow lanes.

To get to the town from the railway station, you must pass through an underground tunnel that was once a protective refuge for locals during World War II. As you make your way up the hillside and into town, you can admire artwork from local galleries featuring oil paintings and watercolours of nearby villages.

You will also pass by an old waterwheel (this road used to be a stream) before you get to the church of S. Lorenzo on the hilltop. Down on the harbour, there are brightly coloured boats with secluded caves and swimming spots too.

What is there to do in Manarola?

Manorola is a bit more laid back than Riomaggiore, with fewer nightlife and dining options.

Manarola is home to some of the best hiking trails in Cinque Terre. Take a leisurely stroll along the cliffs for some stunning views, or hike up to one of the local vineyards for a wine tasting experience. You can also do a quick hike (1km) to the next train station at Corniglia.

Other popular activities in Manarola include visiting the Manarola Cemetery, swimming, fishing, and boat tours.

Nearby attractions include Castello di Riomaggiore, a hilltop fortress overlooking the village and its surrounding area, and San Pietro, an ancient Romanesque church in Corniglia.

Many people feel Manarola is the most beautiful place in the Cinque Terre, as it is perhaps the most colourful.

Where to stay in Manarola?

3. Corniglia.

Corniglia is the third and highest elevated of the five towns, perched on a hill in the middle of Cinque Terre. It is the only village not located next to the sea, and it feels a little bit quieter than the others.

You can take a minibus from its train station every ten minutes to reach the hilltop town or hike up the 382 steps of Scalinata Lardarina, which runs steeply through vineyards and farmhouses along its switchback stairway.

What is Corniglia like?

Corniglia is a tiny little town, and is a bit of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the other towns, as it is the only town located away from the coastline. Corniglia is known as being the locals’ favourite town in the Cinque Terre.

To reach the hilltop town, you can take a minibus from the train station (it runs every 10 minutes so you won’t have a long wait) or you can climb the 365 steps up the steep hillside. There are lots of places to stop, with incredible views of the sea and the next town of Manarola.

Corniglia has only one small road, Via Fieschi, which cuts through the town. At its core lies Piazza Tarragio, a pretty square where you can treat yourself to some delicious outdoor dining experiences or visit Santa Caterina Chapel tucked away behind it. You can also climb up an old stone battlement tower for magnificent views that stretch out across Corniglia and beyond.

What is there to do in Corniglia?

Corniglia is a great place to take in the stunning panoramas from the top of its hill. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike along the trails that lead from Corniglia to some of the other villages in Cinque Terre. The Sentiero Rosso and the Sentiero Azzurro are two popular ridge-top trails above the five villages.

You can also explore the village’s historic churches and castles, as well as visit its many restaurants and cafes for some delicious local cuisine (make sure to try the local pesto sauce).

If you’re looking to swim in the sea, stone steps will lead you from the main plaza down to La Marina, offering an ideal spot for diving with its small dock. There is not a beach here.

You can also take boat trips to nearby islands or relax on its picturesque beaches.

Where to stay in Corniglia?

Corniglia has mostly guest houses and apartments with some farm stays.

• Best guest house in Corniglia: Madüneta 5 Terre is situated in an excellent location with amazing views. Awarded 4 star representation by Booking.com. Free WiFi and use of the garden.

• Best farm stay in Corniglia: I TRE GRAPPOLI is a family-run farm stay overlooking Corniglia, away from all the tourists. It has a garden and patio area, and is right next to the hiking trails, so it’s a great starting point for your hikes. Simple but good breakfast served.

• Best apartment in Corniglia: Punto Zero Suite is a basic but large apartment with lovely sea views, in the centre of town with good wifi.

• Best budget accommodation in Corniglia: AMARE IL MARE Affittacamere is a 1 star hotel which should definitely be rated higher. It has air conditioned rooms (some with balconies) and a terrace.

Click here to see all accommodation deals in Corniglia. Remember you have free reservation and free cancellation on Booking.com, so it’s best to reserve straight away to lock in the price (you can always cancel later).

4. Vernazza.

Vernazza is the fourth of the five towns and one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre. Its main attractions include pastel buildings, a medieval castle and colourful boats moored at its harbour.

What is Vernazza like?

Vernazza is a picturesque small town with one main cobblestoned road leading straight to the waterfront. There is an array of cafes, souvenir stores, bistros, eateries and boutiques. Vernazza has the Cinque Terre’s largest harbour area.

There is a partly-hidden beach with fine dark sand, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun. Additionally, there are stone breakers which provide stunning views back into Vernazza, as well as far out to sea.

Vernazza is home to the gothic 14th century church of San Francesco. There is alsothe 11th century Doria castle, which dates back to the middle ages and was occupied by Germany in WWII.

Vernazza offers swimming, fishing and boat tours from its harbour.

What is there to do in Vernazza?

Take a hike along one of the walking trails that lead to some of the other towns in Cinque Terre, or explore the hillside vineyards and olive trees. You can tour the olive groves and sample the local olive oil too.

Vernazza beach has a roped-off area for swimming and boat rentals. There is also a public area with umbrellas and picnic tables, and boat tours where you can ride around the harbour to admire the stunning views.

There is a 14th century Ligurian gothic church, Santa Margherita di Antiochia, on the east side of the harbour. It features pretty bell tower outside, whilst the inside is much more sombre with stone colonnades and old wooden pews.

On the west side of the harbour is Castello Doria, constructed in the 11th century to ward off North African invaders and occupied by Germans during WWII. You can climb the stone steps up to each storey where you will find hotels and restaurants with breathtaking views of both Corniglia’s countryside one way, and Monterosso’s coastlines in another.

In addition, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore in Vernazza, and a lively nightlife scene.

Where to stay in Vernazza?

Vernazza mostly has apartments and guest houses, at three-star ratings and below.

• Best guest house in Vernazza: Affittacamereirosmarini is an exceptional guest house with outdoor terraces, private parking and free wifi. The host is very helpful – nothing is too much trouble – and the views are spectacular.

• Best B&B in Vernazza: La Malà – camere di charme is situated in the town centre, just a few steps away from the beach. It has terraces, free wifi and serves a la carte breakfast.

• Best budget lodgings Vernazza: Albergo Barbara is great value for money in Vernazza and is right in the centre, very close to the Mediterranean sea. Some rooms have a sea view. Check the bathroom situation, as some are shared.

• Best apartment in Vernazza: Fivestay Casa Gabri 2 Monolocale a picco sul mare is a 2-minute walk from the beach with free WiFi and air conditioning. Sleeps 2.

• The next best option is the MADA Charm Apartments Piazza – an apartment which is literally steps away from the beach, right on the harbour. This company have more apartments if this one is sold out.

Click here to see current accommodation deals in Vernazza.

5. Monterosso al Mare.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest and northernmost of the five towns and was founded in 1250. Its main attractions include its beautiful beaches, charming narrow streets, lemon and olive groves and terraced vineyards.

What is it like in Monterosso?

Monterosso is the largest and most glamorous of Cinque Terre’s towns, featuring a picturesque pebble beach area that slopes into sparkling water.

Monterosso is split into two sections via an old tunnel; New Monterosso and Old Monterosso. The new town is the side with the most tourists and glamorous restaurants and bars. There are sandy and pebbly beaches, with a huge statue which holds up one of the terraces at the end of the beach.

The older side of town is more quaint and charming, like the other towns of Cinque Terre. There are independent shops and boutiques here, with a much quieter vibe.

The main street through the old town is called Via Roma. The primary church of San Giovanni Battista stands alone with a Carrara marble structure from Tuscany.

Near to the main street is Via Buranco, a road that takes you straight to the iconic Castle and Convent of Capuchin Friars on top of St. Christopher Hill. Here you will get breathtaking views of Monterosso Bay.

This 1628-built ancient monastery still remains active today as the monks farm their own food, in the form of fruits, trees and vegetables. Above it lies the town cemetery housing many people who perished due to Nazi bombings in the 1940s within its crypts.

What is there to do in Monterosso?

Monterosse al Mare’s main attraction are its beaches. Monterosso al Mare has two beaches – La Spiaggia del Gigante, which is located near the old town and features stunning views of the sea, and Fegina Beach, which offers plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming.

You can also explore some of Cinque Terre’s best hiking trails, go fishing or take boat trips around the area. Take a stroll through its charming old town, go snorkelling or scuba diving off its beautiful beaches, or explore the nearby vineyards and olive groves.

Monterosso also features a unique 11th century church that is well-worth a visit, along with the 13th century castle as described above.

Where is a good place to stay in Monterosso?

Monterosso is larger than the other towns of Cinque Terre, so there is a little more choice when it comes to hotels. It is a good choice for your home base in the Cinque Terre.

• Best hotel in Monterosso: Hotel Porto Roca offers a panoramic cliff-top location with spectacular views, a few minutes from the town centre. The famous Blue Trail starts here too.

• Best guest house in Monterosso: A cà da Alba Rooms is a 2-minute walk from Monterosso Old Town Beach and is top rated on Booking.com.

• Best budget hotel in Monterosso: Albergo Al Carugio is a basic 1-star property right next to the train station with a lovely host.

• Best apartment in Monterosso: La Casa Del Doganiere is a vacation home with a perfect location in between old and new Monterosso. The views are stunning.

• The next best option is the Come Eravamo apartment which is clean and beautiful in a wonderful location. It’s very highly rated on Booking.com (almost a 10) so it’s best to get in there early!

Click here to see current accommodation deals in Monterosso al Mare.

The five towns of Cinque Terre.

The five towns of Cinque Terre offer visitors an opportunity to experience Italy’s charming villages and spectacular coastline. With its winding lanes, colourful houses and picturesque harbours, it’s no wonder why Cinque Terre earned its place on the UNESCO world heritage list.

Here are your accommodation links again in case you have decided to book:

• Accommodation in Riomaggiore – the gateway to the Cinque terre.
• Accommodation in Manarola – the famous view of Manarola.
• Accommodation in Corniglia – the central village, and most authentic.
• Accommodation in Vernazza – the most charming harbour.
• Accommodation in Monterosso al Mare – the best beaches in Cinque Terre.

Remember you can reserve for free and cancel for free on Booking.com, so it’s best to book asap to lock in the price (you can always cancel later).

Where are the best beaches in the Cinque Terre?

The Cinque Terre region is home to many beautiful beaches. One popular choice is Spiaggia della Baia del Sole in Riomaggiore, which offers stunning views of the deep blue waters and crystal clear shores.

Other great options include Monterosso Beach, a sandy beach with plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming, as well as Vernazza Beach, which features tranquil turquoise waters and a small harbour. For those looking for an even more secluded spot, there are plenty of hidden coves along the rugged coastline.

Monterosso Fegina beach is the largest beach in the region, and you will see it as soon as you exit the train station.

Wine in Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre is renowned for its wine-producing heritage that extends as far back as the 12th century. The grape cultivation and winemaking process has remained largely unchanged throughout this time. Grapes are still planted on terraced land rising up steep hillsides and separated by stone walls, all of which must be harvested manually. As one of few modern touches in this ancient practice, mini tractors can now be seen transporting baskets full of grapes down the hillside.

With more than two dozen wineries in the area (many of which are family-run) this region is a wine connoisseur’s paradise. All wines here are organic and use no additives or pesticides during pressing; most blends consist of Vermentino, Alborola, and Bosco grapes.

The best tours in Cinque Terre.

Below is a curated selection of Cinque Terre tours. They are all available to reserve with no payment up front from Viator.com. All of these experiences are 5-star rated with a badge of excellence (and likely to sell out).

• The Best of Cinque Terre Tour – not staying in Cinque Terre? This private tour picks you up from the ports of Livorno or La Spezia, and takes you round all the 5 towns of Cinque terre by minibus and train.

• Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Experience – beautiful small-group boat experience at sunset, taking in all 5 villages with a stop of Vernazza. Leaves from Monterosso.

• Traditional Ligurian ‘Gozzo’ Private Boat Trip – stunning boat trip with snacks and drinks on board. Swim stop and sun deck. 5 star rating and badge of excellence.

• Kayak and snorkel experience – a great way to avoid the busy streets and see the sights from the water instead. Two seater kayaks with full assistance provided.

• Cinque Terre Hiking Tours – these are the best private day trip hiking tours, with advice and tips from locals and help with buying the correct Cinque Terre pass for your needs.

• Pasta-making class in Riomaggiore – you can’t visit Italy without attempting to make your own pasta! Includes two types of pasta, plus tiramisu and drinks in a small group.

I always use Viator for tours, simply because I just find their service the best. However you might prefer Cinque Terre tours from Get Your Guide instead.

How to get to the Cinque Terre.

There are no airports in Cinque Terre, and all of the major roads end at the area’s entry point. Regional trains are the best way of travelling to and around the Cinque Terre. The south-bound La Spezia to Riomaggiore line runs directly into the heart of the area, while services from Levanto up north head towards Monterosso al Mare.

Once you are there, you can get on the Cinque Terre Express trains for quicker transitions between towns. Trains run as frequently as every 15 minutes – from early morning till midnight – with each ride taking around 5 minutes.

I recommend purchasing a Cinque Terre Card, which allows you unlimited train travel on the Cinque Terre Express, as well as access to the hiking trails and use of the bus services too.

The nearest airports are Pisa and Genoa.

Travel Essentials for Cinque Terre.

Here are my Amazon travel essentials for the Cinque Terre.

• Protect your belongings with an anti-theft sling bag or anti-theft rucksack.
• Protect your cards with an RFID blocking wallet.
• This universal travel adaptor is essential for overseas trips.
• Cinque Terre gets very hot. You need a decent natural sunscreen.
• For the same reason you need collapsible water bottles and sun hats.
• This is the best quick-dry sand-repellent beach towel.
• Packing cubes are a travellers best friend. I recommend these ones.
• Going on a Cinque Terre hike? These are the best hiking socks

Map of the 5 Towns of Cinque Terre.

This map shows each of the fishing villages of the Cinque Terre.

Towns of Cinque Terre: Common FAQs.

How long does it take to walk the 5 villages of Cinque Terre?

To hike the five villages of Cinque Terre would take around six hours in total, if you didn’t make any stops. But realistically you wouldn’t be able to do them all in one day.

You will need a permit to hike each walking trail, and you’ll have to show your permit at every checkpoint. You can purchase your Cinque Terre permit here. To allow enough time for each hike, I recommend spending at least 2 days on your hikes, especially if it’s your first time. Many people feel that hiking is the best thing to do in Cinque Terre.

What is the most beautiful town in Cinque Terre?

Manarola is one of Cinque Terre’s most captivating villages. Bursting with multi-coloured cottages and charming cobble streets, it has been deemed to be the most beautiful village in all of Italy. Many others consider Riomaggiore to be the most beautiful village in Cinque Terre. Personally, I cannot choose one best town over the others. All five have their own individual charm.

How do you explore the 5 towns of the Cinque Terre?

Exploring the five villages of Cinque Terre by train is undoubtedly the most comfortable and easiest way to go. The express train links all five towns, each ride between them taking only a few minutes. Plus, its stations are located right in or close to central locations (with Corniglia being the exception – the only way to reach it is via a shuttle bus or climbing a steep incline into the cliffs). I recommend purchasing a Cinque Terre train card at a small additional cost.

What is the main town of Cinque Terre?

If you’re a fan of the beach, Monterosso is the perfect place for you to stay. It’s the largest town in the area and offers more amenities than any other. Plus, it’s home to Cinque Terre’s only sandy beach – from here, you can rent chairs and umbrellas or take out a kayak to discover secluded coves along its stunning coastline.

What is the best time to visit Cinque Terre?

With its temperate Mediterranean climate, the coastal villages of Cinque Terre can be enjoyed from May through October. But for an optimal experience, plan your Cinque Terre trip outside this peak season and come to explore in mid or late April as well as mid or late October.

Other Places Similar to Cinque Terre.

If you love the five towns of Cinque Terre, you are sure to be interested in the other towns in the Liguria region too. These include Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino and Rapallo. All three towns are close together on the Italian Riviera, and well recommended by me! I have travelled throughout this region extensively, with my last visit being in September 2022.

The Cinque Terre is an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re looking to explore its quaint villages, take a relaxing beach vacation, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Italian Riviera, you won’t be disappointed.

Remember there are many towns in this region (the region of Liguria – the Italian Riviera) and you may wish to combine several towns into one trip. I recommend you don’t take a car in high season – see my Liguria travel Advice below.

Travel advice for your trip to Liguria

What is the climate like in Liguria?

Liguria is situated in one of the sunniest parts of northern Italy, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. In July, temperatures can exceed 30C/86F with moderately high humidity. May and September are great months to explore this area if you’re looking for fewer crowds than the summer months, especially at the beaches.

In winter, you can expect lows of 7C/44F and highs of 14C/57F, but bear in mind a lot of hotels and restaurants close over the winter.

Booking.com

What is the best way of getting around in Liguria, Italy?

You don’t need to rent a car in most of Liguria. It is easier to travel by train or ferry between places like Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, Genoa and Portofino. For Cinque Terre you are definitely best using local trains to get between the villages.

I have summarised the times you might want to get a car in Liguria, versus when not to get a car below:

Reasons not to rent a car in Liguria:

• Portofino and Fruttuoso are car-free.
• Portofino has one nearby car park which is always busy.
• Visiting beaches in the high season is difficult by car – there is a lack of parking spaces and a LOT of traffic.
• The city of Genoa has 26 train stations.
• Winding roads in the Cinque Terre can be very nerve-racking to drive on.
• Narrow roads in Cinque Terre means it takes 1 hour to drive 3km.
• Motorways have tolls and parking is expensive.
• It is cheaper, quicker and more environmentally friendy to use trains.
• Boat rides are a pleasant way to travel between Ligurian towns.

Reasons why you might rent a car in Liguria:

If you are not travelling to any of the above places in the high season, you might want to rent a car in Liguria. Consider these circumstances:

• It is much easier to drive in Liguria in the off-season (October to May). There is less traffic and lots of parking spaces. Beware the narrow roads in Cinque Terre though.
• You’ll need a car if you’re visiting Hinterland.
• You’ll need a car for mountain trekking (but Cinque Terre treks are still usually accessed by train, even in winter).
• You’ll need a car for visiting olive groves, archaeological sites or wineries (these are usually quite far out).

What currency do they use in Liguria?

The official currency in Italy is the Euro (€) which comes in paper notes and coins.

Are there ATMS in Italy?

Yes there are ATMs in Italy. The ATMs are called ‘Bancomat’ and they work generally the same as in the UK or USA. Cash is accepted everywhere and is sometimes preferred. For example, some taxis might accept card payment but they still prefer cash. It’s best to ask before getting in.

The working hours for the banks in Italy are 08:30 – 13:00 and 15:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday.

Below are some helpful links for your trip:

Related Reading for Cinque Terre

• Related Reading:
• 10 Best Things to do in Rapallo, Italy
• 10 Best Things to in Portofino, Italy
• 17 Things to Know Before Visiting Rome, Italy
• 27 Great Things to do in Sorrento, Italy
• 10 Unique & Unusual Things to do in Naples, Italy
• The perfect 2 days in Naples
• Ultimate guide to the Cinque Terre

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