The Cinque Terre area comprises of 5 colourful towns, sitting atop hills or hanging off the cliff face. Each one is quite different, and each one can be accessed by a reasonable walk along the coastline.

In all honesty, whereas a couple of the towns were lovely to visit, we probably could have spent our time visiting other areas. Some of them appeared a little run down, the coloured buildings needed some repair and they just looked a little tired. However, having said that they are a very popular tourist destination, and perhaps we had just gone at the wrong time of the year.

The five towns which comprise the Cinque Terre National Park are:

  1. Monterosso al Mare – the oldest and the largest of the towns, it is divided into the old and new village. It is the most popular of the 5 and so the crowds during peak season are enormous. Make sure you check out the rock statue of Neptune.
  2. Vernazza – we thought Vernazza was the prettiest of the villages, especially as it had a beautiful small harbour with lots of colourful fishing boats. The colours of the homes was also more vibrant. Take some time to enjoy a coffee down on the harbour and enjoy the view.
  3. Corniglia – perched high on a hill the only access is via train or foot. It does not have a seaport, but it does have spectacular views.
  4. Manarola – is the second smallest of the villages and is famous for its sweet Sciacchetrà wine.
  5. Riomaggiore – this is the first of the villages if you are travelling from La Spezia, and also the largest of the five. It is also where the Way of Love starts.
  6. The Way of Love – this is the walking trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola. It is known as the most romantic stretch of the Cinque Terre coastline as it winds it way along the rock face overlooking the sea. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk and is unique because of the ‘Lovers seat’ and the many padlocks left by lovers who have walked the trail.

Travel Tips

  • Unless you enjoy hiking the easiest mode of transport between the villages is by train. However, hikers will appreciate the many trails in the area and enjoy the beauty of the region.

Travel Alerts

  • Perhaps choose the time of year you visit carefully, as I think it makes a difference to your enjoyment of the Cinque Terre.

Travel Adventures

  • There are plenty of places to visit in and around the villages, and the links given should give you some idea of what to do.