A Guide to Italy's Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre refers to a string of five fraziones on the Italian Riviera linked by hiking paths, ferries, and the Cinque Terre Express train. These villages – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – all sit under the umbrella of the Cinque Terre National Park. Visiting the “Five Lands” delivers a wealth of cultural and culinary experiences in a stunning natural setting.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is the largest and most southerly village in the Cinque Terre. It’s the liveliest overall with a wide selection of restaurants and historic attractions including churches and a medieval fortress with sea views. Due to its location, Riomaggiore is the easiest option for a day trip whereas as its size means it has the widest supply of accommodation.

The Via dell'Amore (Lover's Path) has recently reopened after many years of closure. This trail now operates as a one-way system connecting Riomaggiore with Manarola. In order to combat overtourism, the walk is ticketed (€10 per person) and must be booked in advance. The return journey must be completed by a more challenging clifftop hike or by train.

Manarola

Besides its photogenic appeal, Manarola is the best village in the Cinque Terre for wine experiences. The vineyards around this village produce a sweet wine called Sciacchetrà using grapes native to Liguria. Predominantly, these are Bosco, Vermentino, and Albarola grapes. These grapes are dried before being pressed and fermented which results in a full-bodied dessert wine that pairs with desserts, biscotti, and aged cheeses. It’s possible to taste Sciacchetrà at restaurants in Manarola and at the local wineries.

Corniglia

Perched atop a rocky promontory far above sea level, Corniglia is the quietest and least-visited of the Cinque Terre. This is where to go for an off-the-beaten-track experience – and perhaps the best views of all in the region. The Lardarina Staircase comprises 380 steps which may be substituted by the shuttle bus from the train station. Corniglia joins Manarola as one of the best places to visit Sciacchetrà wineries and vineyards.

Vernazza

The postcard-pretty avenues and medieval ruins of Vernazza make this town a popular choice for romantics, photographers, and historians. What’s left of the Doria Castle looks out over the Ligurian Sea while the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia is mere steps from the water. This waterfront is a magical place to sip local wine or stroll with gelato. It’s possible to hike to either Corniglia or Monterosso al Mare from Vernazza.

Monterosso al Mare

The northernmost Monterosso al Mare is the most popular destination in the Cinque Terre for families and beachgoers. This town has the best beaches for swimming and also has the benefit of being fairly flat. This makes Monterosso a wise choice for families with young children as well as elderly travelers who may struggle with the topography of the other Cinque Terre villages.

Monterosso is famous for its seafood, particularly its anchovies. Gentle walking paths edge the beaches whereas more challenging trails link the village with Vernazza.