Things to do in Cinque Terre

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All about Cinque Terre

When to visit

These five fishing villages, Cinque Terre, are situated on the coastline in a spot where steep mountain slopes rise directly from the sea, leaving little space for the summer crowds to spread out. Avoid the hordes by visiting in the quieter spring and fall seasons, which offer the added bonus of cooler temperatures for hiking the popular waterfront trail that links the towns. Those who choose to brave the summer melee, however, can enjoy a number of saints’ day processions and firework displays.

Getting around

Most of the Cinque Terre coastline is closed to traffic, but the villages are linked by the Cinque Terre Express train, which runs every 15 minutes from March to November. In summer, there is also a ferry service that runs to four of the five villages (all except for hilltop Corniglia). To take the famous coastal hiking trail from town to town, purchase a Cinque Terre Trekking Card (which also includes bus service) or the Train Card (which includes trail access plus bus and train service).

Traveler tips

The Cinque Terre region is a national park, so hikers must pay admission to access the coastline’s two most famous trails: the Monterosso-to-Vernazza and Vernazza-to-Corniglia paths. That said, there are more than 75 miles (120 km) of hiking trails in the area, including another 46 routes, all of which are free. These other trails offer equally scenic views and also have far fewer crowds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Cinque Terre so famous?

With its five pastel-hued fishing villages clinging to craggy cliffs, the Cinque Terre is a fairytale-like stretch of coastline with some of the most recognizable scenery in Italy—hence its fame. Long isolated from the rest of the country by its impenetrable inland slopes, today the coast captivates with timeless charm.

How many days are needed for Cinque Terre?

You can visit Cinque Terre’s five villages in one day via the local rail line, but you won’t have time to explore the terraced hills or admire the scenery by sea. Spend at least two days in the area to hike the trails or sail along the protected coastline.

What are the five villages of the Cinque Terre?

Monterosso al Mare is the first village on the north end of the Cinque Terre, followed by Vernazza further south. Corniglia is the middle town and the only one that does not sit on the water’s edge. Manarola and Riomaggiore are the two villages furthest south.

What is there to do in each Cinque Terre town?

Visit the five fishing villages, now crowded with shops and restaurants, plus take in the pretty views. A few of the towns also have pocket-sized beaches or tiny harbors where you can catch a boat tour, or you can hike the scenic paths that connect the villages.

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

It takes five to six hours to complete the Blue Path or Sentiero Azzurro, which stretches for 7 miles (11 kilometers) along the coastline and connects the villages. The section of the trail between Corniglia and Manarola is closed due to a landslide and will reopen in 2024.

What is the best way to see the Cinque Terre?

Most of the Cinque Terre is closed to vehicles, so you can explore on foot, via the local train, or by boat. There are a number of trails that connect the villages, and the Express train departs about every 15 minutes. Ferries run during the summer months.

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