There are few places as enchanting as Cinque Terre. Nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera, this string of five colorful fishing villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—feels like a dream. With dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming pastel houses, Cinque Terre takes your breath away at every turn.
And the best part? You can slow down, unwind, and savor every moment.
Cinque Terre is all about simplicity, natural beauty, and discovering something new around each corner. Whether you’re hiking along the cliffs, wandering through narrow streets, or enjoying a glass of local wine by the sea, the magic of Cinque Terre stays with you long after you leave.
Let’s explore these five villages and see what makes Cinque Terre so special.
Monterosso al Mare: Where Beach Meets History
First up is Monterosso al Mare, the largest and most laid-back of the villages. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches (a rarity along the rocky coast), Monterosso offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Spend your morning lounging on the beach, dipping your toes in the crystal-clear water, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
But Monterosso is more than just a beach town. Its historic center, with narrow lanes and centuries-old churches, has plenty to explore. Don’t miss the 14th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista, with its striking black-and-white striped façade. If you’re up for a little adventure, hike up to the Statua del Gigante, a massive statue of Neptune carved into the cliffs. It’s a reminder of Monterosso’s deep connection to the sea and its rich history.
Vernazza: The Jewel of Cinque Terre
As you head to Vernazza, it feels like stepping into a postcard. With colorful buildings cascading down to a small harbor, Vernazza is often considered the most picturesque of the villages. When you arrive, you’ll see fishing boats bobbing in the water and locals enjoying coffee or aperitivo at waterfront cafés.
Vernazza invites you to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Wander through its charming streets, stopping to admire the details of homes and shops tucked into every corner. Climb the steps to Doria Castle for a stunning panoramic view of the village and the sea—it’s the perfect spot to take in Vernazza’s beauty.
Of course, no visit to Vernazza is complete without a meal by the water. Fresh seafood is the star here, with dishes like trofie al pesto (local pasta with pesto) and acciughe al limone (anchovies with lemon) on the menu. Order a glass of local white wine, sit back, and let the beauty of Vernazza wash over you.
Corniglia: The Hidden Gem on the Hill
Corniglia is unique among the villages because it’s the only one not directly on the water. Perched high on a hill, it’s a quieter, more secluded spot that offers a different perspective. Getting there requires a bit of effort—you’ll need to climb a long series of steps from the train station to the village—but it’s worth it.
As you wander through Corniglia’s winding streets, you’ll notice it feels less touristy and more local. The vibe is peaceful, with small squares, family-owned shops, and a slower pace of life. Make sure to visit Largo Taragio, the main square, where you can relax with a gelato or coffee and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
One of the best things about Corniglia is the stunning views of the coast and surrounding vineyards. A short walk to the edge of the village will lead you to breathtaking overlooks where you can see the sea stretching out for miles. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet moment and appreciate the natural beauty of Cinque Terre.
Manarola: A Photographer’s Dream
If there’s one image that defines Cinque Terre, it’s Manarola’s colorful houses clinging to the cliffs, with the sea sparkling below. This village is a favorite among photographers, and it’s easy to see why—every angle offers a picture-perfect view.
Manarola is full of character, with narrow alleys, hidden staircases, and a lively harbor. One of the best ways to experience it is to get lost in its streets, discovering little gems along the way. Stop by local shops selling handmade ceramics, or pop into a small café for a glass of Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine made from grapes grown on the steep terraces above.
For an unforgettable experience, take the path that leads out of the village and winds along the cliffs. It’s a short walk, but the views are spectacular. As the sun sets and the sky turns shades of pink and orange, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.
Riomaggiore: A Coastal Wonderland
Riomaggiore is the southernmost village and often the starting point for travelers exploring Cinque Terre. It’s a bustling little village with a dramatic setting—its tall, colorful buildings seem to rise straight from the sea, and the steep streets are full of life.
One highlight is the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane), a scenic path connecting Riomaggiore to Manarola. While parts may be closed for repairs, if it’s open during your visit, it’s a must-do. The walk is short and easy, but the views of the coast and sea are breathtaking. It’s perfect for a romantic stroll or a peaceful walk to soak in the beauty.
In Riomaggiore, life revolves around the sea. Watch fishermen bring in their catch, or take a dip in the clear waters of the small beach near the harbor. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle out for a different perspective of the village from the water.
Hiking Cinque Terre: A Journey Along the Cliffs
One of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre is by hiking the trails connecting the five villages. The most famous is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which offers stunning views of the coastline as it winds from village to village. The hike can be challenging in parts, but it’s worth it—there’s nothing like rounding a corner to find another picturesque village spread out before you.
If you’re up for a longer, more challenging hike, the trails leading into the hills above offer incredible views of the villages, vineyards, and sea. These trails are less crowded, and you’ll often find yourself walking through quiet forests and terraced vineyards, with the sound of waves far below.
Whichever path you choose, take your time and enjoy the journey. Cinque Terre is a place to savor, and there’s no better way to do that than by exploring its landscapes on foot.
Savoring the Flavors of Cinque Terre
No trip to Cinque Terre is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The region is known for its fresh seafood, vibrant pesto, and delicious wines, all made from ingredients sourced from the land and sea around you.
Start your meal with a plate of acciughe (anchovies), a Cinque Terre specialty. Whether fresh, marinated, or salted, they’re a delicious taste of the sea. Follow that up with trofie al pesto, made with the region’s famous basil pesto sauce, or try spaghetti allo scoglio, a seafood pasta loaded with clams, mussels, and shrimp.
And don’t forget the wine! The vineyards of Cinque Terre produce incredible wines, including the crisp and refreshing Cinque Terre DOC, made from grapes grown on the steep terraces above the villages. Whether you’re enjoying a glass with dinner or sipping it as the sun sets over the sea, it’s the perfect way to toast your time in this coastal paradise.
Cinque Terre: A Place to Fall in Love
There’s something truly magical about Cinque Terre. It’s a place where time slows down, every view is more beautiful than the last, and the simple pleasures of life—good food, stunning scenery, and a sense of peace—take center stage.
Cinque Terre invites you to wander, explore, and lose yourself in its beauty. It’s a place to fall in love, not just with the villages, but with the idea of slowing down and savoring life.
Want to go even deeper in to this region of Italy? Check out our eBook on Cinque Terre.