Holiday in Cinque Terre

What makes Cinque Terre special as a destination?

The Cinque Terre, five colorful fishing villages on the rugged coast of Liguria, are among the most iconic landscapes in Italy and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare cling to steep cliffs above the deep blue Ligurian Sea, surrounded by centuries-old vineyard terraces that are still cultivated by hand today. Vernazza is considered the most picturesque of the five villages: its natural harbor, medieval watchtower, and colorful houses clustered around the small piazza create a postcard-perfect scene. Manarola impresses with dramatically stacked houses above the sea and the best sunset views. Corniglia, the only village without direct sea access, sits atop a rocky promontory and maintains a quieter atmosphere. Riomaggiore captivates with the Via dell’Amore, the famously romantic coastal path, while Monterosso offers the only real sandy beach in the region. The hiking trail network (Sentiero Azzurro) connects all five villages along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the sea and terraced slopes. The local cuisine thrives on the sea and steep hills: fresh fish, anchovies from Monterosso, Pesto Genovese made in a mortar, and the rare dessert wine Sciacchetra made from sun-dried grapes. Regional trains and ferries operate between the villages — cars are prohibited in the town centers, preserving the timeless charm.