Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre (Five Lands) are five colorful fishing villages clinging to steep cliffs above the sea, connected by hiking trails, vineyard terraces, and a train. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park since 1997, they are one of the most photographed travel destinations in Italy.

The five villages (from south to north)

• Riomaggiore ★★★ — The southernmost and most dramatic village: Pastel-colored houses tumble down the rocks to the tiny harbor. The sunset from the Castello (castle ruins above) is legendary. A good starting point for hikes.
• Manarola ★★★ — Famous for the postcard motif: colorful houses above the sea, photographed from Punta Bonfiglio (the footpath there takes 5 minutes and is the best photo spot in the Cinque Terre). The oldest wine press in Liguria is here, and the local Sciacchetrà (sweet dessert wine from sun-dried grapes) is a rarity.
• Corniglia ★★ — The only village without sea access (perched 100 m above the sea on a promontory, 382 steps from the train station). Less touristy, more authentic, with panoramic terraces and good small restaurants.
• Vernazza ★★★ — The most picturesque of the five: a natural harbor with a fortress, a piazza right on the water, and colorful houses grouped around the bay. The Doria Castle (ascent 2 €) offers the best view over the village and the coast.
• Monterosso al Mare ★★ — The largest and most touristy village with the only real sandy beach in the Cinque Terre (Fegina Beach). Two parts: the old town and the newer beach area. Best for families and beach days.

Hiking: The Sentiero Azzurro

The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five villages over 12 km. The entire route takes 5–7 hours, but you can hike individual sections and take the train for the rest:

• Monterosso → Vernazza (3.5 km, 2h) — The most beautiful and challenging section. Breathtaking coastal views, vineyard terraces, steep ascents and descents.
• Vernazza → Corniglia (4 km, 1.5h) — Moderate, with views back to Vernazza and far over the open sea.
• Corniglia → Manarola (3 km, 1h) — Easy to moderate, through vineyards and olive groves.
• Manarola → Riomaggiore (Via dell'Amore, 1 km, 20 min.) — The famous "Lovers' Path" was closed for years due to landslides and is gradually reopening (as of 2025 partially accessible). Flat and easy, with romantic sea views.

Cinque Terre Card: 16 € for 1 day (includes hiking trails + unlimited train rides between the 5 villages + Wi-Fi). 29 € for 2 days. Available at the train station or online.