Guide to Walking Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre. The Five Lands. You’ve probably heard of this magical-sounding place, and you've almost certainly seen photographs of the rainbow-hued villages clinging to the rugged Italian coastline. Now, you're ready to lace up your walking boots and explore this spectacular part of the Italian Riviera. Welcome to your ultimate guide to walking Cinque Terre!

The Five Cities of Cinque Terre (Plus Two Bonuses!)

Whether you choose the slower, relaxed trails of Cinque Terre or fancy a challenge by walking the entire trail, our Cinque Terre Italian walks offer you the best of all five cities.

Monterosso al Mare 

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages and the only one with a sandy beach and a car park. This often makes it the most crowded, but don't worry—you can escape into the labyrinthine old town, historically walled for protection from pirate sea raids. 

Vernazza

Vernazza, first mentioned in 1080 AD, epitomises the quintessential Cinque Terre charm. Totally car-free and cradled by steep mountain slopes, Vernazza boasts a natural port. Brave the crashing waves to reach the end of the marina arm and enjoy a mesmerising viewpoint.

Corniglia 

Corniglia is unique, perched like a bird's nest atop a rocky spur 328 feet above sea level. The smallest village in Cinque Terre, with just 150 residents. It lacks a port and more closely resembles hinterland architecture. From here, you can see all five villages—a sight that's truly hard to beat. 

Manarola 

Manarola scales the steep mountainside much like its terraced vineyards. Its tiny harbour means fishing boats must be pulled onto land whenever rough seas threaten. Famous for its wine for millennia, even writers of ancient Rome couldn't resist mentioning it! 

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore dates back to the 8th century. Its earliest inhabitants were winemakers who fled from Greece during the Byzantine Empire. The village's colourful houses cascade down to the sea, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for a leisurely walk. 

Bonus Villages - Portofino and Porto Venere 

Don't miss out on these two gems! Portofino, to the northwest, has attracted the rich and famous since the 1950s. Porto Venere, to the southeast, is a medieval fishing village with must-see landmarks like the Church of San Pietro and Castle Doria. Both villages are perfect additions to your Cinque Terre adventure.

Best Time of Year to Visit Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it accessible nearly all year round. The best months to visit are March to October. For comfortable exploring, you can’t beat Cinque Terre in late spring or early autumn. These seasons offer warm, sunny days and clear skies that maximise your views and cool, calm evenings where you can sit and soak up each town’s charm with a glass of vino. 

Summer (July and August) naturally brings hotter temperatures, which can be challenging for some walkers. But it also means warmer waters for a dip in the sea to cool off! Summer is Cinque Terre’s busiest season, with more tourists visiting the coast – bringing a unique buzz of excitement, especially in the evenings, with everyone coming together to enjoy the local festivities.

Best Walks in Cinque Terre

Get ready for an unforgettable journey where you can explore the stunning landscapes of Portofino and the Cinque Terre! Covering 37 miles, this walking trip offers the perfect blend of sensational scenery and the chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture of this beautiful region. Picture yourself wandering sun-drenched trails lined with vibrant wildflowers as the azure sea sparkles below you. Each step brings you closer to quaint villages, where you can pause to enjoy local delicacies and chat with friendly locals.

Whether you’re an experienced walker or just looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, these self-guided trips are designed to empower you to connect with nature and create lasting memories. So, lace up your walking boots, grab your backpack, and take on an adventure that will leave you feeling invigorated and inspired!

For more epic walks in Italy, check out our Best Walking Holidays in Italy blog post.

How to Get to Cinque Terre 

The closest large cities are Genoa and Pisa. All five villages are accessible by train, although express trains skip all but Monterosso al Mare and La Spezia. From there, slower trains connect to each village. Our blog on the trains and trails of Cinque Terre can help you navigate your way around. For more detailed travel logistics and tips, read our Travelling To and Around Italy article.

What to Pack for a Walking Trip in Cinque Terre 

Pack sturdy, comfortable walking boots, walking poles for uneven terrain, suncream, a hat, and plenty of water (about 25 fluid ounces per hour of walking). Don’t forget swimming clothes and a towel if you plan to take a dip (which we think is an absolute must!).  
 
For a breakdown of what to pack, see our What to Pack for a Self-Guided Walking Adventure blog post.

Things to Do in Cinque Terre 

Aside from walking, there are countless activities to enjoy: 

• Beach Time: Relax on the sandy beach of Monterosso al Mare, where you can soak up the sun, enjoy the gentle waves, and indulge in local beachside snacks. The beach offers amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas for a comfy day by the sea. 
• Wine Tasting: Sample exquisite local wines in Manarola and surrounding areas, known for their picturesque vineyards. Join guided tours that provide insights into the winemaking process and savour the unique flavours of the region’s celebrated white wines, like Sciacchetrà. 
• Historical Sites: Explore the rich history of the region by visiting stunning churches, medieval castles, and ancient ruins. Notable sites include the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Monterosso and the remnants of the Doria Castle in Manarola, each telling a story of the past. 
• Boat Tours: Experience the dramatic coastline and colourful villages from a different perspective on a boat tour. Choose from options like sunset cruises or day trips that allow you to swim in secluded coves and take in panoramic views of the cliffs and sea.

What to Eat and Drink in Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre is a food lover's paradise. Taste Monterosso anchovies, savour local honey gelato in Corniglia, and indulge in regional specialities like pesto, seafood, and DOC-quality wines. This certificate is granted to Italian wines that exhibit distinctive qualities of superior excellence, which are determined by the type of grape, the production region, and the techniques used in processing and ageing. 

For detailed foodie insights and first-hand recommendations from one of our adventure experts, read our Where to Eat in Cinque Terre blog post.

Italy Travel Tips 

When travelling to Italy, keep these tips in mind: 

• Language: Learn basic Italian phrases like “Grazie” for thank you and “Buongiorno” for good morning. Cinque Terre itself is pronounced “singk teuh”.
• Currency: Euros are the currency here. Although most places accept cards, it’s worthwhile bringing cash too.
• Etiquette: Be respectful and dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites. 

For more tips, check out our Italy Travel Tips blog post.

 
Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast 

If you're torn between Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, you're not alone. Each destination has its own unique charm. To help you decide, read our Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast blog post.

Whether you're an adventure traveller, a nature enthusiast, or a member of the walking community, Cinque Terre offers an unparalleled experience. From its picturesque villages to its challenging trails, this region promises unforgettable memories. Ready to start your Cinque Terre adventure? Book a call with one of our adventure specialists today, and let's make it happen! 

To discover more about our self-guided Italy walking trips, head to our Guide to Walking in Italy for tips, advice and inspiration.