The Italian Riviera is not short of rugged coastline or romantic towns and villages, but the five fishing communities of the Cinque Terre are its most iconic highlight. The five villages are no longer the isolated hamlets they once were, but there’s still a feeling of remote authenticity, with few roads, perfectly preserved architecture and a network of stunning coastal and mountain trails.The Cinque Terre is noted for its beauty. Over centuries, people have carefully built terraces to cultivate grapes and olives on the rugged, steep landscape right up to the cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. The breathtaking views of harbours far below the wild but hospitable coastline along with the medieval fortresses and plentiful vines and vibrant colours make this a memorable holiday
Must See/Do
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Hike from Moterosso to Vernezza.
This hike is the only one of the avaliable hikes that can give you breathtaking views of all 4 villages tucked on the coastal line. It also holds adorable houses deep in the forest, an old man owning one of the houses walks down to the trail and offers freshly squized juice!
Jump off the center rock in Manarola.
This is just such an invigorating feeling! The crowds are all watching and once you hit the salty water you won't regret it.
Manarola Path
Take the small trail to the right when looking out at the water front in Manarola, walk to the swimming area along that path, the walk back holds amazing viwes of the village
Tips& Transportation
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How to get there
The closest airport is Pisa and it’s about a 1 1/2 hour train ride from Cinque Terre. If you fly into Pisa Airport, take the train from Pisa Airport to Pisa Centrale.At Pisa Centrale, you will take a connecting train to Cinque Terre.
Getting Around
You have a few different options for travel throughout the 5 villages. You can either hop on one of the many trains that link each village, take a ferry ride or hike the trails. There is also a taxi service in Monterosso, Vernazza and Manarola.
Eat & Drink
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Cocktail at Bar e Vini a Pie de Ma in Riomaggiore.
This was one of my favorite spots in Cinque Terre, it is on the side of a mountain right off the train station in Riomaggiore and offers unbelievable views of the ocean, it also has a massive selection of cocktails!
Ristorante Terra Rossa(Corniglia)
I stopped at this fairyhouse look-alike for a quick glass of wine before dinner to enjoy the sunset. As you walk through the vines and flowers hanging on the passage way, you truley feel like you have entered another world. It was such a delight being there and enjoying the panoramic view of the ocean I suggest to all!