Begin your adventure in Riomaggiore, a town that is part of the Cinque Terre National Park. Visit the charming marina, take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, and wander through the narrow alleys to discover unique shops and restaurants.
Monterosso al Mare is the largest town in Cinque Terre and the only one with a large and sandy beach. Stroll through the old town, visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and enjoy a stunning view of the coast from the Capuchin Monastery.
Vernazza is the quintessential fishing village, home to the iconic harbor with colorful boats and a small beach. Climb up to the Doria Castle for breathtaking views, and try some of the delicious seafood dishes in one of the many restaurants.
Corniglia is the only town in Cinque Terre that is not directly connected to the sea. This hilltop town offers panoramic views of the Ligurian coast and terraced vineyards. Visit the Church of San Pietro, the ancient castle, and try some of the locally made wine.
Manarola is a picturesque village with a beautiful sunset point and the famous Via dell'Amore (Lover's Lane). Walk along the cliffside path, admire the colorful houses, and enjoy a seafood dinner in one of the many restaurants.
Take a break from Cinque Terre and visit the chic and glamorous town of Portofino. Stroll through the luxurious boutiques, admire the yachts in the harbor, and climb up to the Brown Castle for panoramic views. Relax in one of the many beach clubs, and dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming seaside town with colorful houses and a beautiful promenade. Visit the 16th-century Basilica of St. Margaret of Antioch, stroll through the lush Parco della Villa Durazzo, and try some of the local pesto.
Levanto is a lively town with a long and sandy beach, ideal for surfing and windsurfing. Visit the 13th-century Church of Sant'Andrea, rent a bike and explore the surrounding hills, or enjoy a tasting of the local specialties in one of the many food markets.
La Spezia is a historic naval city known for its museums and castles. Visit the Naval Museum, the Castle of San Giorgio, and stroll through the lovely Promenade of Costantino Morin. Try some of the local street food, such as the farinata and the focaccia.
Tellaro is a charming village with a romantic harbor and a stunning view of the Apuan Alps. Visit the Church of San Giorgio, walk along the seafront promenade, and take a dip in the clear waters of the Gulf of Poets.
Lerici is a medieval village with a beautiful castle overlooking the sea. Visit the Castle of San Giorgio, the Cittadella, and the Aquarium. Relax on one of the sandy beaches, and try some of the local seafood in one of the many restaurants.
End your adventure in Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive cliffs and caves. Visit the Gothic-style Church of San Pietro, the Doria Castle, and take a boat tour of the stunning Palmaria Island.
To get to Cinque Terre, the easiest way is to fly to Genoa Airport (GOA). From there, take a train to Riomaggiore, the first town in Cinque Terre. You can also rent a car and drive along the coast if you prefer more freedom, but be aware that parking in the towns is limited and expensive. Trains and buses connect the five villages, making it easy to move around without a car. Taxis and boats are also available for short trips or tours. Expect to spend around €50 for a train ticket and €100 for a car rental per day.
If you have more time, consider visiting other nearby towns such as Genoa, Pisa, or Lucca. If you have less time, prioritize the towns that interest you the most and skip the rest. Keep in mind that summer is the busiest season, so plan accordingly and book accommodations in advance. Bring comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing, as the weather can be hot and humid. Finally, be respectful of the locals and the environment, and follow the local traditions and rules.
Genoa Airport (GOA) is the closest airport to Cinque Terre, located about 84 km away. It serves mainly domestic and European flights, with some connections to North Africa and the Middle East. The airport has several facilities, including restaurants, shops, and car rentals. To get to Cinque Terre from the airport, take a train or bus to Genoa Piazza Principe Station, and then transfer to the local train that stops in each town of Cinque Terre.