Vernazza is one of the five fishing villages in Cinque Terre. It boasts a small port with fishing boats and a picturesque beach. The village is known for its colorful houses, narrow alleys, and vibrant piazza. The Belforte restaurant located on the cliffs is a great spot to enjoy traditional Ligurian cuisine with a stunning view.
Manarola is a photogenic village with a postcard-worthy harbor and sensational views. Hiking from Manarola to Corniglia is a must-do since it offers unbeatable views over the Mediterranean. Corniglia is the smallest and most peaceful village with panoramic viewpoints and lovely winding streets.
Monterosso al Mare is the largest and most touristy village in Cinque Terre. It has a long sandy beach and a promenade lined with restaurants and cafes. The village is also known for its medieval center and stunning church.
Riomaggiore is the southernmost village in Cinque Terre. It is a small village with a charming harbor and colorful houses. Doria Castle, located on the hilltop, is an excellent spot to explore for panoramic views of the village and coastline.
To get to Cinque Terre, you can take a train to La Spezia and then transfer to a local train to Cinque Terre. The Cinque Terre Card will give you access to the hiking trails, public transportation, and some museums in the area. A 1-day Cinque Terre Card costs €16, while a 2-day pass costs €29. The trains run frequently, and the prices range from €4-€10 per ride.
If you have more time, you can explore each village more in-depth and take longer hikes. If you have less time, you can skip one or two villages. Keep in mind that the hike from Manarola to Corniglia is the longest and most challenging.
The nearest airport to Cinque Terre is Pisa International Airport (PSA), which is about 80 km away from La Spezia. Another option is Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), which is about 120 km away.