4 Days in Cinque Terre: A City Experience Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the colorful town of Riomaggiore situated on the hillside facing the Ligurian Sea. Visit the Castle of Riomaggiore and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. Taste local delicacies at the seafood restaurants by the harbor.
Day 2: Visit the gorgeous village of Vernazza with its pastel-colored houses, small harbor, and historical sites. Hike the Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare trail for scenic views of the coastline, olive groves, and vineyards. Take a stroll to the Doria Castle and have a gelato or cappuccino at the charming cafes.
Day 3: Check out Corniglia, the village perched atop the cliff, and known for its artisan shops and narrow streets. Take the train to Manarola, and hike to the highest point for panoramic views of the Cinque Terre coastline. Lunch at a restaurant with a sea view.
Day 4: Go on a boat tour to see Monterosso al Mare, the largest town of the five, with its beautiful churches and beaches. Take a stroll at Fegina Beach and enjoy a Mediterranean lunch. Visit the Capuchin Monastery and Sanctuary of Soviore with a panoramic view of Cinque Terre from the hilltop.
Time and Cost Estimates:
Riomaggiore Castle (2 hours, $20)
Vernazza Trail Hike (3 hours, free)
Doria Castle (1 hour, $8)
Corniglia Artisan Shops (2 hours, $30)
Manarola Hike (2 hours, free)
Fegina Beach (2 hours, $15)
Capuchin Monastery and Sanctuary of Soviore (2 hours, $10)
Total Estimated Costs: $83
Transportation:
While it is possible to visit Cinque Terre by car, the narrow and winding roads make it difficult to navigate, so using public transportation is recommended. The Cinque Terre Express Train connects all of the five towns and runs frequently. A one-day pass costs €16 ($18) and allows unlimited travel along the route. Boats are another option to explore this beautiful coastline. A one-day pass for boats costs €35 ($39).
Useful Tips:
If you have more time, you could visit the stunning Portovenere, another UNESCO-protected site, near Cinque Terre, which takes only 30 minutes by ferry. Or head to the nearby city of Genoa, known for its rich history and architecture. For a shorter trip, consider skipping Corniglia and spending more time in the other four towns, or you can do an organized wine tour in the region.
Airports:
The closest airport to Cinque Terre is Pisa International Airport (PSA), which is about 60 miles away from the villages. Other airports such as Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA), Parma Airport (PMF), and Milan Linate Airport (LIN) are also feasible options.