3-Day "City Experiences" Itinerary for Cinque Terre in July 2023

  1. Day 1: Riomaggiore
    10 minutes (3.6 km) from La Spezia Centrale train station

    Explore the picturesque town of Riomaggiore, known for its colorful houses and steep terraced cliffs. Take a stroll along the Via dell'Amore, a path that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola, offering breathtaking views of the sea. Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, the town's main church known for its black and white striped facade and colorful rose window. Taste the local specialty, anchovy focaccia at a local bakery.

  2. Day 2: Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare
    20 minutes (9.3 km) from Riomaggiore to Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare

    Start your day in Vernazza, a charming fishing village with a bustling harbor. Hike the coastal trail to Corniglia for scenic views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. Visit the Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, a beautiful Gothic-style church with colorful frescoes and a bell tower offering panoramic views of the town. End your day in Monterosso al Mare, the largest town of the Cinque Terre. Take a dip in the turquoise waters at the town's beach, lined with colorful umbrellas. Taste the local specialty, pesto alla Genovese at a local restaurant.

  3. Day 3: Corniglia and Manarola
    15 minutes (3.5 km) from Riomaggiore to Manarola to Corniglia

    Start your day in Corniglia, the only town of the Cinque Terre not directly accessible by sea. Walk up the Lardarina, a staircase of 382 steps, or take the shuttle bus from the train station. Visit the Church of San Pietro, a Romanesque-style church with a beautiful rose window and panoramic views of the sea. Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria. End your day in Manarola, the smallest town of the Cinque Terre. Stroll along the colorful harbor and take in the spectacular views. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo, a medieval church with a stunning rose window and a bell tower.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Church of San Giovanni Battista (30 minutes, free)
  • Via dell'Amore (1 hour, free)
  • Anchovy focaccia at local bakery (15 minutes, €5)
  • Coastal trail from Vernazza to Corniglia (2 hours, free)
  • Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia (30 minutes, €2)
  • Beach at Monterosso al Mare (1 hour, €25 for umbrella and lounge chair rental)
  • Pesto alla Genovese at local restaurant (1 hour, €15)
  • Church of San Pietro (30 minutes, €2)
  • Lunch at local trattoria (1 hour, €20)
  • Church of San Lorenzo (30 minutes, €2)

Total Estimated Costs: €71 per person.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Portovenere, a charming fishing village located on the Gulf of Poets, known for its colorful harbor and stunning views. Another option is taking a boat tour of the Cinque Terre coastline, offering unforgettable views of the villages and the sea. If you have less time, consider skipping Corniglia and visiting the other four towns in two days instead of three.

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