Many travel guides are titled “Top 5 Places to Visit Somewhere”, but that would be an unfair title for an article about Cinque Terre, which literally means “five lands”. Indeed, it’s one of the most iconic seaside landscapes in Italy’s 7,900 kilometres of coastline. The five fishing villages (Vernazza, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore) are located in Liguria, nestled between dramatic mountains and a bright turquoise sea Travelling Through Cinque Terre.
Learn more about each village and what to do in different Cinque Terre tours.
Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare is the most accessible and northernmost village in Cinque Terre, which explains why it’s the most visited. Its long, sandy beaches also contrast with most of the beaches in the region, which tend to be narrow and stony. Quite possibly, it’s also the most “modern” one, where the old town lives near the vibrant Fegina district, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, bars, and leisure options.
For those who love hiking, crossing from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza may be an unforgettable experience, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Vernazza
Arguably, Vernazza is the most picturesque of the five villages, with slopes and narrow alleys surrounded by pastel-coloured houses that end abruptly by the sea. The Doria Castle, a 13th-century building, is an absolute must-see, and the Via Roma (the town’s main street) is where life happens: there are all sorts of shops, bars, and wineries, linking the train station to its only two beaches. The place is much older, though. According to historical sources, Vernazza was founded in 1000 A.D.
Corniglia
Corniglia is the smallest town in Cinque Terre; so small it’s considered the region’s “hidden gem.” It’s a great place for unwinding, though, standing 100 metres above the sea, which provides jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. It’s located right in the middle of the Cinque Terre National Park, and it can be accessed via a shuttle bus. However, those with strong legs, lungs, and a spirit for adventure can brave the 382-step staircase, which starts from the train station, leading to the town entry.
Manarola
Manarola is the second-smallest village in the region, and one of the favourite coastal destinations for lovebirds in the region. It’s so rustic and intimate that it creates an incomparably romantic atmosphere, with cliffs, harbours, and the steep alleys, called “carrugi.” At the highest point of the village, there’s the San Lorenzo church, built in the mid-14th century and beautifully preserved until today. The most popular viewpoint is near the cemetery, though: Punta Bonfiglio, the village’s postcard.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the southernmost (and possibly, the most colourful) village there. While cliffs and slopes are common to the entire region, Riomaggioare stands out for its towering, colourful houses. Riomaggiore is also a place for lovers. The “Via dell’Amore” (Path of Love) links Riomaggiore to Manarola through nearly 1 kilometre of gorgeous sea views. Still, the Marina is the best place for watching the sunset, dotted by colourful boats along the horizon Travelling Through Cinque Terre.
