Cinque Terre Small Group or Private Day Tour from Florence

Monterosso al Mare , Italy

Cinque Terre Small Group or Private Day Tour from Florence

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(1247 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You'll fall in love with Italy's prettiest coastal villages on a small-group excursion to the Cinque Terre from Florence. You've probably heard of the five famous fishing ports of the Cinque Terre. Now's your chance to visit three of these picture-postcard villages on a personalized small-group day trip that you'll treasure.

Numbers are limited to eight on this small-group tour, ensuring personalized attention from a guide.
If you choose the option Private, the tour will be for you and your travel companions only.

Available options

Private Tour

Private tour conducted exclusively for you, your family and friends. Tour in English, other languages on request!

Summer 2025 April to October

What's included

Winter Itinerary ( Nov to March) will feature Manarola, Vernazza and Corniglia

Transport by air-conditioned minivan (maximum 8 passengers)

Visit three amazing villages in the Cinque Terre area: Manarola, Vernazza and Monterosso

Shared boat ride ( April to last week of October )and train ride from Manarola to Vernazza included

Driverguide ( english speaking driver that gives general information about the areas visited )

Detailed itinerary

Explore Manarola by foot or relax in a cafe or bar. From Manarola enjoy a shared boat ride to Monterosso. The harbor area is filled with colorful rowing boats and becomes the main sunbathing and swimming spot of the village from morning until dusk. In fact, this is the perfect place to spend a lazy day sunbathing and watching people jumping off the cliffs. Although there is no real beach here, it has some of the best deep-water swimming around. Along the main road the boats are pulled onto dry land every time the sea is rough. The village is all ups and downs, with steep narrow alleys carrugi, leading to the sea.

Stop 2

Nestled along the rugged Ligurian coast, Vernazza is a picturesque Cinque Terre village known for its vibrant houses, breathtaking beauty, and UNESCO World Heritage status. With car-free winding streets, a lively harbor, and charming shops, Vernazza offers a delightful experience for visitors.
At its heart lies the lively Piazza Marconi and the stunning 14th-century Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia. The village boasts scenic hiking trails, such as the famous Sentiero Azzurro, connecting it to neighboring Monterosso al Mare. Vernazza's gastronomic allure lies in its exquisite Ligurian cuisine and locally-produced Cinque Terre white wine.

Monterosso is the largest of the five coastal villages known as the Cinque Terre. The village is located on hills cultivated with lemons, vines and olives. Its amazing beaches, its beautiful reefs and the sea’s crystal clear waters make this small village one of the most popular of the Italian Riviera.Monterosso is divided in two parts marked by the medieval tower of Aurora. The old town of Monterosso is dominated by the ruins of the castle and characterized by typical narrow medieval streets, carruggi, with multi-coloured terraced houses, shops and restaurants.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drink, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

1,195 reviews

5★

808

4★

215

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Tripadvisor 4.3

52 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Comfortable shoes are recommended

Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking (children who are under 36 kg/97 pounds or 150 cm/4ft 9 in,must use proper child restraints). We reserve the right to refuse infants or children if we are not notified at the time of the booking and if the car seats brought do not comply with requirements by Italian law.

Public boats operate subject to weather conditions and along the Cinque Terre until about the 3rd week of October. When boats are not operative transfer between towns will be by train or by minivan

Boats do not operate in bad weather conditions and when the sea is rough. On these occasions transfers between towns is by local coastal train or by minivan.

Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Only for Private Shore Excursions : If you are on a cruise ship docking in Livorno or La Spezia, contact us via viator for a pick up and drop off fee

Itinerary from November until March. - During the winter months, the tour will feature the enchanting towns of Manarola, Vernazza and Corniglia. Corniglia is located on top of an hill and offers enchanting views over the Cinque terre panaroma . From Manarola to Vernazza transfer will be by coastal train. Your driverguide ( a driver knowledgable about the areas visited ) will be with you at all time, except on the transfer by coastal train between Manarola and Vernazza.

Meeting point

Departure Point: Piazza della Repubblica, central Florence
Directions: Outside the Apple Store in Piazza della Repubblica; you will see your driver-tour escort holding a sign with the name of the tour

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund. Please make sure to check your email prior departure
• Boats do not operate in bad weather conditions and when the sea is rough. On these occasions transfers between towns is by local coastal train or by minivan.
• Public boats operate subject to weather conditions and along the Cinque Terre until about the 3rd week of October. When boats are not operative transfer between towns will be by train or by minivan
• It is client’s responsibility to check if the provider of the service has sent any communication up to the day prior to the tour departure – Failing in checking your email inbox might incur in extra costs involved with the excursion you have booked, and that will not be refundable.
• Please note: Avventure Bellissime opening hours are Mon to Sat 8.30am - 5.30pm April to mid October. Other months: 9am - 5pm Mon to Fri, 9am - 3pm Sat, public holidays closed.
• Outside office hours and in case of delay call the emergency number + 39 3400502444 (available 7am-9am & 5.30pm-8pm). Failing in advising us of delay prior to the start of the tour, might cause missing the tour;
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking (children who are under 36 kg/97 pounds or 150 cm/4ft 9 in,must use proper child restraints). We reserve the right to refuse infants or children if we are not notified at the time of the booking and if the car seats brought do not comply with requirements by Italian law.
• Tour operates rain or shine, please dress accordingly

About Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five Cinque Terre villages, known for its beautiful beaches, historic churches, and charming old town. It's the most tourist-friendly of the Cinque Terre, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Top Attractions

Monterosso al Mare Beach

The main beach in Monterosso al Mare is a beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is divided into public and private sections, with lounge chairs and umbrellas available for rent.

Beach Half day to full day Free for public sections, €10-€20 for lounge chairs and umbrellas

San Giovanni Battista Church

This historic church is one of the most famous landmarks in Monterosso al Mare. Built in the 14th century, it features a beautiful bell tower and a stunning interior with frescoes and artworks.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free entry, donations welcome

Aquarium of Monterosso

The Aquarium of Monterosso is a small but fascinating aquarium that showcases the marine life of the Ligurian Sea. Visitors can see a variety of fish, invertebrates, and other sea creatures in beautifully designed tanks.

Museum 30 minutes to 1 hour €5-€10

Cinque Terre National Park

The Cinque Terre National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the five Cinque Terre villages and their surrounding hills. The park offers stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of the coastline and vineyards.

Nature Half day to full day €7.50 for the Cinque Terre Card, which includes access to trails and public transportation

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pesto alla Genovese

A traditional Ligurian sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's often served with pasta or used as a spread.

Sauce Contains dairy and nuts

Fritto Misto di Mare

A mixed fried seafood dish that typically includes shrimp, squid, and other local seafood. It's crispy, delicious, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Appetizer Contains seafood and gluten (from the batter)

Trofie al Pesto

A traditional Ligurian pasta dish made with trofie pasta and pesto alla Genovese. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the region's culinary heritage.

Main Course Contains dairy and nuts

Ciaccino

A traditional Ligurian dessert made with olive oil, flour, sugar, and anise. It's a simple yet delicious treat that's often served with a glass of local wine.

Dessert Contains gluten and anise

Popular Activities

Hiking the Cinque Terre trails Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Ligurian Sea Scuba diving or snorkeling Sunbathing and swimming at Monterosso al Mare Beach Enjoying a wine tasting tour Exploring the charming Old Town Visiting historic churches and landmarks Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit for beach lovers and those who want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The weather is warm, and all attractions are fully open.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken, particularly in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Monterosso al Mare is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air

Cristoforo Colombo Airport • 90 km from Monterosso al Mare

By train

Monterosso al Mare Station

By bus

Monterosso al Mare Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Cinque Terre Express is a convenient and scenic way to travel between the villages. Trains run frequently, but schedules can be affected by weather and season.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services, but not widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Fegina

Day trips

Vernazza

5 km from Monterosso al Mare • Half day to full day

Vernazza is one of the five Cinque Terre villages, known for its charming harbor, historic church, and stunning views. It's a great place to explore the local culture, enjoy the beach, and hike the surrounding trails.

Manarola

8 km from Monterosso al Mare • Half day to full day

Manarola is another of the five Cinque Terre villages, known for its stunning views, historic buildings, and delicious wine. It's a great place to explore the local culture, enjoy the scenery, and sample the local wine.

Portovenere

15 km from Monterosso al Mare • Full day

Portovenere is a beautiful coastal town known for its historic churches, stunning views, and delicious seafood. It's a great place to explore the local culture, enjoy the scenery, and sample the local cuisine.

Festivals

Settimana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary by year) Festa di San Giovanni Battista (St. John the Baptist Festival) • June 24th Cinque Terre Wine Festival • September (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Visit the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Hike the Cinque Terre trails in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
Try the local pesto alla Genovese, a traditional Ligurian sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil
Take a boat tour to see the Cinque Terre villages from the water and enjoy the stunning coastal views
Visit the nearby town of Portovenere for its historic churches, stunning views, and delicious seafood