After pick-up from your ship at Livorno, Italy’s Cinque Terre is a bit like a beauty pageant, with one village after another competing to have the most charming backstreets, the cutest pastel buildings and the most Instagrammable views. Just when you think you’ve found the most beautiful spot, another one comes along and blows you away again. But like real-life beauty queens, each of the five villages has its own different charms. Some are showy and others are a bit more subtle – like Corniglia. It might not have Monterosso’s beach or Riomaggiore’s colourful harbour, but it has its own understated beauty – which is why I chose it as the base for your trip to the Cinque Terre.
*Explore the Towns of Manarola, Vernazza and Corniglia
*Enjoy lunch in a beautiful borgo like Vernazza (not included)
*Enjoy the wonderful atmosfere and have a wine tasting in Corniglia
Pickup included
The beauty of Manarola sitting on the rocks has also been entered in the Guinness Book of Records, and it distinguishes itself from the other villages because of its “age”: it is the most ancient of the Cinque Terre villages. We must also mention the “dark cliff” (scogliera buia), a particular stretch of coast that is always in shadow, as the peaks of the mountains loom over it, even at midday...
Unfortunately there are practically no beaches here. But not many people will want to spend time at the beach, considering that the Path of Love (Sentiero dell’Amore), famous throughout the Cinque Terre, starts from Manarola and not far away there is a wine cellar in one of the vineyards.
Vernazza is the second village you will reach on the beautiful stretch of the coast in Liguria known as the Cinque Terre . It is also one of the prettiest of the Cinque Terre villages and officially listed as one of the 'most beautiful villages in Italy'.
Vernazza is the only one of the Cinque Terre villages to have a natural harbour.
For visitors who are just here for a day or two and are pushed for time, the extra effort involved means Corniglia is the first to be knocked off the to-visit list. But if you do make the effort in visiting Corniglia, your prize is a quieter, less commercialised Cinque Terre village, with little bars and restaurants tucked into cobbled streets and a knockout coastal view. That’s not to say there isn’t a constant flow of people passing through during the daytime. But come late afternoon everything slows down and Corniglia retreats back to its naturally sleepy state.
Manarola is one of the five colorful coastal villages that make up the Cinque Terre in Italy. Known for its stunning views, vineyards, and charming narrow streets, it's a picturesque destination that feels like a step back in time. The village is perched on a cliff overlooking the Ligurian Sea, offering breathtaking landscapes and a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
This scenic coastal walkway connects Manarola to Riomaggiore and offers breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. It's a romantic and picturesque route that's perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The marina is the heart of Manarola, offering a picturesque setting with colorful houses, fishing boats, and a small beach. It's a great spot for a swim or a relaxing walk along the waterfront.
This historic church is one of the oldest buildings in Manarola and features beautiful architecture and religious art. It's a peaceful spot to visit and offers a glimpse into the village's rich history.
The vineyards surrounding Manarola are a significant part of the village's heritage and offer stunning views of the coastline. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the local winemaking traditions.
A traditional basil pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. It's a staple in Ligurian cuisine and is often served with pasta or as a condiment.
A traditional Italian flatbread that's soft, fluffy, and topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs. It's a popular snack and is often served with meals.
A sweet dessert wine made from locally grown grapes. It's a specialty of the Cinque Terre and is often enjoyed with desserts or as an aperitif.
The peak season offers the best weather for exploring the outdoors, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The sea is warm, and all attractions are open.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
220VV, 50HzHz
Manarola is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Manarola Station
La Spezia, Lerici
Trains are the most efficient way to get around the Cinque Terre and to nearby cities. The stations are well-connected and frequent services are available.
Available • Apps: MyTaxi
Car, Bike, Scooter
Riomaggiore is another charming village in the Cinque Terre, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and historic castle. It's a great spot for exploring, shopping, and enjoying local cuisine.
Corniglia is a smaller, quieter village in the Cinque Terre, known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for a relaxing day trip and offers a glimpse into the traditional Ligurian lifestyle.
Portovenere is a historic coastal town known for its colorful houses, historic churches, and stunning views. It's a great spot for exploring, dining, and enjoying the local culture.
Price varies by option