Cinque Terre - Private Tour through Villages

Monterosso al Mare , Italy

Cinque Terre - Private Tour through Villages

Active

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a scenic journey through Cinque Terre with two flexible tour options tailored to your pace. Choose a half-day adventure (approx. 3 hours) to explore two charming villages—perfect for travelers short on time yet eager to soak in coastal beauty and vibrant village life. Or, opt for the full-day experience (around 7 hours), where you can visit up to five villages, either at a relaxed pace through four stops or a brisk, panoramic tour of all five. From Riomaggiore’s cliffside magic to Monterosso’s sandy shores, each village offers its own slice of Ligurian charm, with scenic train rides, coastal paths, and postcard-worthy views along the way.

Available options

Extra Hour

Duration: 1 hour

Seven Hour Tour - 5 Villages

Duration: 7 hours

Three Hour Tour - 2 Villages

Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Official Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Your Cinque Terre adventure begins and ends at La Spezia station, the gateway to these charming villages. The train conveniently connects each village, offering short, scenic journeys between them. Make sure to wear hiking shoes, as some of the best experiences are on foot, and having outdoor gear will be helpful for the trails ahead.

Stop 2

Start by hopping off the train at Riomaggiore and stroll down Via Colombo, where the scent of freshly baked focaccia fills the air and charming boutiques and cafés line the street. Make a detour to the 14th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista, a Gothic treasure featuring a stunning rose window and peaceful interior. Explore the fascinating tunnels beneath Piazza Vignaioli, once part of the village’s medieval defense system. Finish your visit with a scenic climb to Castello di Riomaggiore, offering panoramic views and insights into the region’s storied past.

Next, head to Manarola and immediately be captivated by this cliffside gem. Wander down Via Discovolo, filled with cozy cafes and quirky shops. Stop by the beautiful Church of San Lorenzo, a 14th-century gem, before following the seaside path northwest of the harbor. Manarola is a photographer’s dream, offering some of the most jaw-dropping views in Cinque Terre, including one of the region’s most iconic panoramas.

After Manarola, make your way to Corniglia, the smallest and most peaceful village. Explore narrow streets lined with colorful houses and unique local shops. As Corniglia lacks direct beach access, its tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place to get immersed with the peaceful local life and enjoying high-quality gelato in hidden courtyards. Don't miss the Terraces of Corniglia, which offer scenic vineyards and a relaxing spot to appreciate the village’s beauty.

From Corniglia, continue to Vernazza, the most picturesque village. Stroll along the vibrant harbor, where pastel-colored houses tumble down toward a small bay filled with colorful fishing boats. Wander through narrow alleys, discover charming cafés and boutique shops, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss Doria Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the village and the Ligurian Sea—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos.

Lastly, hop off the train at Monterosso al Mare, the largest and most vibrant village in Cinque Terre, and take in the breathtaking views of the Ligurian coast. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the region’s only sandy beach, where you can soak up the sun or watch the lively beachgoers. Monterosso is the perfect place for shopping, offering the most shops and amenities in Cinque Terre. With its laid-back vibe, lively beachfront, and unique local shops, it’s the ideal spot to pick up a memorable souvenir from your trip!

What's not included

Cinque Terre Card

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

At the La Spezia train station, in front of the main entrance at the fountain.

Important notes

The cost of the Cinque Terre card shall be payable extra - this will allow the access of Express trains which will be used to travel between different villages. The tour would involve walking in villages and requires comfortable shoes.

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