Cinque Terre travel guide
Cinque Terre is a strip of five colourful villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore) on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. The villages, terraced vineyards and coast form a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best time to visit Cinque Terre
April to June and September to October bring warm weather for hiking and swimming with fewer crowds than summer.
July and August are hot and very busy; in winter many trails, boats and businesses close or reduce hours.
Getting to Cinque Terre
Fly to Pisa (PSA) or Genoa (GOA), or come by train from Florence, Milan or Rome. Regional trains run to La Spezia or Levanto, and the Cinque Terre line stops in all five villages. There are no direct flights from the US to Pisa or Genoa; most connect through Europe.
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Getting around
Train
Frequent regional trains link all five villages in a few minutes each. The Cinque Terre Card covers trains and the paid trails.
Boat
From spring to autumn, ferries connect the villages (except hilltop Corniglia) with views of the coast.
Hiking trails
The coastal Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) and higher paths connect the villages; some sections need a park card, and sections can close after landslides.
Top things to do in Cinque Terre
1. Hike between the villages
The Blue Trail and the higher vineyard paths give the classic views; check which sections are open before you go.
See tours & prices ›2. Manarola and Riomaggiore at sunset
The most photographed views of the coloured houses above the harbours.
See tours & prices ›3. A boat trip along the coast
See all five villages from the sea, with stops for swimming in summer.
See tours & prices ›4. Monterosso beach
The largest sandy beach of the five villages, with umbrellas and free sections.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Visit in the morning or evening, when day-trippers have left.
- Wear proper shoes: the trails are steep, narrow and rocky.
- Pack light; many places to stay are up long flights of steps.
- Trail closures and park rules change; check the national park's official site.
Cinque Terre travel FAQ
How do you get to Cinque Terre?
By train to La Spezia or Levanto, then the local line to the villages. The nearest airports are Pisa and Genoa.
How many days do you need in Cinque Terre?
Two to three days to see all five villages and hike a section or two.
Do you need a car in Cinque Terre?
No. Roads are narrow and parking is scarce; trains and boats are easier.