Make The Most Of Your Cinque Terre Trip From Florence

There really aren’t very many places in the world like the quiet fishing villages of Italy, and few experiences come close to a Cinque Terre trip. From Florence, the photogenic towns of this region are easy to visit in a day and you can see a good amount of the sights in that time. 

Each of the five towns has something a little different, and day-trippers can expect to see the unique, the breath-taking and the wonderful in equal measure. It’s a UNESCO site, so it’s no wonder so many people flock here year after year. If it’s not on your wish list, it should be!

Where to Hike – The Best Routes

The most popular hiking route to undertake when you head off on a Cinque Terre trip from Florence is the leisurely seaside section known as the Blue Trail. With a few breaks it takes about five or six hours, but you can always extend it by stopping in some of the towns along the way (which you really should). The views are tremendous and the local charm is warm and welcoming, just as you’d imagine an Italian village to be.

The most difficult (but also the most rewarding) part of the hike is the section between the villages of Corniglia and Vernazza. It’s not for everybody, but if you’re able to make the medium-graded climb, the views are out of this world. It’s a good two mile walk through olive groves and among some gorgeous wild plants. 

There are plenty of other great spots to hike, and part of the fun is letting your local tour guide give you their version of the best of the area.

A Few Words of Advice

While it’s a great experience to hike the Cinque Terre, it’s not just a simple stroll. Here are a few tips to help you get the best out of your experience:

• Wear appropriate shoes! Trainers or hiking boots are essential. Don’t try it in flip-flops.

• Don’t bring too much – leave your luggage at the hotel. A simple backpack will hold all the supplies you’ll need.

• Hydration and food – make sure you have a snack or two and some water for along the way between villages (it gets really hot in the summer).

• If you are there when it’s warm, sun cream is a must.

When to Go

This is really up to you, and it depends what kind of weather you prefer. But the summer can be really scorching in this part of the world, so do be prepared for the heat if you go then. The spring and autumn months are by far the most appealing for a hike, with the temperatures a bit lower. Winter sees fewer tourists than any other time, but the rainfall can cause the ground to be a bit more unstable.

A Dream Destination

A Cinque Terre trip from Florence will be a truly memorable experience, and this is one of the most authentic and picturesque parts of Italy. Seeing it with a local guide on a small group tour is a fantastic way to get the most out of your visit, and a reputable tour company will take the hassle out of all the organisational parts of the trip. 

Whether you’ve been to Italy before or not, you won’t be disappointed by a Cinque Terre trip. From Florence and back in a day is a great way to see these charming towns. Many people call it a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip, but you’ll probably want to come back!

Author Plate 

Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best Cinque Terre trip from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.