Top Spots to Visit Along the Cinque Terre

If you’re up for the challenge, the full Cinque Terre hike has your name on it. Often narrow, perched high above the rocky sea, and without handrails or barriers, the 12-kilometre trek from Monterosso to Riomaggiore isn’t made for the faint of heart. Not your thing? Have no fear, you can always walk the section of your choice, depending on weather and trail conditions.

Vernazza

Arguably most likely to boost your clout on social media, Vernazza’s beauty comes from its colourful houses, clustered along its steep main street that opens into a little piazza. Just beneath, small boats seem to chatter as they congregate in the stony harbour. Take in the view from the tower and relics that remain from Genoese-Pisan war in the 1100s or continue your Cinque Terre hike and make your way to the headland across from the tower and turn around for an even better vista.

Corniglia

Unlike its sister towns, Corniglia lacks a harbour and its train station sits at the bottom of the crag, beckoning visitors to climb 300 steps over a 182-metre ascent to enjoy its Gothic beauty from the early 1300s. Check out the church of San Pietro to discover its painted interior and altarpiece.

Monterosso

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five towns in the region and boasts a substantial beach, which might call your name as you tire out on your Cinque Terre hike. Head to the old part of town, near the train station, to discover Loggia del Podesta and the church of Giovanni Battista, which served as a Genoese watchtower. Looming high above the sea, the medieval Torre Aurora also served to protect the area, particularly from frequent pirate attacks. Still higher, the church of the Madonna di Soviore, on the road to Vernazza, features an ornate Baroque interior and offers stunning views.

Manarola

On yourCinque Terre hike, make it a point to stop in Manarola to enjoy freshly caught seafood as you overlook the tiny harbour. Above the piazza, check out the fourteenth-century church of San Lorenzo and its gorgeous rose window made from Carrara marble. Across the way, you’ll find the town’s bell-tower and watchtower from the 1500s. While few tourists get the chance to view its beauty, the Christmas illumination in December and January dazzle spectators as over 10,000 lamps and 200 figures light up the encircling hills.

Take a Hike!

There’s so much more than meets the eye in this astonishing region. You won’t want to miss the towns’ secrets, each tucked into their rocky cliffsides, so make sure to book a proper Cinque Terre hike from a knowledgeable guide and get the most out of your holiday. Further, they’ll help you navigate the rough terrain and understand why certain sections may be closed.

Author Plate

Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable Cinque Terre hike experiences alongside a number of other great tours. 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.