A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Cinque Terre

The villages

Each village has its own unique attractions and hidden gems:

• Monterosso al Mare: Known for its sandy beaches, Monterosso is perfect for relaxation. Don’t miss the Church of San Giovanni Battista and the medieval Torre Aurora tower. For hiking enthusiasts, the Monterosso to Vernazza trail offers unparalleled scenic views.

• Vernazza: Widely considered the most picturesque village, Vernazza is home to the Doria Castle and a beautiful harbor. For an unforgettable sunset, head to the cliffside vantage points.

• Corniglia: Perched high on a cliff, Corniglia provides sweeping views of the coast and vineyards. Be sure to explore the narrow streets and sample wines from local vineyards.

• Manarola: This village is famous for its colorful buildings and the Via dell'Amore, a scenic pathway that connects Manarola and Riomaggiore. The views over the water, especially at dusk, are breathtaking.

• Riomaggiore: A favorite for photographers, Riomaggiore boasts dramatic cliffs and vibrant houses stacked high along narrow streets. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk and explore the historic Church of San Giovanni.

Things to do

• The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): Cinque Terre's most iconic path, connecting all five villages along the cliffs (marked as SVA on maps). Due to winter storm damage, some sections are often closed, so it’s rare to find the entire trail open. The easiest section — more moderate in difficulty — is from Corniglia to Vernazza (2.5 miles, with a steep downhill at the end). For updates on trail closures, be sure to check the national park website before heading out.

See the coastline from the sea

• Ideally, rent a private boat with a great captain who will stop along the cliffs and tell you stories about the area. The boat can drop you off at a port for a nice lunch as well. It is so important to see it from the sea and from land to truly appreciate its beauty.

Sample the local wine

• Cinque Terre has been renowned for its wines for centuries, especially the salty, sea-kissed white varieties grown along the cliffs. Enjoy a glass at local spots like A Pié de Ma in Riomaggiore or Cappun Magru in Manarola, where you can also experience wine flights and tastings.

• Book a vineyard tour and hear from the locals that produce the wines. Vernazza, on a tour from Cheo, offers breathtaking views of the village, castle and the sea below from the vineyards. Be sure to sample the exquisite sciacchetrà wine, a local specialty of Cinque Terre. The sea-salt breeze gives it a unique, delightful flavor.

Cinque Terre is a haven for food lovers, with fresh seafood, Ligurian specialties and locally produced wines.

• Ristorante Miky (Monterosso al Mare): Known for its elevated take on Ligurian cuisine, Miky is ideal for an intimate dinner. Signature dishes include seafood pasta and the catch of the day, prepared with traditional flavors and a gourmet twist.

• Ristorante Belforte (Vernazza): Built into the cliffs, this restaurant provides panoramic views and specializes in local seafood. Try their pesto-topped trofie pasta, a Ligurian classic.

• Nessun Dorma (Manarola): A more casual option with a famous view of Manarola’s colorful houses, Nessun Dorma offers fresh, rustic dishes like bruschetta, antipasti and regional wines. This spot is perfect for lunch with a view.