Oh Cinque Terre, how are you so perfect? This was my first real stop in Italy, and I did not want to leave. Over 4 days, I visited the five (cinque) fishing villages on the north western coast of Italy. Each village is colorful and full of winding pedestrian paths – and each has its own distinct personality.
To get around, you can either take a train to each village or take a walking path between each village. Parts of the path were closed due to landslide damage, but I walked when I could. It took longer, but the views of the ocean and villages in the distance were totally worth it.
It’s tough to choose a favorite, but I think mine is Corniglia. It’s the smallest of the five main villages and situated high on the coast (no direct beach access). BUT! If you can manage the steep staircase up to the main town, it’s worth it just for the gelato at Alberto Gelateria. They have the best basil lemon gelato, and they even grow their own basil and lemons locally.
During my visit, I hopped around to different villages, visiting some of them two or more times. But I’ve put them into geographical order, starting with the western-most village and ending with the eastern-most village.
MONTEROSSO
This is the largest and possibly most visited village of the Cinque Terre. I spent the least time here, just to avoid the most crowded areas. Even with the crowds, it was stunning – especially the expansive beach. Even in the most crowded villages, you can leave the packs behind by exploring the smaller side streets. It’s more interesting that way, anyway!
Time to start the hike to Vernazza! It didn’t take 2 hours.
VERNAZZA
Not sure why, but Vernazza was such a surprise and delight. Of all the village main streets, this one was definitely the most charming (to me) – the train station sat right above, nestled into the tall, colorful buildings
CORNIGLIA
Small and mighty Corniglia, you have no right to be so perfect! There’s just one main “street” with small offshoot streets to explore. Each time it was quiet and peaceful – I even found the path down to the local marina! It was nice to sit there for awhile, next to the ocean and in the sun.
MANAROLA
Every Cinque Terre village is known for great sunsets, but Manarola is probably the most famous one of them all. The village is set perfectly to catch the golden and magenta light of sunset.
Exploring the tiny, steep streets of this village ain’t bad, either!
I visited Manarola each night. And on each visit, the ocean was different.
RIOMAGIORRE
And finally, the eastern-most village of the Cinque Terre. Riomaggiore is unique in that you can walk right down to a major boat launch. From below, you can really feel how high the cliffs – and the buildings constructed upon them – are.
