Cinque Terre 10 days

The northernmost and largest of the five Cinque Terre villages, Monterosso offers a more traditional beach resort feel with a historic old town.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch with stunning sea views. This hotel restaurant offers delicious Ligurian specialties.

• Reservations recommended, especially for window tables.

Monterosso's main beach, known for its fine sand and clear waters. It's divided into a free section and a paid lido.

• Rent a sun lounger and umbrella for comfort.

Wander through the charming narrow streets of the old town, discover artisan shops, and soak in the historic atmosphere.

A renowned restaurant in Monterosso offering refined seafood dishes and a sophisticated ambiance.

A short and scenic train ride connects Monterosso to Vernazza, the most picturesque of the five villages.

• Purchase tickets at the station or via the Trenitalia app.

The iconic harbor of Vernazza, with colorful boats bobbing in the turquoise water, surrounded by pastel-colored houses.

• Capture postcard-perfect photos from the breakwater.

Perched on the rocks overlooking the sea, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and local Ligurian specialties in a romantic setting.

• Book well in advance, especially for a table with a view.

Climb the ancient tower of Doria Castle for panoramic views of Vernazza and the Ligurian coastline.

Stroll along the main street, browse the small shops, and enjoy the lively evening atmosphere.

Enjoy a delightful dinner in Vernazza, known for its excellent pasta dishes and local wine selection.

A quick train journey from Vernazza to Corniglia, the only village not directly on the sea.

• Consider the local bus from the station if you prefer not to climb the Lardarina staircase.

The iconic brick staircase of 382 steps connecting the train station to the village center. Offers increasingly beautiful views as you ascend.

A charming osteria in Corniglia offering traditional Ligurian dishes and local wines, set within a historic wine cellar.

• Try their pesto or seafood pasta.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the other Cinque Terre villages from this scenic viewpoint.

Take a short walk along the terraced vineyards surrounding Corniglia for stunning photography opportunities and a taste of rural Liguria.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.

Savor local wines and light snacks at this cozy enoteca, perfect for a relaxing evening.

A very short train ride connects Corniglia to Manarola, famous for its colorful houses clinging to the cliffs.

Explore the charming main street of Manarola, lined with shops and restaurants leading down to the harbor.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch with spectacular views over Manarola's harbor and coastline.

• Try their anchovy specialties.

The classic viewpoint for photographing Manarola, offering unparalleled vistas of the village cascading down to the sea.

• Arrive before sunset for the best light.

Walk along the coastal path from Manarola towards Punta Bonfiglio as the sun begins to set, painting the village in golden hues.

• The path can be crowded; be patient.

Famous for its apertivo and incredible sunset views, this popular bar is a must-visit for a pre-dinner drink.

• Expect a queue, but the wait is worth it for the view and atmosphere.

The shortest train journey connects Manarola to Riomaggiore, the southernmost village known for its steep, colorful houses.

A charming, rocky harbor where fishing boats are moored. The colorful buildings rise steeply from the water's edge.

Dine on fresh seafood right by the water in Riomaggiore, enjoying the lively harbor atmosphere.

Explore the main street of Riomaggiore, discovering local shops, bakeries, and the vibrant local life.

Hike up to the castle ruins for panoramic views over Riomaggiore and the surrounding coastline.

Enjoy delicious fried seafood cones (fritto misto) from this popular takeaway spot, perfect for a casual dinner.

• Grab a cone and eat it by the harbor.

The famous Via dell'Amore is currently closed due to landslide damage. Check current status for potential partial openings or detours.

• As of October 2026, the Via dell'Amore is largely closed. Verify local conditions before planning.

If the Via dell'Amore is closed, hike the more challenging but rewarding trail from Manarola up to Corniglia.

• Requires good fitness and sturdy footwear. Check trail status.

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch in Corniglia after your hike, featuring local seafood and pasta.

Continue your hike along the coastal path from Corniglia to Vernazza, offering spectacular sea views.

• This section is moderately challenging with many steps.

Cool down with a refreshing gelato in Vernazza after a day of hiking.

A scenic hike through vineyards offering stunning elevated views of Manarola and the coastline. This trail is less crowded than the lower Blue Trail.

• Start early to avoid the midday sun.

Visit a local winery in the hills above Manarola for a tasting of Cinque Terre wines, often paired with local snacks.

• Book tastings in advance, as they are often small and intimate.

Descend from Volastra back to Manarola, then take the train to Riomaggiore for the afternoon.

Explore the upper part of Riomaggiore, away from the main tourist path, for a more local feel and unique photo opportunities.

Enjoy dinner in Riomaggiore, known for its creative take on traditional Ligurian cuisine.

Take a scenic ferry ride from Riomaggiore to the charming town of Portovenere, located just south of Cinque Terre.

• Ferries operate seasonally; check schedules in advance.

Explore the picturesque harbor, admire the colorful 'palazzi' lining the waterfront, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy a delightful lunch with views of the Gulf of Poets in Portovenere.

A stunning Gothic church perched dramatically on a rocky promontory, offering breathtaking sea views.

A rocky cove named after the poet Lord Byron, who is said to have swum across the gulf from here. A beautiful spot for photos.

Return ferry trip to Riomaggiore as the sun begins to set.

Purchase the Cinque Terre Card (Treno MS Card) which provides access to hiking trails and unlimited train travel between the villages.

• Available at train stations or online via the Cinque Terre National Park website.

Choose a trail based on your fitness level and current conditions. The higher trails offer fewer crowds and stunning vistas.

• Consult the Cinque Terre National Park website for trail maps and real-time updates.

Gather local specialties like focaccia, cheese, and olives from village bakeries and markets for a scenic picnic.

Sample some of the best focaccia in Cinque Terre, a Ligurian staple, perfect for a snack.

• Try the focaccia with pesto or olives.

Learn to prepare classic Ligurian dishes like pesto and fresh pasta in a hands-on cooking class.

• Book well in advance as classes are small and popular.

Enjoy a final leisurely stroll through your favorite village, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs or local products.

Enjoy a final Ligurian meal before heading to your departure point.

Depart from Cinque Terre via train.

• Allow ample time for travel to your next destination.