Cinque Terre is a rugged coastline located on the Italian Riviera in the region Liguria, in the west of La Spezia Province. Cinque Terre comprises five beautiful hillside villages, which are from north to south: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The rugged coastline, the five villages, and the surrounding hillsides are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cinque Terre has always been a popular Italian vacation spot, but over the years with the internet. it has become a popular tourist destination for Americans.
For Centuries the five villages were linked only by mule tracks and accessible only by rail or water. The hike along this scenic coastline is the best way to explore the five villages. Over the centuries, people have carefully built terraces to cultivate grapes and olives on the rugged, steep landscape right up to the cliffs that overlook the Mediterranean Sea.
The breathtaking views of harbors far below the wild but hospitable coastline along with the medieval fortresses and plentiful vines and vibrant colors make this a memorable holiday. The five villages are connected by hiking trails, for example the famous Blue Trail linking Monterosso – Vernazza – Corniglia. For those two trails you will need a Cinque Terre Trekking Card, and for a few Euros more will include unlimited use of the the local trains. All other trails are free! Trains run between the five villages every 20 minutes or so, less frequently later in the evenings. You can also enjoy this scenic coastline by taking the ferry and hop on and off where you like.
Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five towns and has the most amenities. Many hotels are situated in the newer part, Fegina. In the old town you will find seafood restaurants, bars and shops. Monterosso has the only long and sandy beach in the area where you can rent chairs and umbrellas or a kayak to explore the many coves around the coast.
Vernazza has a natural pier with a circular shape making it maybe the most photographed village of the Cinque Terre. There are only a few hotels, but several B&Bs and apartments for rent. The tiny port is surrounded by colorful typical Ligurian houses and the charming piazza is lined with good restaurants and bars.
Corniglia is located in the heart of the Cinque Terre National Park. It is the only village which is not built directly on the sea but on a cliff 100 meters above sea level. Corniglia is probably the most genuine town of the five and with the least amount of tourists.
Manarola has a tiny harbor with a boat ramp, picturesque multi-colored houses facing the sea and a tiny piazza with seafood restaurants.
Riomaggiore is basically a cascade of multi-colored houses in the typical Ligurian style, all tightly clustered around a tiny natural harbor carved out in between the rocks. Riomaggiore has some of the best sunset spots in Cinque Terre.