Welcome to my Cinque Terre adventure! I was diving into the colourful world of Italy’s famed coastal region, where pastel-hued villages cling to rugged cliffsides and the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea beckon travelers from around the globe. Join us as we explore the enchanting villages, sample local delicacies, and uncover the hidden gems of this breathtaking destination.
Nestled along the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village boasts its own unique character and allure, from ancient churches and winding cobblestone streets to vineyard-covered hillsides and panoramic coastal views
As starting, i was driving from my town Derendingen – Solothurn and it took me around 8 hours driving ( including 2 times stop in between ) until arrived in the apartment in Portovenere. A beautiful Apartment with 1 bedroom and living room including small kitchen are enough to spend 4 days and 3 nights. The apartment itself is Residence I Gabbiani, and for the booking you can click the link. The location of the apartment is perfect, in front of the sea and near to main town and also offer you a spectacular view from the balcony to the sea and harbour. Some picture from Portovenere below
As my base from Portovenere, the first journey was starting by visiting Manarolla. I am drive to Manarolla and parked my car at parking area before enter the village and paid 20 Euro for full day. Manarola, a name that rolls off the tongue like a sip of sweet Sciacchetrà wine, is the second-smallest village in Cinque Terre. Manarola boasts some of the most breathtaking views in Cinque Terre. Hike the scenic coastal path from Riomaggiore, and as you round the bend, Manarola unfolds before you in all its glory. Or, for a panoramic perspective, climb up to the vineyards clinging to the hills above the village. Manarola’s harbor, a small inlet protected by a rocky outcrop, is a haven for relaxation. Take a dip in the crystal-clear water, rent a kayak and explore hidden coves, or simply find a sunny spot on the rocks and soak up the sun. In the evenings, watch colorful fishing boats bob in the gentle waves as the sky explodes with vibrant hues. Some picture from Manarolla as below
After spend some hours in Manarolla, then i took a train to Riomaggiore. For your information, you can buy Cinque Terre Regoin card or buy single ticket with price 5 Euro from station to station. Riomaggiore’s story stretches back centuries. Its name, meaning “large river,” likely references the Rio Maggiore, a stream that once flowed through the village (now hidden underground). Explore the 13th-century church of San Giovanni Battista, a testament to the village’s rich past. Or, climb up to the ruins of the 16th-century Castle of Riomaggiore, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the village’s defensive role. Riomaggiore’s heart lies in its labyrinthine alleyways. Unlike some of the other Cinque Terre villages built on hilltops, Riomaggiore tumbles down a narrow valley towards the sea. Pastel-colored houses, adorned with overflowing window boxes, line the narrow streets, creating a picture-perfect scene. Get lost in the maze, stumbling upon hidden piazzas, charming shops selling local crafts, and trattorias with mouthwatering aromas wafting from their kitchens. The heart of Riomaggiore beats at its harbor. Here, colorful fishing boats bob gently in the turquoise water, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water, rent a kayak and explore hidden coves along the coastline, or simply relax on the rocks and soak up the sun. In the evenings, the harbor transforms into a vibrant hub, locals and tourists alike gathering for drinks on terraces, enjoying the lively atmosphere, and watching the sky turn fiery hues as the sun sets. My first day trip end up here in Riomaggiore and i need to buy another ticket to back to Manarolla to take my car and drive back to Portovener. Some pictures from Riomaggiore below
On the next day, my journey was start and target is drive and parked in Monterosso al Mare. Unlike the other villages perched dramatically on cliffs, Monterosso boasts a sandy beach, the only one in Cinque Terre. This makes it a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and families looking for a more laid-back Cinque Terre experience. Relax on a beach lounger, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Monterosso is actually two villages in one – Fegina, the new town on the eastern side, and the older village, Monterosso al Mare, on the western side. Fegina offers a modern vibe with a sandy beach and beachfront restaurants, while Monterosso al Mare boasts a charming historical center with narrow alleys, colorful houses, and hidden piazzas. A tunnel connects the two sides, making it easy to explore both. Next trip is continue to visit Vernazza with a regional train . Some pictures from Monterosso below
Vernazza boasts a rich history that unfolds as you explore its charming streets. The Doria Castle, a 15th-century structure, stands guard over the harbor, a reminder of the village’s role in defending against pirates. Explore the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, dedicated to the village’s patron saint. Legend tells of a treasure chest containing the saint’s bones washing ashore, marking the spot where the church was built. The heart of Vernazza beats at its harbor. Here, colorful fishing boats bob gently in the crystal-clear water, creating a picture-perfect scene. Relax on the small beach, soak up the sun, and listen to the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the rocks. In the evenings, the harbor transforms into a vibrant hub. Locals and tourists gather for drinks on terraces, enjoying the lively atmosphere and watching the sky erupt in fiery hues as the sun dips below the horizon. Do not forget about Vernazza local cousine , Vernazza is a haven for seafood lovers. Freshly caught fish and shellfish take center stage on menus, with local specialties like “acciughe al limone” (marinated anchovies with lemon) and “spaghetti alle vongole” (spaghetti with clams) tantalizing taste buds. Don’t miss the chance to savor the world-famous pesto, made with fragrant basil grown on the surrounding hillsides. For a sweet treat, indulge in a scoop of gelato made with local fruits or the traditional “panna cotta” (Italian custard). Next trip still continue to the last village called Corniglia,and again i took regional train from Vernazza. Some pictures from Vernazza below
Unlike the other villages nestled right next to the sea, Corniglia sits 100 meters above sea level, accessible by a long staircase (known as “La Scalinata Lardarina”) or a convenient shuttle bus. But the climb (or ride) is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Cinque Terre coastline. Imagine sprawling vineyards cascading down the hillsides, colorful villages clinging to cliffs, and the turquoise sea stretching towards the horizon – a scene that will take your breath away. Corniglia is the smallest of the Cinque Terre villages, offering a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere. Wander through the narrow, car-free alleys, free from the hustle and bustle of the other villages. Stumble upon hidden piazzas adorned with overflowing flower boxes, charming shops showcasing local crafts, and family-run trattorias with inviting aromas tempting your taste buds. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to truly connect with the village’s peaceful charm. The last village finally endup and time go back to Monterosso to take my car and drive back to my apartment for some recharging before drive back to Solothurn in next day. Some pictures from Corniglia below
I hope you can get all description about Cinque Terre region and here are some tips for planning your Cinque Terre trip:
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid crowds.
- Be prepared to hike, as the villages are connected by trails, some with challenging sections. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
- Embrace the slow life and savor the relaxed atmosphere.
- Respect the local culture, dress modestly when visiting churches, and dispose of your trash responsibly.
Thank you for visting my website and if you have any question or advice please contact me directly and i will try with my best to help and give some advice.
Regards,
Hendrik
