You’ve probably seen all of the gorgeous photos before you even knew that they were of the famous Cinque Terre region of 5 small villages on the Italian Riviera. But no matter how many stunning photos you see of rocky coastal cliffs, with stacked buildings that look straight out of the most vibrant paint-by-numbers book, nothing prepares you for when you see the spectacle with your own eyes for the first time.
Cinque Terre is made up of five towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monteresso – each with their own unique qualities – that make up the whole of this iconic area. It is so typically Italian; so beautiful and unique that it has gained UNESCO World Heritage status. As such, it is located in a fragile environment that was not made for mass tourism. So, despite it being such a popular destination, don’t expect a lot of vehicle traffic.
Coming here is like enveloping yourself in the smell of the Mediterranean, the incredible landscape, and the Gelato (oh, the Gelato!) – you will not be able to get enough.
Pro Tip: Bring at least one good pair of walking or hiking shoes! There are trails that link the towns together, making for an easy walk within a day’s time. However, some trails are closed for renovation or other maintenance. Check this website for up to date information on the trails. If you can, spend at least a couple of nights here to really savor the area.
What to Do in Cinque Terre
The main thing? Just explore! This area absolutely invites you to discover everything at your own pace, on your own terms. Whether or not you take the trails connecting the villages together, you will be walking, a lot! But as a general guide, here are highlights from each village:
Riomaggiore – visit the seaside Castle of Riomaggiore. It is also a UNESCO site in its own right. Built-in the 13th century when the area of Genoa was a republic, this castle was created to strengthen defenses. Close by is the church of St John the Baptist. Built-in 1360 and redone in the 1800s, it still holds much of its original design.
Manarola – Here there are stunning views of pastel-colored buildings surrounding narrow streets. And it is here where delicious dessert wine is served everywhere. Try the sciacchetra, a very sweet wine, and get your people-watching in as you enjoy the views. This is the main village for wine lovers, and where you can see La Donna dell’Uva, a glorious bronze statue of a woman clutching grapes against her body.
Corniglia – the smallest of the five villages, and the ‘middle’ of Cinque Terre. It also has the steepest hills, so get ready for a workout if you truly want to explore here. Most visitors get to Corniglia by traversing the 381 steps up the Scalinata Lardarina staircase. But once you get to the top, you are richly rewarded with jaw-dropping views.
Vernazza – this village is by far the more picturesque (or Instagrammable) worth of the five. With its brightly-painted buildings as a backdrop to the natural colors of the surrounding hills and water below, it is a photographer’s dream. You will want to take your time here. Don’t miss the medieval clock tower in the center of town, shaped like an octagon.
Monteresso – the oldest of the five villages, is divided into new town and old town. Both are ripe for wandering, and you will definitely want to explore them both. Here you will find the only real beach in Cinque Terre. This village is also known for its great seafood restaurants.
Off the Beaten Path Cinque Terre
Explore the nearby villages of Bonassola, Levanta, and Framura north of Cinque Terre, and also the Gulf of Poets and Portovenere to the south. These areas offer just as much beauty, and yet for some reason are not as widely known.
Hang out with the locals. English is not widely spoken here, but many people may understand it since it is such a touristy area. But there is a strong older population that speaks strictly Italian – so if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, try learning some Italian before your trip. You’ll be amazed at how much you will pick up while you’re there!
Don’t simply visit the central piazza (square). Really dig deep and explore hidden corners, and discover wonderful views – venture upstairs and through narrow alleyways. Just use common sense, we are not inviting you to trespass on private property, and always stay diligent – just as with any tourist destination, Cinque Terre is not devoid of petty crimes.
Lastly, many people recognize that this is a fertile wine region, but most people don’t think to explore the vineyards and go on a wine tour. Don’t be one of those people! If you enjoy wine, do it!
What to Eat in Cinque Terre
Eat everything! Yes, that is sort of a lame thing to say but you really cannot have a bad meal anywhere in the region. Not only is this magnificent place a feast for your eyes, but also your taste buds. So rather than picking the best restaurants, it is much more beneficial to mention the various foods you HAVE to sample while you’re here.
Muscoli ripieni is a seafood dish of mussels, fresh from the Gulf of La Spezia. They are usually stuffed with eggs, veggies, and/or cheese.
Torta di riso di Monterosso is a traditional pie-type dish, made with rice, and is most often prepared during the Feast of the Madonna di Sovoire in August. Made with puff pastry, there are several different varieties – all delicious.
Anchovies. In Italian, they’re called acciughe. They are served fresh in a variety of ways, and even if you are not a fan of the super-salty variety back home, please give them a try here. They are served in a variety of ways: with a trickle of olive oil and lemon, with oregano, parsley, and garlic, stuffed or fried.
And for dessert! Seek out dandolce, a type of fruit cake (wait, hear us out). This is not the hard fruit cake you give those on your Xmas list you dislike. This is a very fresh fruit cake, so savory, and perfect with a dessert wine. Buon appetito!
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
That entirely depends on your preference. Monterosso certainly has the most hotels in any of the villages, so consequently, this is where most people hang around in the evenings. So if you want a bit of a crowd and want to mingle with other tourists, stay in this village.
One of my favorite places to stay is the Grand Hotel in Portovenere and take the boat to the 5 smaller cities. Portovenere is a large port village with more restaurants. If you do stay at the Grand Hotel ask for a room facing the harbor.
For something more isolated and quieter, stay in Corniglia. This town is the quaintest of the five, lending to a more serene experience. And a wonderful place to call home during your time in Cinque Terre, Italy.
Casey Barbles 
Jeff Yelton 