How To Spend 3 Days In Cinque Terre: Best Way To See All 5 Towns

Planning to spend 3 days in Cinque Terre? It is the perfect amount of time to slowing enjoy and see all of the villages.

This perfect Cinque Terre itinerary will help you explore all five villages without feeling rushed. Expect stunning coastal views, charming pastel buildings, and some of the best seafood and pesto you’ll ever eat.

In addition, I share a few bonus tips for families traveling with kids. Cinque Terre has its challenges if you are visiting with little ones.

I visited in August for three nights with a friend, and it was the perfect amount of time to see it all. We hiked between the villages, ate way too much pasta, and soaked in every stunning view.

Would I go back? Absolutely. Next time, I’d love to bring my husband and kids. I know they’d love exploring the trails, jumping into the sea, and eating their weight in gelato.

There are some trails I missed and our sunset boat tour got rained out too, so I need to go back and experience Cinque Terre by sea too.

Cinque Terre is straight out of a postcard. Five colorful villages sit along the rugged Ligurian coast. They are connected by scenic trails, a train, and even a ferry. The views are jaw-dropping, the water is a beautiful shade of blue, and the vibes are very fun.

But it is a very popular destination, especially in the summer months. Visiting strategically is key to not get overwhelmed by the crowds.

This 3-day itinerary to Cinque Terre will help you make the most of your time, dodge most of the crowds, and find the gems that make this place unforgettable.

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Best Time To Visit Cinque Terre

The best time to visit Cinque Terre depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want hot weather, lively villages and swimming in the sea, summer is when to go. If you prefer quieter streets and a more relaxed vibe, spring and fall are your best bet.

I visited in August for my 3 days in Cinque Terre, and it was hot. Like, so hot that my shirt was completely soaked after a morning hike from Monterosso to Vernazza.

If you’re visiting with kids and want to go hiking, summer is not ideal. It is just a little too hot. The babies will not be happy.

Plus, during lunchtime, the villages were packed with tourists. It was still an amazing trip, but if I could do it again, I’d visit in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner.

Shoulder season, spring and fall, is that sweet spot where the weather is pleasant and the villages will feel alive without being overwhelming. 

Restaurants and attractions are also open, but you won’t have to battle massive crowds for a seat at dinner. Just keep in mind that many restaurants and shops shut down in the off-season between November 1 and mid to late March.

If you don’t mind a quieter visit and just want to take in the scenery, winter would be a great time to go too. Don’t expect to have many dining options, though. A bonus is that the trails are still open and free!

How To Get To Cinque Terre

Getting to Cinque Terre takes a little planning, but once you’re there, getting around is quite easy. The best way to travel between the five villages is by train and the worst is by car.

By Air

The closest international airports are:

• Pisa International Airport (PSA) – About 1.5 to 2 hours away
• Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA) – About 2.5 hours away
• Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) – About 3 hours away

From any of these, you can take a train to La Spezia or Levanto, which are the main gateways to Cinque Terre.

By Car (Not Recommended)

If you’re renting a car for a broader Italian road trip, park it in La Spezia or Levanto before heading into Cinque Terre. 

The villages are car-free, and parking is expensive and extremely limited.

From La Spezia or Levanto, hop on the train. It’s the best and fastest way to get around.

By Bus

If you’re taking a long-distance bus, you’ll be dropped off in La Spezia.

My friend Cheryl and I took a bus from Siena to La Spezia because there was construction on the train route. 

I wouldn’t recommend going this route unless you absolutely need to. Our bus showed up 45 minutes late, and when we finally arrived, it didn’t even drop us off near the train station.

We had to figure out local buses to get there. We may or may not have ridden the bus for free, and I don’t think they are supposed to be free. Oops. If you have the option, keep it simple and take the train instead.

By Train (The Best Option)

The train is by far the easiest way to get to and around Cinque Terre. From La Spezia Centrale, you can reach any of the five villages in minutes.

The price is the same for every stop between La Spezia and each of the villages. I was a little taken aback when we got our first train tickets and the price was 5 euros. We were only going to the first of the 5 villages. I figured, the further you went the more it would cost, but it turns out that all the trains are 5 euros no matter how far you go.

Trains run frequently, making it the most convenient and stress-free way to explore.

If you’re coming from major Italian cities, here’s how long the train ride takes to La Spezia Centrale:

• From Florence – About 2.5 hours
• From Pisa – About 1 hour
• From Milan – About 4 hours
• From Rome – About 4 hours

Important Tips:

• Trains between Cinque Terre towns are notoriously late. If you have a reservation or scheduled activity, build in some extra time so you’re not rushing.
• If you buy your ticket at the station, don’t forget to validate it before boarding! Look for the little green machines near the platforms. Just stick your ticket in for a timestamp. If you skip this step, you could end up with a hefty fine.

Once you arrive or online, purchase a Cinque Terre Train Card, and you’re all set to explore! This train card lets you ride the trains and use the trails.

Pro Tip: Purchasing a 3-day train card offers a discount compared to buying separate tickets each day. If you’re traveling as a family, look for family pack options, which make getting around even more affordable.

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How Many Days To Spend In Cinque Terre?

If you want to experience the five villages without feeling rushed, I highly recommend spending 3 days in Cinque Terre.

This gives you plenty of time to explore all five towns, enjoy the scenic hikes, take in the coastal views, and still have time to relax by the sea.

Many travelers try to day trip to Cinque Terre and see all of the villages, but I wouldn’t recommend it. The area is too big to properly see in just one day, and you’d spend most of your time hopping on and off trains instead of actually enjoying the villages.

Each town has its own charm and rushing through them means you’ll miss out on what makes them special.

If you have less than three days, you can still get a good feel for the area, but you may have to skip a town or two or cut out some activities, like hiking.

However, with 3 days in Cinque Terre, you’ll be there enough time for a balance of adventure, admiring the stunning landscapes, and relaxing.

If you really only have 1 day in Cinque Terre, this is how I’d spend it: How To Actually Enjoy A Cinque Terre Day Trip

Where To Stay In Cinque Terre

Choosing the right village to stay in can make a big difference in your experience. If you’re exploring Cinque Terre in 3 days, you’ll want a base that offers convenience, great views, and easy access to the train.

While each of the five villages has its own charm, Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Vernazza are my top choices for places to stay.

Monterosso is perfect if you want easy beach access and delicious restaurants.

Riomaggiore is the spot for a stunning view and the best place for sunsets.

Where Vernazza combines picturesque views with a small beach.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is in my opinion the best spot to watch the sunset along its coast. In addition, the accommodations in this village are less expensive than the others. That’s a major selling point for me.

We stayed in Riomaggiore, and we loved relaxing on our outdoor patio as the sun dipped below the horizon. We also enjoyed wandering the many winding streets and eating seafood and arancini from paper cones.

• $$ – Casa Lorenza – This is where we stayed, and it would be great for a family with two large queen-sized beds and a small kitchen. Our host went the extra mile and brought us fresh croissants, fruit, and yogurt every morning for breakfast. A real perk at a great price!
• $$ – Terrazza Meraviglia – Another highly-rated option in Riomaggiore with two queen beds. It has a great location with a nice outdoor seating area.
• $ – Il Barcaiolo – Another amazingly high-rated apartment with a great location and little lower price is Il Barcaiolo. Only thing missing is the outdoor space.
• $$$- Mare Fuori – For an additional bedroom, right on the Main Street, Mare Fuori is a great option for a stay in Riomaggiore with kids.

Monterosso

Monterosso is the easiest village to navigate in Cinque Terre with fewer stairs and direct beach access.

If you’re traveling with kids or just want a more relaxed stay, this is the top option. Prices for Monterosso are a bit higher than other villages though.

• $$$$ – Marty&Olly Luxury Garden Apt – A beautifully renovated apartment in a great location in Monterosso, Mary & Olly Luxury Garden Apt has 2 bedrooms, but is a bit on the pricey side!
• $$$ – Scimiscià 2-bedroom Apartment – Scimiscià is a very nice apartment in a wonderful location. Has a nice set up for staying with kids too.
• $$$ – Mediterranean Luxurious Apartment – A gorgeous apartment at a good price with a small balcony, yes please! I love that the pull-out beds for the kids are all twin size. No fighting during bed time!

Vernazza

Vernazza is a charming and colorful town and is perfect for families spending the night in Cinque Terre.

Kids can splash around by the docks at the small beach and its central location makes getting around Cinque Terre a breeze.

• $$$ – Santa Marta Rooms – Vernazza – A modern, clean and fantastically located apartment in Vernazza that has a terrace and two queen beds.
• $$$ – La Ripa Camere Vernazza – Stradivari Luxury Apartment – A beautiful apartment with great reviews, but there are some steps you need to climb to get to it.
• $$ – La Polena Camere Vernazza – Visconti Apartment – An adorable apartment and a great option to stay with kids!

Read more about where to stay in Cinque Terre with kids: The Best Family-Friendly Places To Stay When Visiting Cinque Terre

3 Days In Cinque Terre Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered the important details of getting to and staying in Cinque Terre, let’s dive into the itinerary! 

This 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary is designed to help first time visitors experience all five villages at a comfortable pace, without feeling rushed.

There’s a mix of picturesque coastal hikes, pretty village explorations, and plenty of time to soak in the views. Let’s get started!

Day 1 – Vernazza To Monterroso

Start Your Day In Vernazza

To kick off your 3 days in Cinque Terre, make your way to Vernazza, one of the most colorful villages in the region.

When I visited, I originally hiked in the reverse order, from Monterroso to Vernazza, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you are starting your hike in the morning. By midday, the town was packed with tourists, making it hard to truly appreciate its charm.

That’s why I suggest starting here in the morning, before the crowds arrive.

Pro Tip: If you do decided to go from Monterosso to Vernazza, go later in the day to arrive for the sunset in Vernazza. Sometimes during the peak season, the national park will require that this hike is one-way traffic, so make sure to check the website before you set out on your hike too.

Our Airbnb host spoiled us with fresh croissants and fruit every morning, so I didn’t check out any breakfast spots firsthand. But if you want to eat like the Italians, grab a quick espresso and a pastry at a local café before exploring.

Before heading to Monterosso, take some time to wander Vernazza’s charming streets. This town is straight out of a postcard, with colorful buildings, hidden alleyways, and a lively harbor. 

Don’t miss:

• Doria Castle – Climb to the top for breathtaking coastal views. Fun fact: This medieval tower was built to defend against pirate attacks, which makes it even cooler in my opinion.
• Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church – This 14th-century church sits right on the water and is a peaceful spot to visit.
• Harbor & Piazza Marconi – Grab a seat, take in the bustling atmosphere, and enjoy Vernazza’s stunning setting before hitting the trail.

Once you’ve soaked in Vernazza’s charm, it’s time to hit the trails and hike to Monterosso on one of the most scenic paths in Cinque Terre!

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Hiking With Spectacular Views

One of the most beautiful parts of this Cinque Terre itinerary is the hike from Vernazza to Monterosso, and one of the best ways to spend a morning. It should definitely be added to any 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary.

Right after leaving Vernazza, you’ll see one of the most breathtaking viewpoints of the entire town. It’s worth stopping here for a photo or five!

Important: Before you go on any hike in Cinque Terre, check the trail conditions. Some sections close periodically due to maintenance or weather conditions. Sometimes you can only go one way.

One important thing to know is that some of the hiking trails in Cinque Terre aren’t free. They are part of the national park and the cost of trek helps maintain the trails.

To access the trail, you’ll need ONE of the following:

• The Cinque Terre Train Card, which includes hiking access and the use of the trains.
• A separate Trekking Card, which is required if you don’t have the train card.

What to Expect:

• The trail is moderate in difficulty with some steep sections and uneven terrain. You start by climbing straight up the hill. After you reach the top it is most flat with a little bit of up and down, but not much. Then you will make your way down when you get closer to the end.
• If you’re visiting in summer, like I did, it gets very HOT. My shirt was soaked in sweat by the time I got to Vernazza. Not my best look. Bring plenty of water and wear sneakers or sturdy hiking shoes!
• There is some shade along the trail, but expect to be in the sun for much of the hike. Sunscreen is a must.

It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the hike, but with the incredible views along the way, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy the journey.

Once you reach the end of the trail, you will arrive in Monterosso. Next up, a well-earned break and cool down by the beach!

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Lunch At Ristorante Il Gabbiano

After a long hike, it’s time to refuel with an incredible meal. I highly recommend Ristorante Il Gabbiano. It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some fresh seafood pasta.

We chose to sit outside, which was perfect for soaking in the coastal breeze and seaside atmosphere. If you prefer, they also have indoor seating.

For lunch, we both picked a seafood pasta; mine had a mix of seafood, while my friend’s dish was filled with shrimp.

Both were delicious, packed with flavor, and exactly what we needed. If you love fresh seafood, this is the place to go!

Beach Time In Monterosso

After lunch, it’s time to kick back and relax. Monterosso beach is one of the most beautiful in Cinque Terre!

This is the only village with a proper sandy beach. A perfect place to cool off and rest your limbs after the hike.

We rented chairs with umbrellas from Hotel Baia. They weren’t the iconic orange and green striped ones, but they worked just as well! Having some shade makes a huge difference, especially in the hot summer sun.

If you don’t want to rent a chair and umbrella, there are also free, public beach sections where you can lay out a towel and enjoy the water without spending a dime.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking at the sea, the right side of the beach is sandy, while the left side is rocky. Choose accordingly based on whether you prefer soft sand or a scenic backdrop for your beach day in Cinque Terre.

Spending some time in Monterosso is the perfect way to unwind and take it slow before heading out to explore more of Cinque Terre!

Dinner Where You Are Staying

After a day of hiking and swimming, you’ll definitely want to head back to your hotel, rinse off the salt water, and freshen up before dinner.

Luckily, each of the 5 villages has amazing dining options, so you don’t have to go far for a great meal.

Pro Tip: When visiting Cinque Terre, be sure to make dinner reservations in advance if visiting in peak season. Restaurants fill up fast!

Here are some recommended spots based on where you’re staying:

• Monterosso: Da Eraldo – A cozy trattoria known for incredible local dishes and fresh seafood.
• Riomaggiore: Osteria La Torpedine – Delicious homemade pasta and seafood in a quaint restaurant tucked away on a side street. We both had the lobster when we were there!
• Vernazza: Initio – Restaurant and Steak House – High-quality ingredients and friendly staff at this incredible restaurant where you can get juicy steak and flavorful seafood.

Wherever you end up, enjoy some fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and a glass of local wine. It is the perfect way to end Day 1 in Cinque Terre!

Day 2 – Manarola To Riomaggiore

Start your second day in Cinque Terre the Italian way with a croissant and espresso.

Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to make your way to Manarola. Manarola is famous for its colorful cliffside houses, dramatic sea views, and charming streets.

Take some time to wander through the village, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic fishing town.

Here are a few things to do while exploring Manarola:

• Stroll through the village – The small alleyways and steep streets lead to unexpected viewpoints and hidden corners.
• Visit San Lorenzo Church – This 14th-century church sits at the top of the village and offers a peaceful break from the crowds.
• Walk the scenic Manarola Overlook Trail – A short but stunning paved path that gives you one of the most iconic views of Cinque Terre.

Since your next stop is Nessun Dorma, which is located along the overlook trail, head up a little early before your reservation.

There is a nice little park right before you enter the restaurant where you can take in the views and snap some incredible photos before enjoying a well-earned meal! I saw a jellyfish swimming in the sea from this spot.

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Pesto Experience At Nessun Dorma

If you love Italian food and hands-on experiences, then the viral pesto-making class at Nessun Dorma is a must-do!

It’s not just a cooking class. It’s an experience. Seriously it is so much fun!

There are two class times: 10:30 am or 1:30 pm. I personally chose the 1:30 pm session because, well… wine. And I didn’t want to have wine for breakfast.

But hey, if you’re feeling bold, I fully support an Aperol Spritz at 10:30am. No judgment here!

The class lasts about 2.5 hours and includes a delicious lunch, where you get to enjoy the pesto you just made.

Be sure to book in advance, as these classes sell out quickly.

They have a great cancellation policy, so you’re covered if your plans change. We actually had to change our reservation.

We were initially booked for the 1:30 pm class on the day we were arriving. Our bus ended up picking us up really late, so we wouldn’t have arrived on time. I rescheduled for the last day of the trip with no issue.

Pro Tip: Arrive early! You’ll need to wait in line before entering. This is not fun and also hot without shade. HOWEVER, seating is first come, first served. If you want that prime view overlooking Manarola, get in line well before your reservation time. Then sit at a table with a view!

If you’re planning out your day, I’d recommend booking the earlier session, so you have more time afterward to explore Riomaggiore. There’s more to see and do there, and it’s a great next stop! Well, unless you want wine with your pesto experience.

Read More Information: Is the Nessun Dorma Pesto Experience Worth It? An Honest Review

Walk The Via Dell’Amore

After an unforgettable pesto making experience, it’s time to walk off that delicious lunch with one of the easiest and most picturesque hikes in Cinque Terre.

The Via dell’Amore, or the Path of Love, connects Manarola and Riomaggiore with a flat, paved trail that takes only about 20 minutes to walk.

But don’t rush it! The views are stunning the entire way.

I got super lucky when I visited in August 2024, as they had just reopened the trail that month. Since it has been under restoration for years, it was a huge win to experience this iconic coastal walk.

If you’re visiting, double-check to see if it’s open.

Via dell’Amore DOES require a hiking permit, even if you have the Cinque Terre Trekking Card or the train card. You’ll need to purchase an additional hiking pass for an extra €10, so factor that into your plans.

If it’s open, take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy this legendary trail before arriving in Riomaggiore.

Please Note: Sometimes when it is really busy, like during peak season, they will limit the direction of the trail. If you are staying in Riomaggiore or Manarola, you may be able to access the trail in both directions. Check with your host or hotel!

Wander Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is full of charming streets, colorful houses, and incredible viewpoints, but be prepared for some serious stairs! Thankfully, you don’t have to take them unless you’re heading down to the marina or the beach.

If you stick to the roads, you can reach the upper viewpoints with a little less effort. We stayed in Riomaggiore, so I explored every inch of this town. I loved it. Every view gave us a new perspective.

Also, because there are so many stairs, the views felt more dramatic.

Hot Tip: Don’t miss this underrated detour! When you arrive at the train station, most people turn right and go through the tunnel into town.

Instead, go straight toward the coastal trail, Via Telemaco Signorini, for a breathtaking ocean overlook. It’s a quieter, more scenic way to start your visit.

The marina area is the busiest part of Riomaggiore, packed with restaurants and boats bobbing in the harbor.

If you want to avoid the crowds, visit the marina in the evening at sunset. There will still be people there, but it is so lovely at this time of day.

Or if you want to get out on the water for sunset, skip to the next stop on this 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary.

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Take A Sunset Boat Tour

An incredible way to experience Cinque Terre is from the water, and Riomaggiore is the perfect place to do it.

A lot of the boat companies depart from the marina here. It makes it really easy to hop on a sunset cruise and soak in the stunning coastline.

We booked our sunset boat tour with Get Away Boat Tour, but unfortunately, our trip was canceled due to a thunderstorm. They were super accommodating and offered to reschedule for the next evening.

Sadly we were leaving the next day and couldn’t make it work. It was definitely a huge disappointment and something I will be adding to my next Cinque Terre itinerary when I return.

If you’re visiting in the summer, a boat tour is also a cooler way to experience the villages, literally.

It’s a refreshing break from the heat with breeze coming off the waves. It also gives you a whole new perspective of Cinque Terre’s dramatic cliffs and colorful towns.

If you have time, don’t skip this experience!

Day 3 – Corniglia To Vernazza

To kick off your final day of your Cinque Terre 3-day itinerary, take the train to Corniglia. It is the only village in Cinque Terre that sits high on a hill rather than right on the water.

It’s a bit of a climb to reach the town.  Be prepared for 377 steps. It’s well worth it for the quieter atmosphere and stunning views.

If stairs aren’t your thing, there’s also a shuttle bus from the train station to town. The shuttle was extremely crowded when I was there, so I huffed and puffed to the top. It really didn’t take me that long. It looks worse than it is.

Corniglia is the least busy of the five villages, and although it’s small, it’s packed with charm. Wander the narrow streets and admire the colorful houses.

Be sure to also check out these attractions too:

• Piazza Largo Taragio – The heart of the village with a cute church and small cafés.
• Chiesa di San Pietro – A beautiful 14th-century church with Gothic-Ligurian architecture.
• Santa Maria Belvedere – A peaceful viewpoint overlooking the sea, perfect for soaking in the scenery.

After exploring, head down to the marina for a swim. This is a fantastic spot to take a dip without the usual Cinque Terre crowds.

The rocky coastline makes for a unique swimming experience, though it’s not ideal for little kids. Older kids and adventurous swimmers will love it though.

Marina Di Corniglia For Lunch With A View

After cooling off at the marina, hike back up the stairs, but don’t go all the way to the top just yet! 

Stop at Marina Di Corniglia for lunch. It is a perfect place to refuel with delicious food and incredible views.

I ordered their special for the day which was a pesto lasagna, and it was next-level good. Creamy, flavorful, and exactly what I needed after a morning of exploring and swimming.

Pair it with a glass of local wine or beer, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Cinque Terre lunch.

Beyond the food, the views here are unbeatable. Sitting outside, overlooking the cliffs and the sparkling sea, is an experience in itself. 

Take your time, soak it in, and enjoy one last meal in this quiet gem of a village. You could also do this in reverse and end your day here. It would be a nice place to see the sunset as well.

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Hike The Trail To Vernazza

After a relaxing lunch, it’s time to hit the trails and begin the hike on the Azure Trail. This section of the trail connects Corniglia to Vernazza, and is a highlight of any 3-day Cinque Terre itinerary.

Before you go, check the trail conditions, like any of the hikes in Cinque Terre. The Azure Trail is known for occasional closures due to weather or maintenance, so make sure it’s open before setting off.

If you purchased the Cinque Terre Train Card, this hike is included. Otherwise, you’ll need to buy a trekking pass to access the trail.

The hike itself is about 4 km (2.5 miles) and takes roughly 1.5–2 hours, depending on how often you stop for photos.

Expect some steep inclines and rocky sections, but also unbelievable coastal views, vineyards, and charming olive groves along the way.

As you approach Vernazza, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most famous views in Cinque Terre, the colorful village spilling down to the harbor, framed by the sea. 

Take it slow, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the journey!

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Essential Tips For Visiting Cinque Terre

This 3-day travel guide to Cinque Terre wouldn’t be complete without some essential travel tips.

This section gives you helpful tips about the best ways to get around Cinque Terre and hiking tips.

These recommendations will help you explore Cinque Terre like a pro.

How To Get Around Cinque Terre

Trains: The Best Way To Get Around Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre train is the most efficient way to get between the villages. Trains run frequently between La Spezia and Levanto and stop at each of the five towns.

The journey between villages is just a few minutes, and ticket prices are the same no matter which stop you’re going to.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying for multiple days, get the Cinque Terre Train Card. It offers unlimited train rides and is a better deal than buying separate tickets.

Bonus: The Cinque Terre Train Card also covers access to most of the hiking trails!

Be aware: Trains are notoriously late, so plan accordingly if you have a dinner reservation or a scheduled activity.

Also, don’t forget to validate your ticket at the green machines before boarding if you buy a paper ticket at the station.

Ferries: A Scenic Way To Travel

If you want unforgettable coastal views, hop on the Cinque Terre ferry.

The ferry runs between La Spezia, Porto Venere, and the Cinque Terre villages (except Corniglia, which doesn’t have a port).

This is a beautiful way to see the villages from the water, but it’s slower and more expensive than the train. If you don’t want to pay for a boat tour, though, it is a cheaper option for seeing the villages from the sea.

Pro Tip: The ferry schedule changes seasonally, and it doesn’t run in bad weather, so check in advance.

Cars: Just Don’t

Driving to Cinque Terre is a bad idea. The villages are built into steep cliffs, the roads are narrow and winding, and parking is out of town, scarce and expensive, if you can even find it.

If you’re arriving by car, leave it in La Spezia or Levanto and take the train into Cinque Terre instead.

If you must drive: There are small parking lots at the entrances to some villages, but you’ll still have a long walk to or from the town centers. 

Trust me. Skip the stress and take the train.

Hiking Tips For Cinque Terre

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre’s stunning landscapes, but there are a few things you should know before hitting the trails.

Here are my top hiking tips to make sure you’re prepared!

Check Trail Conditions Before You Go

Not all trails are open year-round. Some close due to landslides, maintenance, or weather conditions.

Some popular trails will limit the direction you can hike too.

Before setting out, check trail updates at the Cinque Terre National Park website or ask at the tourist office.

Pro Tip: If a trail is closed, don’t try to hike it anyway. Not only is it dangerous, but you could face a fine!

Hike Early Or Late To Avoid The Heat And Crowds

If you’re visiting in the summer, hiking in the middle of the day is brutal. I learned this the sweaty way.

Start your hikes early in the early morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat and the crowds.

Morning hikes = cooler temps + fewer tourists = much better experience!

Hiking Permits Are Required On Some Trails

The Azure Trail (Sentiero Azzurro), which connects Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso, requires a permit.

You can get a Cinque Terre Trekking Card that gives you access to the trails or purchase a Cinque Terre Train Card, which includes riding on the trains and access to the trails.

Hiking pass prices vary depending on the season, so check at the train station or visitor center for the latest rates.

The Riomaggiore To Manarola Trail Costs Extra

The famous Via dell’Amore between Riomaggiore and Manarola is a flat, easy, and incredibly scenic trail, but it also costs extra.

In addition to the trekking pass or the train card, you’ll need to pay an additional €10 fee to hike this path.

Check if it’s open! It was closed for over a decade due to rockslides and just reopened in August 2024, when I visited. I got lucky, but it may close again.

Wear Proper Shoes And Bring Water

Even the “easy” trails have rocky, uneven terrain. Leave the flip-flops at the beach and wear sneakers or hiking shoes with good grip on the hikes.

Don’t forget: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially if you’re hiking in summer. There’s little shade, and the sun can be intense!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be all set to tackle the trails and soak in some of the best views in Cinque Terre!

Final Tips For The Perfect Cinque Terre Itinerary

Before you set off on your Cinque Terre adventure, here are some final tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

Pack Light – Stairs And Steep Roads Await

Most accommodations in Cinque Terre are perched on hillsides, tucked into steep alleyways, or up several flights of stairs. 

Rolling a heavy suitcase is not fun in Cinque Terre. Bring a backpack or small carry-on to save yourself the struggle.

Pro Tip: If your hotel is up a steep hill or a million stairs, check if they offer luggage transport. Some places do for a small fee!

Book Accommodations And Restaurants In Advance

Cinque Terre is tiny, and good hotels and restaurants fill up fast, especially in the summer. Make dinner reservations a few days in advance, or risk waiting for a table.

Pro Tip: Some restaurants only take reservations in person or via WhatsApp.

Bring Cash – Some Places Don’t Take Cards

While most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, smaller cafés, bakeries, and some train stations are cash-only. ATMs are available but can run out of cash in busy months.

Come with some euros for smaller purchases and emergencies. Easiest way is to get some from an ATM in a big city before getting on the train to go to Cinque Terre.

With these final tips, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy 3 perfect days in Cinque Terre!

I am jealous that you will get to experience Cinque Terre for the first time. It is a stunning destination in Italy that everyone should visit.