If you’re planning a visit to Cinque Terre, you’ll definitely want to know the best things to do in Manarola, one of the most picturesque villages on the Ligurian coast.

With its pastel-hued buildings clinging to the cliffs and boats bobbing in the tiny harbor, it’s no wonder Manarola often ranks as a favorite among travelers exploring the five towns.

I visited Manarola in August 2024 and, honestly, it wasn’t my personal favorite (shoutout to Riomaggiore!). I mean, I still liked it! And I totally get why so many people fall head over heels for this town.

It’s vibrant, scenic, and overflowing with charm. That said, I didn’t spend as much time here as I did in the other villages. And considering I love both hiking and wine… well, let’s just say I may have missed a few highlights that are right up my alley.

In this Manarola travel guide, I’ll share the top experiences I had while visiting, plus a few more that are still on my list for next time.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending the night, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this unforgettable coastal village.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. I only recommend brands that I use and trust! Please see full disclosure here.

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Where Is Manarola?

Manarola is one of the five charming villages that make up Cinque Terre, located along the stunning Italian Riviera.

If you’re coming from La Spezia (to the east), it’s the second town you’ll reach after Riomaggiore. Perched on a rocky cliff above the Ligurian Sea, Manarola is famous for its colorful buildings, terraced vineyards, and jaw-dropping coastal views.

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How To Get To Manarola

Getting to Manarola is part of the adventure and thankfully, it’s pretty straightforward once you know your options.

By Train

The easiest and most popular way to reach Manarola is by train. Trains run regularly from La Spezia and stop in each of the five Cinque Terre towns.

From La Spezia Centrale, it’s just about a 10-minute ride. If you’re coming from major cities like Florence, Milan, or Pisa, you’ll most likely need to transfer in La Spezia.

By Car

Driving to Manarola isn’t impossible, but it’s not recommended. The village is car-free, and parking is limited and very expensive.

If you do drive, there’s a small paid parking lot up the hill just outside the village (called Parcheggio di Manarola). From there, you’ll walk down into town.

Be prepared for some stairs or sloped roads.

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. We had to figure out local buses to get to the train station, which wasn’t the easiest.

If you have the option, take the train the whole way instead.

If you are driving, a shuttle bus runs between the parking lot and the lower village, which is especially helpful if you’re carrying luggage or traveling with kids.

Pro Tip: If you plan to visit more than one town (which you absolutely should!), consider getting the Cinque Terre Train Card. It gives you unlimited train rides between the villages and access to the hiking trails.

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What Is Manarola Famous For?

Manarola is often recognized as the most romantic village in Cinque Terre. With its colorful houses perched dramatically on a cliffside, overlooking the Ligurian Sea, it’s straight out of a postcard.

One of the top things to see in Manarola is its iconic view, especially at sunset when the golden light makes everything glow. The town is also famous for its steep terraced vineyards, which produce the region’s beloved sweet wine, Sciacchetrà. It’s a must-try while you’re here!

Add in a relaxed vibe, incredible seafood, and charming little alleyways to explore, and it’s easy to see why this town wins people over so quickly.

Is Manarola A Good Place To Stay?

If you’re dreaming of waking up to postcard-worthy views, Manarola Cinque Terre might just be the perfect base. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring all five villages, and the atmosphere after the day-trippers leave is nothing short of magical.

Watching the sunset from the cliffs and enjoying the peaceful charm of the town once the crowds thin out is a major perk.

That said, Manarola is better suited for couples than families. I didn’t come across too many accommodations designed with kids in mind. I mention a couple below, but they seem to book out pretty quickly!

If you’re traveling as a couple, this village is a dreamy place to call home.

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Hotel Recommendations For Manarola

For traveling families:

• Le Storie di Manarola – One of the few great options for families with kids. Nice set up for beds with an incredible view.
• Mare Calmo 1 – Another option for families. Kinda boring design, but it is located in a great location, has great reviews, and a decent price!

For couples or solo travelers:

• Ca’ del Monica – Nice location right in the center of Manarola with excellent reviews and a nice terrace to relax and enjoy the view. Such a beautiful place and a friendly host!
• Dreamers Sea View – Stunning property with a magnificent view and even a tub in your room. This place would be perfect for a romantic getaway!
• Salty Dreams Manarola – Some of the best reviews I’ve ever read for a property and no stairs! Unheard of in Cinque Terre.

Top Things To Do In Manarola

Now let’s dive into what to do in Manarola. This colorful village may be small, but it packs in plenty of charm, views, and memorable experiences.

Nessun Dorma – Pesto Experience

One of the best things to do in Manarola, hands down, is the pesto experience at Nessun Dorma. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and totally unforgettable pesto making class with a view, this is it.

When I visited Cinque Terre in 2024, this activity was one of my most memorable moments. We had originally booked the pesto class in Cinque Terre for the day we arrived, but our bus ran late and we had to cancel.

Thankfully, rescheduling was a breeze. And I’m so glad we did.

The class takes place at the famous Nessun Dorma restaurant perched above the sea.

Picture this: you’re surrounded by incredible cliffside views, sipping wine, and learning how to make pesto from the energetic and hilarious owner himself. He shares the story of how he started the restaurant and what makes Ligurian pesto so special.

It feels less like a class and more like a party. At one point, you’re even crushing basil while dancing to music. Everyone’s laughing, the drinks are flowing, and the vibe is pure joy.

Pro Tip: If you want a seat with a view (and who doesn’t?), get there early. Seating is first come, first served. Otherwise, arrive just before your start time, grab your apron, and dive in.

After the pesto is made, you’re treated to a tasty lunch, featuring your freshly made pesto, and a complimentary glass of wine. Pure happiness.

I didn’t do this experience with my kids, but they absolutely would have loved it. In fact, when I got home, my oldest immediately asked me to teach him how to make pesto just like I did in Italy.

Walk Around The Scenic Streets

One of the simplest (and best!) Manarola activities is to just walk. Wander the winding, narrow streets that climb the cliffs, and you’ll quickly see why so many travelers fall in love with this town.

Colorful houses stacked like dominoes, tiny alleyways filled with laundry lines and flower pots, and ocean views peeking out between buildings. It’s incredibly photogenic and full of charm.

Don’t miss:

• Via Antonio Discovolo, the main pedestrian street lined with cafés, small shops, and spots to grab a quick bite.
• The Church of San Lorenzo, a 14th-century church just a short walk uphill. It’s peaceful, historic, and offers a break from the crowds. The inside of the church isn’t anything special. I love that the bell tower is opposite of the church and used to be a lookout.
• The small marina area, where you can watch boats bobbing in the water and catch locals heading out to sea. Be sure to take a moment and watch the cliff divers jump from the rocks!

Let yourself get a little lost here. Some of the best corners of Manarola are the ones you find by accident.

Hike The Via Dell’Amore

One of the most iconic walks in all of Cinque Terre, the Via dell’Amore is a scenic cliffside path that links Manarola and Riomaggiore.

It’s short, flat, and packed with jaw-dropping views the entire way. If you’re looking for a peaceful stroll with maximum wow-factor, this is it.

I wandered the trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola, and it was an absolute pleasure. Easy underfoot, no steep climbs, and just the sound of waves below.

It doesn’t take long, about 20 to 30 minutes, but trust me, you’ll want to slow down and take it all in.

Pro Tip: Check in advance to see if the trail is open. It closes frequently due to maintenance or weather. Also, note that it’s sometimes one-way only, so you’ll need to start from the correct village depending on the restrictions at the time.

You can access the trail from either Manarola or Riomaggiore if you’re staying in one of these towns. But here’s the kicker, even if you already have the Cinque Terre Train Card or Trekking Card, you’ll still need to pay an extra €10 per person to walk this trail.

Is it worth it? In my opinion, absolutely.

Tour A Vineyard And Sip A Glass Of Wine Or Three

Did you know that Manarola is one of the best places in Cinque Terre to sip locally made wine?

With its terraced vineyards cascading down the cliffs and a long history of winemaking, it’s basically begging you to slow down and enjoy a glass (or two).

Visiting a Manarola winery is a great way to experience the region’s flavors, scenery, and traditions, all in one go.

Here are some recommended Manarola wineries to consider adding to your itinerary:

• Cantina Capellini – This family-run winery offers several different experiences including a treasure hunt in the vineyard, which makes it a fun and unique stop for families traveling with kids. It’s a creative way to get everyone involved while learning about winemaking.
• Cantina Cinque Terre – One of the best-known wineries in the region, Cantina Cinque Terre focuses on preserving traditional winemaking methods. If you’re looking to sample classic Cinque Terre wines in a historic setting, this is a solid choice.
• A pie de Campu – Join a guided tour of the vineyards followed by a tasting session with wines from the region. Group sizes can be up to 20 people, which might feel a bit big, but it consistently gets glowing reviews for its knowledgeable hosts and beautiful setting.
• Cantina Marinella – Looking for something more intimate? Cantina Marinella keeps their tour groups small, only 8 people max. It’s a bit pricier than A Pie de Campu, but the more personal experience might be worth the splurge.
• BarCa Winery – Want to combine a vineyard walk, wine tasting, and pesto-making workshop all in one experience? BarCa Winery has you covered. The views from the tasting area are incredible, and the whole experience feels relaxed and intimate. If you love the vibe of the Nessun Dorma pesto experience but prefer something quieter and more hands-on, this might be the perfect alternative. There may not be any dancing, but if you ask nicely… you never know.

Cool Off With A Swim

If you’re wondering where to cool off, Manarola swimming spots are as dramatic as the town itself. There are no sandy beaches here, but for adventurous swimmers, there are a couple of unforgettable places to take a dip.

You can swim right in the marina area, where locals and visitors alike sunbathe on the rocks and slip into the sea. It can get a little crowded, especially in peak season, but it’s a lively and beautiful place to splash around. It’s a popular spot for cliff diving too!

Another great swimming spot is just past the Manarola overlook viewpoint. This area feels a little more tucked away and has a ladder to help you get back out of the water after a jump.

Just a heads up: when I was walking around, I saw a huge jellyfish floating in the water. It was beautiful… and a little terrifying. So definitely keep your eyes open if you’re swimming!

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more traditional beach setup, I’d recommend heading to Monterosso. It’s the only village in Cinque Terre with a real sandy beach and has gentler water access.

Take Stunning Photos At Incredibly Picturesque Viewpoints

If you’re chasing postcard-perfect views, you’re in the right place. Some of the best viewpoints in Manarola are just a short walk from the center of town, and they’re absolutely worth the effort.

Start with the Manarola scenic viewpoint, also called the Manarola overlook viewpoint. It’s the most iconic view in town, located just above Nessun Dorma.

From here, you’ll get that classic shot of the pastel buildings stacked dramatically on the cliffs with the sea below.

Golden hour here is chef’s kiss. Bring your camera or phone and prepare to be wowed. Unfortunately I was there midday, so as you can see my photo is just not as good as it would be at sunset.

Another spot you don’t want to miss is Punta Bonfiglio. This viewpoint sits along the trail that connects the marina to the Nessun Dorma overlook, and it’s a quieter place to soak in the views.

There’s even a small park area nearby, perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want a peaceful moment away from the crowds.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for the fewest crowds, or late in the afternoon for the best lighting. Sunset brings bigger crowds, but the warm light on the village is absolutely worth it.

Hike To Corniglia

If you’re up for a scenic adventure, the hike from Manarola to Corniglia via Volastra is a fantastic option.

While the coastal path between these two villages remains closed due to a landslide, this inland route offers breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

Trail Overview:

• Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles)
• Duration: Around 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: About 335 meters (1,100 feet)
• Trail Numbers: 506, 586, and 587 

Trail Highlights:
Starting in Manarola, the trail ascends steeply through terraced vineyards and olive groves to the hilltop village of Volastra. This initial climb can be quite demanding, involving numerous steps.

However, there’s an alternative: a shuttle bus from Manarola to Volastra operates regularly, allowing you to bypass the steepest section.

From Volastra, the path becomes more manageable, meandering through picturesque vineyards with stunning sea views.

The trail eventually leads you to Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village not directly adjacent to the sea, perched atop a cliff.

Tips:

• Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as parts of the trail can be uneven and slippery.
• Hydration: Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
• Trail Status: Always check the current trail conditions before setting out, as closures can occur due to weather or maintenance.

For a detailed map and recent trail reviews, you can refer to the AllTrails page: Manarola – Volastra – Corniglia Trail.

I found this map easier to understand since it shows the full route as one connected trail, whereas the Cinque Terre National Park website breaks it into three separate segments.

Have a great trip! Recommendations can be found in the map below!