Nestled along Italy’s dramatic Ligurian coast, Vernazza offers travelers beautiful Italian coastal charm. Below I’ve outlined some of the most spectacular things to do in Vernazza including some off the beaten path adventures.

This picturesque fishing village, often considered the crown jewel of Cinque Terre, captivates visitors with its colorful houses cascading down to a natural harbor.

When I first visited Vernazza, I hiked the coastal trail from Monterosso and arrived just as the lunch crowds were reaching their peak. The narrow streets and tiny piazza were packed with fellow travelers, all drawn to this famously beautiful village.

As someone who prefers quieter moments to truly absorb a destination, I found myself struggling to appreciate Vernazza’s undeniable charm through the sea of people surrounding me.

Despite the crowds, I could see why so many travelers rave about Vernazza as the most stunning of the five villages. The colorful architecture, the dramatic cliffs, and that perfect little harbor create an almost impossibly romantic scene.

The challenge I had was that the harsh midday sun made photography difficult, and the bustling atmosphere prevented me from experiencing the peaceful moments that make a place truly memorable.

This experience taught me that timing is everything in Vernazza, and all of Cinque Terre to be honest. I’m already planning my return to experience this magical village during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when I can truly capture both its beauty and its soul.

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How To Get To Vernazza?

By Train

The train is hands down the best way to reach Vernazza. The village sits directly on the Cinque Terre railway line, making it easily accessible from major Italian cities.

From Major Cities:

• Florence: 2.5-3 hours
• Pisa: 1-1.5 hours
• Genoa: 1.5 hours
• Milan: 3-4 hours

I arrived in Cinque Terre via La Spezia, and once you’re on the local Cinque Terre line, the journey to Vernazza is quick and scenic, just 18 minutes from La Spezia Centrale.

The trains run frequently (every 15-30 minutes), and you’ll want to purchase a Cinque Terre Card for unlimited train travel between the villages.

Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport is your best bet, about 1-1.5 hours away by train via La Spezia.

By Car

Don’t drive to Vernazza unless absolutely necessary. The village has two parking areas with 84 total spots about 1km from town. Each of the parking areas offer a shuttle service during the day. Costs are €2.50 per hour or €20 per day which isn’t bad, but there’s no promise that there will be parking available. In the summer, the lots fill up quickly.

Better Options:

• Park in La Spezia (€1-2/hour, large lots) and take the train. The parking station at the train station, Park Centro Stazione, is a good option with over 200 spots.
• Park in Levanto (slightly cheaper, €8-12/day) and train in. There are a lot of parking lot options.
• Some hotels offer parking reservations, but expect to pay €25-35/day

The drive to Vernazza involves narrow, winding coastal roads. While beautiful can also be a little nerve racking to maneuver.

By Bus

Skip the bus if possible. While regional buses connect La Spezia to some Cinque Terre villages, they don’t serve Vernazza directly, and the experience can be frustrating.

My friend and I took a bus from Siena to La Spezia, due to some train track construction. We got dropped off far from the train station and had to navigate local buses and walk with our luggage. It was not fun.

The bus routes are infrequent, crowded, and you’ll end up taking the train anyway once you reach La Spezia.

Is Vernazza Worth Visiting?

Is Vernazza worth visiting? Absolutely yes!

This stunning fishing village consistently ranks as the most photographed and beloved of all five Cinque Terre villages, and once you see it, you’ll understand why.

Vernazza’s appeal lies in its picture-perfect composition: colorful houses cascade down steep cliffs to meet a natural harbor, creating what feels like a postcard come to life.

But here’s the reality check: Vernazza is incredibly small. You can walk from one end to the other in about 5 minutes.

The main street (Via Roma) and harbor area become absolutely packed during midday hours, especially from 11 AM to 4 PM when day-trippers and cruise ship passengers descend en masse.

The key to loving Vernazza is timing. 

Visit during early morning hours (before 10 AM) or late afternoon into sunset (after 5 PM) when the crowds thin out and you can actually appreciate the village’s magical atmosphere.

This is when you’ll get those Instagram-worthy shots without strangers in every frame and when you can enjoy a leisurely meal without fighting for a table.

If you can only visit once, make it count by choosing your timing carefully. Vernazza at sunset with fewer crowds is a completely different experience than Vernazza at noon surrounded by tour groups.

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Where To Stay In Vernazza

Choosing where to stay when visiting Cinque Terre can make or break your experience, and Vernazza offers one of the best bases for exploring the region.

Staying directly in Vernazza puts you in the heart of the most photogenic village, allowing you to step out your door for those magical early morning walks or sunset shots when the crowds have disappeared.

Plus, you’re centrally located with easy train access to the other four villages, making it simple to explore the entire Cinque Terre region.

Hotels In Vernazza

Santa Marta Rooms – Vernazza 

Santa Marta Rooms is a top pick for families looking to stay in the heart of Vernazza. Just a 2-minute walk from the beach, this spot offers comfort, convenience, and amazing views that make it worth the premium price you’ll pay for staying directly in the village.

La Ripa Camere Vernazza – Stradivari Luxury Apartment

La Ripa Camere Vernazza This stylish, modern apartment is perfect for couples or small families looking to stay in the heart of Vernazza with comfort and charm. La Ripa Camere Vernazza provides a more upscale experience while keeping you steps away from the harbor and main attractions.

La Polena Camere Vernazza – Visconti Apartment

If you’re visiting Cinque Terre with kids and want to stay in Vernazza, La Polena Camere Vernazza is one of the best family options around. It’s beachy, bright, and beautifully located, giving families the space and comfort they need while staying in this compact village.

Pro Tip: Book your Vernazza accommodation well in advance, especially for visits during peak season (April through October). With limited lodging options in this tiny village, rooms fill up quickly and prices increase significantly as availability decreases.

Click Here For Other Options For Family-Friendly Places To Stay In Cinque Terre

Best Things To Do In Vernazza

Now let’s dive into the good stuff! While it may be small, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Vernazza that will make your visit worthwhile.

From scenic hikes with breathtaking coastal views to wine tasting and fun boating experiences, this charming village packs a surprising amount of activities into its compact footprint.

Soak Up The Atmosphere At The Harbor

One of the best free things to do in Vernazza is simply spending time in the village’s heart: the picturesque harbor area. This is where Vernazza’s magic truly comes alive, and it doesn’t cost you anything.

The small pebble beach tucked into the harbor is perfect for families with little kids.

The protected cove keeps the water calmer than the open coastline, making it ideal for young children to splash around safely while parents can keep a close eye on them from the nearby cafes and restaurants or the shore.

Don’t miss Guglielmo Marconi Square, the small piazza that overlooks the harbor. This is the perfect spot to settle in for an aperitif as the day winds down.

Grab a spritz or local white wine from one of the waterfront establishments and watch the fishing boats bob in the harbor while the setting sun paints the colorful houses in golden light.

The beauty of the harbor area is that you can easily spend hours here without spending much money. Bring a book, people-watch, take photos, or simply soak in the calming atmosphere that makes Vernazza so special.

Learn To Make Pesto While Wine Tasting

If you are looking for unique things to do in Vernazza, combining a hands-on pesto making class with local wine tasting creates the perfect Italian cultural experience.

This activity lets you dive deep into Ligurian culinary traditions while enjoying some of the region’s best wines.

Pesto Class and Wine Tasting in Vernazza, Cinque Terre offers two excellent options, both teaching you the authentic technique for making Liguria’s famous basil pesto from scratch.

Option 1: Pesto Class with Snack Learn the traditional pesto-making process using a marble mortar and pestle, then enjoy your creation with fresh focaccia, local cheeses, and high-quality olive oil. The experience includes a tasting of three different regional wines that perfectly complement the flavors of your handmade pesto.

Option 2: Pesto Class with Full Lunch This more comprehensive experience includes everything from Option 1 plus a complete meal featuring pesto gnocchi, limoncello, and chocolate dessert. You’ll still taste three different wines throughout the extended lunch, making this a perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon learning about local food culture.

Both options provide hands-on instruction, so you’ll leave knowing how to recreate authentic Ligurian pesto at home, along with wine pairing knowledge that extends far beyond your Cinque Terre visit.

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Wander Through Vernazza’s Hidden Side Streets

One of the simplest yet most rewarding activities in Vernazza is stepping off the main tourist path to explore the village’s quiet side streets and narrow alleyways.

While Via Roma (the main street) gets packed with crowds, the smaller lanes branching off reveal a completely different side of this colorful village.

These winding cobblestone paths lead you past local residents’ homes, hidden gardens tucked between buildings, and charming architectural details you’d never notice from the busy main thoroughfare.

You’ll discover cute nooks and crannies where colorful laundry hangs from ancient windows, cats nap in sunny corners, and tiny shrines are built into stone walls.

The side streets also offer fantastic photo opportunities without the constant stream of tourists walking through your shots.

Look for the steep staircases that climb up toward the hillside, small doorways with weathered wooden doors, and unexpected viewpoints that peek out toward the sea between buildings.

Pro tip: The higher you climb up the side streets, the better the views become and the fewer people you’ll encounter. Some of these paths connect to hiking trails, so you might stumble upon scenic overlooks that most visitors never find.

Take your time wandering these quieter areas. It’s free, peaceful, and gives you a much more authentic feel for how this ancient fishing village is actually laid out beyond its famous harbor views.

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Visit Santa Margherita D’Antiochia

Located right in the heart of Vernazza, the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia is worth a quick visit, especially since it’s completely free to enter.

Built in the 13th century in Gothic-Ligurian style, this historic church offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets outside.

Step inside to admire the beautiful stone interior that contrasts sharply with the tourist energy just outside its doors. Many visitors consider it one of the more stunning church interiors among all the Cinque Terre villages.

The church sits prominently near the harbor area, so it’s easy to pop in during your explorations of the village center. It’s particularly nice to visit during the heat of midday when you want a cool, quiet break from sightseeing.

Note about the clock tower: While the church’s distinctive clock tower is a prominent feature of Vernazza’s skyline, it doesn’t appear to be open for visitors to climb. If you’re curious about tower access, it’s worth asking locally, but don’t count on it being available.

This is a quick 10-15 minute stop that adds a cultural element to your Vernazza visit without requiring any planning or fees.

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Visit A Local Winery

Wine is absolutely central to Cinque Terre’s identity and culture. The dramatic terraced vineyards carved into these steep coastal cliffs have been producing wine for hundreds of years, making viticulture one of the region’s most important traditions.

Visiting a winery ranks among the top fun things to do in Vernazza because it connects you directly to this ancient landscape and the families who’ve maintained it for generations.

The Cinque Terre region is famous for its white wines, particularly Cinque Terre DOC (a crisp, dry white blend) and the rare dessert wine Sciacchetrà, made from dried grapes and considered one of Italy’s most prized sweet wines.

The challenging growing conditions on these impossibly steep terraces create wines with unique mineral characteristics you won’t find anywhere else.

Recommended Wineries To Visit:

Cantina Cheo: This family-run winery offers an authentic look at traditional Cinque Terre winemaking. Make a reservation for the private tours on their website.

• Tastings: No reservation needed, 4-7 PM daily from April 1st to October 30th (closed Wednesdays), €6-35 depending on wines
• Vineyard tour with tasting: 1.5 hours, three wines, €50 per person (minimum 4 people)
• Vertical Sciacchetrà Experience: 1 hour, three vintages of rare dessert wine, €35 per person (minimum 4 people)
• DOC 5 Terre Wine Experience: 1 hour, three wines, €25 per person (minimum 4 people)Open April 1-October 30

Eroico Vineyard: Eroico provides excellent tastings with spectacular views of the terraced landscape.

Hiking and wine tasting experience:

• Guided trail tour through UNESCO World Heritage vineyards
• Three glasses of wine with local food snacks
• Amazing experience combining hiking with wine education

Both wineries offer the chance to taste locally produced wines while learning about the challenging winemaking that defines this UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

It’s an experience that goes far beyond simple wine tasting. You’re connecting with centuries of tradition and the remarkable human determination that shaped these famous coastal views.

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Explore Vernazza’s Spectacular Viewpoints

One of the best things to do in Vernazza is to take in the multiple beautiful views that showcase this village from different stunning perspectives.

While the harbor itself is gorgeous, stepping back to see Vernazza from above reveals why it’s considered the most photogenic of all five villages.

Harbor Viewpoint from Blue Trail to Monterosso

At the beginning of the blue trail heading towards Monterosso, you’ll find one of the most classic viewpoints of Vernazza’s harbor.

This elevated position gives you the perfect perspective to capture the colorful houses cascading down to the natural harbor, with fishing boats bobbing in the protected cove below.

Note: This viewpoint is just past the checkpoint, so you’ll need a Cinque Terre Trekking/Train Card to access it legally. The good news is you don’t need to commit to the full hike. Just walk to the viewpoint and return.

Blue Trail Viewpoint Towards Corniglia

Hiking the blue trail in the opposite direction towards Corniglia offers equally spectacular but different views of Vernazza.

As you climb away from the village, you’ll get sweeping coastal perspectives that show how dramatically Vernazza sits perched between the sea and the steep hillsides. This viewpoint gives you the full context of the village’s incredible location.

Both viewpoints are accessible without major hiking commitment, making them perfect for travelers who want those postcard-worthy photos without dedicating hours to trail hiking.

The views are particularly stunning during golden hour, so time your visit accordingly for the best lighting.

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Dine At Ristorante Bar La Torre Or Visit Doria Castle

Finding a restaurant with both excellent food AND spectacular views is almost unheard of in tourist destinations, but Ristorante Bar La Torre delivers on both fronts.

Located at Doria Castle, this restaurant offers some of the best elevated views of Vernazza’s harbor while serving authentic local cuisine.

Order the pesto. You’re in Liguria, after all, and they do it exceptionally well here.

Make sure to get a reservation and specifically request a table with the best view, as seating locations vary significantly in terms of scenery.

Fair warning: Be prepared to hike up quite a few stairs to reach the restaurant. The climb is steep and can be challenging, especially in hot weather.

If you have mobility issues or simply don’t enjoy climbing stairs, this restaurant isn’t for you. But if you can handle the ascent, the combination of great food and unbeatable views makes it worth every step.

Alternative: Just visit the castle. If you want the views without the dining commitment, you can visit Doria Castle. It is just €2 to climb the tower. Bring cash!

This gives you access to elevated perspectives of Vernazza and the coastline without the restaurant reservation or meal expense.

Go On A Hike

Hiking is undeniably one of the best things to do in Vernazza and throughout the entire Cinque Terre National Park.

The network of coastal and mountain trails offers everything from easy walks with harbor views to challenging climbs that reward you with some of the most spectacular scenery on the Italian Riviera.

Before hitting any trails, you’ll need to purchase a Cinque Terre Hiking/Train Card, which gives you access to the official trail network plus unlimited train travel between villages. These cards are available at train stations and visitor centers throughout the region or you can purchase one online.

Pro Tip: Always check the national park’s official website for trail closures before heading out. Weather, maintenance, and seasonal conditions can affect trail access.

Additionally, some trails implement one-way traffic during peak periods to manage crowds, so taking a minute to check current conditions and directions is always advised.

Sentiero Azzurro – Blue Trail To Monterosso

This classic coastal trail offers stunning sea views and takes you through Mediterranean vegetation. The trail is moderately challenging with some steep sections.

I completed this trail and the only real challenging part is at the very beginning. Once you are at the top of that climb, it is a fairly easy hike.

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
• Approximate time: 1.5-2 hours

Sentiero Azzurro – Blue Trail To Corniglia

Arguably one of the most scenic sections of the entire Cinque Terre trail system, this hike rewards you with incredible clifftop views and terraced vineyard landscapes. The trail includes some challenging uphill sections but the payoff is worth it.

• Distance: 2.3 miles (3.7 km)
• Approximate time: 1.5-2.5 hours

Hike To San Bernardino

Want to get away from the crowds? This inland trail leads to the authentic Italian mountain town of San Bernardino, offering some of the best panoramic views of Cinque Terre from above.

You’ll experience the genuine local town vibe while enjoying spectacular vistas of Corniglia and the entire coastline from a completely different perspective.

• Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
• Approximate time: 3-4 hours

The Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Reggio

If you are looking for unique things to do in Vernazza that are also hiking related, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Reggio offers a peaceful retreat from the village crowds below.

This hilltop sanctuary provides a completely different perspective on your Vernazza experience. It sits elevated above the village, requiring a moderate uphill walk through olive groves and terraced landscapes.

• Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
• Approximate time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Essential Cinque Terre Hiking Tips:

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The trails can be rocky and steep.
• Bring plenty of water, especially during summer months.
• Pack snacks for longer hikes.
• Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
• Bring sun protection, much of the coastal trail has limited shade.
• Check weather conditions before departing.

Take A Boat Trip

Taking a boat trip from Vernazza offers one of the most spectacular ways to experience the dramatic coastline of the Cinque Terre, making it among the top fun things to do in Vernazza.

From the water, you’ll gain a completely different perspective of the colorful cliffside villages and rugged landscape that has captivated travelers for generations.

Plus you can usually feel a refreshing breeze that will help you cool off in the summer heat! Here are a few options to get out on the water.

Relaxing Boat Tour Plus Snorkel

Nord Est Vernazza brings two decades of maritime expertise to the waters around Cinque Terre, offering several tour options tailored to different preferences and schedules.

Whether you’re seeking a quick sunset excursion or a full-day coastal adventure, their experienced crew ensures a memorable experience on the Ligurian Sea.

Tour Options:

• Half-Day Tour (10 AM – 2 PM) – Perfect timing to skip Vernazza’s midday crowds while enjoying a relaxed coastal experience with ample time for swimming and sightseeing.
• 3-Hour Relax Tour – A leisurely journey featuring swimming breaks in pristine waters, complimentary appetizers, and snorkeling opportunities to explore the underwater beauty of the coast.
• Sunset Tour – A magical 2-hour panoramic tour of the Cinque Terre coastline during golden hour, complete with swimming stops and delicious treats as you watch the sun dip below the Mediterranean horizon.
• 5-Hour Village Explorer – An extended adventure allowing you to visit multiple Cinque Terre villages while discovering hidden inlets and sea caves perfect for swimming and exploration.
• Full-Day Expedition (8 Hours) – The ultimate coastal journey extending from Cinque Terre National Park all the way to the historic town of Portovenere, offering the most comprehensive maritime experience available.

Sunset Tour

2 hour tour or 2.5 hour sunset cruise (change link to affiliate)

For a more intimate maritime experience, consider booking this highly rated sunset cruise in Vernazza that limits groups to just six passengers maximum.

This 2.5-hour journey combines the romance of golden hour lighting with active exploration, featuring snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters and a traditional Italian aperitif as you watch the sun set over the Cinque Terre coastline.

Please note: This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to safety considerations.

Take The Ferry For A Cheaper Option

If you’re seeking an affordable way to experience the coastline without the expense of private tours, the public ferry service offers an excellent solution that’s both scenic and budget-conscious.

This practical transportation option delivers stunning waterfront views while keeping costs manageable for travelers.

The ferry system links most of the Cinque Terre villages including Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, and Monterosso, with certain routes extending to Portovenere and La Spezia.

Corniglia remains the only village without ferry access due to its elevated clifftop position away from the shoreline.

Benefits of Ferry Travel:

• Spectacular Views at Lower Cost – Enjoy the same breathtaking coastal panoramas as expensive boat tours while paying a fraction of the price.
• Family-Friendly Transportation – Children particularly love being on a boat.
• Convenient Village Hopping – Effortlessly move between towns while avoiding both crowded transportation and challenging terrain.

Pro Tip: Secure a spot on the open-air upper deck for optimal photography opportunities and unobstructed coastal views!

Delight In The Tastiest Gelato

One of the most delicious and tastiest things to do in Vernazza is savoring artisanal gelato at Gelateria Vernazza. This local favorite attracts tourists with its creative flavor combinations that go far beyond traditional offerings.

I personally chose the ricotta and fig gelato. It was incredibly creamy with a perfect balance of sweet and subtle tang that provided welcome relief from the heat.

Despite the long lines, service moved very quickly, making the wait worthwhile for these unique frozen treats.

Other noteworthy flavor combinations include the chocolate and pears, white chocolate and coconut, and the refreshing lemon juice with honey that perfectly captures the essence of the Italian coast.

Each flavor showcases the gelateria’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative pairings that you won’t find at typical gelato shops.