Time-limited vacationers often ask us this one question when planning a trip to Italy – Why should we visit Cinque Terre when we would have already visited Amalfi Coast?
I know, I am supposed to say BOTH are important destinations! But limited time and a fixed budget are pesky little truths of modern vacations that make this a valid question.
Of course, before we enter this discussion, the one assumption I am gonna make is that the rest of your trip to Italy is already decided upon – Cultural Florence, Historical Rome, Foodie’s heaven Naples, “Prada is life” Milan and “Bellagio or Varenna” Lake Como. No!? then you need more help than this post can give you my friend. Skip to the end to the contact us section and call or message me today. Lest we waste away! For other’s read on…
Cinque Terre basics
Tucked away on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, close to that small town with the Crooked Tower, Cinque Terre is an Instagrammer’s dream destination made up of five charming seaside villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. With its pastel-colored houses perched on cliffs, fresh seafood, and scenic hiking trails, Cinque Terre is a beauty caught between the sky and the sea.
Planning it out and reasons to visit:
1. Start in Monterosso
The largest and flattest of the villages, Monterosso is best known for its sandy beach — a rarity in Cinque Terre AND it has the largest public car parking within the 5 villages – so drive here first if planning an early morning start. Late latifs like me, should drive to La Spezia and visit the 5 villages in the reverse order of what’s mentioned on this post. In Monterosso, visit the old town with its charming shops. The new town has more of a resort vibe, after the town, hit the beach. Also see the Statue of the Giant, a massive Neptune sculpture carved into the cliffside – located at the end of Fegina beach.
After the above head to the train station here and buy the Cinque Terre Card – it allows you unlimited train rides between 4 out of the 5 villages. The fifth village, Corniglia, is a climb / trek from Manarola
2. Vernazza
Vernazza is often considered the most picturesque of the five and you will see why when you visit. Break for lunch here. Visit the Doria Castle for a panoramic view of the coastline or dine al fresco by the water with a plate of trofie al pesto — a regional specialty.
3. Manarola
Next up is Manarola a charming town with pure Italian grace. Grab some of its street food like fresh focaccia or a cone of fritto misto (usually seafood here) from a street vendor and sit by the rocks at the harbor. Walk uphill to Punta Bonfiglio for IG-worthy pics and views over the village.
4. Hike to Corniglia
Corniglia is the only village not connected by the train, ergo you have to walk don’t you.. and walk uphill while at it cause Corniglia sits atop a cliff. Why should I sweat you ask… cause it also offers the best views in all of Cinque Terre. To reach here, you can hike from Manarola or climb the Lardarina, a 400-step staircase from the train station. The village is quieter and less touristy, and that’s why we probably liked it here. Take a break from sightseeing here. If you must, then there is the Church of San Pietro, that can be visited.
5. Riomaggiore
The last village on our list – Riomaggiore is known for its vibrant harbor, pastel buildings, and romantic vibe. Wander the narrow alleys including the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) — a short, scenic path that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola (note: the Lovers Lane is closed at the time of writing this post). Oops, you say, I should have probably written about the Lovers Lane under Manarola then? No my friend, it’s a one way walking lane! Entry is only from Riomaggiore. The Lover’s Lane, like all love, is not without a little pain, you have to pay a fee to walk this path.
Tips:
- The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) connects all five villages and is known for its scenic views. The full trail is about 12 km (7.5 miles)
- The High Trail (Sentiero Rosso) runs further inland with sweeping mountain views.
- Try Pesto alla Genovese – its a sauce made with local basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil.
- The Anchovies (fish) from Monterosso – are salty, fresh, and a protected delicacy.
- Sample the local Sciacchetrà wine – a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes grown in the terraced vineyards.
- Try the Cinqueterre DOC white wine, it’s made from grapes grown right on the cliffs you’re walking past!
Final Thoughts
Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast only share one trait – both are on cliffs. The similarity ends right there. Cinque Terre has for long been considered a place of natural beauty, authentic Italian culture, and warm hospitality. It’s not taxing on your wallet like the Amalfi Coast, takes lesser time to visit and appreciate and can be planned as a day trip from Chianti, Sienna or Florence, if you are in a hurry.
The simple honest truth — Cinque Terre is more beautiful than the Amalfi Coast any day. My opinion I know but on this post, that’s the only one that matters. Whether you’re hiking between villages, watching the sunset with gelato in hand, or simply breathing in the sea air, every moment is full of charm and warmth. You have to go there to feel it.
Contact us for more
For more detailed itinerary, please contact us at SnapTours – we specialize in selected destinations – Europe, Bali, New Zealand and Canada.
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