Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a beautiful and colorful coastal area located in the Liguria region of Italy, consisting of five small villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The name “Cinque Terre” means “Five Lands” in Italian and refers to the five picturesque towns that cling to the rugged cliffs along the Ligurian Sea. In the Middle Age, these villages were completely isolated and were only accessible by the sea or by winding paths which are still used today. The houses of Cinque Terre are very tall and colorful. As in Burano Ligurian fishermen painted their walls with the brightest colors so they could be seen from the larch when they were out fishing. And as for its height; especially houses in Riomaggiore are often very tall, that is because building taller buildings was cheaper as the houses are located on a rocky coast. The area is renowned for its scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as its delicious seafood and local wines. Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from all over the world for its natural beauty and charming, laid-back atmosphere.
The Five Villages
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is famous for its colorful houses that climb up the steep hillside, connected by narrow alleys and stairways. The harbor of Riomaggiore is a bustling hub of activity with fishing boats and ferries departing to other villages. Visitors can stroll along the rocky coastline, sunbathe on the small beach or enjoy fresh seafood in one of the many restaurants. The village also offers great hiking opportunities, such as the famous Via dell’Amore trail that leads to Manarola. Riomaggiore is a charming and authentic destination that captures the essence of the Cinque Terre.
Manarola
Manarola is the second smallest of the five villages and is famous for its colorful houses and stunning views of the Ligurian Sea. The village is perched on a rocky promontory and surrounded by vineyards that produce the famous Sciacchetrà wine. Manarola’s narrow streets and staircases lead to a small harbor where fishing boats are moored. The village has a peaceful and authentic atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy the local cuisine, which includes seafood, pasta, and pesto. One of the best ways to experience Manarola is by walking the scenic trail to Riomaggiore, which offers spectacular views of the village and the sea.
Corniglia
Corniglia is not directly on the coastline but rather situated on a hilltop. The village is accessible by a staircase of over 380 steps or by a shuttle bus service. Corniglia is known for its winding streets, colorful houses, and stunning panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding hillsides. Visitors can explore the village’s small shops and cafes, and enjoy local specialties like the famous Ligurian pesto. Corniglia is also a great starting point for hiking the nearby trails and exploring the beautiful countryside. It is the quietest of the five villages, and offers a glimpse into traditional Italian village life.
Vernazza
Vernazza is known for its picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and stunning views of the surrounding hillsides. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, sample local wines and cuisine, swim in the sea, and take boat tours. The Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, dating back to the 13th century, is also a popular attraction. The village is a great starting point for hiking the famous Sentiero Azzurro trail, which connects all five villages of the Cinque Terre. Vernazza is a must-visit destination for its charm, beauty, and authentic Italian atmosphere.
Monterosso
Monterosso al Mare is the largest and most popular village in the Cinque Terre region of Italy. It boasts a long sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and a lively promenade lined with bars and restaurants. Monterosso is divided into two parts by a rocky outcrop: the old town with its narrow streets and colorful houses, and the new town with more modern amenities. Vernazza is the most picturesque village of the Cinque Terre, with a small harbor, a medieval tower, and a beautiful square overlooking the sea.
Where to eat?
Monterosso al Mare:
Ristorante Miky: Offers fine dining with a focus on fresh seafood and Ligurian cuisine.
Ristorante Al Carugio: Serves traditional Italian dishes made with local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Vernazza:
Belforte: Located on a cliff overlooking the sea, this restaurant serves fresh seafood and homemade pasta.
Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre: Offers a range of seafood dishes and local wines, with a terrace overlooking the harbor.
Corniglia:
A Cantina da Mananan: A cozy wine bar that serves local wines and small bites, including homemade focaccia.
Caffe Matteo: A charming cafe that serves coffee, wine, and light snacks, with a terrace offering panoramic views.
Manarola:
Trattoria dal Billy: A family-run restaurant that serves traditional Ligurian dishes and homemade wine.
Nessun Dorma: A wine bar with stunning views of the village and the sea, serving light bites and local wines. Make a reservation prior your visit!
Riomaggiore:
La Lampara: Offers traditional seafood dishes, fresh pasta, and local wines, with a terrace overlooking the sea.
Il Grottino: A cozy restaurant that serves homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and local wines, with a focus on sustainability and seasonality.
How to travel around
The best way to travel around Cinque Terre and visit the villages is by foot, train, or boat.
Walking is a popular way to explore the villages, as there are several hiking trails that connect the villages and offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hillsides. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Trail, which connects all five villages of the Cinque Terre.
Trains are also a convenient and efficient way to get around. The Cinque Terre Express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping at each of the five villages. The trains run frequently and are relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice for visitors.
Boat tours are another great way to explore the villages, offering a unique perspective from the sea. Visitors can take a boat tour from one village to another, enjoying the beautiful coastline and stunning views along the way.
Overall, the best way to travel around Cinque Terre depends on personal preferences and interests. Walking is great for exploring the hiking trails and enjoying the scenery, while trains are efficient and convenient for getting around quickly. Boat tours offer a unique experience and a different perspective of the villages.
Did you know that..?
…Cinque Terre, which means “Five Lands” in Italian, is actually made up of five charming coastal villages along the Ligurian coast of Italy.
…The five villages of Cinque Terre are Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village has its own unique character and charm, and all are connected by hiking trails, trains, and boats.
…Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique and picturesque landscape, as well as its historic and cultural significance.
…The steep and rocky terrain of the Cinque Terre region has made agriculture a challenge, but the locals have found a way to cultivate the land by building terraces along the hillsides. These terraces, known as “fasce,” are supported by stone walls and have been used to grow grapes, olives, and other crops for centuries.
…The cuisine of Cinque Terre is known for its fresh seafood, pesto sauce, and locally-produced wine. One popular local specialty is “trofie al pesto,” a pasta dish made with homemade trofie pasta and fresh basil pesto sauce.
