More about: Best Things to Do In Cinque Terre In 3 Days
Cinque Terre is a national park in the Liguria region that encompasses five of Italy’s most beautiful villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. These villages are known for their colorful little houses perched on the cliffs, scenic trails, and unbeatable views of the sea. If you’re wondering how much time to set aside, three days is ideal, and to get there, you can book a tour to Cinque Terre from Florence or Milan.
Day 1: Discover Monterosso al Mare and picturesque Vernazza
The best way to explore Cinque Terre is by train, thanks to its speed and proximity to the historic centers. With the Cinque Terre Express, you can travel as much as you like between the villages in a single day. Many travelers choose to stay in La Spezia, where you can book a tour to Cinque Terre from La Spezia, although Monterosso also has a good selection of hotels. Today we’ll start in this village and end in Vernazza.
Discover Monterosso al Mare, the largest village in Cinque Terre
Monterosso is the largest and most populous of the five villages, boasting the longest beach in the area. It features a charming historic center, a picturesque harbor, and ideal spots for a summer swim if you’re visiting Cinque Terre during the summer. You can book a kayaking tour or a sunset boat cruise. Don’t miss the Church of St. Francis, the Church of St. John the Baptist, and Villa Montale.
Go horseback riding in Monterosso
Another unique experience is booking a horseback ride through Monterosso to enjoy the natural surroundings by the sea with a professional guide. It’s the perfect way to relax and take photos with postcard-worthy views.
Head to your next destination, Vernazza
After Monterosso, the next stop is Vernazza, which you can reach by train, on foot, or by boat. This fishing village is famous for its central square, the Church of Santa Margherita, and its pastel-colored houses. Explore its historic center and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Take a break to sample the local cuisine
At lunchtime, try the traditional trofie with Genoese pesto or spaghetti ai frutti di mare. You can also book a food tour or a gnocchi and pesto cooking class in Riomaggiore to immerse yourself even further in the flavors of Liguria.
Continue your stroll and head up to a very special viewpoint
After lunch, walk to the harbor and head up to the famous viewpoint located at the start of the trail to Monterosso. It’s a 15-minute climb that offers a spectacular view of the village. Remember that you’ll need the Cinque Terre Card to access most of the trails.
End the day watching the sunset from Doria Castle
End the day by visiting Doria Castle, an ancient fortress with a standing tower from which you can watch one of the most beautiful sunsets in Cinque Terre. Admission costs around €2.
Day 2: Plan a route to visit Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Corniglia
On the second day, you’ll explore the three remaining villages: Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Cinque Terre has so much to offer, and this day proves it.
Start the day in the highest village in Cinque Terre, Corniglia
Corniglia is the only one of the five without direct access to the sea, and it’s also the quietest. After climbing the Scalinata Lardarina —nearly 400 steps—or taking the minibus included with the Cinque Terre Card, you’ll reach its historic center. The views from the top are breathtaking, with the churches of San Pietro and Santa Caterina standing out.
Visit Manarola, the next stop on your tour
Manarola is one of the jewels of the Cinque Terre. Enjoy its narrow, colorful streets, head down to the harbor, and have a glass of wine at the famous Nessun Dorma with views of the sea. If you’re interested in wine, you can also book a tasting. Don’t forget to stroll along Via di Mezzo and try some authentic focaccia.
Walk along the famous Via dell’Amore
Before reaching Riomaggiore, walk along the famous Via dell’Amore, the easiest and most romantic stretch of the Sentiero Azzurro. This trail connects Manarola with Riomaggiore along the coast.
Discover Riomaggiore, the last of the villages that make up Cinque Terre
Riomaggiore is known for its picturesque pier, the Church of St. John the Baptist, and Riomaggiore Castle. If you plan to spend the night in Cinque Terre, take the opportunity to watch the sunset from its cove or book a cooking class.
Day 3: Take a day trip to another of Liguria’s treasures, Portovenere
If you’re visiting Cinque Terre for two days or touring it in a single day, you should focus on the five villages. But if you have more time, you can take a day trip to Portovenere, another of Liguria’s treasures.
Enjoy your visit to Portovenere
You can reach Portovenere by bus from La Spezia, by ferry, or even on a guided tour from Riomaggiore. Book a boat tour of Cinque Terre from La Spezia for a scenic option. Explore the Gulf of Poets, its harbor, Byron’s Cave, the Church of St. Peter, and Via Capellini, lined with bars and shops.
End your trip with one last stroll and a pleasant dinner
Round out your itinerary with a stroll through La Spezia, visiting the harbor, the Thaon di Revel Bridge, Piazza Garibaldi, the cathedral, or the Medieval Castle of San Giorgio. If you’re staying in one of the Cinque Terre villages, take the opportunity to say goodbye with ocean views and a delicious dinner.