abrunettetravels Last updated on May 19th, 2023 at 08:24 pm
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When people talk about visiting the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre is a common choice. It is a Unesco World Heritage site comprised of 5 hill towns by the Ligurian Sea. Its rugged landscape dotted with colorful homes makes it a popular stop with tourists and tour groups. However, there is one simple trick that will help you to enjoy Cinque Terre–spend the night.
Once the crowds leave in the late afternoon, you will be able to wander a little more freely. You can enjoy dinner overlooking the sea. Awaken with the village before the crowds arrive. Enjoy your coffee in peace before sightseeing.
How to Get There
The best and easiest way to visit Cinque Terre is to take the train. Many people travel from La Spezia to each of the villages, but you can also start from Levanto.
Villages
Even though the 5 towns are close in proximity, they each have a personality of their own, therefore, each one is worth your time.
Riomaggiore– The first stop on the train from La Spezia. It has a shoreline, waterfront and wharf that makes it a wonderful place for sunset views. Couples frequent Riomaggiore for romantic getaways.
Hotels to consider
Manarola– The oldest of the villages, Manarola has been known as a fishing village and winemaking community. The small piazza has seafood restaurants offering fresh, local seafood. The hiking trails above the vineyards are perfect for walking off the wonderful food in Italy.
Hotels to consider
Corniglia- The only town not located on the sea, Corniglia also sees the fewest number of tourists. you will need to walk up 382 steps to get to the center of town.
Hotels to consider
Vernazza– A charming village with a cute little harbor and stone seawall. The walk down to the water is lined with shops selling local olive oil, pesto, wine and handmade goods. Enjoy fresh seafood or pesto focaccia bread at one of the small eateries.
Hotels to consider
Monterosso al Mare– Most resembling an Italian beachside resort community, this also is one of the busiest villages. Monterosso is also the least hilly of the 5 villages.
Hotels to consider
Picking one of the villages to spend at least one night will help you to enjoy your stay in Cinque Terre and experience the ambiance of the villages.
How to Visit the Villages
Cinque Terre has multiple ways to visit each town. Each one gives a different perspective and beautiful views
Train- The train is the fastest way to move from village to village. The express train runs between La Spezia and Levanto stopping in each village. It runs in each direction approximately 4x per hour. It’s a scenic walk to the city center from each of the train stations.
Ferry– Enjoy the coastline as you relax on the ferry. Take in the steep hills, pastel houses and vineyards as you move from town to town. The ferry runs from the end of March until the 1st of November
Hiking– Hiking is one of the best ways to explore each of the 5 towns. There is an 11km trail called the Blue Trail that connects Riomaggiore to Monterosso al Mare. Some sections of the trail are easy and sometimes paved, other sections have steep hills and steps. The time it takes to hike the trail depends on how long you linger and enjoy each village.
Cinque Terre Card
The Cinque Terre Card is a great option for people who want to hike and/or use the train. The Trekking card gives access to hiking trails and use of the bus system for 7.50Euro for one day or 14.50Euro for 2 days. The Cinque Terre Train card provides unlimited train use between La Spezia and Levanto, access to the hiking paths and use of the bus system for 18.20Euro for one day or 33Euro for 2 days. Skip the lines and purchase your card online before leaving.
Food and Drink
The Ligurian region, Cinque Terre in particular, is known for certain foods and wine. When visiting Cinque Terre, make sure you try the sweet Sciacchetra- a wine only found in this region. It is also the birthplace of pesto. Try it on pasta, pizza or my favorite, focaccia bread. Pick up a jar or 2 to take home with you. If you don’t try it with pesto, make sure you still try the focaccia. Some of the best focaccia bread is found between here and Genoa.
If food and drink are one of your favorite aspects of vacation, a food and wine tour might be for you. Cinque Terre tours offers a great option that teaches you how to make pesto and then you get to sample the wonderful food and wine. You will be able to slow down and enjoy being in Cinque Terre.
Conclusion
Cinque Terre is popular with tourists, however, that doesn’t mean you should avoid it. By spending one night, you will get to experience the beautiful, romantic Italian Riviera without all the crowds. Pick the village you want to stay in and spend the evening watching the sunset over the cliffs with a glass of wine. Spending the night is one easy way to make your stay here more enjoyable.
Interested in visiting Rome? Read HERE ideas on how to avoid the crowds for one day.
If you have been to Cinque Terre, comment below with your favorite village.
