Looking for the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Cinque Terre? Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, you will love this guide to the things to do in Cinque Terre. It includes Cinque Terre’s must-do things, hidden gems, and must-see spots!
Cinque Terre is one of those places that sneaks up on you. It’s not just the dramatic cliffs and colorful villages that steal your heart—it’s the way the breeze carries the scent of saltwater and wildflowers, the way the sun kisses your skin, and how every view feels like a painting come to life. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through these five villages, and let me tell you, it’s one of the most unforgettable places I’ve ever visited. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Cinque Terre, Itay. Each of these things to do in Cinque Terre carries a memory, a moment, and a slice of the magic that makes this place so special
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27 Unforgettable Things to Do in Cinque Terre
1. Stroll Riomaggiore’s Marina
One of my first memories of Cinque Terre was arriving in Riomaggiore. It was my first stop on my visit to Cinque Terre, and I’ll never forget the rush of stepping into the vibrant marina of Riomaggiore. The colorful buildings, the fishing boats swaying gently in the harbor, and the hum of life around you—it’s impossible not to smile. I spent a few hours there, people-watching, feeling the sea breeze, and soaking in the beauty of it all.
Pro Tip: Get away from the crowds, pause for a moment by the water, and just be. It’s the perfect place to take in the simplicity of village life.
2. Visit the Basilica of St. John in Riomaggiore
When I stumbled upon Riomaggiore’s Basilica of St. John (Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista), it wasn’t just the architecture that captured me; it was the quiet. As I walked inside, the air was cooler, and the peacefulness was almost tangible. I sat on one of the pews for a few moments, just letting the space wash over me. The beauty of the place didn’t demand attention—it simply asked for a quiet appreciation. And I felt connected to something timeless there. Don’t miss out on visiting the Basilica of St. John in Riomaggiore!
3. Climb to the Castle of Riomaggiore
After the marina and the Church of St John, I felt like I had to see more, so I hiked up to Riomaggiore’s Castle (Castello di Riomaggiore). Let me tell you—the view is absolutely worth it. Standing on top, I felt like I had the whole world beneath me. The village stretched out, the azure sea glittered in the distance, and it was so peaceful up there. It felt like the perfect place to reflect on life. Climb to the Castle of Riomaggiore, and enjoy the views!
4. Climb to the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Montenero (Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero) is a hidden gem. The climb is steep (I mean, STEEP!), but once you reach the top, it seems like the world opens up. The view of Riomaggiore and the Mediterranean below makes every step worthwhile. There’s something so spiritual about the place—especially when you stand in front of the sanctuary and look out over the vast, infinite sea. It’s a humbling experience and one you won’t forget.
5. Walk the Lover’s Path (Via dell’Amore) from Riomaggiore to Manarola
One of your favorite moments in Cinque Terre probably will be walking along the 900 m-long Via dell’Amore (the Lover’s Path). There’s something about this trail that feels magical. As you walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola, the sound of waves crashing below and the rustling of the plants makes it feel like the world is in a slow, dreamy rhythm. It’s called the Lover’s Path for a reason—there’s a romantic, almost cinematic feel to the entire walk. You will for sure be snapping pictures with your phone, but you will never truly capture the magic of the moment. You need to book a specific time slot and date on the official site of Cinque Terre National Park for walking the Lover’s Path. The entrance fee to the Via dell’Amore is € 10, which you must either add to your Cinque Terre Card or buy a card that includes the Lover’s Path.
6. Explore the Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Manarola
When I reached Manarola, I made a beeline for the Church of St Lawrence (Chiesa di San Lorenzo). The church is beautiful—its old stone walls and simple, elegant interior give off a warm, timeless feeling. I remember walking in, the cool air hitting me after the hot sun outside, and just feeling like I’d stepped into a space where time doesn’t matter. This church in the center of Manarola felt like a quiet anchor in a village full of life. I’ll always associate it with that moment of peaceful reflection in the middle of a busy day. Visiting the Church of St Lawrence is a must in Manarola!
7. Eat at Nessun Dorma in Manarola
If you’re a foodie like me, you can’t miss Nessun Dorma restaurant in Manarola. It’s tucked into a cliffside in Manarola, and dining there with views of the village and the sea below felt like something out of a dream. I had the most perfect pesto bruschetta with tomatoes and cheese, and the flavors were vibrant, fresh, and so full of love. Every bite felt like it came straight from the land. It’s one of those meals that stays with you long after the plate’s empty. Nessun Dorma is one of the most popular restaurants in Cinque Terre and you need to book your table in advance. You can book it through the Nessun Dorma App. Find more here.
8. Do Wine Tasting in Manarola
Let me tell you, wine tasting in Manarola is a must. After exploring the village, I found a small family-run wine shop with panoramic views of the hills. They poured me a glass of Sciacchetrà, a local dessert wine, and I’m pretty sure I fell in love with Cinque Terre even more in that moment. The vineyards here have been around for generations, and tasting the wine that’s made from these sun-kissed, steep slopes felt like sipping history itself. Every drop was like a piece of the land. Manarola is famous for its wine. Sampling local wines in Manarola is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre. Check out this wine-tasting tour.
9. Take Sunset Photos of Manarola
If you visit Manarola and don’t take a sunset photo, did you even really visit? I remember rushing to get my camera just in time to catch the golden hour—the sky turning into hues of pink and orange while the sun dipped beneath the horizon. The buildings of Manarola looked even more magical in the soft light, and I’ll never forget the peacefulness of the moment. The photos I took will always remind me of how surreal it felt to witness the day end in such a beautiful, timeless place.
10. Hike the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) from Manarola to Corniglia
The Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) hike is a classic for a reason. It’s so scenic! This section of the Blue Trail is moderately challenging, but nothing compares to the feeling of reaching Corniglia after an hour of hiking through cliffs and vineyards. The trail hugs the coastline, offering the most incredible views of the turquoise sea and the colorful villages dotting the landscape. The trail is 2 km / 1.2 miles long. The trail ends with 377 steps of Lardina Stairway. The sense of accomplishment at the end is unmatched.
11. Take the Lardarina Steps in Corniglia
When in Corniglia, taking the Lardarina steps (Scalinata Lardarina) is a must. With 377 steps, taking this red-brick stairway feels like a mini workout, but the views along the way are so worth it. You will probably feel the sweat on your brow, but with each step, you will see Corniglia unfold before you in all its beauty. It’s definitely a challenge. I remember feeling so proud when I reached the top and looked out over the vast expanse of Cinque Terre below. You will feel proud too!
12. Chill in the Peacefulness of Corniglia
Corniglia had a calmness about it that I absolutely loved. After exploring the other more tourist-heavy villages, I loved just sitting in a quiet café, enjoying the view of the cliffs, and letting the world pass me by for a while. There’s something so refreshing about Corniglia’s slower pace—it’s the perfect place to just be. I highly recommend it to anyone needing a break from the more bustling spots. Cinque Terre can be crowded, especially in the peak season (July-August). Head to Corniglia to chill in a peaceful oasis!
13. Visit the St. Peter Church in Corniglia
After a day of hiking, I stumbled into St. Peter Church (Chiesa di San Pietro) in Corniglia. The peaceful atmosphere was exactly what I needed after the bustle of the trails, and sitting in the quiet church, I took a moment to reflect. It’s small, and humble, but incredibly beautiful in its simplicity. It felt like a sacred pause before continuing on my journey.
14. See the Ruins of Genovese Fortifications in Corniglia
Corniglia is a quieter village, but the Genovese Fortifications were such a cool discovery. As I wandered through the ancient ruins, I couldn’t help but imagine life here hundreds of years ago—defending the village from invaders, protecting this piece of paradise. The history felt alive in the air. It was a peaceful spot to stop and think about how much this place has weathered through the centuries. Visit the Genovese Fortifications to reflect on the past times of the area!
15. Swim in Vernazza’s Harbour
One of my most memorable moments was swimming in Vernazza’s harbor after a day of hiking. The water was cool and clear, and as I swam out a little, I felt like I was floating in an endless postcard. It’s one of those things you have to do when you visit Vernazza—there’s nothing like taking a dip in the only natural port in Cinque Terre. Don’t be shy, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea in Vernazza harbor. Local people swim there, you can too!
16. Check Out the Views from Castello Doria
If you want to get a bird’s-eye view of Vernazza, the climb up to Doria Castle Tower (Castello Doria) is worth it. I remember looking out over the village from the top, the waves crashing against the rocks below, and feeling a deep sense of awe at how beautifully this village had been built into the cliffs. It’s a humbling view and one that reminds you just how much nature and human ingenuity have come together here. Check out the views from the top of Doria Castle Tower in Vernazza. The views are some of teh best in Cinque Terre! The entrance fee is €2, cash only.
17. See the Monastery of St Francis in Vernazza
The Monastery of St Francis (Convento Di San Francesco) was another peaceful retreat I stumbled upon in Vernazza. It sits on a hill above the village, and the quiet solitude there is the perfect way to recharge. It’s tucked away, so not a lot of people stop by, but that’s what makes it special—it feels like you’re in a secret corner of Cinque Terre.
18. Check Out the Vineyards Above Vernazza
One afternoon, I decided to hike up to the vineyards above Vernazza, and it was a decision I’m so glad I made. The terraced vineyards stretch for miles, and as I walked through them, I felt completely immersed in the landscape. There was something almost meditative about being surrounded by the vines and hearing only the wind and the distant sound of waves crashing. It’s a quiet, beautiful corner of Cinque Terre, and it offers the perfect balance to the busier village below. Panoramic vineyard trekking above Vernazza is one of the best things to do in Cinque Terre. Don’t miss it out!
19. Hike the Blue Trail from Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare
Hiking the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro) from Vernazza to Monterosso was definitely one of my favorite trails. The path winds through the cliffs, vineyards, and forest. The slope becomes sharper near Monterosso. But overall, it’s one of the most scenic and easiest trails in Cinque Terre. Hike it! It takes up to 2 hours to hike it. When you reach Monterosso, award yourself with a dip in the sea.
20. Enjoy the Beaches in Monterosso al Mare
If you’re craving some relaxation after all the hiking, Monterosso is the place to be. I spent a whole afternoon lounging on Fegina Beach there, the warm sun on my face and the cool water washing over my feet. It’s a nice change of pace and a great way to unwind after all the exploration. Fegina Beach is the biggest public beach in Monterosso. However, Stazione, Tragagià, Gigante, and Portiglione Beach are also free public beaches in Monterosso, perfect for swimming and sunbathing! Enjoying the public beaches in Monterosso al Mare is one of the best free things to do in Cinque Terre.
21. Visit the Church of St. John in Monterosso al Mare
The Church of St. John, The Baptist (Parrocchia di S. Giovanni Battista) in Monterosso was a peaceful stop on my Cinque Terre visit. The church is simple but beautiful, with a lovely atmosphere that invites reflection. It’s a nice spot to catch your breath before heading to the next adventure.
22. See the Giant of Neptune in Monterosso al Mare
You can’t leave Monterosso without seeing the Giant of Neptune (Statua del Gigante). It’s this huge statue overlooking the beach, and it’s kind of quirky but totally iconic. Visitors love snapping a photo with Neptune in the background—it’s one of those fun moments to remember forever.
23. Have Dinner in The Aurora Tower
Go to the restaurant in the Aurora Tower at the foot of San Cristoforo Hill to have dinner with a great view. Go for sunset – the view of the coastline and the sea is absolutely breathtaking! The Aurora Tower divides the old town and the new town of Monterosso. The Fegina Beach and the promenade are on one side, and the historic center is on the other side. The 16th-century tower was built to defend Monterosso from pirate raids. Today there is a a lounge bar and restaurant in Aurora Tower!
24. Do Train Hopping Between the Towns
Of course, when I wasn’t hiking, I train-hopped between the towns. It’s the quickest and most convenient way to move between the towns, and it gives you a chance to sit back, relax, and let the scenic views roll by. The journey between each town takes only a few minutes. It is short but scenic! The Cinque Terre Train Card includes unlimited train travel on the Cinque Terre Express trains on the Levanto – Cinque Terre – La Spezia line. Depending on the season, a one-day card costs from € 19.50 to € 32.50. A 2-day card costs from € 34 to € 59. A 3-day card costs from € 46.50 to € 78.50. This card is well worth of buying – it gives access to the trails, buses, and trains!
25. Explore the Hiking Trails in Cinque Terre
With so 48 hiking trails in Cinque Terre in total, there’s always something new to discover in Cinque Terre. I’d recommend exploring the Sanctuaries and Churches trail, the Terraced Vineyard Landscapes Trail, or the Nature Trail—they’ll take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the landscape. You’ll see the terraced vineyards, quiet coves, and hidden gems that make Cinque Terre so special.
RELATED READ: The Ultimate Cinque Terre Hike
26. Take a Sunset Boat Tour
Finally, if you really want to experience Cinque Terre like never before, hop on a sunset boat tour. Watching the towns light up as the sun sets behind the cliffs was pure magic. It felt like the end of a dream—a perfect, peaceful close to my adventure.
27. Sample Local Food Delicacies
And let’s not forget about the food. I couldn’t get enough of the focaccia, pesto, and fresh anchovies. Every meal felt like an explosion of flavor, and I savored every bite. Lemon gelato became my go-to treat, especially after a long hike or swim in the sea. Treat yourself to local Ligiurian delicacies in Cinque Terre!
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre – Choosing the Right Town for You
Each Cinque Terre town has its own character, so the best place to stay really depends on your interests and preferences. Here is a summary to make it easier to choose where to stay in Cinque Terre.
- For the beach and comfort: Monterosso (check out Hotel Porto Roca)
- For breathtaking views and quiet charm: Vernazza (Hotel Gianni Franzi)
- For romantic sunsets and a peaceful vibe: Manarola (check out Hotel Ca’ D’Andrean)
- For a lively and central base: Riomaggiore (Affittacamere Anna Michielini )
- For easy access and a larger selection of accommodations: La Spezia (a town 14 minutes by train from Cinque Terre. A train ticket €1 – €4). Boat tours of Cinque Terre are also popular from La Spezia!
READ MORE: Where to Stay in Cinque Terre? – A Detailed Guide
Final Thoughts On The Things To Do in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a place that will stay with you long after you leave. Every village, every trail, every meal is an experience that invites you to slow down, be present, and appreciate the simple joys of life. It’s not just a destination—it’s a feeling. And once you’ve experienced it, you’ll understand why this coastal paradise is one of the most magical places on Earth.
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