For starters, Cinque Terre is not just “one place.” It is a combination of 5 amazing villages on the coast of the Italian Riviera: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
There are many ways to get between cities, but the best way to do it is to hike.
- It is 5 amazing cities, all in one.
I went on a guided hike through Cinque Terre for only $100 via a package from Viator. Since staying overnight in the villages can be pretty pricey, I stayed in Florence and went on the day tour instead. I don’t typically prefer guided tours, but if you plan on hiking all 5 cities, I highly recommend it. How often can you visit 5 separate Italian cities for only $100?
2. Breathtaking views and beaches.
Every single city was equally as beautiful in its own way. My personal favorite was near the end of the trip (we ended in Riomaggiore, I believe). We had the opportunity to spend a couple of hours relaxing at the beach and touring the shops.
3. You can take ferries instead of hiking.
If you’re not down for the hike (which you totally should be) you can always opt into taking ferries between cities. During our tour, we took a boat ride between two of the cities. It’s (almost) equally as incredible a view.
4. The seafood is incredible.
As to be expected, the seafood in Cinque Terre was incredible. We stopped in Corniglia for lunch and were given a plethora of seafood to try. Although the presentation wasn’t quite there, what it lacked in visual appeal it made up for in taste. I’m not even sure what I was eating. I just know that you have to try it.
5. The cities are off the beaten path.
This is great if you love the outdoors. If you’re traveling throughout Italy, chances are you plan on hitting the obvious checkpoints: Rome, Venice, Florence, etc. Cinque Terre is less talked about – probably due to the fact that it is in the Italian Riviera, which is harder to get to. This (somewhat) hidden gem is definitely a trip you must take, especially if you already plan on going to Florence!
Bonus: The people are so nice! They even put up “helpful” signs so you don’t get hurt while hiking 😉
Have you been to Cinque Terre? What awesome features did I forget to mention?
Skye B. Schooley 