Things to do in Cinque Terre
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cinque Terre has to offer
Historic Monuments
Cinque Terre’s hillside towns hide ancient fortifications and structures that tell of maritime guard and old-world life along the Ligurian coast.
Castello Doria
16th-century fortress in Vernazza that sits above the harbor and offers coastal views.
Chiesa di Santa Margherita di Antiochia
Vernazza’s historic church with a distinctive bell tower and coastal setting.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
Parish church with a classic Ligurian façade, representing Riomaggiore’s religious heritage.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Manarola’s parish church set among the colorful houses along the hillside.
Museums
Small local museums in the villages shed light on the sea, land, and daily life that shaped Cinque Terre.
Museo della Cinque Terre
Compact museum exploring the history, people, and landscapes of the five villages.
Museo del Mare e della Cantina
Exhibits on maritime traditions and regional wine culture.
Galleria d'Arte Locale
Small gallery featuring works by local Ligurian artists.
Religious Monuments
The churches and sanctuaries of Cinque Terre offer intimate glimpses into the spiritual life of the villages.
Chiesa di Santa Margherita di Antiochia
Vernazza’s venerable church dating back to the 14th century.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista
Riomaggiore’s parish church with a dramatic bell tower.
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
Manarola’s parish church perched among the colorful houses.
Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista - Monterosso
Monterosso’s historic church at the main square.
National & Theme Parks
Natural protection areas surround Cinque Terre, offering dramatic coastal scenery and hiking possibilities.
Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
Coastal national park protecting the five villages and their trails.
Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere
Regional park featuringPorto Venere coastline and nearby islands.
Isola Palmaria
Island in the Gulf of La Spezia, popular for hiking and sea views.
Neighborhoods
Each village has its own character—the perfect starting point for a stroll through time-worn lanes.
Monterosso al Mare
The largest village with a broad beach and a lively old town.
Vernazza
Picturesque harbor village with steep letterbox-styled houses and a classic square.
Corniglia
Clifftop village accessible by stairs, surrounded by olive terraces.
Manarola
Famed for its pastel houses and scenic waterfront along the cliffs.
Riomaggiore
Southernmost village known for its narrow lanes and colorful façades.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the beauty of Cinque Terre without an entry fee—simply wander and soak in the scenery.
Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)
Coastal hike connecting the five villages with sweeping views.
Watch sunset from Vernazza's harbor
A tranquil moment as boats return and colors shift.
Stroll through Riomaggiore's alleyways
Wander the colorful lanes and capture postcard-worthy scenes.
Relax on Monterosso's Fegina Beach
Open beach space ideal for a sun-soaked afternoon.
Gastronomy
Taste the Ligurian coast with fresh seafood, pesto, and regional wines.
Pesto Genovese with trofie
Herbaceous sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic and cheese.
Focaccia al formaggio
Cheesy Ligurian focaccia baked golden and bubbly.
Sciacchetrà wine
Sweet dessert wine produced in small quantities nearby.
Acciughe under olive oil
Fresh Ligurian anchovies served with olive oil and lemon.
Nightlife
Evening ambiance centers on seaside bars, terraces, and gentle conversations
Seaside bars in Monterosso
Casual spots for an aperitif with ocean views.
Sunset drinks in Vernazza
Relaxed terrace spots as the sun sinks over the harbor.
Evening strolls along Riomaggiore's waterfront
Gentle nightlife with music, drinks, and sea breeze.
Entertainment
Coastal experiences and scenic transport provide memorable moments.
Boat tour along the Cinque Terre coast
See the villages from the water and enjoy the sea breeze.
Cinque Terre Express train ride
Relaxing ride between villages with ocean views.
Sunset cruise from Monterosso
Evening boat trip to admire the coast as night falls.
Sports
Active travelers can hike, kayak, and snorkel along the coast.
Hiking the coastal trails (Sentieri)
Choose segments of the Blue Trail for panoramic views.
Kayaking along the coast
Paddle along cliffs and near secluded coves.
Snorkeling along rocky coves
Explore underwater life near the villages.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the postcard views to discover quieter spots and terraces.
Corniglia terraces walk
Explore ancient terrace walls with sweeping coastal views.
Hidden lanes of Manarola
Follow quieter routes away from the main crowds.
Boat or fishing village visit
Experience a working fishing village away from the busiest routes.