The 5 Villages of Cinque Terre

Elegance and old-world charm are what you will find in the largest of Cinque Terre’s five villages. It is the only one that has a proper beach, making it a magnet for sun-seekers. Unlike its neighbors, Monterosso’s relatively flat landscape is excellent for strolls between its historic old town and vibrant new town, connected by a short pedestrian tunnel. This accessibility has allowed it to cultivate the region's widest selection of sophisticated aperitivo bars, dining establishments, and boutique shops. Spend your days under the Mediterranean sun, your evenings exploring the history that unfolds in charming alleyways and ancient structures.

A Journey Through History

Monterosso's history is a tale of resilience, strategic importance, and its evolution into the Riviera's most welcoming seaside retreat.

• Early Defenses: The village was fortified in the early Middle Ages to protect its inhabitants from frequent Saracen pirate raids, a past still visible in the surviving Torre Aurora.
• Genoese Rule: As part of the Republic of Genoa, Monterosso flourished, benefiting from maritime trade and the rich agricultural bounty of its surrounding hills.
• Monastic Influence: The hill of San Cristoforo, home to a Capuchin monastery, has been a spiritual center for centuries, offering peace and perspective high above the bustling town.
• The Two Halves: A flood in 1970 led to the significant development of the newer Fegina quarter, creating the distinct "old town" and "new town" areas that define Monterosso today.
• A Poet's Home: The village was the beloved home of Nobel Prize-winning poet Eugenio Montale, who drew immense inspiration from its rugged coastline and the shimmering Ligurian Sea.

What to Expect

Enjoy a classic Italian seaside experience, elevated by a sense of exclusivity and Riviera glamour.

• Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin as you relax in a private lounger on the beach, listening to the chatter from the seaside promenade.
• Taste freshly caught anchovies prepared a dozen different ways, the crisp, saline notes of a local Vermentino wine, and the simple perfection of focaccia Genovese from a historic bakery.
• Hear the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, the cheerful clinking of glasses during the evening aperitivo hour, and the distant whistle of the train bound for the next village.
• See the deep blue of the Ligurian Sea, the ancient stone arches of the old town, and the golden evening light illuminating the Capuchin Monastery.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

Monterosso offers beachside relaxation, historical exploration, and culinary indulgence.

• Spiaggia di Fegina: Reserve a chair and umbrella at a private beach club on the region’s most expansive and beautiful beach for a day of ultimate seaside relaxation.
• The Old Town: Wander the charming, narrow streets of the centro storico to discover artisan boutiques, enotecas, and the beautiful 14th-century Gothic-Ligurian Church of San Giovanni Battista.
• Torre Aurora: Visit this 16th-century watchtower for a sunset cocktail and spectacular views.
• Convento dei Cappuccini: Make the climb to this historic monastery for a moment of quiet contemplation and panoramic vistas over the entire bay.
• Sentiero Azzurro to Vernazza: Embark on one of the most scenic sections of the "Blue Trail," a stunning coastal hike that offers unforgettable views as you approach Vernazza.

Embark on Zicasso’s Italy’s West Coast Tour: Cinque Terre to the Amalfi Coast for a spectacularly beautiful adventure.

Vernazza is a riot of color and maritime history. Its perfectly formed natural harbor and pastel houses are watched over by the ruins of an ancient castle and the bell tower of its seaside church. With a car-free center, Vernazza is all about exploring on foot to discover hidden alleyways, stone staircases, and charming shops filled with local crafts. The main piazza, which opens directly onto the water, is the heart of the village, a place to savor fresh pesto, watch the fishing boats, and soak in an atmosphere that feels utterly timeless.

A Journey Through History

Vernazza’s history is one of strategic maritime importance, evolving from a defensive fortress to a prosperous and proud Genoese port.

• Early Fortification: First documented in 1080, Vernazza began as a fortified naval base for the Obertenghi noble family, a key defense against Saracen pirate raids.
• Alliance with Genoa: It became a vital and powerful ally of the maritime Republic of Genoa, contributing ships and sailors to its fleet and serving as a crucial port.
• Economic Prosperity: This alliance allowed Vernazza to flourish as a major producer and exporter of the region's renowned wine and olive oil, which brought significant wealth to the village.
• The Doria Castle: The medieval Doria Castle and its lookout tower, which still dominate the skyline, underline the town's past as a formidable military and commercial harbor.
• Enduring Legacy: This rich seafaring past remains visible today in the town’s architecture, from the castle to the harbor-front church, built to guide its sailors safely home.

What to Expect

Immerse yourself in the quintessential Cinque Terre experience, where the scent of salt and basil hangs in the air and every view is glorious.

• Feel the cool sea spray on your face as you stand on the harbor's breakwater, the warmth of ancient stone steps beneath your feet, and the gentle sea breeze as you hike between villages.
• Taste freshly made trofie pasta with bright, fragrant pesto, just-caught anchovies drizzled with local olive oil, and a glass of crisp regional white wine at a harbor-front table.
• Hear the gentle lapping of waves against the harbor walls, the cheerful chatter from open-air restaurants, and the distant whistle of the train connecting the five villages.
• See the iconic cluster of colorful houses embracing the harbor, the deep blue of the Ligurian Sea, the terraced vineyards clinging to impossibly steep cliffs, and the sun setting behind Doria Castle.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

Vernazza offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, historical exploration, and seaside relaxation.

• Vernazza Harbor: The vibrant heart of the village, ideal for a refreshing swim, enjoying a coffee at a waterfront café, or simply watching the fishing boats bob in the turquoise water.
• Doria Castle: Climb the ancient stone steps to this 11th-century fortress for commanding, panoramic views of the village, the coastline, and the sea.
• Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia: Visit this beautiful 14th-century church, built directly on the rocks by the harbor, with its distinctive octagonal bell tower.
• Hike from Monterosso: For the most dramatic arrival, take a private guided hike along the coastal path from Monterosso. The final descent provides the definitive aerial view of Vernazza.
• Private Pesto-Making Class: Immerse yourself in local culinary traditions with an exclusive cooking class, learning the secrets of the region’s most famous sauce.

Contact our travel specialists to plan An Immersive Exploration of Cinque Terre and Rome that includes Vernazza.

Perched atop a 330-foot cliff surrounded by terraced vineyards, Corniglia is the quiet heart of the Cinque Terre. As the only village not built directly on the sea, it offers a different perspective. Reaching it requires a journey, either by ascending the 382-step Lardarina or by a winding road. This effort preserves its authentic, uncrowded character. If you are a hiker or nature lover, you will love Corniglia. It’s a place where narrow, winding streets open onto hidden terraces with sweeping sea views.

A Journey Through History

Corniglia's history is written in the soil of its terraced vineyards rather than the sea.

• Roman Origins: The village’s name is believed to derive from Gens Cornelia, the Roman family that owned the land during the Roman Empire.
• Land-Based Power: Unlike its neighbors, Corniglia’s prosperity was historically tied to its fertile land, renowned for producing high-quality wine and olive oil.
• A Strategic Lookout: Its high, seemingly inaccessible position made it a natural lookout point, easily defended and offering strategic views over the coastline.
• Feudal Possession: For centuries, it was a possession of various feudal lords, including the Counts of Lavagna and the Fieschi family of Genoa.
• The Lardarina: The iconic brick staircase connecting the village to the train station was built to make the transport of agricultural goods easier, symbolizing its connection to the land.

What to Expect

Experience a more tranquil and authentic side of the Cinque Terre that’s suspended between the sky and the sea.

• Feel the satisfying burn in your legs as you conquer the Lardarina, the refreshing breeze at the clifftop viewpoint, and the sense of peace in its quiet, hidden corners.
• Taste the unique, slightly honeyed flavor of Vernaccia di Corniglia, the local white wine, a refreshing lemon granita, and dishes flavored with herbs from the surrounding hills.
• Hear the whisper of the wind through the vineyards, the distant chime of the church bell, and the quiet hum of village life away from the main tourist hubs.
• See vast, uninterrupted panoramas of the Ligurian Sea, the incredible terraced vineyards that define the landscape, the Gothic elegance of the Church of San Pietro, and spectacular sunsets from the Santa Maria terrace.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

Corniglia is the ideal village for peaceful contemplation, scenic hikes, and authentic cultural immersion.

• The Lardarina: Embrace the rewarding challenge of climbing the 382 steps from the train station for an unforgettable arrival and stunning views.
• Borgo Storico: Get lost in the narrow, labyrinthine streets of the historic center, which eventually open up to the Belvedere di Santa Maria, a stunning sea-facing terrace.
• Church of San Pietro: Visit this superb example of Ligurian-Gothic architecture from 1334. It’s noted for its beautifully preserved Carrara marble rose window.
• Hike to Vernazza: Embark on one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the region, which offers incredible views of Corniglia and your destination, Vernazza.
• Piazza Largo Taragio: Find a seat in the tiny, charming main square, the heart of the village, and sip a glass of local wine as you watch the world go by.

To add Corniglia to a Distinct Trails of Italy Tour: An Active Exploration of Cinque Terre and Tuscany, contact our travel experts.

Manarola is a tumble of rainbow-hued houses that seem to spill down a rocky ravine into a small, deep-blue harbor. Arguably the most picturesque of the five villages, it is a dream if you are a photographer or a romantic. Its tiny harbor is a popular spot for sunbathing on the rocks and daring cliff-jumping. But the soul of Manarola lies in the steep, terraced vineyards that rise dramatically above it. This is the home of the prized Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine born from "heroic viticulture." Explore its charming alleys, enjoy the iconic view from Punta Bonfiglio, or indulge in a private wine tasting.

A Journey Through History

Manarola's history is deeply intertwined with the land, telling a story of ancient settlement and the heroic cultivation of its world-famous wine.

• Ancient Origins: Believed to be the oldest of the five villages, its cornerstone, the Church of San Lorenzo, dates back to 1338.
• A Farming Community: The name "Manarola" is thought to derive from the Latin Manium arula, meaning "small temple to the spirits of the dead," but its history is firmly rooted in farming.
• Heroic Viticulture: For centuries, generations of residents have painstakingly built and maintained the dry-stone walls of the surrounding terraces to cultivate grapes and olives on the steep cliffs.
• Sciacchetrà Legacy: The village became renowned for producing Sciacchetrà, a precious and rare passito wine celebrated since antiquity and a symbol of the region's agricultural tenacity.
• A Famous Nativity: In modern times, the village has become famous for its enormous Christmas nativity scene, where figures made of reclaimed materials illuminate the entire hillside.

What to Expect

Immerse yourself in breathtaking beauty, where the flavors of the land meet the splendor of the sea.

• Feel the warmth of the sun-baked rocks by the harbor, the thrill of watching divers plunge into the deep water, and the romance of strolling along the scenic cliffside walkway.
• Taste the sweet, complex notes of a glass of Sciacchetrà wine, fresh anchovies with lemon, and the exquisite flavors of a private Ligurian dinner overlooking the sea.
• Hear the joyful shouts of swimmers in the harbor, the gentle lapping of waves against the boat ramp, and the clinking of glasses from a viewpoint bar.
• See the iconic postcard view of the village's colorful houses from Punta Bonfiglio, the terraced vineyards glowing in the late afternoon sun, and the sparkling blue waters of the harbor.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

Manarola offers a perfect blend of iconic views, wine culture, and seaside adventure.

• Punta Bonfiglio: Walk to this scenic viewpoint for the most famous and breathtaking photograph of Manarola. Stay for an aperitivo at a cliffside bar.
• Manarola Harbor: Join the locals and sunbathe on the flat rocks, take a refreshing dip in the deep, clear water, or simply watch the colorful boats.
• Vineyard and Wine Tasting Tour: Take a private tour of the terraced vineyards to understand the "heroic viticulture" firsthand, concluding with a tasting of the rare Sciacchetrà.
• Church of San Lorenzo: Visit the village's main church, a beautiful example of Gothic-Ligurian style.
• Sunset Boat Tour: Charter a private boat to experience the magic of Manarola from the water as the setting sun casts a golden glow on the village.

Visit Manarola on a Perfect Seven-Day Itinerary to Cinque Terre.

The easternmost village, Riomaggiore, is a dramatic cascade of tall, pastel tower-houses clinging to the steep walls of a narrow ravine. It is considered the most romantic of the five and unfolds around a tiny natural harbor. Its narrow main street is full of artisan shops, trattorias, and the delicious aroma of fresh seafood. In the evening, the village takes on a special quality, with lights twinkling against the dark sea and rooftop terraces offering stunning sunset views. Riomaggiore is the perfect setting for couples and travelers seeking a vibrant atmosphere in Cinque Terre’s unforgettable romantic ambiance.

A Journey Through History

Riomaggiore's story begins with Greek settlers seeking refuge, creating a tightly-knit community built for shelter and defined by the sea.

• Refuge and Foundation: Legend holds that the village was founded in the 8th century by Greek refugees fleeing persecution in Byzantium.
• A Fisherman's Domain: The village's structure, with tall, narrow houses built for vertical living, reflects its history as a fishing community where every inch of space was precious.
• The Via dell'Amore: In the 1920s, the construction of a coastal railway path connecting Riomaggiore and Manarola created the "Path of Love," a symbol of the connection between the villages.
• Strategic Castle: The Castle of Riomaggiore, built in 1260 and later reinforced by the Genoese, looms over the village. It’s a reminder of its need for defense throughout its history.
• A Gateway Village: As the first village encountered when traveling from La Spezia, Riomaggiore has long served as the primary gateway to the Cinque Terre.

What to Expect

Experience the romantic and dramatic soul of the Cinque Terre in a village that is lively and intimate.

• Feel the thrill of navigating the steep, narrow streets and stairways, the romance of a sunset shared on a scenic overlook, and the lively energy of the main thoroughfare.
• Taste a fritto misto, a mix of fried seafood served in a paper cone, savory stuffed mussels, and the crisp, mineral notes of local white wines like Bosco and Albarola.
• Hear the bustling sounds of the main street, the crash of waves against the rocks in the harbor, and the romantic murmur of conversations from waterfront restaurants.
• See the iconic view of the colorful houses stacked above the tiny harbor, the breathtaking spectacle of the sunset from the castle or a clifftop path, and the charming chaos of fishing boats being hoisted into the town.

Where to Enjoy Your Visit

Riomaggiore offers a perfect setting for romance, stunning views, and authentic coastal experiences.

• Riomaggiore Harbor: Head down to the small, rocky harbor, the village's most picturesque spot, to take photos, watch the boats, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Via dell'Amore: Walk the initial section of the "Path of Love" for its romantic legacy and beautiful sea views.
• Castle of Riomaggiore: Hike to the top of the village to explore the 13th-century castle ruins. You will be rewarded with panoramic views of the sea and town.
• Private Sunset Boat Tour: Arrange for a private boat excursion to explore the coastline from the water, culminating in a spectacular sunset view of the villages with a glass of prosecco in hand.
• Exclusive Wine Tasting: Indulge in a curated tasting of regional varietals, learning about the unique terroir that produces these celebrated Ligurian wines.

Zicasso’s Charm of Cinque Terre and Artistry of Florence Tour will allow you to experience this fabulous village and its romantic atmosphere.

Each of the five villages contributes its own character of Cinque Terre. Monterosso welcomes you with its sun-drenched beach and elegance; Vernazza captures the imagination with its perfect harbor and lively piazza. Corniglia offers a tranquil, rustic retreat for nature lovers, while Manarola provides the definitive postcard view amidst its heroic vineyards. Riomaggiore seals the experience with its dramatic setting and undeniable romance.

For more inspiration on visiting this spectacular region of Italy, explore our Cinque Terre travel guide. When you are ready to turn your dream into an unforgettable adventure, browse our Cinque Terre tours and vacations, then connect with our travel specialists to start planning your bespoke vacation.