Flying a drone over Cinque Terre is an awesome way to see the area from a new angle. I got to see the cool, colorful houses and the amazing coastline from up high. Each village looks so different and unique from above!
Getting There:
The nearest major city with an airport is Genoa, but you can also fly into Pisa, Florence, or Milan and then take a train or drive to Cinque Terre.
The Italian rail network connects the five villages to each other and to major cities in Italy. La Spezia and Levanto are the gateway towns for entering Cinque Terre by train.
You can stay in one of the five villages or in nearby towns like La Spezia or Levanto. Each village has its own character, so choose based on what you prefer – whether it's a busier spot with more amenities or a quieter, more secluded setting. Options range from hotels and B&Bs to vacation rentals. I stayed in Riomaggiore and it was the perfect blend of quaint Italian life and a bustling nightlife.
1. Monterosso al Mare: The largest of the five villages, Monterosso is known for its beautiful beaches and resort-like atmosphere. It's more accessible than the other villages, with more space and a somewhat flatter terrain. The town has a lively waterfront area and is popular for sunbathing and swimming. It also has a historic old town area with narrow lanes and lovely architecture.
2. Vernazza: Often considered the most picturesque of the five towns, Vernazza has a natural harbor and a stunning waterfront square lined with cafes and restaurants. The village is characterized by its narrow streets and steep stairways, and it boasts a beautiful church and a medieval castle offering panoramic views.
3. Corniglia: Unlike the other villages, Corniglia is not directly on the sea but perched high on a cliff about 100 meters above the water. It's the smallest and quietest of the five towns and is known for its vineyards and terraces. To reach Corniglia, visitors need to climb the Lardarina, a long brick flight of steps composed of 33 flights with 382 steps.
4. Manarola: Manarola is known for its charming and colorful houses that seem to cascade down the cliffside. It's an older town, famous for its sweet Sciacchetrà wine. The town is smaller and quieter than Monterosso but still vibrant, with a picturesque harbor where you can see locals swimming and fishing.
5. Riomaggiore: The easternmost of the five villages, Riomaggiore has a vertical layout, with houses stacked on top of each other along narrow, winding pathways. It's known for its historic character and offers a more traditional atmosphere. The town has a small beach and a bustling main street with shops and eateries.
What to Do:
Explore each village: Each has its own unique charm, from the beaches of Monterosso to the dramatic setting of Riomaggiore.
Enjoy the local cuisine: Try dishes like pesto pasta, fresh seafood, and focaccia, and sample local wines.
Hike the trails: The Sentiero Azzurro connects the villages and offers breathtaking views, but there are many other trails in the region as well.
Best Time to Visit:
The peak season is summer, particularly July and August, when the weather is warmest but the villages and trails can be crowded. Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and milder weather. I went during end of October and the weather was absolutely perfect.
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