Things to do in Cinque Terre in August

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Overview

August is a less popular time to visit Cinque Terre.

Cinque Terre has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your August trip to Cinque Terre. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to August. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

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Best events and things to do in Cinque Terre in August

Top experiences in August
We couldn't find any experiences in August
Holidays in Cinque Terre in August
August
  • Assumption of Mary (August 15)
  • Ferragosto (August 15)
Other notable holidays
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Best attractions for Cinque Terre in August

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Cinque Terre has to offer for travelers in August, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Cinque Terre that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Cinque Terre for August.
Vernazza
1. Vernazza
Sights & Landmarks
Civic Centers
Vernazza is one of the 5 centuries-old villages that make up the Cinque Terre, on northwest Italy’s rugged Ligurian coast. Colorful houses surround its small marina. The Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church has a bell tower topped by an elegant cupola. Clinging to the rocks, Doria Castle is a medieval defensive structure with a cylindrical tower. The Belforte bastion is just below it.
Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza
2. Sentiero Monterosso - Vernazza
4.5
(1266)
Hiking area
Outdoor Activities
Scenic hiking trail connecting the Cinque Terre, with expansive ocean views & lush landscapes.
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It was absolutely beautiful. It did take 1-2 hours and the stairs are quite the workout. Definitely have to stop and catch your breath from how much you climb up and down but if you love a good hike with gorgeous views I definitely recommend this. Some of the pathway is pretty narrow so be careful! Also, if you hike when it's hot, bring a swimsuit and jump into the water at Vernazza or Monterosso, it feels MAGICAL.
We walked from Vernazza to Monterosso. It took about an hour and a half. The first half hour, in particular, is quite tiring and challenging; you're walking uphill. There are beautiful views along the way. There's no way to refill your water bottle along the way, so stock up on water beforehand.
Please take cat food with you - lots if possible!!!!!! There is a cat village and a designated area to leave food so people can feed them over time. It is up to us to feed these homeless cats. Walked this trail today and to my surprise, there was a few homeless cats who are in a small gated area with cat houses and a sign that states something along the lines of “homeless and unloved cats, please feed” …there was no food there and they looked quite skinny. If you are planning to walk this trail, please bring a bag of cat food, maybe some wet cans (not tin, they can cut their tongue on those), water… whatever you can. If I had known this going into the hike, I would’ve brought it. I’m not sure what the deal is with any caretakers for the cats but it would be nice to have a sign or something prior to starting the trail to let people know there are cats along the way, so people can purchase food before going up…. Lots of people were very upset to see the cats there with no food and there’s nothing to do about it at that point… it is mid-trail and nothing around. Otherwise, it is very uphill so be very prepared - but the sights are well worth it!
Pro tip: apparently you need a Cinque Terre pass to enter but everyone was passing through just to check the views and then come back. This is where you'll take the best photo of Vernazza. The start is just on the side of a restaurant, to the left you'll see a narrow street.
3.6 km, about 2h walk. It tooked us 2h15 with a big break at a bar about 1km away from Monterosso, the only one along the way. Lots of steps, but pretty easy to walk with good shoes... And the viens are so worth it !
This is a very strenuous trail with 800 ft of elevation. It was quite difficult with many stairs on both the accent a decent. We’re in our 30s and 40s and it took us about two hours with several stops for photos and the drink water. The terrain is treacherous at times. Make sure you wear the appropriate shoes with tread and waterproofing if possible as it is very muddy in some areas. The views and experience is absolutely worth it though!
Very beautiful hike. WARNING for anyone that wants to do this hike but isn’t a seasoned hiker: start from Vernazza and go towards Monterosso!! I started from Monterosso and it was a LOT of steep stairs & uphill. I read a review from someone on here who talked about having to climb up on all fours… while I didn’t get to that level I DEFINITELY was feeling that review to my core 😂😭 If I were to do it again, I would start from Vernazza. It’s doable both ways, but know that it will be more difficult if you start from Monterosso. The views will be beautiful & the same whichever town you start from. I had to take a lot of breaks, but many people (both old & young) did the same so I didn’t feel too left out. I recommend you do the hike early in the morning or towards late afternoon, that way you can have a little bit of a breeze and it’s not constantly hot. For reference, we did the hike with a lot of breezes and I STILL had my shirt drenched with sweat. If it is rainy, be careful!! Wear appropriate shoes for that. We did it while it was sunny & dry but there were many areas that were slip-potential. Also, you can access the viewpoint of the Vernazza background for picture-taking WITHOUT having to hike. I have included a picture so you know which viewpoint I’m talking about.
Beautiful hike! Definitely lots of stairs, which worked up quite a sweat in the heat. Views were totally worth it. Also, there was a small cat community (with little cat houses) that lives along the hike route close to Vernazza. A sign asks visitors to bring cat food/water because they have no owners. Really sweet cats!
Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
3. Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
4.7
(46514)
National park
Outdoor Activities
Brightly colored fishing villages perch at the foot of sea cliffs on this protected coastline.
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The most beautiful and unique experience I gave ever had. Was able to visit many Cinque Terre cities/villages such as Corniglia, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Manarola and more. All these villages are typical of the area. They have a beach, sit on the rock and have beautiful views over the Mediterranean sea. You can get the Cinque Terre Pass for 1 day at 19€ and the pass includes unlimited Regionale train between villages.
A very enjoyable trip! The scenery is stunning, with picturesque villages and beautiful coastal views. We did one of the hiking routes, which was both fun and rewarding. It can get quite crowded around the train stations, especially during peak times, but overall it was a great experience and definitely worth visiting.
Cinque Terre Hiking Itinerary – Classic Route with Practical Tips. It’s known to have been the inspiration for the animated film LUCA (Disney) 📍 Start: Monterosso al Mare 🏁 Finish: Riomaggiore (or return based on your accommodation) ⸻ 🥾 Recommended Full-Day Itinerary • This route connects all five iconic villages, combining hiking and train options. Perfect for an active day, but be warned, this is not a simple seaside stroll like some tourists imagine! ⸻ 1️⃣ Monterosso al Mare • Start early in the morning to avoid strong heat. • Wide beach, relaxed vibe. ➡️ Hike to Vernazza – approximately 1h30 – 2h, stunning but demanding trail. ⚠️ Important: ✔️ Expect many stairs, steep ascents, and descents. ✔️ Long sections with no shade, direct sun exposure. ✔️ Proper hiking shoes are a must – we saw people in flip-flops or beach sandals, totally unprepared. Not recommended! 💧 Hydration is crucial, bring enough water, especially in warm weather. ⸻ 2️⃣ Vernazza • Probably the most photogenic village. • Small harbor, narrow streets, perfect for a break or some gelato. ➡️ Hike Vernazza – Corniglia, 1h30 – 2h. • Similarly demanding trail with elevation changes and sunny sections. ⸻ 3️⃣ Corniglia • Village perched on a cliff, no direct beach access. • Climb the Scalinata Lardarina (370 steps) or take the local shuttle bus. • Quieter atmosphere, ideal for a coffee break. ➡️ Options: ✔️ You can continue hiking to Manarola, but the trail is often closed or challenging. ✔️ A good idea can be to take the train to Manarola, especially if it’s hot. ⸻ 4️⃣ Manarola • Romantic, famous for sunsets and local wines. • Perfect dinner spot with a sea view. We had a great dinner at Tony’s, stunning view and perfect seafood. ➡️ Via dell’Amore trail Manarola – Riomaggiore: • Entrance fee is 10 €/person. It’s. It included in the Cinque Terre Train Card as we though. :) • Easy, scenic walk with stunning views. • If you don’t want to pay, taking the train is a quick alternative. ⸻ 5️⃣ Riomaggiore • Charming harbor, rocky beach, steep narrow streets. • Great for a final stop or sunset photos. ➡️ Return by train to La Spezia or Monterosso. ⸻ 🍇 Insider Tips from Real Experience: ✔️ Be ready for lots of stairs and uneven terrain. ✔️ The sun can be brutal on long exposed stretches, especially midday. ✔️ Stopping at bars or small terraces in the vineyards, like we did, is perfect to rest – amazing views, a glass of local wine or a cold lemonade makes all the difference. ✔️ Don’t underestimate the trail – it’s accessible, but requires basic fitness and proper footwear. ⸻ 🎟️ Tickets & Logistics: • If you plan multiple train rides between the villages, get the Cinque Terre Train Card. • If you only need 1–2 rides, single tickets are enough.
Le Cinque Terre are beautiful to see and can also be relaxing, especially for people who live in the city and relish some fresh air by the sea or enjoy panoramic walks. Nevertheless, the villages are thronged with tourists virtually all year round, making them crowded and extremely commercial. The locals have exploited the situation by inflating prices and included ridiculous tarrifs where not necessary. This is especially true for the famous Via del Amore between Rio Maggiore and Manarola: the price for the walk is €10 - understandable for the extensive works done on the path, BUT this price only applies IF you have already obtained the Cinque Terre pass at a minimum added value of €7.50. Another letdown is with the famously colourful buildings, so vibrant and lively in pictures, but actually mostly ill-kept and in need of maintenance. Do visit these places, as they are all equally charming and picturesque, but their tag is on the expensive and touristy side.
We took the train from La Spezia to visit all 5 the little villages. Every village has its own charm. Absolutely stunning views, great vibe, and awesome cultural experience.
A wonderful place for hiking, though it’s pretty challenging in places; especially if you show up in the middle of a heatwave, as we did. Lovely villages (especially Vernazza and Monterosso) and terrific coastal views to enjoy. We found that being based at nearby La Spezia was cheaper, convenient, and a little more ‘authentic’…..Levanto would probably work, too.
Great way to see/visit Cinque Terre. Take a small boat tour out of La Spezia, easiest to book online. Our 7 hour day trip included 2 swimming stops, 1-1/2 hour stop for lunch in one of the villages, knowledgeable tour captain, and snacks and drinks on our boat. We went in late May and paid 135 euros/person.
I spent two days here, which wasn't enough time, but it's all I had. We managed two hikes and really enjoyed it. Take lots of water with you and some electrolytes if you can! We did manage to see all 5 towns and La Spezia too. Lots of good food and gelato!
Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
4. Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre
4.7
(46514)
National park
Outdoor Activities
Brightly colored fishing villages perch at the foot of sea cliffs on this protected coastline.
Slide 1 of 8
The most beautiful and unique experience I gave ever had. Was able to visit many Cinque Terre cities/villages such as Corniglia, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Manarola and more. All these villages are typical of the area. They have a beach, sit on the rock and have beautiful views over the Mediterranean sea. You can get the Cinque Terre Pass for 1 day at 19€ and the pass includes unlimited Regionale train between villages.
A very enjoyable trip! The scenery is stunning, with picturesque villages and beautiful coastal views. We did one of the hiking routes, which was both fun and rewarding. It can get quite crowded around the train stations, especially during peak times, but overall it was a great experience and definitely worth visiting.
Cinque Terre Hiking Itinerary – Classic Route with Practical Tips. It’s known to have been the inspiration for the animated film LUCA (Disney) 📍 Start: Monterosso al Mare 🏁 Finish: Riomaggiore (or return based on your accommodation) ⸻ 🥾 Recommended Full-Day Itinerary • This route connects all five iconic villages, combining hiking and train options. Perfect for an active day, but be warned, this is not a simple seaside stroll like some tourists imagine! ⸻ 1️⃣ Monterosso al Mare • Start early in the morning to avoid strong heat. • Wide beach, relaxed vibe. ➡️ Hike to Vernazza – approximately 1h30 – 2h, stunning but demanding trail. ⚠️ Important: ✔️ Expect many stairs, steep ascents, and descents. ✔️ Long sections with no shade, direct sun exposure. ✔️ Proper hiking shoes are a must – we saw people in flip-flops or beach sandals, totally unprepared. Not recommended! 💧 Hydration is crucial, bring enough water, especially in warm weather. ⸻ 2️⃣ Vernazza • Probably the most photogenic village. • Small harbor, narrow streets, perfect for a break or some gelato. ➡️ Hike Vernazza – Corniglia, 1h30 – 2h. • Similarly demanding trail with elevation changes and sunny sections. ⸻ 3️⃣ Corniglia • Village perched on a cliff, no direct beach access. • Climb the Scalinata Lardarina (370 steps) or take the local shuttle bus. • Quieter atmosphere, ideal for a coffee break. ➡️ Options: ✔️ You can continue hiking to Manarola, but the trail is often closed or challenging. ✔️ A good idea can be to take the train to Manarola, especially if it’s hot. ⸻ 4️⃣ Manarola • Romantic, famous for sunsets and local wines. • Perfect dinner spot with a sea view. We had a great dinner at Tony’s, stunning view and perfect seafood. ➡️ Via dell’Amore trail Manarola – Riomaggiore: • Entrance fee is 10 €/person. It’s. It included in the Cinque Terre Train Card as we though. :) • Easy, scenic walk with stunning views. • If you don’t want to pay, taking the train is a quick alternative. ⸻ 5️⃣ Riomaggiore • Charming harbor, rocky beach, steep narrow streets. • Great for a final stop or sunset photos. ➡️ Return by train to La Spezia or Monterosso. ⸻ 🍇 Insider Tips from Real Experience: ✔️ Be ready for lots of stairs and uneven terrain. ✔️ The sun can be brutal on long exposed stretches, especially midday. ✔️ Stopping at bars or small terraces in the vineyards, like we did, is perfect to rest – amazing views, a glass of local wine or a cold lemonade makes all the difference. ✔️ Don’t underestimate the trail – it’s accessible, but requires basic fitness and proper footwear. ⸻ 🎟️ Tickets & Logistics: • If you plan multiple train rides between the villages, get the Cinque Terre Train Card. • If you only need 1–2 rides, single tickets are enough.
Le Cinque Terre are beautiful to see and can also be relaxing, especially for people who live in the city and relish some fresh air by the sea or enjoy panoramic walks. Nevertheless, the villages are thronged with tourists virtually all year round, making them crowded and extremely commercial. The locals have exploited the situation by inflating prices and included ridiculous tarrifs where not necessary. This is especially true for the famous Via del Amore between Rio Maggiore and Manarola: the price for the walk is €10 - understandable for the extensive works done on the path, BUT this price only applies IF you have already obtained the Cinque Terre pass at a minimum added value of €7.50. Another letdown is with the famously colourful buildings, so vibrant and lively in pictures, but actually mostly ill-kept and in need of maintenance. Do visit these places, as they are all equally charming and picturesque, but their tag is on the expensive and touristy side.
We took the train from La Spezia to visit all 5 the little villages. Every village has its own charm. Absolutely stunning views, great vibe, and awesome cultural experience.
A wonderful place for hiking, though it’s pretty challenging in places; especially if you show up in the middle of a heatwave, as we did. Lovely villages (especially Vernazza and Monterosso) and terrific coastal views to enjoy. We found that being based at nearby La Spezia was cheaper, convenient, and a little more ‘authentic’…..Levanto would probably work, too.
Great way to see/visit Cinque Terre. Take a small boat tour out of La Spezia, easiest to book online. Our 7 hour day trip included 2 swimming stops, 1-1/2 hour stop for lunch in one of the villages, knowledgeable tour captain, and snacks and drinks on our boat. We went in late May and paid 135 euros/person.
I spent two days here, which wasn't enough time, but it's all I had. We managed two hikes and really enjoyed it. Take lots of water with you and some electrolytes if you can! We did manage to see all 5 towns and La Spezia too. Lots of good food and gelato!
Via Fegina
5. Via Fegina
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Popular pedestrian path lined with cafes that winds past the seashore & along cliffs.
Via Beccara
6. Via Beccara
4.3
(218)
Hiking area
Outdoor Activities
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There are plenty of stairs on this path, the view from the top is amazing so definitely worth the hike, great way to get between the villages! Also many other paths down you can take once at the top, good to take care as the steps can be fairly slippery if it has rained recently.
Okay so we walked/climbed the trail from Manarola to Riomaggiore after having walked from Manarola to Corniglia via Volastra the previous day. I must say the hike to Riomaggiore was much less scenic than the other, harder and much less enjoyable. Okay if you want to say you’ve done it fine. However I think save your knees and either take the ferry or train the one stop. Though I can truly recommend the hike to Corniglia, it was 2 hours but the terrain is kinder though steep, the views breathtaking! A stop in Volastra was a pleasant pause and a chance to see accommodation that is not over crowded with incredible views with peace and quiet if that’s your thing. In any case enjoy Cinque Terre!
A 1-hour hike that can be quite exhausting as it starts with some very steep and not well maintained stairs. It is not necessarily difficult, but you need to be careful in certain areas and depending on the whether it can get very hot along the way. The view was nice, but nothing spectacular.
A beautiful hike but it’s not a easy hike. A steep climbing including lots of stone steps. We did look for the trail start at the church plaza a while but did manage to find the small sign. First we walked past the turn that comes right after the start at the alley but there is small sign on the wall.
BEWARE: if you think it's a valid way to get from Riomaggiore to Manarola (or inverse) it is not. It's a steep hike, nothing technically demanding, but there is quite an elevation change. In 30°C heat you'll be drained in sweat and probably overheated. Trail itself is ok if you treat is as an excercise because is not too scenic either. If I were to do it again I would go for the Azure trail by the sea. As it turned out it's cheaper than the train.
Very cool trail, beginner to intermediate level. The start of the trail through Riomaggiore has a steep incline, but the view from the top is worth it! It's definitely worth taking this route from Riomaggiore to Manarola.
We did hike late August 2022. Very worthwhile, however we didn't start until 11am, so it was VERY hot. I'm thankful we brought enough water. It takes about 90 minutes, and it's very steep with a path that requires careful footsteps, so wear good shoes. We're all in very good shape and found it challenging but fun, but this hike is definitely not for those that aren't in fairly decent shape. A cool beverage in the next village is a welcome reward when you come down the other side.
It's a steep 200 meter start ⚠️ You need to climb up steps which sometimes are eroded or not present at all. When you reach the summit the trail tends to go on a flatter terrain where the sights are amazing. Expect around an hour of hiking approximately. No previous hiking experience needed at all
Ruins of Doria Tower
7. Ruins of Doria Tower
4.3
(3741)
Castle
Hilltop castle dating to around 1,000 CE, reached by steep stairs & offering sweeping views.
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The climb to the Doria Tower ruins is steep but short, and the payoff is one of the best views in Cinque Terre. The tower itself is a simple, weathered structure—what remains of an 11th-century coastal defense—but the panoramic view over the harbor, colorful village, and Ligurian Sea is absolutely worth the effort. Entry costs 2 euros, which you pay at a small booth just before reaching the tower, after you’ve already made the climb. Take your time and enjoy the perspective from one of the oldest lookout points on the coast.
Fantastic Scenic Village! This is one of my favorite in the Cinque Terre. It has everything, it has shops, restaurants, etc. It is also not too small, not too big, it is really nice. I understand it can get quite busy in summer therefore i strongly suggest going out of the main season (summer). As we went in February and I already thought it was really packed (so not sure how you can really move around in summer). Anyhow strongly recommended visit from us !
This is a cool viewing spot. Honestly, the most interesting thing was climbing the tiny stairs labyrinth to get up there. Remember to bring €2 to get in. It is really just a nice place to take pictures, the tower is no big deal.
Best view over the city I believe. Not a whole lot to see but it’s only 2 euros per person. If you’re older just be careful on the stairs!
Entry to the tower costs 2 euros, and you can pay by card. There are no restrooms at the top. Be prepared for a difficult and steep climb up the stairs, but the view at the top makes up for it. The view is magnificent, overlooking the port of Vernazza and the surrounding mountains, as well as the cascading mountains. You can climb to the top of the tower and admire the views from the terrace. The place is clean and well-maintained. It's worth a visit.
Very pretty with great veiw. There is a path downwards from the tower to swim. The water is gorgeous and there are some rocks which are fun to scale. Lots of college aged kids there, but its not too hard to find a place on the rocks to lie down
Great view at the top, worth the short walk. Only a few euros to enter.
Entrance cost 2 EUR to be paid on the stairs halfway to the tower. Otherwise great view on Vernazza
Ristorante Antico Borgo
8. Ristorante Antico Borgo
4.4
(718)
Restaurant
Sights & Landmarks
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We were looking for a place to have dinner in Levanto without a reservation. The restaurant was busy, but the waitress was very nice and told us there would be a table available in 30 minutes. She offered us a high table where we could have a drink while we waited. The restaurant is nicely decorated, and you can tell they have a lot of experience serving traditional local dishes. We started with a carpaccio, which was just okay – the salad underneath and the creamy sauce didn’t really complement the high-quality white fish. A simpler sauce might have worked better. However, the rest of the meal was delicious and beautifully presented. The meat ravioli were amazing. They also have a great selection of local and other Italian wines. You can't go wrong choosing Antico Borgo for a great local dining experience.
The food was simply delicious! Everything was local and freshly made. Highly recommend the grilled octopus for a starter and the branzino ravioli with shrimp!
The wait is a little longer but what we ate was super delicious. And an original tiramisu, a specialty of the house, rated 10. I recommend!👍
Very tasty food! Good restaurant, nice inside. Dishes are May be not big but very good. Vines are various chose, also very good. Rabbitligurian style was delicious.
We had mix of vegetables and fish for aperitivo and frito misto for the 2nd. The aperitivo was amazing, very soft and well put together, it tasted amazing. Frito misto was also very good. The service was very good and prompt, we did not have a reservation, they were very accommodating and found us a table outside in 10 mins. The servers were very nice and smiley. The menu was short but very nice. The wine was good.
Overall we had a lovely experience. The food was fab, and came quickly once ordered. Gluten free options were brilliant and the staff were understanding to coeliac. They could use an extra member of staff as the two waitresses were overrun and it took a while to get seated and order!
Exceptional food! Octopus appetizer, Mixed fried seafood, Ligurian style rabbit were very good. But what really surprised was a pineapple carpaccio desert. Just wow.
While mostly recommended, our experience had a few mixed feelings. The food was undeniably nice and delicious, the fish fillet was superb, but a bit overpriced. Our waitress was kind, but on the other hand the service was a bit slow – understandable, we arrived really late."
Enjoy Cinque Terre Boat Tours
9. Enjoy Cinque Terre Boat Tours
4.8
(84)
Boat tour agency
Tours
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One of the best experiences traveling EVER!! My wife and I did the sunset tour, and we enjoyed every single minute. We had Paolo as our tour guide, and he simply elevated what is already a great experience. His passion, knowledge, and pride for being from Manarola was just oozing throughout the tour as he shared stories and jokes about each town in Cinque Terre. He also allowed enough quiet time where you could just take in the breathtaking scenes around you. Highly recommend this being the first experience you do in Cinque Terre as it makes you appreciate the place even more. And this would be the best company to do it with. One of the best experiences my wife and I have ever had in all of our travels.
Daniele is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic resident of Manarola. He's travelled and has returned home. We learned so much about the history of the five towns. Plenty of drinks on board. A sunset swim.
Daniele made this sunset cruise one of our favorite memories in Cinque Terre! He is from Manarola and shared wonderful stories, great history and a relaxed, fun trip. It was a small group that made socializing easy. We highly recommend this cruise!!
Wow what an amazing experience! Paulo was amazing and so passionate about the area, telling us stories of pirates that used to infiltrate the towns and all the history of the area. The swim we had was so nice on a hot day. Also his music choices were so good! Especially for Manarola which is where he’s from, had us all laughing! Definitely book this tour if you’re visiting Cinque Terre!
Had a wonderful time on the sunset tour, Daniele (the Captain) and Filippo (the Next Generation Captain) were both very knowledgeable and friendly! We all had lots of delicious drinks, and good laughs! We would highly recommend going 🙂
Daniele is the best tour guide we have ever had. His boat was so clean and he is so knowledgeable. He knows history, the sea, boating and Italian history. His boat was so clean. His tour was the highlight of our Italian trip. He is a local that really opened our eyes to the culture of these towns
Paolo and Daniele are a great team. The tour was fun and informative. I took the evening cruise and had a blast with my girlfriend. I highly recommend it to anyone in Cinque Terre.
Such an incredible experience. We did the sunset tour with Daniele who is a genuine local and was fun and informative. Compared to the other options this was great value for money. We enjoyed every moment.
Bathing Resort Il Gigante Monterosso Al Mare
10. Bathing Resort Il Gigante Monterosso Al Mare
4.1
(740)
Lido
Sights & Landmarks
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Perfect beach for the day. Right next to the statua del gigante so the view of that and the mountain side was amazing. We went down in the morning and rented the chairs and umbrellas for the day €35 per chair and worth it in my opinion. There was a small play ground on the beach and private bathrooms that were very clean you needed a key for so they were only for paying beach members. There were also a plethora of changing rooms as well. We found tons of sea glass too which was fun. Great beach for the fam!
We came here on sunday, 25th of may in 2025. It was a lot quieter than the other beaches in Monterosso. We paid 60€ for 4 people. 4 loungers and two umbrellas included. The water was clear and perfect for swimming. If you have small kids it would be better to go to the other beach in Monterosso, because here it gets deep fast. The staff was friendly. We had some good drinks and they have snacks like chips. But the focaccia was tasteless. Highly recommend getting this a few meters down the road at the old focaccia place. The beach consists of pretty comfy sand. We appreciated the changing room and clean toilet. There is an outdoor shower where you can shower with your bathing suit on. There is no shampoo allowed. There are also normal chairs and tables where you can eat and drink. The loungers are towards the water. There is a lifeguard at this beach and he is very carefully paying attention to the people in the water and also makes sure that no boat drives near the swimming zone. Next to this location on the beach, right behind a rope wich is the border, is an area wich is free of charge where you can lay down in the sand and bring your own umbrella.
The best beach in cinque terre. Has places to change your clothes, easy access, not too crowded in peak season. You can walk from the train and the atmosphere is much better than the other two beach of Monterroso
Great private beach with a very friendly staff. About 10 euro for a recliner with an umbrella. Bar and wonderful restaurant are there for any drink or food you might want. This beach club is the farthest down and a little less hectic and touristy then some of the others. Total bonus they have a life guard right by the water which is reassuring if Mom and dad want relax on the Beach chairs and kids play. Highly recommend!
Arrive at 4pm for two chairs... "40 Euro's, 30 cash in hand" Loads of space at the front of the beach... "50 Euros" Scummy approach to business and it's not even a nice beach, just pebbles. Save your money and don't give it to scummy businesses.
We stopped for a light lunch. Chose a table with an umbrella (no extra charge when dining/drinking). Ordered the Gigante salad 8€ & Beppe Focacce 6€ (changed sandwich to make vegetarian). Both tasty. Friendly service. Nice views.
Bar Bagni ll Gigante Having been on a long day tour found this popular restaurant with a great view or the sea and beach with a large statue of a carved man in the sea cliffs. Food menu was in English and choices were appropriate for size of café and price was ok to. I had a salad and soft drink, the olive oil and balsamic dressing were in sachets. Friendly staff who were attentive too. Toilets clean Would recommend
Came here for drinks with my wife on our first day in Monterosso. Service was very slow so we decided not to buy food. Wine was fine but the margarita was terrible—cheap tequila and cheap mixer. After two sips we sent it back—completely undrinkable. Waitress never came back to the table so we went to the long line at the front to pay and they said we still needed to pay for the margarita. I’m planning to spend the day there tomorrow but will not be returning to this bar. If you’re looking for good drinks and service, look elsewhere.
Convent of the Capuchin Friars
11. Convent of the Capuchin Friars
4.7
(248)
Convent
Sights & Landmarks
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Hiked up to the monastery from Monterosso. Beautiful views. Throughout the village we saw the Cappuccini friars on errands. At the convent we heard them singing the Gregorian chants. Interesting history of this breakout group from the Franciscan Order. Humble followers living the values of Assisi.
Lovely and picturesque hike to the top of town. You'll see many discoveries around the trail! Be sure to get to the top of the San Francesco d'Assisi statue for an amazing view.
absolutely amazing place to see access is a long uphill walk but the reward at the top well worth the trip views are stunning along the way you pass a statue of St. Francis of Assisa the balcony here offers terrific photo location further along the church just oozes history a short walk further takes you to the burial vaults and small chapel
This is a must-see church in 5 terre. The hike up is easy, but under the hot summer, it can get a little uncomfortable for some. Regardless, the views from the lookout are great; and the church's interior is peaceful and well maintained. There was ambiance music - at a low volume - to add even more atmosphere.
This a a wonderfully peaceful and serene church. When we first visited late one afternoon, there was a recording of Gregorian chants that enhanced the beauty and serenity. We have returned today for Sunday 11:15 Mass and were rewarded by choir warming up before Mass. it’s a bit of a climb as I was huffing and puffing but surely doable if you take your time and a few rest breaks. You will be rewarded for your efforts. Also, there is a Van Dyke painting in the front left chapel. Enjoy!
The church location offers great views, but it is important to walk in and view. The inside is very ornate and gives visitors a great feel for an old monastery in Cinque Terre. Learn about the history of the church and Friar Francis, as it is very interesting.
This convent is situated right on the top of San Cristoforo hill. It was built in 1622 and dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. It lays in a green, quiet garden that can be reached by climbing brick and stone stairs. Once in the top, an astonishing view of Monterosso al Mare coast can be seen.
Great easy walk to a peaceful place.
Church of St. Margaret of Antioch
12. Church of St. Margaret of Antioch
4.6
(420)
Church
Sights & Landmarks
Small 14th-century Catholic place of worship with an octagonal tower overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
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Simple, old, unassuming and quaint. The place was constructed about 800 years ago from the typical slate rocks of the area. The church lacks elaborate decor or artistry and is mostly bare and minimalist. The location of the church is right at the shore's edge, giving it a wonderful view both from the inside of the church and also from the outside. The few sculptures or statues in the church are spaced well and kept in a good condition.
A simple church that looks to be constructed of stones hewn out of the local cliff faces. Inside, the stone is unplastered and used in vaulted ceilings, columns and floors giving a dark, sombre appearance. The bell tower is probably a later re-build and has a clock whose toll can be heard all over town.
Unassuming church that has a medieval feel to it. A nice place to retreat to from the hustle and bustle if you can catch a time when the tour groups are not in there. Beautiful views via the church to the harbour as well.
Beautiful Church in Vernazza This is a very scenic Church, we enjoyed visiting the area. Vernazza is one of the nicest villages and this church obviously contribute to the nice feel of the village.
A wonderful Romanesque style church even in a small village between the hills and the sea.. 😲❤
This church is like nothing else I have seen in the area. Unlike other churches with their plastered walls and ceilimg, this church is simply basic stonework. It reminds me of an old castle with it's timber ceiling and stonework. An impressive organ sits high at the back of the church and the sea view from the windows is truly breathtaking.
Cold, dark and empty, but still worth your time to visit. Amazing location, incredible views from inside. The stonework inside and out will grab your attention as you gaze upon the thick walls. Attending a Sunday service here would be amazing to experience.
A simple church without a lot of decorations and theatrics, yet it fascinates with its size. Dark stone and minimalism exude the simplicity and modesty that faith should be. It radiates harmony and gives calmness. There is an organ in the back of the church. Not many visitors. It's a bit reminiscent of the Game of Thrones set. There is an interesting mosaic in front of the church.
Arbaspàa
13. Arbaspàa
4.4
(111)
Tour operator
Classes & Workshops
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My niece and I took an amazing sunset dinner cruise with this company in Cinque Terra. The cruise exceeded our expectations in every way. In spite of choppy water, the captain and his first mate found a way to make the cruise happen with a slight change in location. We had a 30-minute stop in Portovenere, then back to the boat for grilled shrimp appetizers and grilled swordfish for dinner — all cooked on a grill attached to the side of the boat! The bar was well stocked and the “crew” was so knowledgeable about the area and the sights we cruised past! We had an excellent time and I would recommend this experience to anyone!!
We had a half-day cruise out of LaSpezia and it was incredible. We’re a group of 13 with 6 adults and kids age 8-14. Everyone had a great day and the kids said it was the highlight of our Italy visit. Highly recommend!
Our skipper, Paulo, was charming, funny and full of valuable and fascinating information about the history and evolution of Cinque Terre. Jumping off the boat and swimming in the clear water was a very delightful highlight to our visit. It was also great to hear the playlist of Italian classics as the sun set and we snapped photos of Manarola and surrounding towns. Highly recommend!
We did the afternoon Aquamarine tour in Cinque Terre with lunch and it was absolutely incredible. We booked for two people and ended up having a private experience since we were the only guests. Our guide was a local named David who shared fascinating facts about the area and took us to beautiful spots. Snorkeling in clear waters surrounded by fish was magical. The boat itself was very nice, with comfortable lounge chairs on the upper deck where we were able to relax and enjoy the view. The seas were a little rocky on our tour and our guide took us to an area where the seas were calm for our meal. The four course seafood meal, made on the boat with fresh ingredients from local fisherman, was delicious. We were sad when it ended and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cinque Terre.
We did the Sunset boat tour and we definitely recommend. It was an amazing experience, our guide was very knowledgeable and we even got to swim in the Mediterranean sea. If you're hesitating to book, just do it, it's worth the price.
We had a fantastic time with Captain Tony. He provided a great boat ride and was an excellent tour guide as we rode along to the towns pointing out interesting history and facts. He gave us a very fun time and kept us laughing.
Had a wonderful sunset cruise with captain Tony! We all had a blast- he made sure we all had a good time while making sure we were comfortable and safe. This is my second time doing this tour- always great!
We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of the Carrara Marble Quarries! It was so interesting! Tommaso was a very good and conscientious driver and guide. We highly recommend this tour.
Scalinata Lardarina
14. Scalinata Lardarina
4.5
(685)
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Long, zigzagging red brick staircase with nearly 400 steps up the cliff & a panorama terrace.
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Okay so this is why this village is my LEAST favorite in the Cinque Terre. It was an incredible staircase to climb from the train station up to town of Corniglia. It took us around 20 minutes, then we wandered a bit in the village. There was not so much to see to be honest. Happy I did it though ! No toilet so needed to go in the station.
Scalinata Lardarina is a striking red-brick staircase with nearly 400 steps winding up the cliffside. It’s a rewarding climb, offering panoramic views of vineyards, rooftops, and the Mediterranean. The staircase is well-maintained, with rest spots along the way that make the ascent manageable even in warmer weather. The climb itself becomes part of the experience—quiet, scenic, and reflective. At the top, you’re greeted by a terrace that opens into the heart of Corniglia, making the effort feel worthwhile. It’s a memorable way to arrive, especially for those who enjoy blending movement with landscape.
A unique review: If running is your style, try the impressive Scalinata Lardarina—a red brick staircase with nearly 400 steps, including 140 steps down to the coastline, providing an excellent running workout. Even a walk can burn calories, make you sweat, and make you smile. I wholeheartedly recommend this hidden gem to fellow sports travelers. For more suggestions, check out @triathlontrips on Instagram and Facebook.
📍 Scalinata Lardarina – Corniglia, Cinque Terre, Italy 🇮🇹 A long brick staircase of 377 steps ⬆️ connecting Corniglia’s train station 🚆 to the hilltop village. The climb can be tiring 😅, especially with luggage, but it’s well worth it for the views of vineyards 🍇, the sea 🌊, and the colorful houses 🏡 as you go up. Along the way there are small resting spots to catch your breath 🪑. If you prefer, there’s also a shuttle bus 🚌, but walking the Lardarina gives a rewarding sense of arrival. 🙌
Nice stairs to climb up into Corniglia. Really not as difficult as I had expected and not worth getting a bus and missing out on the views as you climb.
You need to be fitness prepared to climb these steps, however due to rather low slope it was not so challenging and the view is great. Anyway straight on the top of the stairs You will find a pharmacy
Not worth it...too many steps to see what ended up being my least favorite of the 5 towns. Plus it was the farthest walk to the train station
A beautiful staircase to climb down (you can get to Corniglia by bus from the train station)
Via dell'Amore
15. Via dell'Amore
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Walking Areas
Chiesa di San Lorenzo
16. Chiesa di San Lorenzo
4.4
(273)
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
Modest, Gothic & baroque stone church from the 14th century, decorated with frescoes.
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A very simple, humble, yet memorable church in the center of town, up on top of a lovely hill granting excellent views of the sea. A small, yet effective plaza to gather the locals around each week. Inside, there were a couple of worshipers, and the numerous lit candles added an air of spiritualness as you walked through the doors. We spent some quality quiet time here. You should too.
📍 Chiesa di San Lorenzo – Manarola, Cinque Terre, Italy 🇮🇹 A peaceful 14th-century church ⛪ at the top of Manarola, reached by an uphill walk 🚶‍♂️ from the village. Built in Gothic style with a rose window and a simple interior 🏛️, it offers a quiet break from the busy streets below. The small square outside gives nice views of the rooftops and sea 🌊. Not crowded, making it a tranquil stop if you don’t mind the climb. 🙌
The Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Manarola is a charming church situated above the town, providing a picturesque view of the coastal scenery. Inside the church, there's also a vintage Italian chamber organ.
The first wonder to see in a beautiful village between the hills and the sea.. ❤
Such a nice and pretty church!
This is a good stop point to take a seat and overlook the beauty of the town.
Small church in the heart of Maranola. Like every town of the Cinque Terre, you will find its local church that you can visit.
Very Beautiful and peaceful place..!! Right in the center of one of the cities in cinque terra... Worth the visst
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