The 5 Towns of Cinque Terre
If you’re interested in Cinque Terre, and would like to visit, chances are you saw some breathtaking photos or videos on social media. From the colorful houses along the riviera, to the layered terraces and vineyards, this UNESCO world heritage site is synonymous with beauty. Cinque Terre literally translates to “five lands”, as it is comprised of five little picturesque villages along the coast.
Here is some basic information about each town, so you’ll have a better idea what to expect before you visit.
Riomaggiore
If you’re heading north from La Spezia, the first stop is Riomaggiore…just a quick six-minute train ride away. The tiny wharf, wrapped in a backdrop of pastel buildings and the Ligurian Sea, is pure must-see material. It’s also where we’ll walk the famous Via dell’Amore coastal walkway, that leads us right along the sea to our next stop.
Manarola
One of the most iconic views in all of Cinque Terre is the shot of Manarola from the walkway that climbs above the pier. Whether you wander down toward the water or make your way up toward the church, you’ll feel the charm of Cinque Terre’s oldest village pull you in. And don’t leave without trying Sciacchetrà, the local dessert wine that Manarola is famous for!
Corniglia
Next up is Corniglia…the least visited of the five villages, but don’t let that fool you. It’s one of the most unique spots in all of Cinque Terre. Steven, one of our tour hosts, even calls it his favorite! This town is the only one of five that is not directly on the sea, but instead up on the hill. There are hundreds of steps to climb from the train station to reach Corniglia. On our tours, we’ll make our way here as a peaceful ending point after a stunning hike through the national park’s cliffside trail.
Vernazza
On our Riviera Dreamer tours, we start our magical hike through the mountains in Vernazza, a true Cinque Terre fishing village with roots going all the way back to the 11th century. It’s the perfect place to settle in with a plate of Trofie al Pesto and a cold glass of Vermentino. And as a bonus, our favorite gelateria (named after the village itself) lives right here too.
Monterosso
The final town heading north is Monterosso, the largest of the five. This is home base for our tour, where guests stay in one of the loveliest BnBs in town. Monterosso is split into two sides, Fegina and Old Town, and has the best and most accessible beaches in all of Cinque Terre. Monterosso is the most popular town in Cinque Terre, and usually has the most options available in terms of accommodations.
Interested in seeing Cinque Terre like a local?
No matter which village you’re in, we’ve curated experiences and moments you’ll carry with you long after the trip ends. In 2026, we’re hosting five different tours, each crafted with the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Join us for an unforgettable week and experience Cinque Terre through the eyes of a local.
