Active Adventures in Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is part of the Italian Riviera in northwestern Italy, nestled along the rugged Ligurian coastline. 

How to get to Cinque Terre from North America? Depending on your starting destination, you can fly into major Italian hubs like Rome (FCO), Florence (FLR) or Milan (MXP), or smaller gateways like Pisa (PSA) or Genoa (GOA). From these cities, plan to take a train to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre. From La Spezia, you can catch a local train directly to the Cinque Terre villages. The trains in this region are regular.
How far is Cinque Terre from...
Pisa: Just over 1 hour by train (90 km / 55 miles)
Genoa: Around 1.5 hours by train (90 km / 55 miles)
Florence: About 2.5 hours by train (160 km / 100 miles) 
Milan: About 3 hours by train (250 km / 155 miles)
Rome: Approximately 4 hours by train (400 km / 250 miles) 

1. Monterosso al Mare: The largest village, known for its sandy beaches and historic center, perfect for relaxation. 
2. Vernazza: Famous for its picturesque harbor and colorful houses, often considered the most beautiful village. 
3. Corniglia: Perched on a cliff, it's the only village not directly on the sea, offering tranquil, panoramic views. 
4. Manarola: Renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored buildings and scenic vineyards, ideal for capturing iconic photos. 
5. Riomaggiore: The southernmost village, characterized by its steep alleys and stunning harbor, great for a lively atmosphere. 

Best Time to Visit Cinque Terre:
The best times to visit Cinque Terre are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. Summer can be quite busy and hot, while winter, though quieter, might be chilly and less ideal for outdoor activities and trails are often closed after heavy rainfall.  

How to Get Around Between Villages:
A large network of hiking trails links the villages and offers stunning coastal views, making walking a popular way to get around between villages.  Another popular option is to use the Cinque Terre Express train, which connects all the villages. Additionally, ferries operate between the villages during the tourist season, providing a scenic travel option. 

Portofino: Known for its glamorous charm, Portofino is a picturesque fishing village with colorful houses and a beautiful harbor. 
La Spezia: A major port city and gateway to Cinque Terre, with a vibrant cultural scene, including museums and shopping. A great base for exploring the region with good train connections.
Portovenere: South of Cinque Terre, Portovenere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a striking medieval harbor, colorful houses, and the impressive Church of St. Peter.  
Bonassola: This charming seaside town is known for its relaxed atmosphere, sandy beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It serves as a quieter alternative to the more tourist-heavy spots.
Levanto: This famous seaside resort along the Italian Riviera is the perfect starting point for visiting the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, only 10 minutes by train.
Rapallo: A lively town with a historic center with a picturesque waterfront, a stunning castle, and markets.

Fritto Misto di Mare – A mix of lightly fried seafood, including calamari, shrimp, and small fish, often served in a paper cone – a perfect snack while exploring the villages.
Troffie al Pesto – This local favorite features twisted pasta with fresh basil pesto, a specialty of the Ligurian coast. Enjoy this dish on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, paired with a glass of local Vino Bianco.
Focaccia – This freshly baked bread is often seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and rosemary. It's perfect for a quick snack while hiking the Cinque Terre trails.
Acciughe (Anchovies) – Monterosso is famous for its delicious anchovies, served fresh or salted. Try them marinated in lemon juice and olive oil, a classic way to savor the local catch.
Torta di Riso – This savory rice cake is a popular and satisfying snack among hikers. Made with rice, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for a break during your Cinque Terre hiking tour.