Cinque Terre, located on the rugged coastline of the Italian Riviera, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy. Consisting of five charming villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare—it can be tough to decide where to stay. Each town offers a unique experience, so choosing the right one depends on your travel style.
Here, we break down each village and off-the-beaten-path options along the coastline to help you decide where or in which town to stay in Cinque Terre.
How to Choose the Best Town in Cinque Terre for You
The best town in Cinque Terre depends largely on your travel style and what you want to get out of your trip. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the five towns of Cinque Terre to decide.
Riomaggiore
Atmosphere: Lively and Colorful
Best For: First-time Visitors | Couples | Budget-conscious Travelers
Key Attractions: The small marina for renting boats | Church of San Giovanni Battista | Castello di Riomaggiore | Hiking trails to Manarola
Riomaggiore is the first village travelers encounter when arriving from La Spezia and is one of the most lively towns in Cinque Terre. It’s known for its steep, colorful buildings and bustling harbor.
Riomaggiore has a buzzing vibe, perfect for younger travelers or those who prefer a bit more activity. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels. It’s also a hub for boat rentals and diving trips, and the hiking trails here are some of the best in the region. Dining options are abundant, and the nightlife is a bit more lively than other towns, with a handful of bars staying open late.
Manarola
Atmosphere: Romantic and Relaxed
Best For: Couples | Photographers | Hikers
Key Attractions: The Via dell’Amore (the famous “Lover’s Lane”) | Manarola’s harbor and swimming area | Sciacchetrà wine vineyards | Church of San Lorenzo
Manarola is one of the oldest towns in Cinque Terre, known for its dramatic cliffs, vineyards, and laid-back charm. It’s quieter than some of the other villages, perfect for travelers looking for a serene experience.
Staying in Manarola is like stepping into a postcard. This tiny village has no beach but boasts stunning cliffs where locals and visitors swim. It’s ideal for couples who want a romantic getaway or anyone looking to unwind. Manarola offers fewer accommodations than Monterosso or Vernazza, but its intimate guesthouses and B&Bs make it special. You’ll find local seafood restaurants and wine bars to enjoy a quiet evening, though the nightlife here is minimal.
Corniglia
Atmosphere: Quiet and Secluded
Best For: Solo Travelers | Hikers | Off-the-Beaten-Path Explorers
Key Attractions: Panoramic viewpoints from the village’s terraces | The Church of San Pietro
Unlike the other Cinque Terre towns, Corniglia does not sit directly on the coast—it’s situated high up on a cliff, accessible by climbing nearly 400 steps or taking a shuttle from the train station. The village is ideal for solo travelers or hikers who want a peaceful retreat away from the busier towns.
Accommodations are limited, but you’ll find cozy guesthouses. Corniglia is also a great base for hiking, especially if you’re planning to walk between towns. Dining options are more low-key, with family-run restaurants offering local Ligurian cuisine.
Vernazza
Atmosphere: Charming and Historic
Best For: Families and Couples | History Lovers | Cultural Enthusiasts
Key Attractions: Doria Castle (offering panoramic views) | Vernazza Harbor | Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia | Cliffside hiking trails to Corniglia and Monterosso
Vernazza is a quintessential Italian fishing village with a charming harbor and colorful buildings. It’s often regarded as one of the most picturesque towns in Italy, offering a romantic, postcard-perfect setting. Vernazza’s small harbor is filled with fishing boats, and its narrow streets are lined with cafes, wine bars, and artisanal shops.
Accommodations here are boutique-style, with some offering terraces that overlook the Mediterranean. Vernazza is great for travelers who love exploring on foot. You can easily hop on a train or boat to visit neighboring towns, though staying in Vernazza offers a quiet, peaceful retreat.
Monterosso al Mare
Atmosphere: Beachy and Resort-like
Best For: Beach Lovers | Families | Luxury Travelers
Key Attractions: Fegina Beach (the largest sandy beach in Cinque Terre) | The Giant Statue | Monterosso’s Old Town | 17th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista
Monterosso al Mare is the largest and most resort-like village in Cinque Terre, with a more laid-back, beachy vibe. It’s the only town with a proper beach, which attracts sunbathers and families.
It offers a mix of modern hotels and charming guesthouses, with easy access to the rest of Cinque Terre by train. Dining options range from casual trattorias to more upscale restaurants, and the Old Town has plenty of shops to browse. Nightlife is relatively quiet but lively enough for evening strolls along the beach.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre Besides the 5 Towns
If you’re looking to stay outside the main five villages but still want to experience the magic of the region, there are plenty of beautiful spots nearby. Whether you prefer a peaceful hillside retreat or want to explore coastal towns beyond Cinque Terre, here are some great options.
In the Hills
For those seeking a quiet, rural experience, staying in one of the hillside villages offers a serene atmosphere with breathtaking views.
- Groppo: A small hamlet above Manarola, perfect for wine lovers, as it’s surrounded by vineyards. It offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to Cinque Terre’s trails.
- Volastra: Another hilltop village near Manarola, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and those seeking stunning panoramas. It’s a quiet spot with few tourists.
- San Bernardino: A tiny settlement above Vernazza, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Great for hikers and those wanting a secluded escape.
Gulf of the Poets
This area, just south of Cinque Terre, is rich with history, dramatic coastlines, and quieter villages, perfect for those who prefer a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
- La Spezia: A larger city with plenty of accommodation options, making it a convenient base for exploring both Cinque Terre and the nearby Gulf of Poets. Great for budget travelers and those relying on public transport.
- Le Grazie: A quiet harbor village near Portovenere, perfect for travelers who love history and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
- Porto Venere: Often called the “sixth town” of Cinque Terre, it offers stunning views, medieval architecture, and access to the island of Palmaria. A great alternative to the Cinque Terre villages, but with fewer crowds.
- Campiglia Tramonti: A collection of remote, cliffside hamlets known for their wild beauty between Riomaggiore and Porto Venere. Ideal for adventure seekers who love hiking and nature.
On the Way to Genoa
Heading up the coast towards Genova, these towns offer a mix of beaches, history, and charming streets, and they’re less busy than the Cinque Terre villages.
- Levanto: Just north of Monterosso, this town is a popular alternative with a large beach, great hiking trails, and excellent surf spots.
- Bonassola: A small, quiet town with beautiful beaches, just a short train ride from Levanto. Perfect for a peaceful coastal escape.
- Framura: A hidden gem surrounded by cliffs and lush hillsides, Framura offers tranquility and is perfect for nature lovers.
- Deiva Marina: Known for its long beaches and peaceful atmosphere, this is a great spot for families looking for a laid-back vacation.
- Moneglia: A charming town with sandy beaches and a medieval old town. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing coastal retreat.
- Sestri Levante: A vibrant town known for its “Bay of Silence,” a picturesque, crescent-shaped bay. It’s ideal for both families and couples.
The Portofino Peninsula
For those looking for a more luxurious or glamorous stay, the Portofino Peninsula offers stunning coastal villages and upscale accommodations.
- Santa Margherita Ligure: A chic resort town with palm-lined streets, a beautiful harbor, and plenty of high-end shops and restaurants.
- Portofino: Famous for its picturesque harbor, luxury yachts, and upscale vibe. Perfect for those wanting to splurge on a glamorous stay.
- San Fruttuoso: A tiny, hidden gem accessible only by boat or foot, featuring a historic abbey and a small beach.
- Camogli: A charming, colorful fishing village with a lively waterfront and great seafood, offering a more authentic experience compared to Portofino.
Beyond the Riviera di Levante
If you’re looking to explore even further, consider staying in the Riviera di Ponente or the Tuscany region for more variety.
- Riviera di Ponente: The western Ligurian coast offers charming towns like Alassio and Finale Ligure, known for their beaches and historical centers.
- Tuscany: Just south of Cinque Terre, you’ll find beautiful coastal towns like Forte dei Marmi or Pietrasanta, where you can enjoy a mix of beach life and Tuscan charm.
No matter which village or region you choose to stay in, you’ll have access to stunning landscapes, charming streets, and the magic of the Italian Riviera at your fingertips.
Tips for Getting Around Cinque Terre
Whether it’s a day trip from Florence or other parts of Italy, getting around Cinque Terre is part of the adventure, and fortunately, there are several convenient and scenic ways to explore these five stunning villages.
- Train – The Cinque Terre Express is the easiest way to travel between the five villages and nearby towns like Levanto and La Spezia. Trains are frequent and affordable. Consider the Cinque Terre Train Card for unlimited travel and trail access.
- Boat – Ferries connect the coastal towns (except Corniglia) and extend to Portovenere, Le Grazie, and Levanto. Ideal for a scenic journey, especially during the summer.
- Bus – Local buses serve hillside villages like Groppo, Volastra, and San Bernardino. Check schedules, as they run less frequently than trains.
- Car – Driving isn’t ideal within Cinque Terre, but useful for exploring further afield, such as Deiva Marina, Moneglia, or the Portofino Peninsula. Parking is limited in the main villages.
- Foot (Hiking) – The Sentiero Azzurro trail connects the villages, and other trails lead to hillside spots like Volastra and Tramonti. Hiking also links to Levanto and Portovenere.
- Taxi/Shuttle – Best for remote areas or luxury destinations like Portofino or San Fruttuoso. Taxis can be expensive—book in advance and confirm costs.
- Bike Rentals – Available in flatter areas like Levanto and Bonassola. E-bikes are ideal for tackling steeper terrain.
Finally, Get a Cinque Terre Card for trains and hiking, wear comfortable shoes for steep footpaths, and download transport apps for schedule updates on trains, ferries, and buses.
Final Thoughts
Cinque Terre offers an unforgettable experience, whether you choose to stay in the heart of its five iconic villages or venture out to the peaceful hills or surrounding coastal towns. For a lively beach stay, Monterosso is your go-to, while Vernazza and Manarola are perfect for romantic getaways. If you prefer off-the-beaten-path serenity, try Volastra or Portovenere. Wherever you stay, the region’s excellent transport options—train, boat, or foot—make exploring easy and enjoyable.
Choose the place that fits your vibe, and enjoy the beauty of Cinque Terre at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which part of Cinque Terre town is best?
Monterosso is best for beaches, while Vernazza and Manarola are perfect for scenic charm.
Which village to skip in Cinque Terre?
Corniglia is often skipped due to its steep location and lack of direct sea access.
Which base is best for Cinque Terre?
Monterosso or Riomaggiore are the best bases due to easy transportation and amenities.
Is Manarola or Riomaggiore better?
Manarola is quieter and more scenic, while Riomaggiore is livelier with better access to activities.
What is the prettiest village in Cinque Terre?
Vernazza is often considered the most picturesque village.
How many days in Cinque Terre is enough?
2-3 days are enough to explore all five villages and enjoy some hiking or relaxation.
