Top 6 Things to Do in Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre’s legendary network of coastal pathways is a masterpiece of engineering and natural beauty, offering one of the world's most rewarding hiking experiences. While on Zicasso’s Trekking the Italian Riviera Tour: Treasured Trails of Cinque Terre, you will find ancient stone steps and seaside tracks connecting the five villages as they weave their way through terraced vineyards and fragrant Mediterranean gardens.

Each segment of the trail system presents has a distinct character that rewards you with views of hidden coves, centuries-old sanctuaries, and charming village scenes framed by the dramatic coastline. Whether you are embarking on a leisurely walk or a challenging trek, the trails reveal the connection between the people and their land.

What to Expect

When embarking on a hiking adventure in Cinque Terre, expect:

• Breathtaking Sea Views: Uninterrupted panoramas of the Ligurian Sea from elevated coastal paths.
• Terraced Vineyards: Walk through the heart of the region's "heroic" viticulture on ancient stone terraces.
• Varied Trail Difficulty: Options ranging from the gentle, paved Via dell'Amore to strenuous mountain climbs.
• Historic Pathways: Follow in the footsteps of generations who have used these routes for centuries.
• Unforgettable Photo Opportunities: Every turn offers a stunning new perspective of the villages and coastline.

Best Places for Hiking

Here are the top trails and areas to experience Cinque Terre's great outdoors:

• The Blue Trail
• Via dell'Amore
• Corniglia to Vernazza Trail
• Vernazza to Monterosso Trail
• Sanctuary Trail Network

Cinque Terre's coastline showcases nature's artistry. Exploring its waters reveals the stunning beauty of the five villages from their most dramatic vantage point. A private boat tour will allow you to appreciate the full scale of the pastel-colored houses that cling to the cliffs and the ancient stone terraces that climb the hillsides. Gliding along the rugged shore, you will pass hidden caves and secluded coves that are inaccessible by land. Kayaking is another fantastic option. Our private tours combine the journey with opportunities to swim in pristine turquoise waters or enjoy wine and snacks aboard. For more inspiration, take a look at our How to spend 2, 5, or 7 Days in Cinque Terre

What to Expect

When exploring Cinque Terre’s coastline by sea, you can anticipate:

• Unique Village Perspectives: See the iconic, colorful facades of the villages as they were meant to be seen, from the water.
• Access to Hidden Coves: Discover secluded swimming spots and sea caves that cannot be reached on foot.
• Relaxing Travel: Enjoy a refreshing and scenic way to move between villages without the crowds of the train.
• Stunning Sunset Views: Witness the sun dip below the horizon on a romantic sunset cruise.
• A Refreshing Sea Breeze: Escape the heat of the day and enjoy the cool, open air of the Ligurian Sea.

Best Places for Coastal Exploration

These locations are ideal for deep dives into Cinque Terre's maritime beauty:

• Vernazza Harbor
• Monterosso al Mare
• Riomaggiore
• Manarola
• Porto Venere

On our Indulgent Food and Wine Tour of Tuscany and Cinque Terre, you will discover how the culinary traditions of the region reflect centuries of ingenuity. Fresh seafood and cliff-grown ingredients combine in simple yet unforgettable dishes, from world-famous pesto made with locally grown basil to the prized anchovies of Monterosso. Exploring the local cuisine will take you to the heart and soul of Ligurian coastal life. Savor these specialties in charming harbor-front trattorias or learn the secrets yourself in a hands-on cooking class. Master the art of making trofie pasta, create authentic pesto using a traditional mortar and pestle, or discover the simple elegance of preparing fresh fish, Ligurian-style.

What to Expect

When indulging in Cinque Terre's culinary delights, you can anticipate:

• Fresh, Sea-to-Table Ingredients: Enjoy seafood caught daily by local fishers and served in village restaurants.
• Iconic Regional Specialties: Discover the authentic flavors of pesto, focaccia, and Monterosso anchovies.
• Hands-On Cooking Classes: Learn the techniques behind famous Ligurian dishes like Chickpea Firanata from local experts.
• Charming Harborside Dining: Savor meals with breathtaking views of the colorful harbors and the sea.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Experience cuisine that is simple, fresh, and deeply connected to the landscape.

Best Places for Food Tours

These destinations are perfect for an immersive food experience tailored just for you:

• Vernazza
• Monterosso al Mare
• Riomaggiore
• Manarola
• Corniglia

Cinque Terre is home to one of the world's most dramatic wine-growing landscapes, where for centuries, vintners have practiced "heroic viticulture." They cultivate grapes on steeply terraced hillsides, building and maintaining ancient dry-stone walls by hand. This extraordinary effort produces unique coastal wines that capture the essence of the Mediterranean, combining minerality from the soil with notes of herbs carried on the sea breeze. Spend a leisurely afternoon on a panoramic terrace, sipping the dry, crisp Cinque Terre DOC white wine, or sample the rare and precious Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine that has been celebrated for centuries.

What to Expect

When embracing a wine-tasting adventure in Cinque Terre, look forward to:

• A Unique Coastal Terroir: Taste wines with a distinct minerality and salinity you won't find anywhere else.
• Steeply Terraced Vineyards: Witness the incredible "heroic" landscape where the grapes are grown.
• Rare Sciacchetrà Wine: Sample the prized local dessert wine, a true taste of the region's heritage.
• Intimate Cellar Tastings: Gain insights from local vintners in historic cellars and modern tasting rooms on private tours.
• Perfect Pairings: Enjoy wines expertly paired with local cheeses, cured meats, and other Ligurian snacks.

Best Regions for Wine Tasting

These regions offer exceptional wine-tasting opportunities:

• Manarola
• Corniglia
• Riomaggiore
• Volastra
• Groppo

The five villages of Cinque Terre are best discovered on foot because getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow alleyways is part of the fun. These winding, cobbled streets offer a glimpse into daily life as they lead you past colorful houses and artisan shops. Each village has a unique layout and atmosphere waiting to be explored on a Distinct Trails of Italy Tour: An Active Exploration of Cinque Terre and Tuscany. Wander down to the bustling harbors to watch fishers mending their nets or climb steep stone staircases to discover hidden piazzas with breathtaking views. Exploring the villages this way allows you to absorb the true atmosphere of Cinque Terre. Taking a walking tour with an expert guide will reveal hidden layers of history and local lore, and bring ancient stones to life.

What to Expect

On walking tours through Cinque Terre's villages, you can expect:

• Labyrinthine Alleyways: Discover the charm of the narrow, winding streets typical of the region.
• Bustling Harborside Piazzas: Experience the vibrant heart of each village, where locals and visitors congregate.
• Quaint Artisan Shops: Find unique, locally made products, from ceramics and jewelry to limoncello.
• Authentic Glimpses of Daily Life: Observe the timeless routines of these historic fishing communities.
• Unexpected Architectural Details: Notice the small shrines, ancient arches, and architectural quirks of the colorful houses.

Best Places for Village Walks

These destinations are ideal for immersive walking tours:

• Riomaggiore
• Vernazza
• Manarola
• Corniglia
• Monterosso's Old Town

While famous for its rugged cliffs, Cinque Terre also offers unique beach experiences. From the region’s only sizable sandy beach to intimate, rocky coves, there is a perfect spot for every type of beachgoer to relax, swim, and soak up the Italian sun. These coastal havens provide a refreshing escape after a day of hiking or sightseeing. Monterosso al Mare boasts the classic beach experience at Fegina, where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas at private clubs. For a more intimate setting, Vernazza features a small sandy beach in its picturesque harbor, while Riomaggiore and Manarola offer dramatic rocky outcrops and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Take a look at our Tale of Two Rivieras: Basking in the Cote d’Azur and Cinque Terre Tour for more inspiration on visiting the region.

What to Expect

When relaxing on Cinque Terre's beaches, anticipate:

• A Variety of Beach Types: From the sandy shores of Monterosso to the rocky coves of Riomaggiore.
• Crystal-Clear Ligurian Waters: Enjoy refreshing swims in the clean, turquoise sea.
• Charming Village Backdrops: Relax with the iconic, colorful houses of the Cinque Terre as your scenery.
• Opportunities for Sunbathing and Swimming: Find your perfect spot to enjoy the Mediterranean climate.
• A Mix of Private Clubs and Public Areas: Choose the level of comfort and amenities that suits you best.

Best Places for Beaches

These locations are renowned for their swimming and sunbathing spots:

• Fegina Beach, Monterosso
• Vernazza Harbor Beach
• Riomaggiore's Rocky Beach
• Corniglia's Secluded Cove

Cinque Terre truly has it all: dramatic coastal trails, enticing culinary traditions, and breathtaking villages that seem to defy gravity. Each of these timeless communities offers a wealth of activities designed to captivate visitors with varied interests.

Whether you're looking for a romantic wine tasting in a terraced vineyard or a private cooking class to learn the secrets of pesto, our experts are ready to help you plan your trip. Take a look at the myriad possibilities in our Cinque Terre tours and vacations or our Cinque Terre travel guide.