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The Cinque Terre National Park (Parco nazionale delle Cinque Terre) lies along Italy’s western coast, in the Liguria region, within the province of La Spezia. Its name translates to “Five Lands,” referring to the five picturesque seaside villages nestled among rugged cliffs and terraced hillsides.
In 1997, Cinque Terre and the nearby town of Portovenere were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they are now under the organization’s protection.
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About the Park
The first settlements in what is now Cinque Terre date back to the Roman Empire. However, most of its historical and architectural landmarks stem from the Middle Ages. These include hand-built seaside terraces and an array of religious and civil structures—churches, sanctuaries, noble estates, and ancient villas.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Cinque Terre from other Italian cities is by train. A direct train from Genoa to Riomaggiore (one of the five Cinque Terre towns) runs regularly, taking about two hours. From elsewhere in Italy, travelers can get to La Spezia—the province’s main city—and then switch to a local train to Riomaggiore. The distance from La Spezia to the national park is just about three miles (5 km), making the train ride less than 10 minutes.
Transportation Within the Park
With the exception of Monterosso (Monterosso al Mare), cars are not allowed in any of the Cinque Terre towns—and even in Monterosso, access is heavily restricted. But this car-free environment is part of the charm: the towns are so close together that walking between them is not only feasible, it’s often the best way to take in the breathtaking coastal views.
If walking isn’t ideal, ferries and regional trains also connect the villages efficiently by sea and rail.
Many travelers make the mistake of rushing through all five towns in a single day without staying overnight—missing out on the area’s true magic.
Highly recommended: best places to stay in Cinque Terre
Towns of Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre National Park in Italy is made up of five coastal towns arranged from south to north:
- Riomaggiore;
- Manarola;
- Corniglia;
- Vernazza;
- Monterosso.
A detailed Cinque Terre map will help you navigate between towns and along the many scenic hiking trails, highlighting key roads, hotels, landmarks, and other important points of interest for travelers.
Each town in Cinque Terre can be described as “the most” in some way—whether it’s the largest, the southernmost, or the highest. Together they form a harmonious, cohesive landscape, yet each has its own unique charm and notable attractions.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the southernmost town in the park and the closest to the city of La Spezia.
Founded in the early 13th century, the town is divided into three main areas: the train station district, the historical town center, and the harbor with its small rocky beach. Riomaggiore is linked to neighboring Manarola by the famous Via dell’Amore (Lovers’ Lane), a scenic cliffside walking path.
Among the town’s highlights are the Church of St. John the Baptist (Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista), built in 1340 and adorned with beautiful frescoes; the Riomaggiore Castle (Castello di Riomaggiore), once a defensive fortification and now a romantic viewpoint; and the Sanctuary of Montenero (Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero), believed to have been founded in the 8th century and last restored in 1847.
Manarola
Manarola is the oldest of the five Cinque Terre villages. Travelers visiting around Catholic Christmas are in for a special treat: Manarola is home to the largest nativity scene in Italy—and the world. This magnificent display, depicting the birth of Christ and the adoration of the Magi, is ceremoniously lit on December 8 each year and remains on view until late January or early February.
In Manarola, visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient bastion, venture to the nearby hamlet of Groppo—renowned for its excellent wine—and admire an 8th-century image of the Madonna inside the Church of Our Lady of Health (Chiesa della Madonna della Salute).
Corniglia
Corniglia is the smallest and highest of the five villages in Cinque Terre, but no less picturesque. It’s the only town in the park without a harbor, which means it can only be reached by train or on foot.
Among Corniglia’s main attractions are the beautiful Church of St. Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro), built in 1334 in the Ligurian Gothic style; the ruins of an ancient Genoese fortress; and the stunning Guvano Beach (Spiaggia di Guvano), a secluded spot that’s especially popular with naturists.
Vernazza
Vernazza is often hailed as the most beautiful of the Cinque Terre towns and the true gem of the national park.
Colorful houses crowd the edge of the sea, while medieval villas and modern homes line the winding streets. The Belforte Tower (Torre Belforte) and the walls of Doria Castle (Castello Doria) offer panoramic views of the dramatic coastline.
Vernazza’s most prominent landmarks, like those in the other Cinque Terre towns, are religious buildings dating to the Middle Ages. These include the Church of Saint Margaret of Antioch (Chiesa di Santa Margherita di Antiochia), the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Reggio (Santuario della Madonna di Reggio), and several others.
Monterosso
Monterosso is the fifth and northernmost village in the Cinque Terre, and also the largest.
The town is divided into two sections—an old town and a newer part. Monterosso features the largest and most well-equipped beach in the region, which explains its popularity among visitors. Compared to the other villages, Monterosso also offers a livelier nightlife scene.
Top attractions in Monterosso include the Aurora Tower (Aurora Torre), a 16th-century remnant of the old fortress; the colossal statue of Neptune carrying a seashell on his shoulder; and the Church of St. John the Baptist (Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista) with its adjacent chapel Mortis et Orationis (“Death and Prayer”).
Towns Near Cinque Terre
Levanto
Levanto lies just north of Cinque Terre and is often called the “Gateway to the Five Lands.” However, this charming town is a destination in its own right, filled with architectural treasures such as the Church of Saint Andrew the Apostle, the Annunciation Church, and the ruins of a medieval castle. Levanto also offers a wide range of hotels, from budget options to luxurious suites.
Portovenere
The name Portovenere translates as “Venus’s Harbor” and stems from an old legend that the goddess of love and beauty hid in a cave near the present-day town to escape humankind’s neglect.
Historically, Portovenere was a well-fortified bastion, protected by solid walls. Today, it’s a charming, peaceful town perfect for soaking in panoramic sea views and the relaxed Italian atmosphere.
Hotels
All five towns of Cinque Terre offer a variety of accommodations, ranging in price, style, and amenities. Here are three recommended hotels for your stay in the area:
- Stella Della Marina is located in Monterosso, at Via XX Settembre 11. Guests can enjoy a spacious terrace overlooking the sea, cozy rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, hydromassage showers, and more. In high season, a classic double room costs approximately €120 per night.
- Villa Argentina is in Riomaggiore, about a 10-minute walk from the train station. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast (or room service upon request), comfortable rooms—some with terraces and stunning sea views. A standard double room without a balcony costs around €135 per night, and with a balcony, from €140.
- Grand Hotel Portovenere is a luxurious hotel in the town of Portovenere. Guests are treated to elegant rooms with sea views, breakfast on a panoramic terrace, and optional boat excursions. Each room includes upscale furnishings, modern amenities, and complimentary toiletries. A classic double room starts around €290 per night.