dessert
A First Timers Guide to the Best 2-Day Itinerary in Cinque Terre
Last updated on April 29th, 2025 at 03:17 pm
Have you ever wondered if those Instagram shots of Cinque Terre are actually real or if they’re just some photoshopped pictures made with AI these days? Cause yeah, same. But spoiler alert: they’re real, and they’re even better in person. Cinque Terre is basically Italy showing off as Amalfi’s less expensive sister, with its five ridiculously charming cliffside villages, colorful houses stacked like a game of Tetris, and seafood so fresh it probably had plans before you ordered it 🐠 🐙 🍤
Cinque Terre – translated to mean Five Lands is among one of Italy’s most picturesque places to visit. Located in the Liguria region and often overlooked (or sadly mistaken for Amalfi), Cinque Terre is made up of five small towns (hence the name) – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Every inch of the villages here are postcard worthy. I mean, all of Italy is but especially here. From the brightly colored homes tumbling down the cliffs, to the balconies and terraces overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean — it’s easy to see why Cinque Terre is such a frequently visited UNESCO site and the ideal weekend escape in Northern Italy.
To help you plan the best 2-day itinerary in Cinque Terre, check out this article (w/ a sample itinerary at the bottom). This complete first-timer’s guide to Cinque Terre includes the best time to visit Cinque Terre, as well as boutique hotel recommendations for where to stay, and all of the best activities, things to do, and places to see.
All accompanied by a sample itinerary I’ve personally vetted, tested, and approved 😊
Why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve been traveling to Italy once a year ever since I was ~5 to visit family so I’d like to think I’ve had my fair share of travels around this beautiful country, but particularly Northern Italy! So let’s get into it 👇
Read more on Italy 🇮🇹
- 6 Scenic Day Trips from Milan for a Quick Getaway
- The Perfect Milan 3-Day Itinerary for First Timers
- The Best Things To Do in Milan in November
- Best Bakeries in Milan, Italy – Top 5 Pasticcerias You Absolutely Need to Try
- The Perfect 3 Day Rome Itinerary for First Timers
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
2 days in Cinque Terre at a glance
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Cinque Terre:
- La Casa di Andrea (Monterosso al Mare), for a romantic guesthouse (that also includes free breakfast) in the heart of Monterosso
- Pensione Sorriso (Vernazza), for a wonderful no-frills stay with a sunny rooftop terrace for relaxing and a sunset drink before heading to dinner
- Sandra Villa Rooms (Corniglia), for a quiet and quaint stay in the quietest Cinque Terre village
- La Torretta (Manarola), for a luxurious stay overlooking the ocean with phenomenal suites and service (some of the suites even have hot tubs on the balcony)
- Scorci Di Mare (Riomaggiore), for an apartment-style romantic stay located just steps away from the train station and near an abundance of dining
Where is Cinque Terre?
Well, if you guessed “near the ocean” then you’d be correct 😂
Cinque Terre is technically tucked along the rugged Ligurian coastline in northern Italy, between Genoa and Pisa. It’s part of the Italian Riviera, which means stunning sea views, colorful cliffside villages, and all the charm you’d expect from a postcard-perfect destination. The five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—are strung together along the coast, making it easy to hop between them by train, boat, or even on foot if you’re up for a hike.
Is 2 days in Cinque Terre enough?
Would it be a Discover Over There itinerary if it wasn’t fast-paced? The answer is no. Which means YES! 2 days is definitely enough in Cinque Terre. Obviously, we’d all love to be retired and/or receiving income from a trust on a monthly basis…but sadly I wasn’t born into that family.
So yes, 2 days in Cinque Terre is fast but it’s worth it and totally enough if you’re after the highlights.
You’ll get a solid taste of the villages, soak in those jaw-dropping views, and maybe even fit in a hike or two. It’s enough time to wander through the streets, grab some gelato, sip wine by the water, and tick off all the must-sees!
Best time to visit Cinque Terre for your 2-day itinerary
Sadly Cinque Terre isn’t one of those destinations that you can visit year-round. It’s still gorgeous most of the time, but the issue is that most of the town isn’t even open for tourism or to visitors until early spring. I think a lot of locals still like to go and hike, but if you’re traveling all the way from the states…you’ll probably want to go to get the full Italian experience.
I visited in mid April and the weather was perfect. It wasn’t quite warm enough to go swimming but it was perfect and sunny enough to explore all of the towns.
The best time to visit Cinque Terre is late spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). You’ll get warm weather, fewer crowds, and the conditions are perfect for hiking, exploring, and spending time near the beach. Summer brings peak crowds and high temps, so expect packed trains and pricier stays. Winter is much quieter, but again… most of the restaurants and hotels shut down for the season.
If you’re after that sweet spot of good weather and fewer tourists, shoulder season is the way to go! This goes for anywhere in Europe honestly, but especially Italy.
How to get to Cinque Terre
Depending on where you’re coming from, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll be traveling into Cinque Terre by train or by car. From Milano Centrale, the journey costs 16€ (one-way) and takes ~3 hours nonstop. If you’re coming from Pisa, it takes about ~2 hours. Trains from Pisa go straight to La Spezia, and then it’s just a short ride on the Cinque Terre Express.
On the other hand, cars are generally not allowed in the main villages, so all cars must be parked outside the center. Most parking can be found in the first town of Monterosso. Check out Rome2rio to plan the fastest and cheapest route(s) to get to Cinque Terre.
Best places to stay during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
You really can’t go wrong with hotels in Cinque Terre but just know that the majority of them are guesthouses and B&Bs rather than big chain hotels. Which I love. And think that’s actually a good thing since it usually means more personalized service and a homier feel.
If you’re looking for the most affordable and accessible options, Riomaggiore and Monterosso tend to have the best selection, especially if you’re arriving by train.
Monterosso is the only village with larger hotels and beachfront stays, making it great for those who want more amenities. Riomaggiore and Vernazza have plenty of mid-range guesthouses close to the train stations, making them super convenient. Corniglia is the most budget-friendly, but keep in mind that it’s the only village without direct train access so you’ll have to conquer the famous Lardarina staircase to get there.
And then lastly, Manarola sits somewhere in between, with stunning cliffside stays that are perfect for soaking in the views.
Here are my top picks for places to stay in each village (listed in order from north to south) ☀️
- La Casa di Andrea (Monterosso al Mare), for a romantic guesthouse (that also includes free breakfast) in the heart of Monterosso
- Pensione Sorriso (Vernazza), for a wonderful no-frills stay with a sunny rooftop terrace for relaxing and a sunset drink before heading to dinner
- Sandra Villa Rooms (Corniglia), for a quiet and quaint stay in the quietest Cinque Terre village
- La Torretta (Manarola), for a luxurious stay overlooking the ocean with phenomenal suites and service (some of the suites even have hot tubs on the balcony)
- Scorci Di Mare (Riomaggiore), for an apartment-style romantic stay located just steps away from the train station and near an abundance of dining
Best attractions, landmarks, and things to do during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
Each of Cinque Terre’s five villages has enough charm and things to do to keep you busy for a full day, if not longer. You could easily spend hours wandering the tiny streets, hiking to the best viewpoints, or just posting up with a glass of wine and just taking in the views of the Mediterranean 🍷🌊
But since this is a 2 day itinerary, we’re going to have to move a little fast. So, I’m going to give you the #1 absolute must-do thing or place to see in each village during your Cinque Terre trip. Some of it will be touristy, but there will also be a few hidden gems mixed in 💎
And don’t worry. I’ll also break down the best restaurants and places to eat in a later section, because let’s be real, the food in Italy (especially in Cinque Terre) deserves its own spotlight.
Be a beach bum at Monterosso
Okay the first must-do is easy. Just relax!! You probably deserve it after all the traveling to get there. Monterosso is the only village in Cinque Terre with a “true” sandy beach, making it the perfect spot for a beach day! You can kick back, soak up the sun, and enjoy a gelato…or two. As soon as you step out of the train station, the beach is right there, with plenty of nearby restaurants for when you get peckish.
If the beach isn’t your thing, you can also make a left from the train station and head towards the main square. There’s a beautiful church and a ton of local shops and restaurants to pass the time.
Or if you’re looking for even more adventure, you could consider booking a boat tour around all of the five villages! It’s a great way to knock out all the villages in one day especially since this is only a 2 day itinerary. Our hotel recommended this boat tour to us and it was definitely one of the best ones in the area with super high reviews!
Hike to epic coastal views in Vernazza
I’m technically putting this hike in the Vernazza section since that’s where it ends (or starts if you want to do it in reverse). But since it kind of belongs to both villages, I’ll throw in another must-do for Vernazza too. But first, this hike? Absolutely epic. Easily one of the most scenic trails I’ve ever done. Like, on par with Hawaii and South Africa. Just totally different. But just as beautiful!
If you’re starting the trail in Monterosso, the trailhead starts right at the end of Via Corone, next to the Porto Roca hotel.
If you’re starting the trail from Vernazza — then from the Vernazza train station, you’ll walk straight for a couple of minutes, then take the first right onto Via Agostino del Santo. You’ll weave through quiet residential streets before hitting the official trailhead.
Since this hike runs through Cinque Terre National Park, there’s a small €7.50 entrance fee, which helps keep the trails in good shape. Honestly, it’s an absolute steal for the views you get along the way.
The hike is rated as intermediate though, so come prepared — my biggest travel tip for this hike is to bring sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes are a must. Shoes with grip aren’t necessary, since I literally did the whole hike in converse. I’m not saying you should do that, but I’m saying that you won’t necessarily die if you don’t have great shoes.
Discover (and taste) local wines in Corniglia
Corniglia is the calm, quieter village of Cinque Terre, offering a nice break from the usual hustle. It’s not as packed with tourists, probably because it doesn’t have a beach at all. Which makes it feel a little more relaxed.
A lot of people tend to skip this village but I think it’s still worth making a stop! Whether by train, on foot, or by speedboat! There’s not a ton to do here besides enjoy the peaceful vibe, wander through the charming streets, take in the views if you’re up for another big hike (the famous blue trail goes right through Corniglia).
But if you’re a wine lover like me, Corniglia’s definitely worth the stop. Plus, who the hell wants to do another hike on vacation? Not me.
For a real treat, head over to La Polenza (boutique winery) or Terra Rossa for some local wine tasting. Cinque Terre’s wine region is special — thanks to the steep, cliffside terraces, that make the grapes here grow in unique conditions. You’ll mostly find crisp white wines like Sciacchetrà, though there are reds to discover too. It’s a region that’s tough to farm but worth every sip, giving you a true taste of the area’s rugged beauty.
Pasta making with an incredible view in Manarola
Manarola is probably the most quintessential of the five towns. This is probably what you picture when you think of photos and videos from this place. Nessun Dorma in Manarola then is a must-visit, not just for the food, but for the unforgettable views that’ll make you want to pause everything and just stare.
Perched on the cliffs of Manarola, Nessun Dorma restaurant offers one of the best panoramas in the area. They even offer a pesto pasta-making class, but heads up that you’ll need to book that in advance.
If you didn’t sign up for the pasta-making class, no worries! You can still enjoy everything Nessun Dorma has to offer. Just download their app when you arrive, and you can easily get seated to savor some delicious charcuterie and an Aperol Spritz while taking in the incredible scenery 🍊 🌊
We kicked off our time in Cinque Terre with lunch at Nessun Dorma, and the views from this restaurant are absolutely breathtaking — definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in the area. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, though, as it’s a popular spot.
To skip the line completely, you’ll want to download the app and add yourself to the virtual waitlist (it opens at 11:30, and the restaurant opens at 12!). This little hack will save you tons of time and guarantee you a spot at one of the prime tables with a view of the water
Ps. If you can’t get into the Nessun Dorma cooking class, you can always book this authentic homemade focaccia + pesto pasta making class with fantastic reviews! 🍝
Check out what one student said about the class 😍
An amazing experience! Yvonne was fabulous- talked us through all the ingredients and their history. We loved this class and our pesto tasted delicious paired with a beautiful white wine and focaccia! Definitely recommend this class!
Enjoy a cliffside meal in Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the grand finale of Cinque Terre, and it’s just as charming as the rest—if not more. Nestled at the southernmost tip of the region, this village is the perfect mix of colorful houses, winding streets, and stunning coastal views. While it’s a bit more laid-back than the other villages, there’s still plenty to do.
You can walk along the picturesque harbor, grab a gelato or a coffee by the water, or take a short hike along the Lover’s Lane (Via dell’Amore), a scenic path that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola. There’s also a ton of little restaurants that are literally built into the cliffs of Riomaggiore. So if you’re not afraid of heights, I would head to Rio Bistrot or Old School Riomaggiore!
If you’re wanting a fun but cost-effective activity, you can also rent kayaks and paddle out from the main marina!
Didn’t get your wine fix in Corniglia? No worries. You can also go for a vineyard tour and tasting here. It’s a super unique experience since Cinque Terre wines aren’t really exported beyond Italy and the climate here is do different from your typical Tuscan wines. Tickets for the vineyard tour start at $80/person but if you’re just looking to learn a little bit more about Cinque Terre wines, you can head to this local wine shop for a much cheaper tasting.
Whether you’re in the mood to relax or explore, Riomaggiore wraps up your Cinque Terre adventure with the perfect balance of beauty and calm.
Best restaurants & places to eat during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
Did you even go to Italy if you didn’t eat so much pasta that your stomach hurt?
Well if you haven’t done that yet, be sure to stop by Ristorante Il Moretti for all your pasta needs. Liguria is the birthplace of pesto so naturally, you have to try a traditional Trofie al Pesto which is a pesto pasta with potatoes and green beans.
Seeing as how Cinque Terre is a fishing village, you will probably notice (or smell) a fried fish shop on just about every corner. They serve all types of fish but you absolutely must try the calamari or fried anchovies!
For dinner, you also need to check out L’osteria for dinner. L’osteria is a small seafood restaurant located right underneath the main arch in Monterosso. The restaurant was tastefully decorated in a nautical theme, with old photographs and bottles of wine displayed proudly on the shelves. The ambiance was lively and the service was impeccable. The wine list was also spectacular, featuring wines from all over Italy and other parts of Europe. We decided to go with a local red blend that was produced in Vernazza.
The food menu is simple, featuring typical Italian cuisine with a heavy emphasis on seafood. You can’t go wrong with the local seafood pasta or the ravioli with shrimp and sea bass! Both dishes were extremely fresh and the ravioli was especially unique!
Lastly, make sure you follow up every meal with a little bit of gelato! Our favorites were Gelateria Vernazza (Vernazza) and Slurp! Gelato Artigianale (Monterosso al Mare) 🍨
2 days in Cinque Terre: Final Thoughts
2 days in Cinque Terre might feel like a whirlwind, but it’s more than enough to fall in love with this stunning region. After visiting from San Francisco, it quickly became one of my favorite places in Italy. From the colorful villages and jaw-dropping coastal views to the delicious food and scenic hikes, there’s so much to see and do in just a short amount of time.
Of course, you could easily spend weeks here and still find new gems, but in two days, you’ll get a solid taste of everything that makes Cinque Terre unforgettable. Whether you’re chilling by the water or hiking between the villages, this spot will definitely steal your heart and leave you wanting to explore more of Northern Italy! Which imo, is still so underrated. Everyone keeps flocking south but you know what I say? LET THEM!
Did you get a chance to visit Cinque Terre? Let me know in the comments below!
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Last updated on April 29th, 2025 at 03:17 pm
Have you ever wondered if those Instagram shots of Cinque Terre are actually real or if they’re just some photoshopped pictures made with AI these days? Cause yeah, same. But spoiler alert: they’re real, and they’re even better in person. Cinque Terre is basically Italy showing off as Amalfi’s less expensive sister, with its five ridiculously charming cliffside villages, colorful houses stacked like a game of Tetris, and seafood so fresh it probably had plans before you ordered it 🐠 🐙 🍤
Cinque Terre – translated to mean Five Lands is among one of Italy’s most picturesque places to visit. Located in the Liguria region and often overlooked (or sadly mistaken for Amalfi), Cinque Terre is made up of five small towns (hence the name) – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Every inch of the villages here are postcard worthy. I mean, all of Italy is but especially here. From the brightly colored homes tumbling down the cliffs, to the balconies and terraces overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean — it’s easy to see why Cinque Terre is such a frequently visited UNESCO site and the ideal weekend escape in Northern Italy.
To help you plan the best 2-day itinerary in Cinque Terre, check out this article (w/ a sample itinerary at the bottom). This complete first-timer’s guide to Cinque Terre includes the best time to visit Cinque Terre, as well as boutique hotel recommendations for where to stay, and all of the best activities, things to do, and places to see.
All accompanied by a sample itinerary I’ve personally vetted, tested, and approved 😊
Why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve been traveling to Italy once a year ever since I was ~5 to visit family so I’d like to think I’ve had my fair share of travels around this beautiful country, but particularly Northern Italy! So let’s get into it 👇
Read more on Italy 🇮🇹
- 6 Scenic Day Trips from Milan for a Quick Getaway
- The Perfect Milan 3-Day Itinerary for First Timers
- The Best Things To Do in Milan in November
- Best Bakeries in Milan, Italy – Top 5 Pasticcerias You Absolutely Need to Try
- The Perfect 3 Day Rome Itinerary for First Timers
This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
2 days in Cinque Terre at a glance
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Cinque Terre:
- La Casa di Andrea (Monterosso al Mare), for a romantic guesthouse (that also includes free breakfast) in the heart of Monterosso
- Pensione Sorriso (Vernazza), for a wonderful no-frills stay with a sunny rooftop terrace for relaxing and a sunset drink before heading to dinner
- Sandra Villa Rooms (Corniglia), for a quiet and quaint stay in the quietest Cinque Terre village
- La Torretta (Manarola), for a luxurious stay overlooking the ocean with phenomenal suites and service (some of the suites even have hot tubs on the balcony)
- Scorci Di Mare (Riomaggiore), for an apartment-style romantic stay located just steps away from the train station and near an abundance of dining
Where is Cinque Terre?
Well, if you guessed “near the ocean” then you’d be correct 😂
Cinque Terre is technically tucked along the rugged Ligurian coastline in northern Italy, between Genoa and Pisa. It’s part of the Italian Riviera, which means stunning sea views, colorful cliffside villages, and all the charm you’d expect from a postcard-perfect destination. The five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—are strung together along the coast, making it easy to hop between them by train, boat, or even on foot if you’re up for a hike.
Is 2 days in Cinque Terre enough?
Would it be a Discover Over There itinerary if it wasn’t fast-paced? The answer is no. Which means YES! 2 days is definitely enough in Cinque Terre. Obviously, we’d all love to be retired and/or receiving income from a trust on a monthly basis…but sadly I wasn’t born into that family.
So yes, 2 days in Cinque Terre is fast but it’s worth it and totally enough if you’re after the highlights.
You’ll get a solid taste of the villages, soak in those jaw-dropping views, and maybe even fit in a hike or two. It’s enough time to wander through the streets, grab some gelato, sip wine by the water, and tick off all the must-sees!
Best time to visit Cinque Terre for your 2-day itinerary
Sadly Cinque Terre isn’t one of those destinations that you can visit year-round. It’s still gorgeous most of the time, but the issue is that most of the town isn’t even open for tourism or to visitors until early spring. I think a lot of locals still like to go and hike, but if you’re traveling all the way from the states…you’ll probably want to go to get the full Italian experience.
I visited in mid April and the weather was perfect. It wasn’t quite warm enough to go swimming but it was perfect and sunny enough to explore all of the towns.
The best time to visit Cinque Terre is late spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). You’ll get warm weather, fewer crowds, and the conditions are perfect for hiking, exploring, and spending time near the beach. Summer brings peak crowds and high temps, so expect packed trains and pricier stays. Winter is much quieter, but again… most of the restaurants and hotels shut down for the season.
If you’re after that sweet spot of good weather and fewer tourists, shoulder season is the way to go! This goes for anywhere in Europe honestly, but especially Italy.
How to get to Cinque Terre
Depending on where you’re coming from, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll be traveling into Cinque Terre by train or by car. From Milano Centrale, the journey costs 16€ (one-way) and takes ~3 hours nonstop. If you’re coming from Pisa, it takes about ~2 hours. Trains from Pisa go straight to La Spezia, and then it’s just a short ride on the Cinque Terre Express.
On the other hand, cars are generally not allowed in the main villages, so all cars must be parked outside the center. Most parking can be found in the first town of Monterosso. Check out Rome2rio to plan the fastest and cheapest route(s) to get to Cinque Terre.
Best places to stay during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
You really can’t go wrong with hotels in Cinque Terre but just know that the majority of them are guesthouses and B&Bs rather than big chain hotels. Which I love. And think that’s actually a good thing since it usually means more personalized service and a homier feel.
If you’re looking for the most affordable and accessible options, Riomaggiore and Monterosso tend to have the best selection, especially if you’re arriving by train.
Monterosso is the only village with larger hotels and beachfront stays, making it great for those who want more amenities. Riomaggiore and Vernazza have plenty of mid-range guesthouses close to the train stations, making them super convenient. Corniglia is the most budget-friendly, but keep in mind that it’s the only village without direct train access so you’ll have to conquer the famous Lardarina staircase to get there.
And then lastly, Manarola sits somewhere in between, with stunning cliffside stays that are perfect for soaking in the views.
Here are my top picks for places to stay in each village (listed in order from north to south) ☀️
- La Casa di Andrea (Monterosso al Mare), for a romantic guesthouse (that also includes free breakfast) in the heart of Monterosso
- Pensione Sorriso (Vernazza), for a wonderful no-frills stay with a sunny rooftop terrace for relaxing and a sunset drink before heading to dinner
- Sandra Villa Rooms (Corniglia), for a quiet and quaint stay in the quietest Cinque Terre village
- La Torretta (Manarola), for a luxurious stay overlooking the ocean with phenomenal suites and service (some of the suites even have hot tubs on the balcony)
- Scorci Di Mare (Riomaggiore), for an apartment-style romantic stay located just steps away from the train station and near an abundance of dining
Best attractions, landmarks, and things to do during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
Each of Cinque Terre’s five villages has enough charm and things to do to keep you busy for a full day, if not longer. You could easily spend hours wandering the tiny streets, hiking to the best viewpoints, or just posting up with a glass of wine and just taking in the views of the Mediterranean 🍷🌊
But since this is a 2 day itinerary, we’re going to have to move a little fast. So, I’m going to give you the #1 absolute must-do thing or place to see in each village during your Cinque Terre trip. Some of it will be touristy, but there will also be a few hidden gems mixed in 💎
And don’t worry. I’ll also break down the best restaurants and places to eat in a later section, because let’s be real, the food in Italy (especially in Cinque Terre) deserves its own spotlight.
Be a beach bum at Monterosso
Okay the first must-do is easy. Just relax!! You probably deserve it after all the traveling to get there. Monterosso is the only village in Cinque Terre with a “true” sandy beach, making it the perfect spot for a beach day! You can kick back, soak up the sun, and enjoy a gelato…or two. As soon as you step out of the train station, the beach is right there, with plenty of nearby restaurants for when you get peckish.
If the beach isn’t your thing, you can also make a left from the train station and head towards the main square. There’s a beautiful church and a ton of local shops and restaurants to pass the time.
Or if you’re looking for even more adventure, you could consider booking a boat tour around all of the five villages! It’s a great way to knock out all the villages in one day especially since this is only a 2 day itinerary. Our hotel recommended this boat tour to us and it was definitely one of the best ones in the area with super high reviews!
Hike to epic coastal views in Vernazza
I’m technically putting this hike in the Vernazza section since that’s where it ends (or starts if you want to do it in reverse). But since it kind of belongs to both villages, I’ll throw in another must-do for Vernazza too. But first, this hike? Absolutely epic. Easily one of the most scenic trails I’ve ever done. Like, on par with Hawaii and South Africa. Just totally different. But just as beautiful!
If you’re starting the trail in Monterosso, the trailhead starts right at the end of Via Corone, next to the Porto Roca hotel.
If you’re starting the trail from Vernazza — then from the Vernazza train station, you’ll walk straight for a couple of minutes, then take the first right onto Via Agostino del Santo. You’ll weave through quiet residential streets before hitting the official trailhead.
Since this hike runs through Cinque Terre National Park, there’s a small €7.50 entrance fee, which helps keep the trails in good shape. Honestly, it’s an absolute steal for the views you get along the way.
The hike is rated as intermediate though, so come prepared — my biggest travel tip for this hike is to bring sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes are a must. Shoes with grip aren’t necessary, since I literally did the whole hike in converse. I’m not saying you should do that, but I’m saying that you won’t necessarily die if you don’t have great shoes.
Discover (and taste) local wines in Corniglia
Corniglia is the calm, quieter village of Cinque Terre, offering a nice break from the usual hustle. It’s not as packed with tourists, probably because it doesn’t have a beach at all. Which makes it feel a little more relaxed.
A lot of people tend to skip this village but I think it’s still worth making a stop! Whether by train, on foot, or by speedboat! There’s not a ton to do here besides enjoy the peaceful vibe, wander through the charming streets, take in the views if you’re up for another big hike (the famous blue trail goes right through Corniglia).
But if you’re a wine lover like me, Corniglia’s definitely worth the stop. Plus, who the hell wants to do another hike on vacation? Not me.
For a real treat, head over to La Polenza (boutique winery) or Terra Rossa for some local wine tasting. Cinque Terre’s wine region is special — thanks to the steep, cliffside terraces, that make the grapes here grow in unique conditions. You’ll mostly find crisp white wines like Sciacchetrà, though there are reds to discover too. It’s a region that’s tough to farm but worth every sip, giving you a true taste of the area’s rugged beauty.
Pasta making with an incredible view in Manarola
Manarola is probably the most quintessential of the five towns. This is probably what you picture when you think of photos and videos from this place. Nessun Dorma in Manarola then is a must-visit, not just for the food, but for the unforgettable views that’ll make you want to pause everything and just stare.
Perched on the cliffs of Manarola, Nessun Dorma restaurant offers one of the best panoramas in the area. They even offer a pesto pasta-making class, but heads up that you’ll need to book that in advance.
If you didn’t sign up for the pasta-making class, no worries! You can still enjoy everything Nessun Dorma has to offer. Just download their app when you arrive, and you can easily get seated to savor some delicious charcuterie and an Aperol Spritz while taking in the incredible scenery 🍊 🌊
We kicked off our time in Cinque Terre with lunch at Nessun Dorma, and the views from this restaurant are absolutely breathtaking — definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in the area. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, though, as it’s a popular spot.
To skip the line completely, you’ll want to download the app and add yourself to the virtual waitlist (it opens at 11:30, and the restaurant opens at 12!). This little hack will save you tons of time and guarantee you a spot at one of the prime tables with a view of the water
Ps. If you can’t get into the Nessun Dorma cooking class, you can always book this authentic homemade focaccia + pesto pasta making class with fantastic reviews! 🍝
Check out what one student said about the class 😍
An amazing experience! Yvonne was fabulous- talked us through all the ingredients and their history. We loved this class and our pesto tasted delicious paired with a beautiful white wine and focaccia! Definitely recommend this class!
Enjoy a cliffside meal in Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is the grand finale of Cinque Terre, and it’s just as charming as the rest—if not more. Nestled at the southernmost tip of the region, this village is the perfect mix of colorful houses, winding streets, and stunning coastal views. While it’s a bit more laid-back than the other villages, there’s still plenty to do.
You can walk along the picturesque harbor, grab a gelato or a coffee by the water, or take a short hike along the Lover’s Lane (Via dell’Amore), a scenic path that connects Riomaggiore to Manarola. There’s also a ton of little restaurants that are literally built into the cliffs of Riomaggiore. So if you’re not afraid of heights, I would head to Rio Bistrot or Old School Riomaggiore!
If you’re wanting a fun but cost-effective activity, you can also rent kayaks and paddle out from the main marina!
Didn’t get your wine fix in Corniglia? No worries. You can also go for a vineyard tour and tasting here. It’s a super unique experience since Cinque Terre wines aren’t really exported beyond Italy and the climate here is do different from your typical Tuscan wines. Tickets for the vineyard tour start at $80/person but if you’re just looking to learn a little bit more about Cinque Terre wines, you can head to this local wine shop for a much cheaper tasting.
Whether you’re in the mood to relax or explore, Riomaggiore wraps up your Cinque Terre adventure with the perfect balance of beauty and calm.
Best restaurants & places to eat during your 2-day Cinque Terre itinerary
Did you even go to Italy if you didn’t eat so much pasta that your stomach hurt?
Well if you haven’t done that yet, be sure to stop by Ristorante Il Moretti for all your pasta needs. Liguria is the birthplace of pesto so naturally, you have to try a traditional Trofie al Pesto which is a pesto pasta with potatoes and green beans.
Seeing as how Cinque Terre is a fishing village, you will probably notice (or smell) a fried fish shop on just about every corner. They serve all types of fish but you absolutely must try the calamari or fried anchovies!
For dinner, you also need to check out L’osteria for dinner. L’osteria is a small seafood restaurant located right underneath the main arch in Monterosso. The restaurant was tastefully decorated in a nautical theme, with old photographs and bottles of wine displayed proudly on the shelves. The ambiance was lively and the service was impeccable. The wine list was also spectacular, featuring wines from all over Italy and other parts of Europe. We decided to go with a local red blend that was produced in Vernazza.
The food menu is simple, featuring typical Italian cuisine with a heavy emphasis on seafood. You can’t go wrong with the local seafood pasta or the ravioli with shrimp and sea bass! Both dishes were extremely fresh and the ravioli was especially unique!
Lastly, make sure you follow up every meal with a little bit of gelato! Our favorites were Gelateria Vernazza (Vernazza) and Slurp! Gelato Artigianale (Monterosso al Mare) 🍨
2 days in Cinque Terre: Final Thoughts
2 days in Cinque Terre might feel like a whirlwind, but it’s more than enough to fall in love with this stunning region. After visiting from San Francisco, it quickly became one of my favorite places in Italy. From the colorful villages and jaw-dropping coastal views to the delicious food and scenic hikes, there’s so much to see and do in just a short amount of time.
Of course, you could easily spend weeks here and still find new gems, but in two days, you’ll get a solid taste of everything that makes Cinque Terre unforgettable. Whether you’re chilling by the water or hiking between the villages, this spot will definitely steal your heart and leave you wanting to explore more of Northern Italy! Which imo, is still so underrated. Everyone keeps flocking south but you know what I say? LET THEM!
Did you get a chance to visit Cinque Terre? Let me know in the comments below!
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