Few places in Italy offer such variety in outdoor experiences: hike along scenic cliffside trails, dive from rocky shores, kayak past hidden coves, or explore shipwrecks and coral reefs underwater. The Cinque Terre—along with nearby Portovenere and Palmaria Island—provide countless ways to experience the great outdoors:

• Hiking: Famous trails like the Sentiero Azzurro connect the villages and offer jaw-dropping views. Some are free, others require a pass during high season. Proper footwear is mandatory—violators may be fined.

• Kayaking and canoeing: A unique perspective for exploring secluded beaches and dramatic coastlines.

• Snorkeling and diving: Explore rich marine life with a mask or scuba gear, guided by local instructors. Keep in mind you’re in a protected marine area—no spearfishing or taking anything from the seabed.

• Boat excursions: Ideal for discovering the villages from the sea, often combined with wine tastings or swimming stops.

Swimming in the Cinque Terre is an authentic experience—forget sandy beaches. Here, it’s all about rock formations, turquoise water, and natural charm.

• Monterosso: The only village with a true equipped beach, ideal for families and travelers with limited mobility.

• Vernazza and Manarola: Picturesque harbors perfect for a dive.

• Corniglia: For the adventurous, the secluded Guvano beach, accessible only by sea or challenging footpaths.

• Riomaggiore: A wide stretch of free coastline with emerald water and a peaceful vibe.

This is where Sciacchetrà is born—an internationally acclaimed dessert wine—alongside outstanding whites like Vermentino, Albarola, and Bosco. The vineyards are grown on steep terraces upheld by ancient dry-stone walls, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

The food here is just as impressive: fragrant lemons, honey, olive oil, fresh fruits and vegetables, salted anchovies from Monterosso, mussels from La Spezia, green oysters from Portovenere, and dishes like farinata, crostini with pesto, and local cured meats.

Each village holds architectural treasures:

• Riomaggiore: Church of San Giovanni Battista

• Manarola: Gothic Church of San Lorenzo

• Corniglia: Ancient Church of San Pietro

• Vernazza: Santa Margherita d’Antiochia

• Monterosso: The Capuchin Monastery and the “Giant” statue

• Portovenere: Church of San Pietro and Byron’s Grotto

After 12 years of closure, the Via dell’Amore—one of Italy’s most romantic and iconic trails—partially reopened to the public on July 27, 2024. The first accessible segment is about 170 meters long, carved into the cliffside between Riomaggiore and Manarola.

The full 900-meter path is expected to reopen by 2025, following extensive restoration and safety work.

A symbol of romance, nature, and renewal, the Via dell’Amore is now also an open-air museum, featuring five installations by Gino Covili that interact with the landscape and elevate the walk into a truly artistic experience.

📍 Access: Entry is from Riomaggiore, one-way to Manarola
🎟️ Entrance is regulated and may be subject to time slots and limited admissions

🕒 Opening hours 2025:

• Feb 15 – Mar 29: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM)

• Mar 30 – May 31: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:30 PM)

• June 1 – Oct 25: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM (last entry 9:00 PM)

• For couples: Romantic sunsets with sea-view cocktails, candlelit dinners, and hand-in-hand strolls through cobblestone alleys.
• For families: Safe beaches, museums, boat rides, and adventures inspired by Disney’s Luca.
• For solo travelers: Socialize, stay active, and make new friends. Dive clubs, tastings, and group hikes offer plenty of shared experiences.

Want to enjoy all of this without the hassle?
Come visit us at Local Guides Tour in Florence—we’ll take care of everything and create your perfect Cinque Terre trip, tailored to your tastes, budget, and pace.
📍 Find us at Via San Giuseppe, Florence.