Cinque Terre, Italy: Romance and Family-Friendly Fun

Including Monterosso , Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, & Riomaggiore

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” comprises five picturesque coastal villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera. Each village – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. Hiking trails connect the villages, offering spectacular vistas of the coastline. Try local specialties such as trofie al pesto (pasta with basil pesto) which was our favorite, and fresh seafood dishes.

Dating back to medieval times, these villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—originally developed as fishing and agricultural communities. The towns’ iconic colorful houses clinging to steep cliffs reflect their history of resilience against the challenging terrain and pirate raids during the Middle Ages. Over time, the villages prospered through wine and olive cultivation, supported by a network of terraced vineyards and gardens that characterize the landscape.

Today, Cinque Terre is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage status, preserved medieval architecture, hiking trails offering stunning coastal views, and a serene, laid-back atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the world eager to experience its unique charm and history.

The Same

Both the Dinks and The Family had the opportunity to explore all five charming seaside towns of Cinque Terre. Due to the compact size of these towns, their itineraries naturally overlapped, allowing them to experience many of the same sights and attractions. However, since the Dinks spent more time in Cinque Terre, they were able to delve a bit deeper into the local culture and activities, adding some extra experiences to their journey.

Local Cuisine

They also both made sure to sample the local cuisine when visiting each of the towns. Cinque Terre offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect its coastal setting and regional traditions.

Pesto: Originating from nearby Genoa, pesto is a famous Ligurian sauce made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s typically served over trofie pasta or drizzled on focaccia.
Focaccia: A staple bread in Liguria, focaccia here is often flavored with olive oil, sea salt, and sometimes topped with rosemary or olives. It’s perfect as a snack or accompaniment to meals.
Anchovies: Cinque Terre is known for its anchovies, which are caught locally and served fresh or preserved in olive oil. Try them on bread, in salads, or as part of antipasti.
Acciughe al Verde: Anchovies marinated in a flavorful green sauce made with parsley, garlic, and olive oil. This dish showcases the fresh seafood of the region.
Seafood Pasta: Enjoy pasta dishes featuring fresh seafood caught from the Ligurian Sea, such as spaghetti alle vongole (with clams), linguine ai frutti di mare (mixed seafood), or trofie al pesto di mare (with seafood pesto).
Limoncino: A lemon liqueur similar to limoncello, made with the region’s famous lemons from nearby Amalfi. It’s a refreshing digestif enjoyed after meals.
Torta della Nonna: A traditional Ligurian dessert, Torta della Nonna is a custard-filled tart topped with pine nuts and dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Souvenirs

Souvenirs from Cinque Terre, Italy, capture the essence of this breathtaking coastal region known for its colorful villages clinging to cliffsides overlooking the Ligurian Sea. A popular choice is locally produced artisanal ceramics adorned with motifs inspired by the region’s stunning landscapes and marine life, such as ceramic tiles or pottery depicting fishing boats and seaside scenes. The Dinks picked up a couple espresso cups as well as a Christmas ornament. Another cherished souvenir is a bottle of Sciacchetrà wine, a sweet and aromatic dessert wine unique to Cinque Terre. Produced from grapes grown on steep terraced vineyards overlooking the sea, Sciacchetrà encapsulates the region’s winemaking traditions and terroir. For those who enjoy culinary delights, bringing home jars of locally made pesto Genovese is a must. Made from fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil, pesto Genovese from Cinque Terre boasts a vibrant green color and intense flavor that evokes the tastes of Ligurian cuisine. Lastly, handmade items such as lace and embroidered linens crafted by local artisans reflect the region’s traditional craftsmanship and make for unique and meaningful souvenirs. These souvenirs from Cinque Terre not only capture the beauty and flavors of this UNESCO World Heritage site but also provide lasting memories of its charm and character.

Monterosso al Mare

Monterosso is the largest and most accessible of the Cinque Terre villages. It boasts beautiful sandy beaches, making it a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. Explore the historic center with its narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and quaint shops.

Monterosso Beach: Spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun on Monterosso’s beautiful sandy beach. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic hiking trails that wind through the rugged hillsides surrounding Monterosso. The Monterosso-Vernazza Trail, part of the famous Cinque Terre trail network, offers breathtaking views of the coastline and picturesque vineyards.
Monterosso Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets of Monterosso’s historic Old Town, where you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and gelaterias. Admire the colorful buildings and medieval architecture as you explore this quaint area.
San Giovanni Battista Church: Visit the San Giovanni Battista Church, located in Monterosso’s Old Town. This beautiful church dates back to the 13th century and features a striking black-and-white striped facade.
Giant Statue of Neptune: Admire the Giant Statue of Neptune, a striking sculpture located on a promontory overlooking the sea. This iconic landmark is a symbol of Monterosso and offers stunning views of the coastline.

Vernazza

Vernazza is known for its charming harbor, lined with colorful boats and waterfront cafes. Climb up to the medieval Doria Castle for panoramic views of the village and the sea. Admire the beautiful Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia overlooking the harbor, dating back to the 14th century. Vernazza is a great starting point for hiking the famous Sentiero Azzurro trail that connects all five villages.

Explore the Harbor: Start your visit by exploring the charming harbor area of Vernazza. Admire the colorful boats, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and take in the stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.
Vernazza Beach: Relax on the small beach nestled within the harbor. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Doria Castle: Visit the historic Doria Castle, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the village. Although partially in ruins, the castle offers panoramic views of Vernazza and the surrounding coastline.
Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia: Explore the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, located in the main square of Vernazza. Admire the medieval architecture and interior artwork, including frescoes and religious artifacts.

Corniglia

Unlike the other villages, Corniglia sits atop a promontory, offering stunning views of the sea. Explore the terraced vineyards that produce the region’s famous wine, Sciacchetrà. Visit the main square, Largo Taragio, and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the local restaurants.

Explore the Village: Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Corniglia to discover its unique character. Admire the pastel-colored houses, quaint squares, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Church of San Pietro: Visit the Church of San Pietro, located at the highest point of Corniglia. This medieval church offers panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding vineyards. Climb the stairs to the top of the bell tower for an even more spectacular vantage point.
Terrace Overlook: Head to the terrace overlooking the sea, located just outside the village. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the azure waters of the Ligurian Sea.
Gastronomic Delights: Sample the local cuisine at one of Corniglia’s charming restaurants and cafes. Try traditional Ligurian dishes such as pesto pasta, seafood risotto, and focaccia bread. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine..

Manarola

Manarola is famous for its postcard-perfect views, particularly at sunset. Explore the small harbor with its colorful boats and picturesque waterfront. Walk the famous Lover’s Lane (Via dell’Amore) trail that connects Manarola to Riomaggiore. And leave your lock of love on the gate. Visit the 14th-century Church of San Lorenzo with its iconic bell tower overlooking the sea.

Stroll Along Via Discovolo: Wander through the charming streets of Manarola, particularly Via Discovolo, which is the main street in the village. Admire the colorful houses perched on the hillside and soak in the picturesque views of the Ligurian Sea.
Manarola Scenic Viewpoints: Explore the various viewpoints in Manarola that offer breathtaking vistas of the village and the coastline. Don’t miss the classic postcard view of Manarola from the cemetery, located on the hillside above the village.
Church of San Lorenzo: Visit the Church of San Lorenzo, a historic church located in the heart of Manarola. Admire its simple yet beautiful facade and step inside to see its interior adorned with religious artwork.
Manarola Harbor: Spend some time at the picturesque harbor of Manarola, where colorful fishing boats bob in the water. Watch the fishermen at work and take in the tranquil atmosphere of this seaside village.
Sunset Viewing: Witness a stunning sunset over the Mediterranean Sea from one of the scenic viewpoints in Manarola. The golden hour casts a magical glow over the village and is perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Seafood Dining: Enjoy a meal at one of the charming restaurants in Manarola, specializing in fresh seafood dishes. Try local specialties like anchovies, seafood pasta, and grilled fish while dining with a view of the sea.
Swimming and Sunbathing: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea at the rocky cove near the harbor. While Manarola doesn’t have a sandy beach, there are rocky areas where you can sunbathe and swim.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore is known for its vibrant colors, with houses stacked on steep cliffs. Explore the charming marina and watch local fishermen at work. Climb up to the castle ruins of Castello di Riomaggiore for panoramic views of the village and the coastline.

Explore the Village: Wander through the narrow streets and colorful alleyways of Riomaggiore, taking in the charming atmosphere of this coastal town. Admire the brightly painted houses perched on the cliffsides, and don’t forget to snap some photos of the stunning views.
Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane): Walk along the famous Lover’s Lane, a scenic coastal path that connects Riomaggiore to the neighboring village of Manarola. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and rugged coastline as you stroll hand in hand with your loved one.
Church of San Giovanni Battista: Visit the Church of San Giovanni Battista, located in the heart of Riomaggiore. This beautiful church dates back to the 14th century and features a simple yet elegant façade. Step inside to admire the interior and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Harbor Area: Spend some time in Riomaggiore’s charming harbor area, where colorful fishing boats bob in the crystal-clear waters. Relax on the rocky shoreline, watch the boats come and go, or enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Beach Time: Relax and soak up the sun at Riomaggiore’s rocky beach. While the beaches in the Cinque Terre are not sandy like those in other coastal destinations, they offer a unique and scenic setting for sunbathing and swimming.
Sunset Views: Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunset over the sea from Riomaggiore’s scenic viewpoints. Find a cozy spot along the cliffside or on the harbor walls, and watch as the sky lights up in shades of orange and pink.

The DINKs

Hotel Villa Steno

We actually stayed in Monterosso Al Mare during our trip and found it the perfect homebase for our Cinque Terre exploration. Hotel Villa Steno offers an enchanting stay with its blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. Nestled in the heart of Monterosso, the largest of the five villages of Cinque Terre, Hotel Villa Steno boasts a prime location just steps away from the beach, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy easy access to the breathtaking coastline and explore the picturesque streets of this historic village.

Wake up to stunning views of the Ligurian Sea from your room’s partial ocean view, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable stay. Start your day with a delicious breakfast served in the hotel’s dining area or al fresco on the terrace, weather permitting. Indulge in a selection of fresh pastries, local cheeses, meats, fruits, and homemade jams, accompanied by freshly brewed coffee and juices. ( I couldn’t get enough of the stuffed tomatoes from their garden.) Experience the warmth and hospitality of the hotel’s staff, who go above and beyond to ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. From offering insider tips on the best local attractions to providing personalized service, you’ll feel right at home during your time at Hotel Villa Steno.

The Buranco Vineyard

The Buranco Vineyard in Monterosso, Italy, offers a delightful wine-tasting experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Ligurian coast. Nestled amidst the terraced hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Buranco Vineyard boasts a spectacular setting that’s both picturesque and serene. Enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline and lush vineyards as you savor the region’s finest wines. The vineyard has a rich history dating back generations, with a legacy of winemaking that’s deeply rooted in the local terroir. Learn about the winemaking traditions of Cinque Terre and the unique characteristics of the grapes grown in this coastal region. Indulge in a delightful wine-tasting experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample a selection of Buranco wines, including crisp whites, elegant rosés, and full-bodied reds. Learn how to appreciate the nuances of each wine as you sip and savor in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Buranco Vineyard specializes in producing wines from indigenous grape varieties native to the Ligurian region, such as Vermentino, Albarola, and Bosco. Discover the unique flavors and aromas of these local varietals, which reflect the terroir and climate of Cinque Terre. The perfect accompaniment to the wine tasting was the litter of kittens that came over to cuddle and get pets.

Cantina Burasca

Cantina Burasca is a renowned winery located in the heart of Manarola, one of the stunning villages of Italy’s Cinque Terre. Sciacchetrà is the prized dessert wine of the Cinque Terre region, and Cantina Burasca is known for producing excellent Sciacchetrà. During your wine tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to sample different vintages of Sciacchetrà, experiencing its complex flavors and aromas. In addition to Sciacchetrà, Cantina Burasca offers tastings of other local varietals produced in the region. Taste white wines made from grapes grown on the steep terraced vineyards surrounding Manarola, and learn about the unique characteristics of each varietal. Cantina Burasca is housed in a charming building typical of the Cinque Terre, with rustic interiors and a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy your wine tasting in the cozy tasting room, surrounded by wooden barrels and wine-related decor. As you sip on your wine, take in the stunning views of Manarola and the surrounding vineyards. Cantina Burasca offers a picturesque backdrop for your wine tasting experience, with views of the colorful village and the sparkling Ligurian Sea.

Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane)

Walk along the famous Lover’s Lane, a scenic coastal path that connects Riomaggiore to the neighboring village of Manarola. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and rugged coastline as you stroll hand in hand with your loved one.

One of the most charming traditions associated with Lover’s Lane is the practice of leaving love locks along the path. Couples from around the world attach padlocks to the railings and fences along the route, inscribing their names or initials as a symbol of their enduring love and commitment. It is believed that by affixing a lock to Lover’s Lane and throwing away the key, couples are sealing their bond and ensuring that their love will last forever.

The sight of countless locks adorning the pathway adds to the romantic allure of Lover’s Lane, creating a tangible expression of the love stories that have unfolded along its scenic route. As visitors stroll hand in hand along the path, they are reminded of the timeless power of love and the beauty of sharing a special moment in such a breathtaking setting.

Unfortunately, it was closed when we visited but we didn’t miss the chance to leave our lock of love. Tip: Make sure you bring a lock with you. We could not find one in Cinque Terre and had to take the train into La Spezia in order to find one.

For more restaurants we visited on our trip, check our this Yelp Collection. Our Favorites were:

La Lampara in Riomaggiore, La Spezia, Italy: A charming restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The cafeteria-style ordering system allowed us to order drinks and bruschetta at the counter, then enjoy them at a corner table with excellent service.
Nonna Vittoria in Riomaggiore, La Spezia, Italy: A cozy eatery offering traditional Italian cuisine with a focus on local Ligurian dishes.
A Pié de Ma in Riomaggiore, La Spezia, Italy: We stopped after a long day of walking and enjoyed a glass of wine while overlooking the beautiful coastline.
Nessun Dorma in Manarola, La Spezia, Italy: A popular terrace bar offering delicious bruschetta and panoramic views of the colorful village and sea.
Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre in Vernazza, La Spezia, Italy: A friendly, family-run establishment serving breakfast pastries, fresh sandwiches, and authentic Italian dishes.

Summary

In exploring Cinque Terre, Italy, through two distinct lenses, it becomes evident that both the DINKs and the family experienced the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site in their own unique ways. The DINKs’ leisurely exploration over several days afforded them the opportunity to delve deeper into each village, soaking in the local culture, cuisine, and scenic vistas at a relaxed pace. On the other hand, the family’s day trip excursion showcased the efficiency of visiting all five villages in a single day, maximizing their time to capture the essence of each colorful town. While their approaches differed, both groups marveled at the beauty of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, each offering its own charm and stories of centuries past. Whether strolling through narrow cobblestone streets or enjoying panoramic views from hiking trails, both experiences celebrated the timeless allure of Cinque Terre, leaving lasting memories of a truly enchanting destination on the Italian Riviera.

Doubletake Travel

Two Different Takes on Cinque Terre, Italy: Romance and Family-Friendly Charm