Cinque Terre is a string of five fishing villages along the east coast in the Ligurian region of Italy. Corniglia sits on top of a cliff, while Vernazza, Manarola, Monterosso, and Riomaggiore extend down to the shore.
There is a rustic charm here, a sense that these little settlements have been largely unspoiled by the modern world. There are no roads or cars, just pathways and quiet railways connecting the towns. The trails that snake along the cliffs, hemmed in by the ocean, are perfect for hikers who wish to experience the Mediterranean landscape.
The wine here is affordable and excellent, a perfect complement to the mussels, anchovies, and other seafood. Olives are grown widely in this region, and many restaurants and bars serve them as a side dish.
Boats have played an integral role in Cinque Terre’s identity throughout its existence. A boat trip is a perfect way to really connect with the fishing culture that lies at the heart of this region.
Old, romantic churches punctuate all five of the towns, waiting to be explored. The overall feeling in Cinque Terre is one of deep peace. When you sit outside the Santa Margherita di Antiochia and watch the waves lap against the rocky shore, it seems like all is right with the world. Sunlight bathes the pastel-colored houses that look as if they grew out the coastal landscape alongside its gnarly vegetation.
This untouched vibe in Cinque Terre is what gives it its charm. No wonder so many people come here to get away from the chaos of life and, for just a few days, bask in Cinque Terre's quiet simplicity.
Map of Your Itinerary Route 