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Dreaming of Cinque Terre? You’re exactly where you need to be!
From colorful cliffside villages to hidden swimming coves, Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most unforgettable destinations, and we’ve spent enough time here to know exactly what’s worth your time. Whether you’re looking to kayak past rugged coastlines, hike between vineyards, or learn how to make fresh pesto in someone’s backyard, this guide covers it all.
We’ve handpicked the absolute best experiences that go beyond the usual photo ops—each one tested, loved, and worth booking in advance. So grab your travel notebook (or just keep scrolling) and let’s dive into the 10 best things to do in Cinque Terre, Italy.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was sailing along the Cinque Terre Coast! This tour gives the best views of the stunning cliffside villages, and we loved stopping to swim in secluded bays, only accessible by boat. It was a dream!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Cinque Terre
- 1. Kayak and snorkel along the Cinque Terre coast
- 2. Sail across the Cinque Terre Coast on a hybrid boat
- 3. Get the best views of Cinque Terre on a sunset cruise from Monterosso
- 4. Ride horses along the Cinque Terre coast
- 5. Swim, snorkel, and relax on an aperitif boat tour from Manarola
- 6. Learn how to make pasta and tiramisu in Riomaggiore
- 7. Explore the rugged cliffsides on a private trekking experience
- 8. Relax on a sunset cruise from Manarola
- 9. Take a luxurious private boat excursion
- 10. Learn how to make pesto, visit the BarCa Winery, and trek in Volastra
- Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Italy
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Cinque Terre
1. Kayak and snorkel along the Cinque Terre coast
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am, 12:45 pm, 3:30 pm, and 6 pm
- Highlights: Guided kayaking tour exploring hidden coves and ancient coastal trails, stop for swimming and snorkeling, hear secret Monterossini stories
- Inclusions: Kayak guides, life buoy, paddle, watertight bag, use of kayak and snorkeling equipment, lycra shirt (upon request), changing cabin, shower, driver’s cabin (for personal storage)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 320+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Cinque Terre’s rugged beauty is best seen from the water, but renting a kayak and winging it? That’s how we ended up sunburned, sore, and wondering what we were looking at. Learn from our mistake and book this small-group tour instead.
We kicked off our morning from Stella Marina Beach Bar in Monterosso, where everything, from showers and lockers to snorkel gear and kayaks, was provided.
Our guide Chiara, a local born and raised in Monterosso, was the heart of the experience. She didn’t just point out the sights, she brought the coastline to life with stories passed down through generations, hidden in dry stone walls and tucked inside sea-carved cliffs.
Paddling along Punta Mesco felt like moving through a living postcard, and when we stopped to snorkel, the water was unbelievably clear. Chiara even gave us amazing food and hiking recommendations for the rest of our trip.
Stable kayaks made it doable even for first-timers, though you’ll want some energy to paddle and swim. The mix of light adventure and laid-back storytelling made this feel less like a tour and more like spending a morning with a local friend.
It was one of the most memorable experiences of our time in Cinque Terre—equal parts peaceful, personal, and packed with local charm!
Don’t miss out—book your spot on this kayaking tour early here!
2. Sail across the Cinque Terre Coast on a hybrid boat
- Duration: 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Time: Multiple times available from 10 am to 2 pm
- Highlights: Small-group boat tour exploring Cinque Terre, dive into secluded bays accessible only by sea, see the vibrant villages perched on cliffs
- Inclusions: Professional skipper, English-speaking assistant, beverages, snacks, snorkeling equipment (available to purchase)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Some views are meant to be earned, but others are best enjoyed with a cold drink and your feet up. Gliding past Cinque Terre’s villages on this small-group cruise was the first time we really got to see them, all together, from the sea that shaped them.
With no more than 12 guests on board, the experience felt relaxed from the moment we stepped on. Our guide, Bruno, was knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about the region. He gave us just the right amount of history and tips while keeping the vibe casual.
We cruised past each of the five villages, stopping for swims in quiet coves only accessible by sea. At one point, we passed a tiny stone arch tucked into the cliffside that Bruno told us had once been a fisherman’s shelter. It’s the kind of thing you’d never notice from land.
One of our favorite moments was diving into the calm, turquoise water before climbing back on board for a chilled drink and local bites. With the sun on our faces, wind in our hair, and colorful cliffside villages in view, it felt like Cinque Terre in its purest form.
This ended up being our favorite experience of the trip, and it’s easy to see why—just read the glowing reviews from other travelers who also called it the highlight of their visit!
This tour is likely to sell out – book it in advance here!
3. Get the best views of Cinque Terre on a sunset cruise from Monterosso
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Departure times vary from 2:30 pm to 6 pm
- Highlights: Small-group Cinque Terre sunset cruise from Monterosso, pass by colorful villages such as Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, and explore Vernazza
- Inclusions: Snacks, beverages, use of snorkeling equipment, restroom on board, fresh water shower
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something different about seeing Cinque Terre in the evening light, like the villages slow down just enough for you to actually take them in. This sunset boat cruise from Monterosso gave us that rare, peaceful window to soak it all up, with a light breeze on our faces and the sea gently rocking beneath us.
With only 10 people on board, the tour felt intimate from the start. Our guides William and Umberto were the dream team—relaxed, welcoming, and full of knowledge about each village we passed.
They pointed out little-known facts and legends as we cruised past Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, stopping at all the perfect photo spots along the way. Every time the boat slowed down, half of us reached for our cameras as if it were a reflex. Cinque Terre just does that to you!
When we reached Vernazza, we stepped off for a short wander through the quiet streets just as the sky started to glow. Back on board, the aperitivo spread was ready with local snacks, a cold drink, and mellow music setting the mood as the sun dropped behind the cliffs.
Whether you’re visiting in the summer or low season, this tour offers a front-row seat to one of Cinque Terre’s most beautiful moments. It felt like pressing pause on the trip—no schedules, no crowds, just golden light, good company, and a view we’ll never forget!
Check availability and secure your spot on this unforgettable sunset cruise here!
4. Ride horses along the Cinque Terre coast
- Duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Time: Multiple times available from 9:30 am–7:30 pm
- Highlights: Private horse riding adventure in Cinque Terre, riding through the woods, admiring views along the Ligurian coast
- Inclusions: Helmet, saddled horse, pick up (available for an extra charge)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
As much as we loved being on the water, getting above the coastline gave us a whole new perspective on Cinque Terre, and doing it on horseback made the experience even more special. This private tour, tucked into the hills above Monterosso al Mare, felt like we’d discovered a hidden side of the region.
Our guide, Denise, welcomed us with a huge smile, introduced us to our well-trained horses, and even to Ariel, the sweetest sheepdog who trotted along beside us the entire ride like she was part of the team.
The trail led us through quiet woods and over gentle ridgelines, with glimpses of the sea peeking through the trees. Along the way, Denise shared local stories and tips while keeping the ride relaxed and comfortable, even if it had been a while since we’d been in the saddle.
This was such a refreshing change of pace and a completely different way to experience the landscape. The peaceful rhythm of the horses, the scent of pine in the air, and the occasional sea breeze were simply magical.
If you’re a horse lover or just looking for something unique to do in Cinque Terre, this private ride is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventure you’ll be glad you made time for!
Book this tour now and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
5. Swim, snorkel, and relax on an aperitif boat tour from Manarola
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Sail across the Cinque Terre coast to Punta Montenero, swim and snorkel in the Ligurian Sea, and see Cinque Terre villages
- Inclusions: Beverages, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something unbeatable about seeing the entire Cinque Terre stretch by sea, from the rugged cliffs of Punta Montenero to the panoramic views at Punta Mesco. This relaxing coastal cruise gave us the whole picture in just a couple of hours, without ever feeling rushed.
We started in Manarola, sipping a welcome drink as the boat pulled away from the harbor and the coastline opened up in front of us. Seeing the villages lined up like colorful puzzle pieces against the cliffs was one of those moments where you just stop and stare.
The group was small, which meant there was space to spread out and really soak in the views without jostling for a photo. And trust me, every turn of the coast had us reaching for our cameras like it was the grand finale!
Our guide, Sul, brought incredible energy to the experience. He was lighthearted, easygoing, and always ready with a fun fact or a dry joke. By the end, it felt like we were all longtime friends just out for a ride along the coast.
We paused often to snap photos of each village, learning a bit about their differences and histories along the way. But the best part was jumping into that clear Ligurian water for a swim and a float near the rocky shore, then climbing back on board for snacks and drinks.
This tour packs so much variety into one outing. It’s the perfect way to experience Cinque Terre from every angle!
Reserve this coastal adventure here and get flexible payment options!
6. Learn how to make pasta and tiramisu in Riomaggiore
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am and 5 pm
- Highlights: Learn how to prepare two kinds of pasta and tiramisu in a hands-on cooking class
- Inclusions: Small-group lesson, beverages, Italian aperitivo, local taxes, tasting of two pasta recipes, and tiramisu
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Restaurant meals are great, but there’s something extra special about learning how to make Italian food the traditional way, right in someone’s home. This small-group class in Riomaggiore gave us a hands-on look (and taste) at what makes Ligurian cooking so delicious, and surprisingly doable.
It wasn’t just about following a recipe, but about stepping into someone’s kitchen, hearing their stories, and learning the why behind every ingredient. That’s the kind of memory you take home with you.
We started with a local drink and snacks, gathered around the kitchen with no more than a dozen others. The small group size made it easy to follow along and get involved as we prepped two types of pasta, gnocchi with a walnut sauce and trofie with pesto, and built a picture-perfect tiramisu from scratch.
Our instructor, Luca, was warm, funny, and full of clever cooking tips he swore were passed down from generations. Once everything was prepped, we moved to the terrace with a bottle of red while he finished the cooking, and when we finally sat down to eat, it genuinely rivaled anything we’d had at restaurants.
The food was incredible, but the real magic was the experience itself—personal, welcoming, and filled with great conversation. It felt less like a class and more like spending an evening with new friends, learning something meaningful, and sharing a meal we were genuinely proud of.
We left full, happy, and with a few kitchen tricks we couldn’t wait to try at home!
Join this tasty tour and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Related Read: If you need help planning your time in Cinque Terre, check out our expert itinerary. It covers all the must-do activities, hidden gems, and planning essentials!
7. Explore the rugged cliffsides on a private trekking experience
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: Private Cinque Terre trekking tour, explore ancient seaside villages, centuries-old settlements, and top attractions, learn the area’s history
- Inclusions: Ferry ride (depending on weather), walking sticks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Cinque Terre is gorgeous from a boat, but hiking its hills? That’s where the real magic happens. This private trekking tour gave us the chance to explore the villages like locals—on foot, through vineyards, past weathered stone homes, and along cliffside paths that felt pulled straight from a postcard.
We started in Riomaggiore, winding uphill toward Groppo, then descended into Manarola before finishing in Monterosso. The hike took about four hours, but thanks to our guide, Paul, it never felt rushed or overwhelming. He had a wealth of knowledge about history, farming, local plants, and even recommended a fantastic spot for lunch once we reached town.
We passed real farmers working the terraces and chatted with locals as we moved through each village, which made it all feel personal and grounded.
After exploring Monterosso’s Old Town, we hopped on a ferry (weather permitting) and cruised the coastline back to Riomaggiore. It was the perfect way to wind down the hike—sun on our faces, ocean views all around, and that satisfying feeling of having earned every moment.
It’s a good idea to pick up the Cinque Terre Train Pass day pass since you’ll likely be hopping between multiple villages before, during, or after the tour. The pass quickly pays for itself and saves you the hassle of buying individual tickets each time.
This tour is one of the most immersive ways to experience the region, and it often sells out, so make sure you grab a spot early for this one!
Book this trek here—Cinque Terre doesn’t get more authentic than this!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Relax on a sunset cruise from Manarola
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 6 pm
- Highlights: Small-group, captain-led boat tour along the shore from Manarola to Punta Mesco, see all five Cinque Terre historic villages
- Inclusions: Welcome drink and complimentary onboard snacks, beverages, and insider commentary on the cultures and cuisines of the coastline
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something about a Cinque Terre sunset that makes the coastline feel even more magical, and this small-group boat tour from Manarola gave us front-row seats to the show. It was the perfect way to wind down the day, with golden light bouncing off the villages, a drink in hand, and the sea calm beneath us.
With only a handful of guests on board, the vibe was laid-back from the start. Our guide, Cosmo, set the tone with music, snacks, and welcome drinks, making sure everyone felt at ease.
He even offered to snap photos for everyone and knew exactly when to pause the boat for the best views, especially as the sun started to dip over the water. From Punta Mesco to Riomaggiore, we saw all five villages from the sea, each one glowing in the golden light.
Cosmo’s commentary added depth to the ride, too. We learned about local fishing history, the food traditions of Liguria, and even a few fun legends tied to the coastline. And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, a dolphin surfaced right alongside the boat.
It’s no wonder this tour has HUNDREDS of five-star reviews—it strikes that perfect balance between laid-back and unforgettable. For us, it was the kind of evening that made the rest of the trip feel like the lead-up to this moment!
Secure this sunset cruise here and see Cinque Terre as it was meant to be seen!
9. Take a luxurious private boat excursion
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 10 am to 4 pm
- Highlights: Traditional Ligurian gozzo boat cruise along the Cinque Terre coast from Monterosso, pass in front of all five villages, swim, snorkel, and explore
- Inclusions: Use of snorkeling equipment, beverages, snacks, tasting of “Pesto Cinque Terre” with focaccia, private cruise
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 160+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re after something a little more personal and a lot more relaxing, this private boat tour from Monterosso checks every box. The moment we stepped aboard the traditional Ligurian gozzo, we knew we were in for something special. Wide sundeck? Check. Secret swimming coves? Check. A pace that let us actually take it all in? Absolutely check.
It felt like we were leaving the world behind the moment we left the dock. No crowds, no schedule—just open water and the kind of views you want to stretch out forever. We cruised past all five villages, from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, pausing often for photos and dips in crystal-clear coves you’d never find on your own.
Our captain, Simone, made the whole experience even better. He was friendly, passionate about the region, and full of stories that gave life to every village we passed. His energy was infectious, and his homemade pesto was excellent.
What made this tour stand out was how effortless it all felt. We lounged on deck, swam when we wanted, snacked when we felt like it, and soaked up every view from a front-row seat on the water.
This was more than a boat ride—it was a floating Cinque Terre daydream, and easily one of the highlights of our trip. If you’re looking for that one unforgettable, splurge-worthy experience in Cinque Terre, this is it!
Book this private tour here and see Cinque Terre in style!
10. Learn how to make pesto, visit the BarCa Winery, and trek in Volastra
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 5:45 pm
- Highlights: Pesto class and wine tasting tour of the BarCa cellar and the historic vineyards of the Barrani-Capellini family
- Inclusions: Wine tastings, pesto class
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s no shortage of pesto and wine in Cinque Terre, but this vineyard and tasting tour in Volastra took things to another level. Learning to make pesto from scratch, with a glass in hand and vineyard views stretching out to the sea? That’s something we’ll be talking about long after the trip.
This private experience in Volastra started with a tour of the Barrani-Capellini family cellar, where our guide, Andrea, walked us through their small-scale, traditional winemaking process. His passion for the land and the local grapes was infectious, and we loved hearing how each bottle, from the crisp Cinque Terre DOC to the rosé Rosaluna and aged Memento, tells its own story.
After a stroll through the historic vineyard trails above Manarola, we settled into a tasting spot right among the vines. The views were unreal, the wine was generous (yes, we bought four bottles), and then came the pesto. Mortar and pestle in hand, we crushed fresh basil into something so flavorful and straightforward, we didn’t want to share.
There’s something special about making food the old-fashioned way with your hands, surrounded by vines, and laughter echoing through the hills. This was one of the most heartfelt, local-feeling experiences we had all week, and easily one of the tastiest!
Book this private tour here and taste Cinque Terre straight from the source!
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a stunning cluster of five coastal villages along Italy’s Ligurian coast, each with its own charm—from Monterosso’s lively beach scene to Riomaggiore’s quiet hillside views. Easily explored by train, boat, or foot, this compact region offers a surprisingly diverse experience, so where you stay truly matters.
Whether you’re after a central hotel, a quiet hillside stay, or a scenic budget escape, Cinque Terre has something for every traveler. These three standout picks offer great comfort, value, and location, and if they’re still available, they’re our top choices for experiencing the best of the region.
Luxury – $$$
Located in the heart of Monterosso al Mare, Hotel Margherita is a guest favorite for its unbeatable location, friendly service, and clean, modern rooms. Just a short walk from the beach and train station, this welcoming hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and a daily buffet breakfast. Guests love the peaceful patio, helpful staff, and easy access to shops, restaurants, and Cinque Terre hiking trails.
Prices typically range from €200 to €320 per night, depending on the room and season. Find the latest prices and secure your stay through Booking.com.
Mid-range – $ – get rid of
Perched above Monterosso al Mare in a peaceful hillside setting, Santuario NS Soviore Cinque Terre is a popular stay within a historic 17th-century sanctuary. Guests love the sea views, quiet atmosphere, and helpful staff. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with options for families and groups. The on-site restaurant serves traditional Ligurian meals, and breakfast is included. Free parking and a shuttle to Monterosso make it a convenient base for exploring the Cinque Terre.
Prices typically range from €80 to €190 per night. Check current rates and book your stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Perched high above the sea in the Cinque Terre National Park, Il Borgo di Campi offers stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and charming self-catering studios and apartments. Set within a renovated hillside hamlet near Riomaggiore, this unique property is loved for its tranquil setting, terraced gardens, and unbeatable sunsets. Each unit includes a kitchenette, private bathroom, and outdoor seating area, while the on-site restaurant serves local dishes with a view.
Prices start as low as €75 per night, depending on the time of year. Explore current offers and book your stay through Booking.com.
Explore more options by browsing all Cinque Terre’s hotels here!
Renting a Car in Italy
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
- Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
- Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
- Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
- Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
- Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Whether you have a quick visit or a long, relaxing trip to Cinque Terre, you’re in for a treat! This place is beyond beautiful, and we loved every activity we did here. It simply boasted how unique and stunning all five villages are!
Before you take off, check out our other Italy blogs! We have been all over the country and have lots of resources to share with you, from our top hotel recommendations, city itineraries, and list of things to do – we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related reads to start with: