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Trying to plan the perfect trip to Cinque Terre? You’ve come to the right place!
This stretch of Italy’s Ligurian coast is famous for its colorful villages, dramatic cliffs, and sparkling sea, and after spending time here, we’ve put together the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of it. Whether you want to hike scenic trails between vineyards, savor fresh seafood with a view, or simply get lost in charming alleyways, Cinque Terre is packed with moments you’ll never forget.
This guide will walk you through our favorite stops and experiences, so all you have to do is follow along and soak up the magic of this unforgettable corner of Italy. Keep reading for the perfect Cinque Terre itinerary!
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 this Cinque Terre cruise! We swam in hidden coves, sipped cold drinks, and soaked up the colorful coastline. It’s an unforgettable and relaxing way to experience the villages from the water!
Itinerary Overview
After exploring Cinque Terre ourselves, we found that basing yourself in Monterosso is the easiest and most practical choice since it’s the largest village and has the most accommodation options. Since all five villages are car-free, getting around by train is the way to go, and honestly, it couldn’t be easier. Trains run frequently (and surprisingly on time!), and it only takes about five minutes to travel from one village to the next.
Plus, they run late into the evening, so you can enjoy those long seaside dinners without stressing about missing the last train. Okay, now that we have that out of the way, let’s go over what you can expect from your two days in Cinque Terre.
Day 1: Start your vacation with this dreamy boat ride along the Cinque Terre coast. In the afternoon, explore the charming streets of either Manarola or Vernazza. Then head to Riomaggiore in the evening for a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make fresh pasta and classic tiramisu.
Day 2: On your last day, hike between all five villages with a private guide. After a full day on the trails, reward yourself with an aperitivo at Enoteca Internazionale. Then, end your trip on a high note with a romantic cliffside dinner at Ristorante L’Ancora della Tortuga.
Day 1
Breakfast – Mae Caa – Bakery Cafe
You’ve got a fun-filled couple of days in front of you, so fueling up properly is essential.
Mae Caa – Bakery Cafe is one of our favorite local spots tucked into the historic center. It opens bright and early at 7:30 am, making it perfect for grabbing a fresh pastry and coffee before today’s boat tour. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute walk from the meeting point, ideal for a relaxed start to the day!
Morning – Sail across the Cinque Terre Coast on a hybrid boat
Usually, you save the best for last, but when it comes to this itinerary, we’re opening it up with our favorite experience in Cinque Terre. This small group cruise let us enjoy the world-class views of the coastline with a cold drink in hand, a chance to dive into secluded bays, and learn about the area’s incredible natural history. It often sells out, so book early and snag that 10 am slot so you have plenty of time to keep exploring after!
With no more than 12 guests, the experience felt relaxed from the moment we stepped on board. 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 in advance here!
Afternoon – Manarola or Vernazza
It should be around 1 pm now that you’re back from the boat tour, so head back to your hotel for a quick refresh, then hop on the train to explore either Vernazza or Manarola! Here is an overview of each:
Vernazza
Vernazza is absolutely gorgeous, but it does draw a crowd, especially in the afternoon. That said, there’s a reason it’s considered the most beautiful village in Cinque Terre. The colorful buildings wrap around a tiny natural harbor, and the vibe here feels especially lively with locals and visitors enjoying the sunshine. From Monterosso, it’s less than a 5-minute train ride, so it’s a super easy stop that requires no real effort to get to.
Once you arrive, take some time to explore the main square, Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, which opens right onto the waterfront. We recommend walking up to Castello Doria (a really cool castle) for panoramic views—it’s a bit of a climb, but the view over the village and sea is worth it. The narrow streets are packed with little shops and gelaterias, perfect for a slow wander.
When we visited, we had lunch at Belforte, a restaurant built right into the cliffside with ocean views that honestly steal the show. It’s a great place to linger over seafood and wine while soaking in the scenery.
Manarola
Manarola has a quieter, more laid-back feel than some of the other villages, which is part of its charm. The train ride here takes about 15 minutes from Monterosso, or 10 if you’re coming from Vernazza, and drops you right at the edge of the village. From there, it’s a short walk into the heart of town where pastel buildings line winding alleys and steep staircases. It’s one of those places that feels like it hasn’t changed much in decades, and we loved just strolling through the lanes with no real plan.
The best viewpoint is from the Manarola Overlook trail—just a short, easy walk that rewards you with that iconic view of the village clinging to the cliffs. Down by the harbor, you’ll see small boats pulled up onto the ramp and people sunbathing on the rocks.
If you’re hungry, grab a table at Nessun Dorma. It’s one of the most famous spots in Cinque Terre for a reason—the view is unbeatable, and their bruschetta and drinks hit the spot. You can even take a pesto-making class here if you’re up for something fun and hands-on!
Evening – Learn how to make pasta and tiramisu in Riomaggiore
Italian food is world-class, so why not take time to learn how to make it authentically and book this pasta and tiramisu cooking class in Riomaggiore. The class starts at 5 pm, and getting to Riomaggiore is only a 5-minute train ride from Manarola or 10 minutes from Vernazza. And just a heads up, take a taxi to the house since it sits at the top of a steep hill!
What we loved about the evening is that 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. 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 here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Day 2
Full day – Hike and see all five villages with a private guide
It would be criminal to come to Cinque Terre and not go for at least one hike. Of all the ones we have ever done, this private five-village hike is easily the best of the bunch.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Cinque Terre because of the views you get, and going with a guide means you go to all the hidden spots without fear of getting lost. Pick-up time is at 8:30 am at the Riomaggiore train station, and you can take the train from Montrosso to Riomaggiore, which takes about 15-20 minutes—easy!
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. The views were, of course, breathtaking. Of all the outdoor activities we have done in Cinque Terre, this was by far the one that had us saying “look at that view!” the most. Even better, since we started early, we skipped the heat of the day (still pack sunscreen though).
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.
Aperitivo – Enoteca Internazionale
After a full afternoon of hiking, head back to your hotel for a quick refresh. Once you’ve cleaned up and changed into something comfortable, take a stroll through Old Town. The streets here are full of charm, and this is a great time to browse the little shops for souvenirs or local products like pesto, limoncino, or handmade ceramics. We loved this part of the day—Monterosso has a relaxed energy in the early evening that makes it easy to just wander without an agenda.
When you’re ready for a pre-dinner drink, head to Enoteca Internazionale for an aperitivo. This cozy bar specializes in local Ligurian wines, and it’s the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy a glass (or two!) after a busy day. We paired ours with a few small bites and just soaked in the atmosphere of Old Town. It’s a simple experience, but it feels quintessentially Italian—and the perfect way to ease into your evening.
Dinner – Ristorante L’Ancora della Tortuga
End your Cinque Terre adventure with a dinner you won’t forget at Ristorante L’Ancora della Tortuga in Monterosso. This cliffside restaurant is perched above the sea with panoramic views that are nothing short of magical, especially at sunset. I highly recommend requesting an outdoor table if the weather is nice. I don’t know what’s better, the views or the food!
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
Now that you’ve mapped out your perfect Cinque Terre adventure, the next step is finding the right place to stay. Each of the five villages has its own personality—from Monterosso’s lively beach scene to Riomaggiore’s peaceful hillside views—and where you base yourself can really shape your experience.
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 – $
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!
Related Read: Want to see even more of this stunning region? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Cinque Terre here for can’t-miss experiences beyond this itinerary!
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!
We hope this Cinque Terre itinerary helps you plan an incredible trip to Italy’s iconic Ligurian coast! Between sailing past colorful villages, hiking scenic trails, tasting fresh seafood, and learning to cook authentic pasta and tiramisu, you’re in for two unforgettable days of adventure, flavor, and stunning views.
Before you go, be sure to check out our other Italy travel blogs here for even more inspiration. Whether you’re planning a longer Italian getaway or adding on another stop to your itinerary, our guides will help you make the most of your trip. Or explore some of our other favorites below!
How to Spend TWO Days in Genoa, Italy: 2-Day Itinerary
Where to Stay in Florence, Italy: 5 Best Areas & Hotels