Cinque Terre

How to get there

Discover the trails

Cinque Terre Card

Welcome to the Cinque Terre, one of the hidden gems of the Ligurian Riviera!

These five picturesque coastal towns offer a unique experience of crystal-clear sea, colorful houses perched on cliffs, and scenic trails winding through vineyards and terraced hillsides. Here is a brief guide to help you explore this wonderful region. The Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consist of five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Each village has its own unique charm, yet all are united by their natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore, the easternmost village of the Cinque Terre, is characterized by colorful tower-houses on steep streets and stairways leading to the picturesque harbor. Among the attractions are the Church of San Giovanni Battista, built in 1340, and the 13th-century Riomaggiore Castle. It is the starting point of the famous Via dell’Amore, a romantic path that connects to Manarola. Riomaggiore offers an authentic atmosphere and spectacular views, making it ideal for exploring the beauty of the Ligurian coast.

Manarola is one of the oldest villages of the Cinque Terre, famous for its colorful houses overlooking the harbor and the Via dell’Amore, a scenic trail leading to Riomaggiore. The Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338, overlooks the village. Manarola is renowned for producing the sweet dessert wine Sciacchetrà. Strolling through its narrow alleys and enjoying the many panoramic viewpoints is an unforgettable experience, making this village a truly captivating destination.

Corniglia, the only village in the Cinque Terre not directly overlooking the sea, is perched on a promontory 100 meters above sea level. It can be reached via a staircase of 382 steps or a scenic road. The village is known for its peaceful atmosphere and its tall, narrow houses. The Church of San Pietro and the breathtaking views are not to be missed. Corniglia is also famous for its Vernaccia wine, offering an authentic experience away from the crowds.

Vernazza is one of the most picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, famous for its natural harbor and colorful houses. Highlights include the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia and Doria Castle, offering breathtaking views. Ideal for strolling through its narrow alleyways, Vernazza offers a glimpse into local traditions. Renowned for its high-quality olive oil and terraced vineyards, it is truly a gem of the Ligurian coast.

Monterosso is the largest village of the Cinque Terre, famous for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Divided into the old town and Fegina, it offers a mix of tradition and modernity. The historic center is marked by pastel-colored houses and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Monterosso is well known for its vineyards and lemon groves, which produce high-quality wine and limoncello, making it an ideal destination for lovers of the sea and good food.

How to get there

Although the Cinque Terre can be reached by car, they are much more easily accessible by train or ferry.
Train and ferry schedules may vary depending on the time of year, holidays, or local events.
We therefore recommend always checking the official websites listed below:

How to get there

By train

The railway network is very efficient for getting around the Cinque Terre villages. Frequent trains from La Spezia and between the villages make this mode of transport especially convenient. You can check schedules and prices on Trenitalia.

There are two main stations useful for reaching the Cinque Terre

La Spezia Centrale Station:
From here, the Cinque Terre Express departs, offering continuous service (every 30 minutes) to easily travel from La Spezia to the five villages.
There is a convenient underground parking lot at the station, but it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so we recommend arriving early in the morning. If you don’t find a spot there, you can look for parking in nearby areas.

La Spezia Migliarina:
Migliarina is a secondary, suburban station from which you can reach the central station in just a few minutes to catch the Cinque Terre Express.
Although we recommend checking train schedules in advance to plan your trip efficiently, this station is a good option due to easier parking—though during high season, parking may also be crowded here.

The Cinque Terre Express

                The Cinque Terre Express is a dedicated train service that connects La Spezia to the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre, with frequent departures every 30 minutes. It is the most efficient and scenic way to explore this stunning area.
For unlimited travel and access to the trails, the Cinque Terre Card is available—it also includes transportation on this train. The card can be purchased online through the official website of the Cinque Terre National Park, which provides all the necessary information and purchase options.

The Cinque Terre Card can also be purchased online from the official website.

By ferry

During the summer months, the ferry service connects the villages along the coast, offering spectacular views. Information about schedules and fares is available on Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti.

Click below for directions to the Cinque Terre boarding point.

For car parking, you can look for spots near the departure point along Viale Italia or at the Porto Mirabello parking lot. From there, by crossing the Thaon di Revel Bridge, you can reach the boat departure point in just a few minutes. Parking is more likely to be available in this area.

By bus

Less commonly used but useful for reaching points not accessible by train or ferry. Information is available on the ATC La Spezia website.

By car

Using a car to reach the Cinque Terre can be challenging due to limited parking options. It is recommended to park in La Spezia or Levanto and use the train to travel between the villages. Paid parking is available at the train stations.

L’uso dell’auto non è raccomandato nei villaggi stessi a causa delle strade strette e della limitata disponibilità di parcheggio. L’auto può essere utile per raggiungere La Spezia o Levanto, da dove poi spostarsi con altri mezzi.


Queste opzioni ti permetteranno di pianificare al meglio la tua visita alle Cinque Terre, scegliendo il mezzo di trasporto più adatto alle tue esigenze.

Discover the trails

The trails of the Cinque Terre offer breathtaking views and unspoiled nature. The Via dell’Amore connects Riomaggiore to Manarola with spectacular panoramas. The Sentiero Azzurro links all the villages, crossing terraced vineyards and ancient mule tracks. Each path combines natural beauty and local culture, making the Cinque Terre a must-visit destination for trekking enthusiasts.

Access to the trails may vary depending on the time of year or due to adverse weather events.
We therefore recommend always checking the actual accessibility of the trails by consulting the dedicated website listed below:

  • OPEN-TOED SHOES AND/OR FLAT-SOLED SHOES WITHOUT A VIBRAM-TYPE (NON-SLIP) SOLE ARE PROHIBITED. OFFENDERS WILL BE PUNISHED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH 2 OF ART. 30 OF LAW 394/91 AND SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS.
    “It is mandatory to wear closed shoes with a lugged, non-slip sole, preferably waterproof and covering the ankle.”
  • Don’t forget to pack the necessary items for potential emergencies, along with a small first aid kit.
  • Do not go hiking alone and, in any case, inform a trusted person about the route you plan to take.
  • If you have any doubts about the trail, turn back. Sometimes it’s better to give up than risk the dangers of bad weather. Please note that it is forbidden to use the trails in adverse weather conditions, as it may endanger your own and others’ safety.
  • IN CASE OF A YELLOW WEATHER ALERT, the park, through its communication channels, advises against accessing the trail network and reserves the right to suspend the sale of the Cinque Terre Trekking Card depending on the development of weather conditions (both at sales points and online).
  • IN CASE OF AN ORANGE/RED WEATHER ALERT, the park announces that access to the entire trail network is prohibited and suspends the sale of all types of Cinque Terre Cards (both at sales points and online).
  • Always bring your waste back down with you and choose a reusable water bottle over plastic bottles.
  • Respect the flora and fauna. Respect local cultures and traditions.
  • Never leave the marked trail.
  • In case of emergency, call 112, the emergency services number.

Cinque Terre Card

Many benefits, one card!
With the Cinque Terre Card, you can access the park and enjoy guided tours, transportation, and much more! Learn more about the Cinque Terre Cards!

The Cinque Terre Treno MS Cards are available for purchase at the Cinque Terre National Park Visitor Centers. The cards are personalized and non-transferable.

  • Second-class access to regional and fast regional trains (excluding IC/ICN/FB trains) on the Levanto – La Spezia route (and vice versa)
  • Access to the Park area
  • Guided tours
  • Poetic Naturalistic Trails of the Eugenio Montale Literary Park and Cinque Terre according to schedule
  • Guided tours according to the schedule
  • Use of the bus service operated by ATC within the villages
  • Free use of restroom facilities at the Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso train stations (non-card holders will be charged €1)
  • Participation in workshops at the Environmental Education Center of the Park, according to schedule
  • Wi-Fi internet access in the Park’s Hot Spots
  • Discounted entry to the Civic Museums of La Spezia (Amedeo Lia, Castello San Giorgio, CAMeC, Sigillo, Palazzina delle Arti, Etnografico, Diocesano)

  • Access to the Park area
  • Guided tours according to the schedule (Cinque Terre Walking Park 2024)
  • Poetic Naturalistic Trails of the Eugenio Montale Literary Park and the Cinque Terre according to the schedule
  • Use of the bus service operated by ATC within the villages
  • Free use of restroom facilities at the Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso train stations (non-card holders will be charged €1)
  • Participation in workshops at the Park’s Environmental Education Center, according to schedule
  • Wi-Fi internet access in the Park’s Hot Spots
  • Discounted entry to the Civic Museums of La Spezia (Amedeo Lia, Castello San Giorgio, CAMeC, Sigillo, Palazzina delle Arti, Etnografico, Diocesano)