Cinque Terre Travel Guide: 2-Day Itinerary
Cinque Terre, located on the stunning coast of the Liguria region in Italy, is a captivating destination where natural beauty and ancient traditions blend harmoniously. Renowned for its five picturesque villages perched on steep cliffs, Cinque Terre offers much more than its dramatic landscapes. Its narrow streets, colorful houses, and terraced vineyards carved into the mountains provide an authentic and unforgettable experience in the heart of Italy. Every corner of this region reveals the charm and elegance unique to Liguria, inviting you to explore and enjoy everything it has to offer.
Travel Guide
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, situată pe spectaculoasa coastă a regiunii Liguria din Italia, este o destinație fascinantă unde frumusețea naturală și tradițiile vechi se împletesc armonios. Renumită pentru cele cinci sate pitorești suspendate pe stâncile abrupte, Cinque Terre oferă mult mai mult decât peisajele sale dramatice. Străzile sale înguste, casele colorate și terasele viticole sculptate în munte îți vor oferi o experiență autentică și de neuitat în inima Italiei. Fiecare colț al acestei regiuni îți va dezvălui farmecul și eleganța specifică Liguriei, invitându-te să explorezi și să te bucuri de tot ce are de oferit.
Cinque Terre Itinerary (2 Days)
Welcome to Cinque Terre, a charming region that will captivate you with its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and authentic Ligurian atmosphere!
This comprehensive travel guide will lead you through the most intriguing attractions of Cinque Terre, providing you with an authentic and memorable experience. Prepare to explore narrow streets, colorful houses, culinary delights, and breathtaking views.
The proposed itinerary is based on my personal experience, offering you 100% original information and useful recommendations to help you make the most of your stay in Cinque Terre.
2 Days in Cinque Terre
We began our journey in the Liguria region by arriving at Pisa International Airport. We spent the entire day exploring the city, visiting landmarks such as the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. For more details about our day in Pisa, read here.Day 1: Discovering the Five Villages
We started the day early to have enough time to visit all five villages in one day. The villages are small and can be explored quickly, but if you choose to hike, you may need more time.Monterosso al Mare
- Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages and has a history dating back to the 13th century. It is known for its beautiful beaches and local wines. We began with Monterosso, the last village. We stopped at the Scoglio di Monterosso viewpoint, then followed the coastal path and climbed to view the beach from above.
- Highlights: Church of San Giovanni Battista, Convent of Cappuccini, and Torre Aurora.
Vernazza
- We took the train to Vernazza, where we started a short hiking trail to view the village from above. Vernazza is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and has a strong maritime history dating back to the 11th century.
- Lunch: We enjoyed a traditional focaccia and explored the fishing village.
- Highlights: Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, Doria Castle, and Vernazza Harbor.
Corniglia
- Corniglia is the only village that does not have direct access to the sea, as it is situated on a hill surrounded by vineyards. It dates back to Roman times.
We took the train to Corniglia. To reach the village center, located on the mountain, we had two options: a bus included with the Cinque Terre Card or climbing the 380 steps. We chose to climb on foot, enjoying the stunning views along the way.
We strolled through the village, bought souvenirs, and enjoyed a delicious local lemonade, Limonata Nasca Portofino, which we highly recommend. - Highlights: Church of San Pietro, Belvedere Santa Maria, and the Vine Terraces.
Manarola
Manarola is considered the oldest of the Cinque Terre villages, with roots dating back to the 12th century. It is renowned for its Sciacchetrà wine.
We took the train to Manarola and followed the trail to Riomaggiore via the Via dell’Amore to enjoy a superb viewpoint.
Lunch: We tried to dine at the Nessun Dorma restaurant, but it was too crowded, so we opted for a restaurant in the village center.
Highlights: Church of San Lorenzo, Manarola Castle, and Manarola Harbor.
Riomaggiore
- Riomaggiore, the southernmost village of Cinque Terre, dates back to the 13th century and is known for its colorful houses and picturesque harbor.
Our final stop was in Riomaggiore, the first village of Cinque Terre. - Dinner: We bought pizza and lemonade and settled on a rock at Marina di Riomaggiore to watch the sunset.
- Highlights: Church of San Giovanni Battista, Riomaggiore Castle, and Torre Guardiola.
This concluded our first day in Cinque Terre.
Day 2: Beach Relaxation
Morning: We returned to Monterosso’s beach, enjoying a sunny and clear day. We rented two loungers and an umbrella for 23 euros. We savored a delicious focaccia from Focacceria Antonio.
Afternoon: After the beach, we headed back to La Spezia, where we took a leisurely stroll around the city and ended the day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Recommended Restaurants in Cinque Terre
Monterosso al Mare
- Ristorante Miky
Description: Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes, Ristorante Miky is a top spot in Monterosso.
Specialties: Seafood risotto, grilled fresh fish. - Ristorante Belvedere
Description: Located by the sea, this restaurant offers spectacular views and delicious seafood dishes.
Specialties: Tagliolini with lobster, fried anchovies.
Vernazza
- Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre
Description: A popular place for breakfast and lunch, run by two Sicilian brothers. It offers traditional Sicilian and Italian dishes.Specialties: Cannoli, focaccia, fresh fish. - Ristorante Belforte
Description: Located in an old medieval tower, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience with a sea view.
Specialties: Seafood, fresh pasta, traditional desserts.
Corniglia
- La Posada Ristorante
Description: A family-style restaurant offering traditional Ligurian dishes and local wines.
Specialties: Trofie al pesto, fresh fish. - A Cantina de Mananan
Description: A small hidden restaurant in the narrow streets of Corniglia, known for its authentic food and friendly atmosphere.
Specialties: Noodles with fish sauce, Ligurian caponata.
Manarola
- Trattoria dal Billy
Description: Famous for its seafood dishes and panoramic sea views.
Specialties: Seafood pasta, grilled octopus. - Nessun Dorma
Description: Situated on a cliff with a sea view, Nessun Dorma is known for bruschette, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Specialties: Various bruschette, salads, cocktails.
Riomaggiore
- Enoteca Dau Cila
Description: An elegant restaurant by the sea, specializing in seafood dishes and local wines.
Specialties: Shrimp risotto, grilled fresh fish. - La Lampara
Description: A traditional restaurant offering Ligurian cuisine and a good selection of wines.
Specialties: Pasta with pesto, fresh fish.
These recommended restaurants in Cinque Terre will provide you with an unforgettable culinary experience during your visit.
When to Visit Cinque Terre
The ideal time to visit Cinque Terre depends on your preferences for weather and tourist crowd levels. Generally, the best months to travel to Cinque Terre are:
Spring and Fall: March to May and September to November
These months offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making them ideal for exploring the five villages and hiking trails. The climate is moderate without extreme temperatures, making walks on the scenic paths and village visits more enjoyable. Additionally, the crowds are smaller compared to the peak season.
- March to May: Vegetation blooms, landscapes are spectacular, and temperatures are perfect for hiking and exploring.
- September to November: The weather is still warm, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming. It’s also grape harvest season, adding a special charm to the region.
Summer: June to August
Summer brings higher temperatures, especially in July and August. The days are long and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches in Monterosso and outdoor activities. This season is also the busiest, so it’s advisable to book accommodations and attraction tickets in advance.
- June to August: Ideal for beach and water sports, but the villages and hiking trails can be very crowded. Ensure you make reservations in advance for accommodations and restaurants.
Winter: December to February
Winter in Cinque Terre is mild and wet, with cooler average temperatures and more rain. However, the region remains an attractive destination during this season due to the quieter atmosphere and lack of tourist crowds. Additionally, accommodation and activity rates can be more affordable.
- December to February: Fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices. Some hiking trails may be closed due to unfavorable weather, but the villages are quieter and more authentic.
Choosing the right time to visit Cinque Terre depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you want to have in this picturesque region of Italy. Regardless of the season, Cinque Terre offers a unique combination of spectacular landscapes, authentic culture, and delicious cuisine.
Air Travel
To reach Cinque Terre, the nearest airport is in Pisa. You can fly to Pisa with various airlines operating on the Bucharest – Pisa route, such as Ryanair or WizzAir, with direct flights taking approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Platforms like Skyscanner allow you to find all flight options from anywhere in the world, offering you the flexibility to choose the best options for your trip. Galileo Galilei Airport in Pisa is well-connected to the city center, facilitating quick and convenient transfers.
Accommodation
To fully enjoy our experience in Cinque Terre, we chose to stay in La Spezia after visiting the city of Pisa. We landed at Pisa Airport and took advantage of a few hours to visit the famous Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, where we admired the Leaning Tower and other impressive monuments. After that, we headed to La Spezia to establish our base for further exploration of Cinque Terre.
We opted for Welcome Migliarina, where we stayed for 4 nights. The apartment provided us with quick access (approximately 1 km) to the “La Spezia Migliarina” train station, from where we departed each day to explore Cinque Terre. We appreciated the comfort and tranquility offered by our apartment after adventurous days in Cinque Terre and Pisa.
Entry Requirements for Italy: European and Non-European Citizens
How to Get from Pisa International Airport to La Spezia/Cinque Terre
1. Train
The train is the most convenient and popular option for traveling from Pisa to La Spezia and then to Cinque Terre.
From Pisa Centrale to La Spezia Centrale:
- Step 1: Take the PisaMover train from Pisa International Airport to Pisa Centrale station. The journey takes about 5-8 minutes, and trains run frequently.
- Step 2: From Pisa Centrale station, take a direct train to La Spezia Centrale. Regional and InterCity trains run frequently, and the journey takes about 1 hour. Be sure to check the train schedules to choose the best option.
From La Spezia Centrale to Cinque Terre:
- Step 3: From La Spezia Centrale, you can take a local train to any of the Cinque Terre villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, or Monterosso. Trains run frequently, and the travel time between La Spezia and each village ranges from 5 to 20 minutes.
2. Bus
Although the train is the most convenient option, there are also buses connecting Pisa to La Spezia, but they are less frequent and might be slower.
3. Car Rental
If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car from Pisa International Airport.
- Route:
- From Pisa International Airport, follow the signs to the A12 motorway in the direction of Genoa.
- Continue on the A12 until the exit for La Spezia. Follow the signs to La Spezia and then to Cinque Terre.
- The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
4. Taxi or Private Transfer
Another option is to take a taxi or book a private transfer from Pisa International Airport to La Spezia or directly to one of the Cinque Terre villages.
- Cost and Duration:
- A taxi or private transfer can be more expensive than other options but offers comfort and convenience. The travel time is similar to that of a rented car, about 1 hour and 30 minutes to La Spezia.
- A taxi or private transfer can be more expensive than other options but offers comfort and convenience. The travel time is similar to that of a rented car, about 1 hour and 30 minutes to La Spezia.
Recommendations
- Advance Reservations: If you are traveling during the peak tourist season, it is recommended to book train tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Cinque Terre Card: If you plan to use trains frequently to travel between the Cinque Terre villages, consider purchasing a Cinque Terre Card, which includes unlimited train travel between the villages and access to hiking trails.
By using these options, you can quickly and comfortably travel from Pisa International Airport to La Spezia or Cinque Terre, ready to explore this picturesque region and enjoy its beauty.
Currency and Exchange
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR), and currency exchange can be easily done at airports, banks, and exchange offices. Card payments are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and cafes. During our trip, we predominantly used Revolut cards for convenience and accessibility.
Transportation in Cinque Terre
Transportation in Cinque Terre is well-organized and adapted to facilitate movement between the five picturesque villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Here is an overview of the main transportation options:
1. Train
The train is the most convenient means of transport between the Cinque Terre villages.
Local Train Service:
- Trains run frequently between La Spezia and Levanto, stopping at each of the five villages.
- The travel time between neighboring villages ranges from 2 to 5 minutes.
- Trains are operated by Trenitalia, and tickets can be purchased from machines, ticket offices, or online.
Cinque Terre Card:
- Cinque Terre Treno MS Card: Includes unlimited train travel between La Spezia, Cinque Terre, and Levanto, as well as access to hiking trails.
- Cinque Terre Trekking Card: Includes only access to hiking trails, without train travel.
2. Hiking
Hiking is a popular way to explore Cinque Terre, offering spectacular landscapes and an authentic experience.
- Popular Trails:
- Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail): Connects all five villages, offering stunning views of the sea. A Cinque Terre Card is required to access this trail.
- Monterosso – Vernazza Trail: A medium-difficulty trail offering breathtaking views of the coast.
- Corniglia – Vernazza Trail: A medium-difficulty trail that passes through vineyards.
Food
Cinque Terre, a picturesque region located on the Ligurian coast, will delight you not only with its spectacular landscapes and colorful villages but also with a rich and delicious local cuisine. Get ready to explore a variety of authentic flavors and culinary traditions that will pamper your taste buds.
Fish and Seafood
- Cinque Terre’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastal position, offering an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. From marinated anchovies to cuttlefish and shrimp, seafood dishes are a must-try in this region.
Pasta con Pesto
- Cinque Terre is famous for pesto, a delicious sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil. Pasta con pesto, such as trofie or trenette, is an authentic local delight not to be missed.
Focaccia
- Focaccia, a type of flat and flavorful bread, is a Ligurian specialty found in every village of Cinque Terre. It can be simple, with olive oil and salt, or enriched with tomatoes, olives, onions, or rosemary.
Farinata
- Farinata is another local dish specific to Liguria, a thin pie made from chickpea flour, water, salt, and olive oil. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
Local Wines
- Cinque Terre is also famous for its wines, especially white ones, such as Sciacchetrà, a sweet dessert wine, and Cinque Terre DOC, a dry and aromatic wine. A visit to local wineries will offer an unforgettable wine experience.
Gelato
- Don’t miss the Italian gelato, a creamy and refreshing dessert available in a wide range of flavors. A walk through the Cinque Terre villages is complete with a stop to enjoy an artisanal ice cream.
Recommendations for an Authentic Culinary Experience:
- Visit traditional trattorias and osterias to taste authentic Ligurian dishes.
- Participate in guided culinary tours to learn more about the history and gastronomic culture of the region.
- Try local dishes at fish markets and local festivals for an authentic experience.
Cinque Terre invites you to explore its culinary wealth and enjoy every flavor in a spectacular setting, complemented by warm and welcoming Italian hospitality.
Conclusion
This detailed itinerary will guide you through the spectacular landscapes, picturesque attractions, and delicious cuisine of the five villages along the Ligurian coast. Each day is carefully planned to help you discover the unique charm of each village and enjoy all that the region has to offer. Keep in mind that prices and availability may vary depending on the tourist season and the chosen accommodation and activities. It’s recommended to check schedules and prepare for possible adjustments. Enjoy the vibrant exploration and magic of Cinque Terre, a special place that combines nature, culture, and history in an absolutely enchanting setting!
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