Cinque Terre: What to see in one day

As newlyweds, we had long dreamed of exploring the hidden corners of Italy, our hearts set on two regions that had captivated us through countless Instagram photos and travel documentaries: the dramatic coastline of Liguria and the rolling hills of Tuscany. Our honeymoon was more than a trip—it was a promise of adventure, romance, and discovery.

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After our wedding, we carefully crafted a one-week itinerary that would take us through the heart of coastal Italy. Liguria beckoned first, with its legendary Cinque Terre—five colorful villages clinging to impossible cliffs like a dream painted in watercolors. We chose Sestri Levante as our home base, a strategic location nestled between Portofino and the five villages, offering us the perfect launching point for our coastal exploration.

Where to stay

Choosing the right base can make or break a travel experience, and Sestri Levante proved to be our secret weapon for exploring Liguria. Nestled between Portofino and Cinque Terre, this charming town offered us the perfect blend of accessibility and authentic Italian charm.

Why Sestri Levante?

• Centrally located between major attractions
• Excellent train connections to Cinque Terre
• Easy driving access to coastal towns
• More affordable accommodation options
• Authentic local feel away from tourist crowds

Our accommodation, a quaint bed and breakfast just minutes from the town center, became our peaceful retreat after days of exploration. The local hosts, Maria and Giovanni, became our unexpected travel guides, sharing insider tips over morning espresso that no guidebook could offer.

Following our host’s advice, we took the train from Sestri Levante to Riomaggiore, which took about 45 minutes. The train journey, although through tunnels, was also enjoyable, but the boat ride between the villages provided a much more impressive and picturesque view. I recommend taking the train and boat when exploring Cinque Terre.

Now explore the five villages of Cinque Terre

Riomaggiore: Where the Journey Begins

Our Cinque Terre adventure started in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village that immediately stole our hearts. Stepping off the train, we were transported into a world where time seemed to move differently. The village split dramatically between a lower fishing quarter and an upper agricultural landscape, connected by a network of staircases and tunnels adorned with vibrant mosaics.

In the afternoon light, local fishermen dozed in their boats, the Mediterranean sun casting a golden glow on the colorful buildings. We found ourselves perched on the rocky beach, watching waves lap against centuries-old stone, our hands intertwined—a perfect moment of newlywed bliss.

Practical Tip

The best way to travel between the villages is by ferry. The ferries run frequently from the ports of Levanto, La Spezia and Portovenere to the villages of the Cinque Terre and stop in Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore and do not stop in Corniglia since this is the only village without water access. For more information, Cinque Terre ferry boat timetable and prices 2025. Cars are not recommended due to restricted areas and limited parking options.

Manarola: Romance on the Cliffs

Manarola, often described as the most romantic of the five villages, is famous for its dramatic cliffside views and the Lover’s Walk (Via dell’Amore) that connects it to Riomaggiore. Here, you’ll find excellent opportunities for cliff diving or simply taking in the stunning coastal scenery. As the sun sets, head to Nessun Dorma, a charming bar perched on the rocks, for a glass of wine and unparalleled views.

If you arrive by train, you need to walk through a tunnel to reach the main street. The town’s main square, Piazza Papa Innocenzo IV, offers a cool view of the village and the sea. The bravest swimmers jumped into the sea from the rocks, while others used a ladder for a refreshing dip.

In the past, a small stream flowed here and small bridges connected the two sides. The stream can still be heard gurgling in the upper part of the town. When you reach the main road, turn right and walk up to the church square (Piazza Papa Innocenzo IV). From where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Manarola and the sea.

Although the coastal path from Manarola to Corniglia was closed at the time, I recommend heading towards Corniglia and Punta Bonfiglio to enjoy the best views of Manarola.

Corniglia: The Hidden Gem

Corniglia is Cinque Terre’s hidden gem, perched high on a cliff. Unlike its sister villages, it lacks direct access to the sea, but its charm is undeniable. The absence of crowds allows for a more tranquil experience as you wander through narrow alleyways. Be sure to climb the 365 steps to the belvedere for a breathtaking sunset view.

Vernazza: A Living Postcard

Vernazza, an important port owned by various families and later belonging to the Republic of Genoa, impressed us with its main street and alleyways running parallel to it. The main beach square, Piazza Marconi, is the vibrant heart of the village, surrounded by colorful houses, restaurants, and bars.

Its harbour and centre are the main attractions of the city. From here you can walk up to the Belforte Tower, where you can pay €2 for a beautiful view of the city and surrounding area.

Monterosso: A Different Pace

The final village offered a different perspective. More traditional and accessible. Monterosso al Mare, the least exciting of the five villages, feels more like an “average” vacation spot. However, it can be ideal for older visitors or those travelling with children due to its flat terrain and easier access to the train station. The village offers a beautiful long beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, and despite most of the beach being paid, there are free areas available ( in front of the train station, under the statue of the Giant, and at the other end of the beach, towards Vernazza, next to the old town).

Practical Insights for Fellow Travelers

Getting Around

• The train between villages is convenient but lacks views. The ferry offers a far more picturesque journey.
• Boats run frequently from Levanto, La Spezia, and Portovenere, stopping at most villages (except Corniglia).
• Avoid driving—the area has strict traffic restrictions and limited parking.

Best Times to Visit

• Late spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Sunset is magical—plan at least one evening to simply sit and absorb the views.

Our Cinque Terre Love Story

Cinque Terre is more than a destination—it’s a feeling, a moment suspended between sea and sky. As newly married travelers, we found something magical in these five villages: a landscape that reminded us of love’s ability to cling to impossible places, to create beauty in challenging terrain.

The villages taught us that true beauty isn’t about perfection, but about character. Each winding street, each weathered building, each rocky cliff told a story of resilience and beauty, much like a marriage itself.

As the Mediterranean sun set on our final evening, casting long shadows across the colorful houses and sparkling waters, we knew we’d discovered something extraordinary. Cinque Terre wasn’t just a place we visited—it was a place that would forever be a part of our story.

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