Places to visit in Cinque Terre, Italy
Welcome to Cinque Terre, one of the most relaxed and unique regions of Italy. Cinque Terre literally means the five lands which are the five villages comprising it on the northwest coast of Italy. Its ancient ways of cultivation, colorful buildings & traffic-free alleys make Cinque Terre a perfect destination for different types of travelers. Get our free Travel Checklist
- Monterosso al Mare,
- Vernazza,
- Corniglia,
- Manarola
- And Riomaggiore.
Those are the names of the five villages, comprising the Cinque Terre with Monterosso & Vernazza being the oldest of them.
The Cinque Terre national park was included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 & as Italy’s first natural park.
Known for its natural environment and coastal hiking trails, Cinque Terre is a popular tourist destination drawing in people from all over the world.
Although there is a lot there in Cinque Terre, generally speaking, you must try out these great places if this is your first time in Cinque Terre.
Visit the convent of the Capuchin Friars in Monterosso al Mare
A convent & church is overlooking the town of Monterosso from the hill. While enjoying the process of climbing up there, don’t forget to pay closer attention to the architecture and statues in your sight.
Then inside, you will find an interactive guide that explains the history and life of the friars and also how the convent is structured.
Enjoy the scenery & photograph from the Manarola scenic viewpoint
Manarola is one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre. It has the brightest and most colorful houses around.
The beauty of Manarola stems from its centuries-old heritage. From wine-making, or being a fortified fishermen’s village.
As the tourists’ cameras celebrate the beauty of Manarola from the cape, so the paintings of Antonio Discovolo did.
Now, is your turn. Tour and enjoy the beauty of the place.
Walk through Monesteroli in your hiking tour
Halfway between Riomaggiore and Portovenere, in the Cinque Terre National Park, is the ancient village of Monesteroli.
The ancient farmers have built up more than a thousand steps staircase to help them transport the grapes from the vineyards surrounding the village.
So, go in and discover and enjoy the panoramic scenery from above.
Go To Presepe di Manarola Event
Each country has its own Christmas traditions. In this part of Italy, there’s the Presepe of Manarola to visit. There you can watch the fireworks and hundreds of illuminated figures on a terraced hillside.
It was designed and built by Mr. Mario who was working on the railway and managed to cover and illuminate the entire hill until his unique project was added to the Guinness World Records.
To witness this magical scenic event, you might need to wait for December of each year.
Visit Cinque Terre National Park
The Cinque Terre National Park was established in 1999 in recognition of the territory’s considerable scenic, agricultural, historical and cultural value.
Extreme typological restraints and access to the coast inherently provide for a delicate relationship between man and the natural environment, which led to the dual existence of land and sea.
You will discover that the Cinque Terre National Park doesn’t just cover the Cinque Terre area but is also part of the communes of Levanto and La Spezia as well.
Go to Manarola Marina
Manarola is a historic village of ancient origin; it was founded by some of the inhabitants from the Genoese settlement of Volastra. The Manarola also has towers which are typical to the old Genoese structures.
You can hire a boat there to enjoy yourself from the seaside or you can take the train.
Don’t forget to taste the wine in Manarola’s restaurants & bars at the end of your tour. You can also try the fresh seafood dishes while you are there.
Visit the Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero
The Sanctuary of the Lady of Montenero is a catholic church and monastery overlooking the ocean in Riomaggiore.
It is located over 300 meters above sea level, with its view of the Cinque Terre. Over the years it has become a favorite destination for hikers.
To get to the Sanctuary, you need to follow the path N. 593V (ex 3a), about 3, 5 km long and the time required for the journey is about an hour.
Concluding note on the places to visit in Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre might not be the comfiest of your trips, but it’s totally worth it. Especially recommended if you are hiking lovers, photographers, or if you are of those who just want to learn about the relationship between man and nature.
So, if you are looking for somewhere to go on your next tour, Cinque Terre can be a great choice for you. keep traveling and continue to enjoy your vacation time.
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