My husband and I took a hike through Cinque Terre in 2016 – and honestly after seeing these photos, I think you’re going to want to, too.
This hike is hard, but it was so worth it.
We booked our hike ahead of time through Viator (link to our tour is here). The bus picked us up in Florence at 8am, and the trip lasted about 12.5 hours. Take this line seriously: A large amount of walking is involved. You must be of average fitness and be able to keep up with the rest of the group. LOTS OF STAIRS.
Seriously, the minimum age is 12. Twelve year olds have done this. <how?>
If you’re hesitating at all, just really should just book it, though! The views are unbelievable! There’s hiking, a boat trip and a train ride to get to all 5 villages of Cinque Terre. If you’re unfamiliar, Cinque Terre means “Five Lands”. The 5 lands that comprise Cinque Terre are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. All 5 villages are UNESCO World Heritage sites, which means that UN has chosen to help preserve its heritage. In this case, that means if you purchase one of these bright, beautifully colored homes – you aren’t allowed to change the paint color! So just keep that in mind, and buy one that comes in a color you like 😉
Something to note about Cinque Terre is that there was a horrible flood there in 2011 that killed 13 people and caused millions of dollars in damage. Almost all of the first floors in the village of Vernazza had to be completely replaced. They have a few billboards you’ll see around of pictures of the flood.
On a lighter note, the food here is amazing! We had street food, and Lemoncello (highly recommend). Check out the pictures below:
(below: they put rocks on their roof to keep the roofs from blowing away when it’s windy!)
(Below: Yes, that anchovy is looking at you.)
Are you planning a trip to Cinque Terre? Not sure where to start with planning a trip to Europe? Check out my blog post for tips!
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I am so glad I ran into your blog! I leave for Italy in a few weeks and this post has me pumped. Your pictures are absolutely amazing.
I am so jealous you’ll be there so soon! Ugh eat some food and drink some wine for me 🙂
I don’t believe I’ve heard of Cinque Terre. It looks so beautiful and I must travel to it.
I haven’t done much travelling in the north of Italy, but Cinque Terre is definitely on my list of places to see. I didn’t realize they had such nice beaches, I’m a bit spoiled here in Calabria with the coastlines here 🙂 I just love the colourful buildings! 🙂
Beautiful photos! I want to plan a trip immediately!
Just went to Italy for the second time and I’m definitely adding Cinque Terre to my list for my next visit! Your pics are amazing!
Omg this is beautiful!! I know they do it out of practicality, but I love the rocks on the roofs.
Same!
All these pictures are amazing. Definitely a place I would like to visit.
wow!!! this is so pretty!!!
Seriously on my bucket list! I am dying to go to Italy and Cinque Terra is a must visit location for me!! Thank you for sharing your adventure.
Yes! Thanks for stopping by. Seriously Cinque Terre is unbelievably beautiful!
Thanks for the excellent guide