If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Cinque Terre, you’re in for a treat. This colourful stretch of Italy’s Ligurian coast is packed with swimming spots, delicious food, incredible hikes, and unforgettable views. Here’s my personal list of favourite activities to help you make the most of your visit.
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Swim in the Sea
Swimming in Cinque Terre is a must, but don’t expect long stretches of soft sand. Most beaches here are small harbours or rocky coves — part of the charm.
The exception is Monterosso al Mare, home to the only true sandy beach: Fegina Beach. A section of the beach is free (though it fills up quickly in summer), while the rest is managed by beach clubs with those iconic orange and green parasols you’ve likely seen on Instagram. For the most photogenic spot, head to Bagni Eden. If you want a front-row seat by the large rock, be sure to reserve in advance.
If you’re after a rocky beach experience, my top pick is Manarola Marina. By mid-morning, this little harbour transforms into a laid-back swimming haven. There are plenty of flat rocks to stretch out on, and the water is crystal clear — perfect for diving in. Adventurous? Join the locals and try a cliff jump from the rocks.
Taste (and Make!) the Famous Pesto
Pesto was born in this region, and you haven’t truly been to Cinque Terre until you’ve tasted it fresh. Better yet, join a pesto-making class to learn the traditional method with a mortar and pestle.
We tried ours at Nessun Dorma in Manarola, which was delicious and a lot of fun (though the price recently increased from €50 to €85). For a more affordable option, consider this class in Volastra, which also includes wine tasting and panoramic views — one of the best-value activities in the area.
Watch the Sunset
A sunset boat tour is one of the most unforgettable ways to admire the coastline. Watching the pastel villages glow under golden light from the water is pure magic.
On land, the best spot is Manarola. Head to Punta Bonfiglio viewpoint near Nessun Dorma, or settle on the rocks below for a dreamy backdrop as the sun sets over the Ligurian Sea.
This boat tour from La Spezia comes highly rated.
Hike the Famous Sentiero Azzurro aka Blue Trail
No visit is complete without a hike on the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail). This coastal path links all five villages, offering sweeping views of terraced vineyards, turquoise water, and cliffside towns.
- Length: 12 km total.
- Best section: Vernazza to Monterosso al Mare (3.5 km, 1.5–2 hours). Moderately challenging but incredibly rewarding.
- Tip: Hike from Monterosso to Vernazza for the most dramatic vistas.
You’ll need a Cinque Terre Card to access the trail, which also covers train travel.
For a gentler walk, try the Via dell’Amore, a newly reopened scenic path between Riomaggiore and Manarola (1 km, leisurely stroll). A €10 supplement applies, and advance reservations are recommended at viadellamore.
Check out my full guide: A Guide to Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, where I also cover the Via Beccara trail as an alternative to Via dell’Amore.
Taste Cinque Terre Wine
Winemaking in Cinque Terre is often called “heroic viticulture” due to the steep, rocky terrain where every vine must be tended by hand. Even if you’re not planning to hike the entire Blue Trail, walk at least the first kilometer out of Monterosso to see the vineyards and rugged landscape firsthand.
Two wines to try:
- Cinque Terre DOC – a dry white wine.
- Sciacchetrà DOC – a sweet dessert wine.
For a wine tasting experience, book at Enoteca Internazionale in Monterosso, a long-standing favourite (by booking only).
Where to Eat in Cinque Terre
- Nessun Dorma (Manarola): Famous for charcuterie boards, bruschetta, Aperol spritz, and iconic views. They don’t take reservations, but you can join their virtual queue via the Nessun Dorma app. The queue starts at 4:15 pm and they open at 4:45 pm, as their mornings and afternoons are now dedicated to pesto-making classes.
- Trattoria dal Billy (Vernazza): A local gem with excellent seafood pasta and terrace views.
- Il Pirata delle 5 Terre (Vernazza): Our top breakfast spot. Opens at 7 am and serves some of the best cornetti in town.
Be sure to try regional specialties like pesto trofie pasta, Monterosso anchovies, and fresh focaccia.
Cinque Terre is truly one of the most magical destinations in Italy. Whether you’re diving into turquoise waters, hiking between vineyards, or indulging in fresh pesto and wine, every moment here feels unforgettable.
Planning a trip to Cinque Terre? Find out the best time to visit and how to get there, including Cinque Terre cards, in my complete travel guide.
Happy Travels! x
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