Have you ever dreamt of wandering through quaint Italian villages perched atop cliffs, overlooking the shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean? Well, look no further than Cinque Terre – a slice of paradise nestled along the rugged coastline of Italy. As someone who has been fortunate enough to explore its winding streets and soak in its breathtaking vistas, I can’t wait to take you on a journey through the enchanting wonders of the best things to do in Cinque Terre in 3 days.
Looking for stunning sights in Cinque Terre? Dive into these 3-day adventures I've personally experienced and tested.
Hanging between the rugged coast and the crystal blue Mediterranean Sea, Cinque Terre is one of the most spectacular places in Italy. Up until a few years ago, Cinque Terre was a conglomerate of five fishing villages, but thanks to the incredible panoramic views and unmatched charm, its popularity is now through the roof.
Each of the five villages is easily accessible to each other by train from La Spezia.
No matter what your vibe, tastes, or interests are, from hiking scenic trails to sampling fresh seafood and local wines, there are plenty of things to do in these five picturesque villages.
Cinque Terre is truly a bucket list place to visit in Italy. And one of the best ways to experience the region is by a Cinque Terre boat tour!
Whether you visit Cinque Terre for the first time, on a solo trip, on a city break, or traveling with all your family and kids, you’ll be sure to find something unmissable to do in this list!
Get ready to explore and fall in love with this charming region.
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Riomaggiore
The southern village, Riomaggiore, offers many things to do in. Mainly the town is known for its dramatic landscapes and the famous Via dell ‘Amore or Lover’s lane.
Take in the View From Santuario di Nostra Signora di Montenero
Located along the coastal road that connects La Spezia with Cinque Terre, hiking to the Santuario di Nostra is something you must do in Cinque Terre Italy. Once you are up on top you will experience one of the most scenic views of the whole Cinque Terre coastline.
Go For a Swim Among the Rocks
Swimming among the rocks in Riomaggiore is something you should not miss on summer hot days. The beach is full of rock which helps create natural swimming pools with beautiful clear and warm.
Walk along Via dell’amore
As the name suggests, it’s a popular place for a romantic stroll. The path runs right beside the water and is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not bad…for a walking trail!
Manarola
Out of four villages located directly on the sea, Manarola is the smallest and quietest. Is best known for its beautiful spot, Nessun Dorma, and Sciacchetra, the local sweet wine, that best complements desserts and cheeses.
Dine in Nessun Dorma
This local outdoor restaurant that overlooks Manarola is the best spot to dine in Cinque Terre. With spectacular views and delicious Italian food, if there is a must-do thing in Cinque Terre, this is Nessun Dorma.
Explore the Vineyards Above the Town
If you are still wondering what to do in Cinque Terre, then take a walk among the vineyards terraces located above Manarola. Exploring the Gothic church Chiesa di San Lorenzo is a great start for your tour. Expect to also see scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea as well.
Catch a Magical Sunset
Whether you are looking for Instagramable places or not, this is the best place in all of Cinque Terre to take spectacular pictures. The rocky outcrop in Manarola’s beautiful harbor and the iconic red-painted buildings of Manarola basking make it the best spot.
Where to stay?
Corniglia
Corniglia is different from the other villages as is not located right next to the water. Instead, it sits on a hill that overlooks terraced vineyards. Despite not being directly on the ocean, there are still plenty of things to do in Corniglia.
Climb the Stairs
Corniglia’s perfect views can be reached by either following a small vehicle road or climbing the Lardarina steps. I definitely recommend the stairs as a great way to get the full experience of visiting Corniglia. Entering the town via the stairs is a fun way to experience what makes this village so unique.
Enjoy a Quiet Afternoon
There are many things and many places to explore in Cinque Terre but since it has become quite a popular spot is always full of people. One of the charms of Corniglia is that is less popular than the other four villages due to its location, a great place for a local vibe. While here, enjoy the little restaurants and bars located on cobblestone streets and get the local experience.
Taste the local wine
Corniglia may not be next to the sea, but its location is perfect for wine production and agriculture. So, make sure to taste their white wine “Vernaccia di Corniglia.”
Here is what you need to know
Vernazza
There are plenty of things to do in Vernazza as this is perhaps the most authentic fishing village in Cinque Terre. I recommend arriving by boat to Vernazza for a unique experience. Vernazza truly is one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre.
Hike Up To Monterosso al Mare
Out of all the paths which connect the 5 villages, the one between Vernazza and Monterosso is the most spectacular. If you are looking for the best views in Cinque Terre this is a must. You can experience the trip all the way to Monterosso al Mare however, for the best spot you only need to hike for about 10 minutes toward Monterossa. You will know once you’ve reached the spot!
Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church
Besides the views and the local atmosphere, you can explore the village and Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church. As this is a small place, and almost every landmark of the village lies within an area of a few hundred square meters, you will easily find the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, no matter where you are.
Climb the Doria Castle Tower
And if you haven’t had enough hiking already, I have for you another beautiful experience to do in Vernazza. Visit Doria Castle to get the best views, climb the stairs, and enjoy this peaceful spot!
Don’t miss the capital
Monterosso al Mare
Monterosso al Mare is the largest village in Cinque Terre. There are many cool things to do while here because it is the most resort-like of the five towns. There are two sections, the old and new, divided by a tunnel and you’ll definitely want to explore both.
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches
One reason people enjoy Monterosso al Mare is because of its beach-resort vibe. You have a paid section with chairs and umbrellas for a great experience. While there is also a free location on the beach, in the summer months this section can get crowded fast. Wherever you choose to do make sure to enjoy a sun bath in Monterosso al Mare.
Make some shopping
Since this is the biggest town, it’s also a great place to do a little shopping. You can buy their precious extra virgin olive oil, pasta printed with the family crest, sun-dried tomatoes, or any hand-made souvenirs.
Wander along Sentiero Azzuro/The Blue Trail
This popular route is both scenic and efficient with great views every step of the way. The experience itself is one of the most iconic things to do in Cinque Terre.
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FAQs
Activities to Experience in Cinque Terre
Is 3 days in Cinque Terre too long?
Three days in Cinque Terre offer ample time to explore its charming villages, hike the scenic trails, and savor local cuisine without feeling rushed. It’s the perfect duration to soak in the beauty of the region at a relaxed pace.
How many days do you need in Cinque Terre?
Ideally, spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cinque Terre allows you to fully immerse yourself in its picturesque landscapes, discover its hidden gems, and indulge in various activities without missing out on the essence of this enchanting destination.
How to explore Cinque Terre in 3 days?
To make the most of your 3-day adventure in Cinque Terre, consider planning your itinerary to include hiking the coastal trails, exploring the charming villages, sampling local cuisine, and soaking in the breathtaking views along the rugged coastline.
How long does it take to walk the 5 villages of Cinque Terre?
Walking the entirety of the Cinque Terre trails, which connect the five villages, typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and the specific trails you choose to explore. Each village offers its own unique charm and attractions, making the journey between them an unforgettable experience.
Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the charm of the region
Overall:
Exploring Cinque Terre
All in all, the journey through Cinque Terre it’s a tapestry woven with vibrant colors, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you hiked the scenic trails, savored local delicacies, or simply soaked in the Mediterranean charm, the magic of Cinque Terre will stay with you forever.
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