From the soaring cliffs above the Ligurian Sea, Cinque Terre's five colorful villages — Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — feel like something out of a postcard. Wander the cliffside trails connecting each town, take in sweeping sea views from Manarola's harbor, and stop for fresh pesto and just-caught seafood along the way. Each village has its own character, from Vernazza's lively piazza to Riomaggiore's pastel houses tumbling toward the water.
Day 1 — Arrive · Monterosso
Check in to Hotel Porto Roca and settle in. An early walk along the cliffs as the evening light hits the water, then dinner at your hotel overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
Day 2 — The Blue Trail · Five Villages
Today is for exploring the five towns on foot, along the Cinque Terre Blue Trail, which begins steps from your hotel. The trail splits into four sections: Riomaggiore to Manarola (the flat, easy Via dell'Amore, or Path of Love), Manarola to Corniglia, Corniglia to Vernazza, and Vernazza to Monterosso — each with its own character and difficulty level. Expect narrow stone paths, sea-view switchbacks, vineyard terraces, and more than a few steps.
Day 3 — Lucca
Encircled by intact Renaissance-era walls, Lucca is one of Tuscany's most charming and underrated towns. Rent a bike and ride, or walk the tree-lined path atop the ramparts for sweeping views over the rooftops, then wander the medieval streets below, where the oval-shaped Piazza dell'Anfiteatro traces the outline of a Roman amphitheater. Climb the Torre Guinigi for a rooftop garden with oak trees growing at the top. Lunch at Buca di Sant'Antonio or Trattoria da Giulio — most restaurants close by 2:30pm, plan accordingly.
Day 4 — Beach · Boat Tour
A slower day, with time to relax at the pool or beach. Wander into town to see Il Gigante and the Church of San Francesco. In the afternoon, take the Cinque Terre boat tour departing from Monterosso for a different view of the villages from the water.
Day 5 — Portofino · Depart
A day trip along the Ligurian coast to Portofino, the jewel of the Italian Riviera, known for its pastel harbor lined with yachts and boutiques. Wander up to the Church of San Giorgio and Castello Brown for sweeping views over the bay, then linger over lunch at a harborside table watching the boats come and go.
This itinerary was built around a coastline that rewards walking slowly and eating well. The trail sections and pace shift depending on fitness and interest. That's where we start.
