Italy
The five villages of Cinque Terre are the most obvious and sought-after day trip destinations from Riomaggiore, each presenting unique character and beauty. Beyond these, other appealing towns are readily accessible.
Manarola (1 minute by train from Riomaggiore): A brief tunnel ride by train, Manarola is famed for its dramatic clifftop setting, sweeping viewpoint overlooking the colorful homes, and its delightful harbor. In winter, it hosts the world's largest illuminated Nativity scene on the hillside.
Corniglia (3 minutes by train from Riomaggiore): Distinct among the five, Corniglia perches on a hilltop, not directly by the sea. It calls for a climb of nearly 400 steps (the Lardarina) from the train station, or a shuttle bus (included with the Cinque Terre Card). Its elevated position gives incredible panoramic views of the entire coastline.
Vernazza (7 minutes by train from Riomaggiore): Frequently considered the most scenic, Vernazza boasts a natural harbor, a striking church built directly on the rocks, and the Doria Castle offering elevated perspectives. Its main street directly meets the sea, fostering a vibrant waterfront.
Monterosso al Mare (10 minutes by train from Riomaggiore): The largest and northernmost village, Monterosso presents the only substantial sandy beach in the Cinque Terre, making it favored for sunbathing and swimming. It holds a broader selection of restaurants and a more resort-like atmosphere.
Portovenere (approx. 30 minutes by ferry from Riomaggiore, or bus from La Spezia): A stunning, colorful fishing village and UNESCO World Heritage site situated just south of the Cinque Terre. Often called the "sixth" Cinque Terre village, it features a dramatic historic castle, the Gothic Church of St. Peter clinging to a rocky promontory, and a picturesque harbor.
La Spezia (approx. 8 minutes by train from Riomaggiore): A larger port city and the regional capital, La Spezia presents a distinct urban experience. It offers more extensive shopping, a broader array of dining choices, and cultural attractions like the Naval Museum. It also functions as a major train hub for links to other parts of Italy.
Beyond the villages, the Cinque Terre National Park presents chances to immerse yourself in the region's wonderful natural landscapes.
Venture beyond the popular coastal path. Discover the higher network of trails that crisscross the hills above the villages. These grant more solitude, varied views of the landscape and terraced vineyards, and often guide to charming sanctuaries. These trails often do not call for the Cinque Terre Card.
Independent Travel: Presents maximum flexibility, letting you set your own rhythm, pick your own pursuits, and devote as much or as little time as you wish in each place. This is simple to attain with the train system.
Broaden your cultural discovery beyond Riomaggiore to uncover more of Liguria's rich heritage.
Explore the ancient Doria Castle and the Church of St. Peter in Portovenere, structures holding deep historical importance.
Visit Lerici with its medieval castle and Tellaro, a tranquil fishing village, both offering an authentic Ligurian coastal experience.
Discover villages like Volastra, situated above Manarola, for insights into traditional agricultural life and terraced olive groves.
The sanctuaries located high above each Cinque Terre village, like Montenero above Riomaggiore, hold spiritual significance and present tranquil settings with expansive views.
Beyond the famed landscapes, the region fosters a rich heritage of traditional crafts and local products.
For those with more time, Riomaggiore serves as an excellent base for broadening your Italian journey to other iconic regions.
A favored extension for many Italy visitors. From La Spezia, direct trains to Florence Santa Maria Novella take about 2-2.5 hours. Spend time exploring Renaissance art, historic architecture, and the culinary delights of Tuscany.
From La Spezia, high-speed trains link to Milan Centrale (about 3 hours). Milan offers fashion, design, and cultural attractions, and acts as a gateway to the stunning Italian Lakes.
For a journey into ancient history and iconic landmarks, take a high-speed train from La Spezia (often with a change in Florence) to Rome (about 4-5 hours).
All these extensions are readily handled by Italy's effective train network. High-speed trains link major cities, and regional trains fill the gaps.
For a two-week trip, combine a week in Riomaggiore/Cinque Terre with other iconic parts of Italy.
Spend your first week in Riomaggiore, then take a train to Florence for 4-5 days of Renaissance art, architecture, and culinary exploration, with optional day trips.
After Riomaggiore, head north to Genoa for a day or two, then proceed to Milan for urban culture and as a base for exploring the Italian Lakes for 4-5 days.
Consider linking Cinque Terre with Venice and Rome for a comprehensive Italian adventure, utilizing Italy's efficient train network.
Broaden your cultural discovery beyond Riomaggiore to uncover more of Liguria's rich heritage.
A stunning, colorful fishing village and UNESCO World Heritage site with a dramatic historic castle and the Gothic Church of St. Peter.
A charming coastal town south of La Spezia, less touristy, boasting a medieval castle, offering a taste of authentic Ligurian coastal life.
A picturesque fishing village with colorful homes and a more tranquil atmosphere, accessible by local bus from La Spezia.
You can visit all five villages in a single day, but it feels rushed. Devote at least one full day to explore 2-3 villages thoroughly.
A half-day to full-day excursion. Allot time for the ferry ride and exploring the village, castle, and church.
A half-day trip allows for some shopping, a museum visit, and a meal.
