If you have ever seen a picture of one of the towns in the Cinque Terre you will never forget it, the visual alone will inspire you to want to visit Italy or at least visit one of the towns given the opportunity. The Italian translation of Cinque Terre is ‘Five Lands’ but most people refer to them as the ‘Five Towns’. Located in the North of Italy these five villages are part of the Italian Riviera in Liguria.
An ancient system of footpaths (and now rail) connect the five villages, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Each of the villages has something different to offer. In Riamaggiore you will find historical churches and castles, Manarola offers a festive piazza and wonderful restaurants selling their catch of the day. Corniglia does not disappoint with one of the most beautiful lookout points and a refreshing cove to enjoy. Vernazza is the only town with two small beaches and often an excellent location for lunch, the restaurants are fabulous (make a reservation to avoid disappointment). Monterosso is the biggest village and also has the largest sandy beach.
Each town has something different to offer:
Riomaggiore is the most southern village of the Cinque Terre and only a few minutes by train from La Spezia. Travelling from La Spezia you will get your first glimpse of coloured facades overlooking the sea. Take time to visit the Church of St John the Baptist, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Castle.
Manarola will not disappoint with its picturesque multi-coloured houses, festive piazza and wonderful restaurants selling the ‘catch of the day’. Visit the Church of San Lorenzo, the fortress ruins, the town of Groppo famous for wine and should you be there in winter the Presepe in Manarola to celebrate Christmas.
Corniglia is located in the middle of the five towns, it is the smallest but the highest of the towns built on a cliff it has magnificent views to offer tourists with an impressive lookout point and a cove to enjoy swimming and snorkelling. Take time to visit the Church of St Peter and the ruins of the Genoese Fortress.
Vernazza, is my favourite town and very beautiful, it has two beaches, excellent views and a vibrant piazza surrounded by excellent restaurants. Visit the Church of St Margaret, Palace with porticoes, Belforte Tower and the Reggio Sanctuary with Black Madonna.
Monterosso is the largest of all the villages, it is now divided into the old town and new town and has the nicest sandy beach out of all the towns so if you would like to spend a couple of hours at the beach this is the place to do it. If you have time visit the Church of St John the Baptist; the Capuchin Monastery, the Aurora Tower and The Giant (Neptune) which is just outside the new town.
I would also suggest a visit to Porto Venere, Palmaria and Bonassola.
Here are some articles and resources that will help you plan your visit….
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