The dreamy Cinque Terre (five lands) sits on a rugged coast on the Italian Riviera. Although the area is situated in the Liguria region of Italy, it makes for one of the most popular day trips from Florence and Tuscany. Cinque Terre comprises five tiny coastal villages: Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Over the course of history, Ligurians have carefully constructed terraces on the steep landscape all the way to the edges of the cliffs that overlook the sea. Part of the Cinque Terre charm is the absolute lack of visible modern development. Only hiking paths, boats, and trains connect the villages. Since the beginning, Cinque Terre has been a land of simple fishermen and farmers. Unfortunately, their peaceful life has often been interrupted by pirate attacks.
During such raids, locals had to abandon their homes and take cover in the rugged surroundings. What matters is their heritage has endured, and today we can admire the massive stone walls holding the terraces sprinkled with homes and vineyards. In fact, a large part of the authentic local cuisine is rooted in the poor peasantry which makes the culinary experience of Cinque Terre all the more special.
Today, Cinque Terre is a famed destination which reputation revolves around picturesque hiking trails, incredible beaches as well as gastronomic experiences and great wine. However, this was not the case a few decades ago. Before the 1960’s, the five villages used to doze away in the greenery of surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and ever-present sunshine.
Although now discovered and beloved, it’s not a mainstream tourist destination. Given it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms a part of National Park of Cinque Terre, we don’t have to be worried about mass tourism ruining its cultural fabric being. Browse below to discover day trips to Cinque Terre as well as more ideas on what to do in Cinque Terre villages.
